2 Chronicles
2 Chronicles front
Introduction to 2 Chronicles
Part 1: General Introduction
Outline of 2 Chronicles
- Solomon rules the kingdom (1:1–9:28)
- Solomon put on the throne of David, his father (1:1–17)
- Solomon builds the temple of Yahweh (2:1–5:1)
- Solomon dedicates the temple (5:2–7:22)
- The life of Solomon (8:1–9:28)
- Judah declines and goes into exile (10:1–36:23)
- From Rehoboam to Zedekiah (10:1–36:21)
- The edict of Cyrus, permitting Israel to return to Canaan (36:22–23)
What are 1 and 2 Chronicles about?
The Book of 1 Chronicles retells the line of descendants from Adam to Saul. It then gives the history of Israel during the time of David. The Book of 2 Chronicles gives the history of Israel beginning with Solomon. It ends when the Babylonian army attacks Judah and takes some of the people to Babylon. The writers of Chronicles probably wrote these books for the Jews who returned from exile in Babylon. The purpose was to teach the people to avoid disobeying God as their ancestors did.
How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators can use the traditional title “2 Chronicles” or “Second Chronicles.” You may also call this book “The Events of the Kings of Judah and Israel, Book 2” or “The Second Book of the Events of the Kings of Judah and Israel.”
Who wrote 1 and 2 Chronicles?
The writers of 1 and 2 Chronicles are unknown. They mention that they used other books when writing Chronicles. The names of these other books are “The Chronicles of Samuel the Seer,” “The Chronicles of Nathan the Seer,” “The Chronicles of Gad the Seer,” “The History of Nathan the Prophet,” “The Chronicles of Shemaiah the Prophet and Iddo,” “The Story of the Prophet Iddo” and “The books of the kings of Judah and Israel.”
Why are there multiple books that give the history of the kings of Israel?
The books of Chronicles and the books of Kings tell much of the same history, but they are not exactly the same. The writers of Chronicles wrote mostly about the kings of Judah who were faithful to Yahweh and his covenant. The writers wanted the Jews to think carefully about David and Solomon. They also wanted the Jews to think about how Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, and Josiah caused their ancestors to repent and to worship Yahweh. The writers wanted to encourage the Jews and their leaders to obey the law and to honor God’s covenant with them. (See: covenant)
Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
Why did God punish the people of Israel?
God punished the people of Israel because they disobeyed him and worshiped false gods. God punished them with disease, disasters, and defeat in battle. However, God forgave them and caused them to prosper again if they repented and obeyed him. The writers of 1 and 2 Chronicles continually reminded the readers that God punished his people because they disobeyed. They wanted the readers to understand that they must obey God.
Why are alliances with foreign countries seen as evil in these books?
Yahweh led and protected the nation of Israel. The people of Israel should have trusted him instead of relying on other nations to protect them.
Part 3: Important Translation Issues
What is the meaning of the term “Israel”?
The name “Israel” is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was the son of Isaac. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah.
What does it mean to “seek God?”
The writers of 1 and 2 Chronicles often wrote about “seeking God.” To “seek God” means to make an effort to please and honor God. It can also mean to ask God for help. It does not imply that God is hidden. (See: Metaphor)
What does the phrase “to this day” mean?
The writers used the phrase “to this day” to refer to the time when they were writing. The translator should be aware that “to this day” refers to a time already passed. The translator might decide to say, “to this day, at the time when this is being written,” or, “to this day, at the time of writing.” This Hebrew phrase occurs in 1 Chronicles 4:41, 43; 5:26; 13:11; 20:26; 21:10; 35:25.
2 Chronicles 1
2 Chronicles 1 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter begins a section about King Solomon’s reign (2 Chronicles 1–9).
Special concepts in this chapter
Wisdom
Solomon asks God for wisdom to rule God’s people. God is pleased with this request because it is used to serve others. Therefore, God also gives Solomon tremendous wealth and a long life. (See: wise, wisdom and people of God)
2 Chronicles 1:1
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Quote: was strengthened in his rule (0)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: “gained complete control over his kingdom” or “ruled powerfully over his kingdom”
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Quote: Yahweh (0)This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
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Quote: God was with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “was with him” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “God supported him” or “God helped him”
2 Chronicles 1:2
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-eventsGeneral Information:
It may be helpful to reorder the events in these verses as in the UST.
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Quote: spoke to all Israel, to the commanders … heads of the fathers’ house (0)Here “all of Israel” means those people mentioned afterwards. They represent all of Israel. Alternate translation: “spoke to the commanders … heads of the father’s house”
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Quote: the commanders of thousands and of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
This could mean: (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 1,000 soldiers and the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the words translated as “thousands” and “hundreds” do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: “the commanders of large military divisions and the commanders of smaller military divisions”
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Quote: to every prince in all Israel, the heads of the fathers’ houses (0)Here “the heads of the fathers’ houses” further describe the princes. Alternate translation: “to every prince in all Israel, that is, the heads of the fathers’ houses”
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Quote: to every prince (0)Here “prince” means leaders in general. They are not necessarily the sons of the king. Alternate translation: “to every leader”
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Quote: the heads of the fathers’ houses (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part. And “houses” represents families. Alternate translation: “the leaders of the families in Israel” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 1:4
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Quote: Kiriath Jearim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
A little town about 9 miles west of Jerusalem.
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Quote: pitched a tent (0)Alternate translation: “set up a tent”
2 Chronicles 1:5
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Quote: the bronze altar made by Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur (0)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: “the bronze altar that Bezalel son of Uri son Hur made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
2 Chronicles 1:6
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Quote: went up there (0)Alternate translation: “went up to the high place at Gibeon”
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Quote: one thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“1,000”
2 Chronicles 1:7
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Quote: Ask! What should I give you? (0)If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Ask for whatever you want from me.”
2 Chronicles 1:8
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Quote: You have shown great covenant faithfulness to David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” Alternate translation: “You have greatly and faithfully loved David” or “You have been very faithful to David”
2 Chronicles 1:9
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Quote: Now (0)Here the word “Now” is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.
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Quote: let your promise to David my father be carried out (0)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: “please do what you promised to David my father that you would do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a people as numerous as the dust of the earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
This simile emphasizes the great number of Israelites. Alternate translation: “countless people” or “very many people”
2 Chronicles 1:10
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Quote: give me wisdom and knowledge (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “wisdom” and “knowledge.” Alternate translation: “cause me to be wise and to know many things”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who can judge your people, who are so many in number? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Here “judge” means to govern or rule. Solomon uses a question to state that it is impossible to rule over so many people without God’s help. Alternate translation: “no one can judge all of your countless people without your help.”
2 Chronicles 1:11
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Quote: Because this was in your heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” represents desire. Alternate translation: “Because this was your desire” or “Because this is what you wanted”
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Quote: nor for the life of those who hate you (0)Alternate translation: “nor to be able to defeat those who hate you” or “nor to be able to kill your enemies”
2 Chronicles 1:12
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Quote: I will now give you wisdom and knowledge (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “wisdom” and “knowledge.” Alternate translation: “I will now cause you to be wise and to know many things”
2 Chronicles 1:13
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Quote: So Solomon came to Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “Solomon” represents all the people with him. Also “came” can be stated as “went.” Alternate translation: “So Solomon and the people with him went to Jerusalem” (See also: Go and Come)
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Quote: from before the tent of meeting (0)Alternate translation: “from the tent of meeting”
2 Chronicles 1:14
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Quote: 1,400 chariots (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one thousand four hundred chariots”
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Quote: twelve thousand horsemen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“12,000 horsemen”
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Quote: in the chariot cities (0)This is a reference to cities which stored his chariots.
2 Chronicles 1:15
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Quote: The king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as the stones (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The narrator uses exaggeration to emphasize the great amount of silver that was in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “The king had so much silver in Jerusalem, it was like there was as much silver as there was stones on the ground”
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Quote: the sycamore trees (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
This is a tree that grows fruit that looks like figs.
2 Chronicles 1:16
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Quote: As for the importation of horses from Egypt and Kue for Solomon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“Importation” is the act of bringing something into one country from another country. This can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “As for the horses Solomon imported from Egypt and Kue”
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Quote: Kue (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a region. Some think that Kue was the same as Cilicia, in Asia Minor.
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Quote: at a price (0)Alternate translation: “at a set price” or “for money”
2 Chronicles 1:17
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Quote: six hundred shekels of silver & 150 shekels (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: “about 6.6 kilograms of silver … about 1.7 kilograms”
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Quote: six hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“600”
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Quote: exported (0)to send something out of one country into another
2 Chronicles 2
2 Chronicles 2 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of Solomon’s reign continues in this chapter. This chapter also begins a section on building the temple. (2 Chronicles 2–4 and temple, house, house of God)
Special concepts in this chapter
House of God
The temple is repeatedly referred to as the “house of God” because Yahweh will dwell in the temple. (See: house of God, your house, his house, Yahweh’s house, a house for my name, the house for my name, the house, a house, a house of Yahweh)
2 Chronicles 2:1
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Quote: Now (0)This marks a new part of the story.
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Quote: commanded the building of a house for Yahweh’s name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “name” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “commanded his people to build a house where Yahweh may live” or “commanded his people to build a house where they could worship Yahweh”
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Quote: of a palace for his kingdom (0)Alternate translation: “of a royal palace for his kingdom” or “of a palace for himself”
2 Chronicles 2:2
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Quote: seventy thousand men … eighty thousand men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“70,000 men … 80,000 men”
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Quote: to carry loads (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
It is understood that these are loads of materials for building Yahweh’s house. Alternate translation: “to carry loads of materials”
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Quote: 3,600 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“three thousand six hundred”
2 Chronicles 2:3
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Quote: Hiram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 2:4
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Quote: I am about to build a house for the name of Yahweh my God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “name” represents the person. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 2:1. Alternate translation: “I am about to build a house where Yahweh my God may live” or “I am about to build a house where people may worship Yahweh my God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I am about to build (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Solomon would command his people to build the house. Alternate translation: “I am about to command my people to build”
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Quote: the bread of the presence (0)This is a reference to the 12 loaves of bread that were placed in front of the altar.
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Quote: new moons (0)This was the time of a festival coinciding with the movement of the moon.
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Quote: This is forever, for Israel (0)Here “This” refers back to all the ways the people will worship Yahweh at his temple. Alternate translation: “These are the things Yahweh has commanded Israel to do forever”
2 Chronicles 2:5
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Quote: God is greater (0)This is a reference to God being more important and more powerful than other gods, not to being larger than other gods.
2 Chronicles 2:6
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Quote: who is able to build God a house, since the entire universe and even heaven itself cannot contain him? Who am I to build him a house, except to burn sacrifices before him? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Solomon uses a question to emphasize that no one is able or worthy to build a house for God. Alternate translation: “no one is able to build a house for God because not even the universe or heaven is big enough to contain him. I am not worthy to build a house for him, except as a place to offer sacrifices to him.
2 Chronicles 2:8
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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
This continues Solomon’s message to Hiram, the king of Tyre.
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Quote: cedar, cypress, and algum trees (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
These are different types of tress.
2 Chronicles 2:10
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Quote: twenty thousand cors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
A cor is 220 liters. Twenty thousand cors equals 4,400 kiloliters.
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Quote: twenty thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“20,000”
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Quote: ground wheat (0)Alternate translation: “wheat flour”
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Quote: twenty thousand baths (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
A bath is 22 liters. Twenty thousand baths equals 440 kiloliters.
2 Chronicles 2:12
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Quote: gifted with prudence and understanding (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “prudence” and “understanding.” Alternate translation: “who is very intelligent and understands many things”
2 Chronicles 2:13
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Quote: gifted with understanding (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “understands” or “wise.” Alternate translation: “who understand many things” or “who is very wise”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Huram-Abi (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 2:14
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Quote: He is skilled at work in gold … crimson wool (0)Translate many of these words as you did in 2 Chronicles 2:7.
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Quote: fine linen (0)Alternate translation: “high quality cloth” or “the best cloth”
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Quote: He is the son of a woman of the daughters of Dan (0)Alternate translation: “His mother is from the tribe of Dan” or “His mother is a descendant of Dan”
2 Chronicles 2:15
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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
This continues the message from Hiram, king of Tyre, to Solomon.
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Quote: of which my master has spoken, let him send these things to his servants (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Hiram refers to Solomon as “my master” and to himself and his own people as “his servants.” This is a way of showing respect. Alternate translation: “of which you, my master, have spoken, please send these things to us, your servants”
2 Chronicles 2:16
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Quote: you will carry it up to Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “you” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “you will command your people to take the wood to Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 2:17
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Quote: Solomon counted (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon had his servants count”
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Quote: They were found to be 153,600 (0)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: “There were 153,600 foreigners” (See also: Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 153,600 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and fifty-three thousand six hundred”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 3,600 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“three thousand six hundred”
2 Chronicles 2:18
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Quote: seventy thousand … eighty thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“70,000 men … 80,000 men”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to carry loads (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
It is understood that these are loads of materials for building Yahweh’s house. Alternate translation: “to carry loads of materials”
2 Chronicles 3
2 Chronicles 3 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon and the building of the temple continues in this chapter. (See: temple, house, house of God)
Special concepts in this chapter
Location of the temple
The location of the temple was very significant. Many important events in history occurred at this location.
2 Chronicles 3:1
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Quote: Then Solomon began to build … He prepared (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Then Solomon’s workers began to build … They prepared”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mount Moriah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a mountain.
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Quote: Ornan the Jebusite (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Ornan” is the name of a man. “Jebusite” is the name of a people group.
2 Chronicles 3:2
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Quote: He began (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They began”
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Quote: the second day of the second month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
“day 2 of month 2.” This is the second month of the Hebrew calendar. The second day is near the middle of April on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
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Quote: in the fourth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“in year 4”
2 Chronicles 3:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that Solomon laid (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “that Solomon’s workers laid”
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Quote: Now (0)This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator begins to explain the dimensions and the design of the temple.
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Quote: sixty cubits … twenty cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“60 cubits … 20 cubits.” A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “27.6 meters long … 9.2 meters” (See also: Biblical Distance)
2 Chronicles 3:4
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Quote: portico (0)an area of a building made of columns and a roof that leads to and connects with the building’s entrance door. This portico was probably attached to the front part of the wall that surrounded the temple.
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Quote: twenty cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters”
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Quote: Solomon overlaid (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers overlaid”
2 Chronicles 3:5
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Quote: He fashioned … which he overlaid … which he carved (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers fashioned … which they overlaid … which they carved”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the main hall (0)This is a reference to a large room, not a hallway.
2 Chronicles 3:6
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Quote: He decorated (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers decorated”
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Quote: precious stones (0)Stones that were beautiful, highly valued, and used for decorations.
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Quote: Parvaim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is probably the name of a region.
2 Chronicles 3:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also overlaid … he carved (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers also overlaid … they carved”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: beams (0)A beam is a long heavy piece of wood used to support a building.
2 Chronicles 3:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He built … He overlaid (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers built … They overlaid”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred talents (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“600 talents.” A talent is 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “about 20 metric tons” (See also: Biblical Money)
2 Chronicles 3:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fifty shekels (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“50 shekels.” A shekel is 11 grams. Alternate translation: “.55 kilograms” or “about a half a kilogram” (See also: Biblical Money)
2 Chronicles 3:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made”
2 Chronicles 3:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty cubits … five cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters … 2.3 meters”
2 Chronicles 3:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters”
2 Chronicles 3:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He made … he fashioned (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … they fashioned”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: blue, purple, and crimson wool (0)Translate these words as you did in 2 Chronicles 2:7.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fine linen (0)Alternate translation: “high quality cloth” or “the best cloth”
2 Chronicles 3:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon also made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers also made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thirty-five cubits … five cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“35 cubits … 5 cubits.” A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “16.1 meters … 2.3 meters” (See also: Biblical Distance)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the capitals (0)decorations on top of the pillars
2 Chronicles 3:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He made … he also made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They made … they also made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one hundred pomegranates (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“100 pomegranates”
2 Chronicles 3:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He set up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They set up”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the right hand … on the left (0)Alternate translation: “on the right side … on the left side” or “on the south side … on the north side”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he named (0)Alternate translation: “Solomon named”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jakin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Possibly a name to describe God as “The One who establishes.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Boaz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This name means “in strength” and is possibly used here to describe God because it means, “In Him is strength.”
2 Chronicles 4
2 Chronicles 4 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon and the building of the temple continues in this chapter. (See: temple, house, house of God)
Special concepts in this chapter
Special construction
Not only is the temple constructed in a special way, the things that are used in the temple’s sacrificial system and its decorations are constructed in a special way.
2 Chronicles 4:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty cubits … ten cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “20 cubits … 10 cubits” or “9.2 meters … 4.6 meters”
2 Chronicles 4:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ten cubits … five cubits … thirty cubits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “4.6 meters … 2.3 meters … 13.8 meters”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the round sea (0)This refers to a tank or basin that would hold water.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cast metal (0)This is metal that was melted then formed in a mold.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from brim to brim (0)Alternate translation: “from one edge to the other”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in circumference (0)Circumference is the distance or measurement around a circular object or area.
2 Chronicles 4:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: each cubit (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “every 46 centimeters”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ten to each cubit (0)Alternate translation: “ten per cubit”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when the sea itself was cast (0)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 workers cast the sea itself”
2 Chronicles 4:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Sea (0)This refers to the tank or basin that held water for sacrifices.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was set upon twelve oxen (0)Alternate translation: “was on top of twelve oxen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twelve oxen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
These are images of oxen made of bronze. Alternate translation: “twelve large figures of bulls” or “twelve bronze oxen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: “The Sea” was set on top of them (0)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: “Solomon’s workers set ‘The Sea’ on top of the oxen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: hindquarters (0)This is the back quarter of the body of an animal with four feet.
2 Chronicles 4:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thick as the width of a hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
This is about 8 centimeters.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: its brim was forged like the brim of a cup, like a lily blossom (0)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: “Solomon’s workers forged the brim to look like the brim of a cup, to curve outward like a lily”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand baths (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“3,000 baths.” A bath is a unit of volume equal to about 22 liters. Alternate translation: “66 kiloliters” (See also: Biblical Volume)
2 Chronicles 4:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He made … he put (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … they put”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: items used in performing the burnt offering were to be washed in them (0)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: “people were to wash the items used in performing the burnt offering in them”
2 Chronicles 4:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He made … he placed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … they placed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that were made from the instructions for their design (0)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: “according to the instructions for their design” or “according to how Solomon instructed his workers to design them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the right hand … on the left (0)Alternate translation: “on the right side … on the left side” or “on the south side … on the north side”
2 Chronicles 4:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He made … He made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … They made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one hundred basins (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“100 basins”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: basins (0)shallow bowls used for washing
2 Chronicles 4:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he made the courtyard … and overlaid (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … they overlaid … They placed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the great court (0)Alternate translation: “the large court”
2 Chronicles 4:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He placed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They placed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the east side of the temple, facing toward the south (0)Alternate translation: “next to the southeast corner of the temple”
2 Chronicles 4:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Huram (0)See how you translated this name in 2 Chronicles 2:13.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sprinkling bowls (0)bowls that held blood that was used in the house of God for sprinkling the altar
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Huram finished the work that he did (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Huram represents all who worked on the temple. Alternate translation: “Huram and the other workers finished the work that they did”
2 Chronicles 4:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bowl-like capitals (0)The upper part of a pillar is called a capital. See how you translated “capital” in 2 Chronicles 3:15. Alternate translation: “bowl-shaped tops” or “bowl-shaped upper parts”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: decorative latticework (0)This refers to the decorative carving or markings on the upper part of the pillars. Alternate translation: “carvings that resembled chains”
2 Chronicles 4:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He had made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Huram represents all who worked on the temple. Alternate translation: “Huram and the other workers had made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the four hundred pomegranates (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“the 400 pomegranates.” Translate “pomegranates” as you did in 2 Chronicles 3:16.
2 Chronicles 4:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Huram, who is also called Huram-Abi, represents all those who worked with him. Alternate translation: “They also made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the basins (0)Alternate translation: “the bowls”
2 Chronicles 4:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one sea and the twelve bulls (0)This is a large decorative washing container. Translate “sea” as you did in 2 Chronicles 4:2 and “bulls” as you did in 2 Chronicles 4:3.
2 Chronicles 4:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Huram-Abi made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Huram, who is also called Huram-Abi, represents all those who worked with him. Alternate translation: “Huram-Abi and his craftsmen made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: other implements (0)Alternate translation: “other tools” or “other objects used for the altar”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: polished bronze (0)Bronze that the workmen polished so that it would reflect light.
2 Chronicles 4:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The king had cast them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “The king commanded his workers to cast them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zarethan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city.
2 Chronicles 4:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made” or “Solomon had his workers make”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the weight of the bronze could not be known (0)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. This could mean: (1) there was so much bronze no one tried to weigh it. Alternate translation: “no one even tried to weigh the bronze” or (2) this is a hyperbole that emphasizes the great amount of bronze. Alternate translation: “no one could even determine how much all the bronze weighed” (See also: Hyperbole)
2 Chronicles 4:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the furnishings (0)This refers to all of the bowls and tools that were used in the house of God.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the tables on which the bread of the presence was to be placed (0)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: “the tables on which the priests were to place the bread of the presence”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the bread of the presence (0)This is a reference to the 12 loaves of bread that were placed in front of the altar. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 2:4.
2 Chronicles 4:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the flowers, the lamps (0)The “flowers” and “lamps” were part of the lampstands.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the tongs (0)This is a tool made from two sticks of wood or metal connected at one end and used for picking up objects.
2 Chronicles 4:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Also the lamp trimmers … were all made of pure gold (0)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: “The workers also made the lamp trimmers … out of pure gold”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lamp trimmers (0)These would have been used to trim the wicks of the lamps.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: its inner doors … were made of gold (0)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: “the workers made its inner doors … out of gold”
2 Chronicles 5
2 Chronicles 5 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Moving the contents of the tent
Everything from the tent was moved into the new temple. This too was done in a special way. (See: temple, house, house of God)
2 Chronicles 5:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When all the work that Solomon did for the house of Yahweh was completed, Solomon brought (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. 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 Solomon’s workers completed all of the work for the house of Yahweh, they brought” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: treasuries (0)storerooms, rooms where things are kept or stored
2 Chronicles 5:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: assembled the elders of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “called together the leaders of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the heads of the tribes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part of something. Alternate translation: “all the leaders of the tribes”
2 Chronicles 5:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the men of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This may refer either: (1) to the people whom Solomon called to Jerusalem and who are listed in 5:2 or (2) generally to those who traveled to Jerusalem for the feast, not necessarily to every male person who lived in Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: at the feast, which was in the seventh month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the Festival of Shelters which is on the fifteenth day of the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. This is near the beginning of October on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 5:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: furnishings (0)This refers to all of the bowls and tools that were used in the house of God. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 4:19
2 Chronicles 5:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the assembly of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Here “all” is a generalization meaning very many Israelites.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sacrificing sheep and oxen that could not be counted (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is an exaggeration that emphasizes the great number of animals that were sacrificed. 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: “sacrificing more sheep and oxen than anyone could count” or “sacrificing very many sheep and oxen” (See also: Active or Passive)
2 Chronicles 5:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into the inner room of the house, to the most holy place, under (0)Alternate translation: “into the inner room of the house—that is, to the most holy place—under”
2 Chronicles 5:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: poles by which it was carried (0)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: “poles by which the priests carried it”
2 Chronicles 5:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their ends were seen … they could not be seen (0)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: “people could see their ends … people could not see them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to this day (0)This means the day on which the writer wrote.
2 Chronicles 5:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about that (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way of doing this, you could consider using it here.
2 Chronicles 5:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sons and brothers (0)Alternate translation: “sons and other relatives”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cymbals (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 120 priests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and twenty priests”
2 Chronicles 5:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: making one sound to be heard for praising and thanking Yahweh (0)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: “making one sound as they praised and thanked Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: raised their voices (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “sang loudly”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for his covenant loyalty endures forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word covenant loyalty, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” Alternate translation: “for he is faithful forever”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then the house, the house of Yahweh, was filled with a cloud (0)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: “Then a cloud filled the house of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 6
2 Chronicles 6 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Temple dedication
Solomon dedicated the temple with a prayer asking God to honor the temple. It was common to dedicate something important to God when it was completed. (See: temple, house, house of God)
2 Chronicles 6:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh has said that he (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Solomon speaks to Yahweh as if he were speaking to someone else to show that he respects Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, you have said that you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in thick darkness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the word “thick” shows that the darkness is extreme. Yahweh spoke of not allowing sinful people to see him as if he were to live in darkness. Alternate translation: “in great darkness”
2 Chronicles 6:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have built you a lofty residence (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “I and your people have built you a lofty residence”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a lofty residence (0)a magnificent house, appropriate for someone who is very important
2 Chronicles 6:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: while all the assembly of Israel was standing (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The phrase “all the assembly” is a generalization. It does not mean that every person of Israel was standing, but that all of the people who were gathered there were standing. Alternate translation: “while the people of Israel there were standing”
2 Chronicles 6:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May Yahweh, the God of Israel, be praised (0)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: “Praise Yahweh, the God of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David my father (0)King Solomon actually was one of King David’s sons.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has fulfilled it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“has caused it to happen.” The word “it” refers to what God had promised. Alternate translation: “has ensured that he fulfilled his promises”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with his own hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The hand is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “by his own power”
2 Chronicles 6:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in order for my name to be there (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the metonym “my name” represents Yahweh’s reputation, and his name being there represents people recognizing his greatness and worshiping him there. Alternate translation: “for people to worship me there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to be prince over my people Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Being “prince over people” represents ruling them. Alternate translation: “to rule my people Israel”
2 Chronicles 6:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that my name might be there (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the metonym “my name” represents Yahweh’s reputation, and his name being there represents people recognizing his greatness and worshiping him there. Alternate translation: “so that people might worship me there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to be over my people Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Being “over” people represents ruling them. Alternate translation: “to rule my people Israel”
2 Chronicles 6:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues speaking to the people at the temple.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: it was in the heart of David my father (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here David’s heart is spoken of as if it were a container, and what he desired is spoken of as if it were an item in the container. Alternate translation: “David my father desired”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the name of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh … for me” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh’s reputation”
2 Chronicles 6:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: it was in your heart … for it to be in your heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here David’s heart is spoken of as if it were a container, and what he desired is spoken of as if it were an item in the container. Alternate translation: “you desired … to desire to do that”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for me” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for my reputation”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: In that it was in your heart (0)Alternate translation: “Because it was in your heart” or “Because you wanted”
2 Chronicles 6:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one who will come from your loins (0)Alternate translation: “one who will be your own offspring” or “one whom you yourself will father”
2 Chronicles 6:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has carried out the word that he had said (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “has done exactly what he said he would do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have arisen in the place of David my father (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Height is a metaphor for power. Alternate translation: “I have gained the power that David my father had”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I sit on the throne of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The throne is a metonym for the activity of the one who sits on the throne. Alternate translation: “I rule over Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the name of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for the reputation of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 6:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in which is Yahweh’s covenant, which (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The stone tablets on which Yahweh had written the terms of the covenant are spoken of as if they were the covenant itself. Alternate translation: “in which are the tablets on which Yahweh wrote the terms of the covenant that”
2 Chronicles 6:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the presence of all the assembly of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “in front of the people of Israel who had gathered there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: spread out his hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“raised his hands.” This was to show that he was praying.
2 Chronicles 6:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
You may convert these to modern measures. Alternate translation: “two and one-third meters long, two and one-third meters wide, and one and one-half meters high”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he spread out his hands toward the heavens (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Solomon lifted up his hands and held them high as he knelt on the platform to pray. Spreading out his hands toward the heavens was a way of showing that he was praying to Yahweh.
2 Chronicles 6:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the earth, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with your servants (0)This can be stated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “on the earth. You keep your promise to love your servants” or “on the earth. You faithfully love your servants”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: walk before you with all their heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The way a person lives is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “live wholeheartedly the way that you want them to”
2 Chronicles 6:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you who have kept with your servant David my father, what you promised him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“you who have kept your promise to your servant David my father.” To keep a promise is an idiom that means to do what one has promised. Alternate translation: “you who have done what you promised your servant David my father”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you spoke with your mouth (0)The phrase “with your mouth” may emphasize that God himself spoke. It was not someone else who made the promise. Alternate translation: “you yourself spoke”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: and have fulfilled it with your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The hand is a metonym for the power of the hand. Alternate translation: “and, by your power, have fulfilled what you said” or “and by your power have done what you said”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as it is today (0)This refers to the day when Solomon was saying this prayer.
2 Chronicles 6:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: carry out what you have promised (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is a request. To carry out what one has said is an idiom meaning to do what one has said. Alternate translation: “please do what you have promised”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You will not fail to have a man (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
God speaking in terms of David having a man implies that the man would be a descendant of David. This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “you will always have a descendant” (See also: Double Negatives)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a man in my sight to sit on the throne of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The phrase “in my sight” here implies that God would choose the man and the man would want to obey God.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to sit on the throne of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The throne is a metonym for the activity of the one who sits on the throne. Alternate translation: “to rule over Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to walk in my law, as you have walked before me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The way a person behaves is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “to obey my law, as you have obeyed me” or “to be faithful to my law as you have been faithful to me”
2 Chronicles 6:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let your word be confirmed, which you have spoken to your servant David (0)Alternate translation: “I want you to make come true the word that you have spoken to your servant David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let your word be confirmed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “confirm your word” or “make your word come true”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your word (0)Alternate translation: “your promise”
2 Chronicles 6:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But will God actually live with mankind on the earth? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Possible meanings of this question are: (1) Solomon is asking a real question and expecting an answer or (2) the question is rhetorical and Solomon is emphasizing that God is too big and mighty to live on earth. Alternate translation: “But it surely cannot be that God will actually live on the earth!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But will God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Here Solomon speaks about God in the third person to show his great respect for God. It can be stated in the second person. Alternate translation: “But will you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Look (0)Here “Look” indicates that he is about to say something important.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you—how much less can this temple that I have built (0)Alternate translation: “you, so this temple that I have built certainly cannot contain you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this temple that I have built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “this temple that your people have built under my leadership” or “this house that I and your people have built”
2 Chronicles 6:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: respect this prayer of your servant and his request (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “prayer” and “request” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that he is sincere as he makes his request. Solomon refers to himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “respect me, your servant, as I make this request” (See also: First, Second or Third Person)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: listen to the cry and prayer that your servant prays before you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “cry” and “prayer” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that he is sincere as he asks Yahweh to help him. Solomon refers to himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “listen to me, your servant, as I call for you to help me” (See also: First, Second or Third Person)
2 Chronicles 6:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May your eyes be open toward this temple (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes being open is a metonym for watching, and here watching represents protecting. “Please watch over this temple” or “Please protect this temple”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: day and night (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This is a merism. Alternate translation: “all the time” or “continually”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: where you promised to put your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “where you promised to be” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “where you promised to make people know you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the prayer your servant prays toward this place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Solomon refers to himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “the prayer that I, your servant, pray toward this place”
2 Chronicles 6:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So listen to the requests of your servant and of your people Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Solomon speaks of himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “So listen to my requests and the requests of your people Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when you listen, forgive (0)Alternate translation: “when you hear our prayers, please forgive our sins”
2 Chronicles 6:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: is required to swear an oath (0)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 requires him to swear an oath”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this house (0)This refers to the temple.
2 Chronicles 6:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bringing what he has done upon his own head (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
To bring someone’s conduct on him represents punishing him for his bad conduct. Alternate translation: “punishing him as he deserves”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: upon his own head (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the “head” refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “on him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: give to him according to his righteousness (0)Alternate translation: “give him what he deserves because he is innocent”
2 Chronicles 6:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When your people Israel are defeated by an enemy (0)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 an enemy defeats your people Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because they have sinned against you (0)Alternate translation: “because your people Israel have sinned against you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if they turn back to you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn back to you” represents submitting again to God. Alternate translation: “if they submit to you again”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: confess your name (0)This could mean: (1) “confess that they have sinned against you” or (2) “praise you” or (3) “say that they will obey you from now on.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: request forgiveness before you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word forgiveness, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “ask you to forgive them”
2 Chronicles 6:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: please listen from the heavens (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
To “listen” is an idiom for responding to prayer. Alternate translation: “please honor their prayer” or “please answer their prayer”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bring them back to the land that you gave to them and to their ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies that when their enemies defeated them, God’s people will have gone to live in other lands. Alternate translation: “bring them back to their own land”
2 Chronicles 6:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When the skies are shut up and there is no rain (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The sky is spoken of as if it were a building in which God stores the rain, and when God does not want it to rain he closes the door to the building. Alternate translation: “When you do not allow rain to fall from the skies”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: confess your name (0)This could mean: (1) “confess that they have sinned against you” or (2) “praise you” or (3) “say that they will obey you from now on.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turn from their sin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn from” is a metaphor for stopping doing it. Alternate translation: “stop committing their sins” or “stop acting sinfully”
2 Chronicles 6:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the good way in which they should walk (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The way a person lives is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “the good way that they should live”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your land, which you have given to your people as an inheritance (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The land is spoken of as if it were an inheritance because God wanted them to possess it forever. Alternate translation: “your land, which you have given to your people to own forever”
2 Chronicles 6:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: blight or mildew (0)These are agricultural terms that refer to the death of crops from either too little or too much rain, respectively.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: locusts or caterpillars (0)A “locust” is a type of grasshopper that causes destruction by eating crops. The word “caterpillar” refers to an early growth stage of the locust.
2 Chronicles 6:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: prayers and requests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “prayers” and “requests” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the person is sincere as he makes his requests.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: knowing the plague and sorrow in his own heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “plague” is a metaphor for sin, and sin and sorrow are spoken of as being in people’s hearts. Alternate translation: “knowing the sin and sorrow in his own heart”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he spreads out his hands toward this temple (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This was a way of showing that they were praying to the God of the temple. See how you translated “spread out his hands” in 2 Chronicles 6:12.
2 Chronicles 6:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for all his ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “his ways” represents the person’s behavior. Alternate translation: “for what he has done”
2 Chronicles 6:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that they may walk in your ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “walk in your ways” represents living and behaving the way God wants. Alternate translation: “so that they may live as you want them to”
2 Chronicles 6:32
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who—because of your great name, your mighty hand, and your outstretched arm—comes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied that the foreigners come because they hear about God’s greatness. Alternate translation: “who hears about your great name, your mighty hand, and your outstretched arm—if he comes”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your great name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here God’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “your great reputation” or “your greatness”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your mighty hand, and your outstretched arm (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to God’s power. (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: prays toward this house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Praying toward Yahweh’s temple shows that one is praying to Yahweh.
2 Chronicles 6:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: may know your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here God’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “may know your reputation” or “may know your greatness”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as do your own people Israel (0)Alternate translation: “as your own people Israel know your name and fear you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this house I have built is called by your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
The phrase “is called by your name” shows that God possesses and owns the house. 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: “you own this house that I have built”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this house I have built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 6:18. Alternate translation: “this house that your people have built under my leadership” or “this house that I and your people have built”
2 Chronicles 6:34
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Suppose that your people go out … suppose that they pray (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
When Solomon was speaking, these hypothetical situations had not happened, but Solomon knew that they might happen in the future. Use the form in your language for talking about events that have not happened but might happen in the future.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they pray to you toward this city … and toward the house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Praying toward Jerusalem and the temple shows that they are praying to Yahweh.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house that I have built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “this house that your people have built under my leadership” or “this house that I and your people have built”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for you” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for your reputation”
2 Chronicles 6:35
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to their prayer, their request (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The abstract nouns “prayer” and “request” can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: “to what they request when they pray to you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: help their cause (0)This refers to helping them fight against their enemies.
2 Chronicles 6:36
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
King Solomon continues praying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Suppose they sin … suppose that you are angry (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
When Solomon was speaking, these hypothetical situations had not happened, but Solomon knew that they might happen in the future. Use the form in your language for talking about events that have not happened but might happen in the future.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: hand them over to the enemy (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “hand them over to the enemy” represents allowing the enemy to capture them.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that the enemy carries them away (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “carries them away” represents forcing them to leave their own country. Alternate translation: “so that the enemy forces them to leave”
2 Chronicles 6:37
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: suppose they realize … suppose that they repent … Suppose that they say (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
When Solomon was speaking, these hypothetical situations had not happened, but Solomon knew that they might happen in the future. Use the form in your language for talking about events that have not happened but might happen in the future.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: where they have been exiled (0)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: “where their enemies have taken them as exiles”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seek favor from you (0)Alternate translation: “beg you to be merciful to them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: We have acted perversely and sinned. We have behaved wickedly (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two sentences mean the same thing. Together they emphasize how bad the people’s actions were.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: acted perversely and sinned (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how badly the people sinned.
2 Chronicles 6:38
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Suppose that they return … suppose that they pray (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
When Solomon was speaking, these hypothetical situations had not happened, but Solomon knew that they might happen in the future. Use the form in your language for talking about events that have not happened but might happen in the future.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they return to you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “return to you” represents submitting to Yahweh again. Alternate translation: “they submit to you again”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with all their heart and with all their soul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idioms “with all their heart” means “completely” and “with all their soul” means “with all their being.” These two phrases have similar meanings. Alternate translation: “completely” (See also: Doublet)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: where they took them as captives (0)Alternate translation: “where their enemies took them as captives”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that they pray toward their land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This refers to Israel. Praying toward Israel would show that they were praying to Yahweh, the God of Israel. Alternate translation: “that they pray facing their land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: toward the city that you chose (0)This refers to Jerusalem.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house that I have built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the house that your people have built under my leadership” or “the house that I and your people have built”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for you” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for your reputation”
2 Chronicles 6:39
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to their prayer and to their requests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “prayer” and “requests” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the people are sincere as they make their requests. Alternate translation: “their requests”
2 Chronicles 6:40
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now (0)Here the word “now” is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let your eyes be open (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The eyes being open is a metonym for seeing. Here it represents looking attentively. Alternate translation: “please pay attention to us” or “please look at us”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let your ears be attentive to the prayer (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The ears being attentive is a metonym for listening attentively. Alternate translation: “please listen to the prayer”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to the prayer that is made in this place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “to the prayer that we make in this place” or “to us as we pray to you in this place”
2 Chronicles 6:41
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: arise, Yahweh God, to your resting place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This pictures God as if he were sitting on his throne, and asks that he will get up from his throne and come to this place. Alternate translation: “arise, Yahweh God, and come to your resting place”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the ark of your strength (0)Alternate translation: “the ark, which is a symbol of your power”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let your priests … be clothed with salvation (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word salvation, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “to save.” This could mean: (1) being clothed with salvation is a metaphor for experiencing salvation. Alternate translation: “Let your priests … know that you have saved them” or (2) being clothed with salvation is a metaphor for demonstrating salvation. Alternate translation: “Let your priests … demonstrate how you save people” (See also: Abstract Nouns)
2 Chronicles 6:42
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do not turn the face of your anointed away from you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Turning the face of someone away represents rejecting him. Alternate translation: “do not reject your anointed one”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your anointed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“your anointed one.” Being anointed is a metonym for being chosen by God. King Solomon may have been speaking specifically about himself. 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: “the one you anointed” or “me, the one you chose to be king” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Keep in mind your acts of covenant loyalty for David, your servant (0)The phrase “your acts” can be expressed with the phrase “what you have done.” Alternate translation: “Remember what you have done for David, your servant, because of your covenant loyalty”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Keep in mind (0)Alternate translation: “Remember”
2 Chronicles 7
2 Chronicles 7 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Solomon’s dream
God appeared again to Solomon in a dream and said the temple was acceptable and he honored it with his presence. He would remain as long as Israel obeyed him. If they worshiped other gods and idols he would let their enemies destroy the temple. (See: temple, house, house of God and god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)
2 Chronicles 7:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s house” or “the temple”
2 Chronicles 7:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they bowed down with their faces to the ground on the stone pavement (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This is a position of humility and worship. Alternate translation: “they lay down on the ground with their faces touching the stone pavement”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his covenant loyalty endures forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word covenant loyalty, you can express the same idea with the adjective “loyal” and the verb “promise.” Alternate translation: “God will always be loyal to us because of his covenant” or “God will always faithfully do for us what he promised”
2 Chronicles 7:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This generalization refers either: (1) to the people whom Solomon called to Jerusalem and who are listed in 2 Chronicles 5:2, or (2) to those who traveled to Jerusalem for the feast, not necessarily to every person who lived in Israel.
2 Chronicles 7:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-two thousand oxen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“22,000 oxen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 120,000 sheep and goats (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats”
2 Chronicles 7:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: each standing where they serve (0)Alternate translation: “each standing in their appointed place”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Levites also with instruments of music of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The word “stood” is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: the Levites also stood with instruments of music of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For his covenant faithfulness endures for ever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in 2 Chronicles 7:3. Alternate translation: “God will always be faithful to his covenant with us” or “God will always faithfully love us”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This generalization refers to those who were at the feast in Jerusalem, not necessarily to every person who lived in Israel.
2 Chronicles 7:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the bronze altar that he had made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author speaks of Solomon commanding someone to make the bronze altar and telling him how to do it as if Solomon himself had made it. Alternate translation: “the bronze altar that he had commanded someone to make” or “the bronze altar that he had caused to be made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was not able to hold the burnt offerings, the grain offerings, and the fat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This was because there were so many offerings. Alternate translation: “was not able to hold the large amount of burnt offerings, grain offerings, and fat”
2 Chronicles 7:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This generalization refers to those who were at the feast in Jerusalem, not necessarily to every person who lived in Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from Lebo Hamath to the brook of Egypt (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Lebo Hamath was north of Israel, and the brook of Egypt was south of Israel. These are used together to emphasize that people from every part of Israel were at the festival. Alternate translation: “from Lebo Hamath in the north to the brook of Egypt in the south” (See also: Merism and How to Translate Names)
2 Chronicles 7:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the eighth day (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
The word “eighth” is the ordinal form of “8.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a solemn assembly (0)This was a special religious gathering.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they kept the dedication of the altar (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “kept the dedication” is an idiom meaning “celebrated the dedication.”
2 Chronicles 7:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the twenty-third day of the seventh month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. The twenty-third day is near the middle of October on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with glad and joyful hearts (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “glad” and “joyful” mean basically the same thing. Together they emphasize the intensity of joy. Alternate translation: “with very glad hearts” or “and they were very joyful”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because of the goodness that Yahweh had shown (0)Alternate translation: “because Yahweh had shown wonderful goodness” or “because Yahweh had been so good”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Israel, his people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
“Israel, God’s people.” The phrase “his people” emphasizes God’s faithfulness to Israel.
2 Chronicles 7:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon finished the house of Yahweh and his own house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “the workers whom Solomon commanded finished the house of Yahweh and Solomon’s own house”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Everything that came into Solomon’s heart to make (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The heart is spoken of as if it were a container, and desires are spoken of as if they came into the heart. Alternate translation: “Everything that Solomon desired to make”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he successfully carried out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “he successfully finished” or “he caused to be done successfully
2 Chronicles 7:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by night (0)Alternate translation: “at night” or “one night”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a house of sacrifice (0)Alternate translation: “the house where people will offer sacrifices to me”
2 Chronicles 7:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Suppose that I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “heavens” refers to the sky, and is spoken of as if it were a building in which God stores the rain. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 6:26. Alternate translation: “Suppose that I do not allow the rain to fall from the skies”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: devour the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “land” represents the plants and crops on the land.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if I send disease among my people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “send disease” represents causing diseases. Alternate translation: “if I cause my people to have diseases”
2 Chronicles 7:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who are called by my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here being called by God’s name is an idiom meaning belonging to God. Alternate translation: “who belong to me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seek my face (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here God’s face represents his acceptance of them. Possible meanings are seek my face represents: (1) urgently asking him for forgiveness. Alternate translation: “beg me to forgive them” or (2) strongly wanting to please him. Alternate translation: “choose to please me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turn from their wicked ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn from” is a metaphor meaning to stop doing something, and “ways” represent behavior. Alternate translation: “stop their wicked behavior” or “stop doing wicked things”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: heal their land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Here land that does not produce much is spoken of as though it were sick. Alternate translation: “make their land good again” or “make their land produce good crops”
2 Chronicles 7:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my eyes will be open (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The eyes being open is a metonym for seeing. Here it represents looking attentively. Alternate translation: “I will pay attention to you” or “I will watch you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my ears attentive to the prayers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The ears being attentive is a metonym for listening attentively. Alternate translation: “I will listen to the prayers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the prayers that are made in this place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “to the prayers that you make in this place” or “to you as you pray to me in this place”
2 Chronicles 7:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that my name may be there forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) God’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “that I may be there forever” or (2) God’s name represents Yahweh’s reputation, and his name being there represents people worshiping him there. Alternate translation: “for people to worship me there forever”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: My eyes and my heart will be there every day (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “My eyes” represents God’s careful attention, and “my heart” represents his love. These being at his temple implies that he will protect his temple. Alternate translation: “I will watch and protect it forever” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 7:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As for you (0)Here “you” refers to King Solomon.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if you walk before me as David your father walked (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here walking is a metaphor for living. Walking before God represents living in obedience to him. Alternate translation: “If you obey me as David your father did”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David your father (0)Solomon was one of David’s sons.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: keeping my statutes and my decrees (0)Alternate translation: “obeying my statutes and my decrees”
2 Chronicles 7:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will establish the throne of your kingdom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the throne represents ruling. Establishing the throne of Solomon’s kingdom represents causing Solomon to have descendants who will rule over Israel. Alternate translation: “I will make descendants of yours rule over your kingdom”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: A descendant of yours will never fail to be ruler in Israel (0)This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “One of your descendants will always be ruler in Israel” or “Descendants of yours will always rule in Israel”
2 Chronicles 7:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But if you turn away (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn away” from God is a metaphor meaning to stop worshiping him. Alternate translation: “But if you stop worshiping me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you turn away (0)Possible meanings are that the word you refers: (1) to all the people of Israel, or (2) to Solomon and his descendants.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my statutes and my commandments (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
Here the words “commandments” and “statutes” mean basically the same thing and emphasize all that Yahweh has commanded.
2 Chronicles 7:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will uproot them from out of my ground that I have given them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “them” refers to the people of Israel. God speaks of making his people leave his land as if they were plants that he would pull up by their roots out of the soil. Alternate translation: “I will make them leave the land I have given them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This house (0)This refers to the temple.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that I have set apart for my name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “that I have set apart for myself” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “that I have set apart for my reputation”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will cast away from before me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
God speaks of rejecting his temple as if he were to throw it far away from himself. Alternate translation: “I will reject it” or “I will ignore it”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will make it a proverb and a joke among all the peoples (0)Alternate translation: “I will cause all the peoples to make proverbs and jokes about it” or “because of what I do to it, all the nations will mock and ridicule it”
2 Chronicles 7:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will be shocked (0)Alternate translation: “will be amazed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will hiss (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This is how they would show that they are shocked by what happened to the temple
2 Chronicles 7:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they forsook Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “they were unfaithful to Yahweh” or “they did not obey Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who had brought their ancestors out of the land of Egypt (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
This phrase tells why they should have worshiped God.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they laid hold of other gods (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “laid hold of” represents choosing to be loyal to them. Alternate translation: “they chose to be loyal to other gods”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bowed down to them and worshiped them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean the same thing. The phrase “bowed down to them” describes the posture that people used in worship.
2 Chronicles 8
2 Chronicles 8 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Solomon’s victories
Solomon achieved many victory when he was king. This chapter records many of these victories. Israel is at its height of power when Solomon was king.
2 Chronicles 8:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about (0)This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way of doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: at the end of twenty years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“after 20 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon had built the house of Yahweh and his own house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes of Solomon commanding the people to build the temple and palace and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built them. Alternate translation: “Solomon caused the house of Yahweh and his own house to be built” or “Solomon directed the building of the temple and his house”
2 Chronicles 8:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hiram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Hiram was the king of Tyre. See how you translated his name in 2 Chronicles 2:11. Alternate translation: “Hiram, the king of Tyre” or “King Hiram”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon rebuilt the towns that Hiram had given to him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author speaks of Solomon commanding the people to rebuild the towns as if he himself had rebuilt them. Alternate translation: “Solomon caused the towns that Hiram had given to him to be rebuilt” or “Solomon commanded and the people rebuilt the towns that Hiram had given to him”
2 Chronicles 8:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon attacked Hamathzobah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Solomon represents his whole fighting army. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s army attacked the town of Hamathzolbah” (See also: How to Translate Names)
2 Chronicles 8:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He built Tadmor in the wilderness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Tadmor was a city north of Israel, in modern-day Syria. The author writes of Solomon commanding the people to build Tadmor as if Solomon himself built it. Alternate translation: “Solomon caused the town of Tadmor in the wilderness to be rebuilt” or “Solomon commanded, and the people built the town of Tadmor in the wilderness”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tadmor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Tadmor was a city north of Israel, in modern-day Syria.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: store cities (0)“storage cities” or “supply cities.” These are cities where the government stored food or supplies.
2 Chronicles 8:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Horon the Upper and Beth Horon the Lower (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These were two cities in Judah. The upper city was on top of a hill and the lower city was in a valley. Alternate translation: “Higher Beth Horon and Lower Beth Horon” or “Beth Horon of the Hill and Beth Horon of the Valley”
2 Chronicles 8:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Baalath (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a city in Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the lands under his rule (0)Alternate translation: “all the lands that he ruled”
2 Chronicles 8:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their descendants who were left after them in the land (0)Alternate translation: “after those people died, their descendants who remained in the land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: forced laborers (0)Alternate translation: “slaves”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: which they are to this day (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
This phrase adds information about the descendants of those that Solomon had made into forced laborers. Alternate translation: “and their descendants are still forced laborers even now”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to this day (0)This refers to the time when the book of 2 Chronicles was written. See how you translated it in 2 Chronicles 5:9.
2 Chronicles 8:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Solomon made no forced laborers of the people of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “Solomon did not make any of the people of Israel become slaves”
2 Chronicles 8:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the daughter of Pharaoh (0)Alternate translation: “his wife, the daughter of Paharaoh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to the house that he had built for her (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes about Solomon having his workers build a house for his wife as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the house that he had his workers build for her” or “to the house he had commanded his workers to build for her”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David king of Israel (0)David was Solomon’s father and had been king before Solomon.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because wherever the ark of Yahweh has come is holy (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It can be stated that the ark had been brought into King David’s house. Alternate translation: “because the ark of Yahweh was brought into that house, and wherever the ark of Yahweh has come is holy”
2 Chronicles 8:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his altar that he had built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes about Solomon having his workers build the altar as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “on Yahweh’s altar that Solomon had his workers build” or “the Yahweh’s altar that he had commanded his workers to build”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his altar (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s altar” or “the altar of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the portico (0)“the temple porch” or “the entrance to the temple.” This was a covered porch supported by columns, attached to the front of the temple.
2 Chronicles 8:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the daily schedule required (0)Alternate translation: “as was required each day”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: following the directions (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “following the directions” represents obeying them. Alternate translation: “obeying the directions”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the directions found in the commandment of Moses (0)Alternate translation: “what Moses had commanded them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the set festivals three times every year (0)Alternate translation: “the three festivals that they were to celebrate every year”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Festival of Shelters (0)“the Festival of Tents.” This is a festival to celebrate God’s provision for his people. When the people of Israel wandered in the desert, they lived in temporary shelters. Each year when they harvested their crops, they stayed in temporary shelters in their gardens. In both situations, God provided for them.
2 Chronicles 8:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: In keeping with the decrees of his father David (0)Alternate translation: “According to the decrees of his father David” or “As his father David had decreed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also appointed the gatekeepers by their divisions to every gate (0)Alternate translation: “He also appointed groups of gatekeepers to each gate”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gatekeepers (0)These were Levites who guarded the gates and only let inside those who had permission to go inside.
2 Chronicles 8:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: These people did not deviate from the commands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “deviate from the commands” represents to do something different from what was commanded. It can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “These people carefully obeyed the commands”
2 Chronicles 8:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the work ordered by Solomon was completed (0)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: “They completed all the work that Solomon had ordered”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from the day the foundation of the house of Yahweh was laid (0)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: “from the day they laid the foundation of the house of Yahweh” or “from the day they built the foundation of the house of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: until it was finished (0)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: “until they finished building the temple”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The house of Yahweh was completed (0)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: “The house of Yahweh was complete” or “They completed building the house of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 8:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ezion Geber and then to Elath on the coast (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are towns along the Sea of Reeds. They had ports where people who had ships could stop. Alternate translation: “the towns of Ezion Geber and Elath, on the coast of the Sea of Reeds” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 8:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ophir (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place. Its location is not known.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 450 talents of gold (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“four hundred and fifty talents of gold.” You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about sixteen thousand kilograms of gold” or “about fifteen metric tons of gold” (See also: Biblical Weight)
2 Chronicles 9
2 Chronicles 9 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Solomon ends.
Special concepts in this chapter
Solomon’s fame
Solomon was famous outside of Israel because of his wisdom and tremendous wealth. (See: wise, wisdom)
2 Chronicles 9:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: She came with a very long caravan (0)Alternate translation: “a very large group of servants” or “a very long line of servants”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all that was in her heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “everything she wanted to know”
2 Chronicles 9:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there was no question that he did not answer (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “he answered every question”
2 Chronicles 9:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When the queen of Sheba saw Solomon’s wisdom and the palace that he had built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “saw Solomon’s wisdom” represents realizing that Solomon was very wise. Alternate translation: “When the queen of Sheba realized how wise Solomon was, and when she saw the palace that he had built”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the palace that he had built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes about Solomon having his workers build his palace as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the palace that Solomon had his workers build” or “the palace that he had commanded his workers to build”
2 Chronicles 9:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the seating of his servants (0)This could mean: (1) where his servants lived or (2) how his servants sat around the table.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his cupbearers (0)“his wine servers.” These were servants who tasted the king’s wine to make sure that there was no poison in it. If it was safe to drink the wine, they would give it to the king.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there was no more breath in her (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “she was completely amazed”
2 Chronicles 9:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I heard in my own land (0)Alternate translation: “I heard while I was in my own land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your words and your wisdom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
Here the word “wisdom” can describe the word “words.” Alternate translation: “your wise words”
2 Chronicles 9:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: now my eyes have seen it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The phrase “my eyes” emphasizes that she herself saw it. Alternate translation: “now I have seen it for myself”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Not half was told me about your wisdom and wealth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be stated it active form. Alternate translation: “They did not tell me about even half of your wisdom and wealth” or “You are much more wise and wealthy than what they told me”
2 Chronicles 9:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How blessed are your people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
This is an exclamation that shows her amazement. Alternate translation: “Your people are greatly blessed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: how blessed are your servants who constantly stand before you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
This is an exclamation that shows her amazement. Alternate translation: “your servants who constantly stand before you are greatly blessed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they hear your wisdom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Hear “wisdom” represents the wise things that he says. Alternate translation: “they hear the wise things that you say”
2 Chronicles 9:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who has taken pleasure in you, who placed you on his throne (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
These phrases tell why people should praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: “because he has taken pleasure in you and placed you on his throne”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who has taken pleasure in you (0)Alternate translation: “who is pleased with you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who placed you on his throne, to be king for Yahweh your God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The idea of being on Yahweh’s throne represents having the authority to rule as Yahweh does. Being king “for Yahweh” means to represent Yahweh as king. Alternate translation: “who gave you authority to rule as he does, to represent Yahweh your God as king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in order to establish them forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This could mean: (1) “establish” represents helping them in general. Alternate translation: “in order to help them forever” or (2) “establish” represents making them strong as a nation. Alternate translation: “in order to make them a nation forever”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for you to do justice and righteousness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The abstract nouns “justice” and “righteousness” can be expressed with the words “fairly” and “righteously.” Alternate translation: “for you to rule fairly and righteously” or “for you to do what is just and right”
2 Chronicles 9:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 120 talents (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and twenty talents.” A talent is a unit of weight equal to about 33 kilograms. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about four thousand kilograms of gold” or “about four metric tons of gold” (See also: Biblical Weight)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: No greater amount of spices … was ever given to him again (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
The verb “was ever given” can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “No one ever gave more spices than the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon”
2 Chronicles 9:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hiram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Hiram was the king of Tyre. See how you translated his name in 2 Chronicles 2:11. Alternate translation: “Hiram, the king of Tyre” or “King Hiram”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ophir (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place. Its location is not known. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 8:18.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: algum wood (0)Algum is a kind of tree that grows in Lebanon. King Hiram sent this kind of wood to Solomon. See how you translated it in 2 Chronicles 2:8.
2 Chronicles 9:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king made steps … well as harps and lyres (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author speaks of the king having his workers make these things as if he himself had made them. Alternate translation: “the king had his workers make the steps … as well as harps and lyres” or “the king’s workers made steps … well as harps and lyres”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: No wood like this had been seen before in the land of Judah (0)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: “No one had seen wood like this before in the land of Judah”
2 Chronicles 9:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in one year (0)This could mean: (1) this refers to each year or (2) this refers to a particular year.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 666 talents of gold (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A talent is a unit of weight equal to about 33 kilograms. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about twenty-two thousand kilograms of gold” or “about twenty-two metric tons of gold” (See also: Numbers)
2 Chronicles 9:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: King Solomon made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes about Solomon having his workers make the shields as if he himself had made them. Alternate translation: “King Solomon had his workers make” or “King Solomon’s workers made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred large shields (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“200 large shields”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: beaten gold (0)Alternate translation: “gold that people had beaten into thin sheets”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Six hundred shekels of gold went into each one (0)Here the phrase “went into” represents being made with. This could mean: (1) the shields were covered with sheets of gold. Alternate translation: “They covered each shield with six hundred shekels of gold” or (2) the shields were made of gold. Alternate translation: “They made each shield out of six hundred shekels of gold”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Six hundred shekels of gold (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “Six and one half kilograms of gold”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Six hundred shekels (0)The word “shekels” does not appear here in the Hebrew text. Some modern versions assume instead the unit called bekah, which was equivalent to only a half shekel. Any version making this assumption would signal a metric equivalent of about three kilograms.
2 Chronicles 9:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes about Solomon having his workers make the shields as if he himself had made them. Alternate translation: “King Solomon had his workers also make” or “His workers also made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three hundred shields (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“300 shields”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Three minas of gold went into each shield (0)Here the phrase “went into” represents being made with. This could mean: (1) the shields were covered with sheets of gold. Alternate translation: “They covered each shield with three minas of gold” or (2) the shields were made of gold. Alternate translation: “They made each shield out of three minas of gold”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Three minas of gold (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A mina is about 600 grams. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “One and three-quarters kilograms of gold”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king put them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author writes about Solomon having his workers put the shields in the palace as if he himself had put them there. Alternate translation: “King Solomon had his workers put them” or “King Solomon’s workers put them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the House of the Forest of Lebanon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Solomon’s palace was built of trees from Lebanon. This could mean: (1) this was the name of a large room in the palace. Alternate translation: “the Hall of the Forest of Lebanon” or (2) this was the name of his whole palace.
2 Chronicles 9:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king made a great throne (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author speaks of commanding his workers to build the throne as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the king had his workers make a great throne” or “the king’s workers made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a great throne of ivory (0)Alternate translation: “a great throne decorated with ivory”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ivory (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Ivory is the hard, white substance from the tusks or teeth of large animals, such as the elephant, walrus, or hippopotamus.
2 Chronicles 9:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two lions (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
These were statues. Alternate translation: “two statues of lions”
2 Chronicles 9:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the House of the Forest of Lebanon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Solomon’s palace was built of trees from Lebanon. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 9:16. This could mean: (1) this was the name of a large room in the palace. Alternate translation: “the Hall of the Forest of Lebanon” or (2) this was the name of his whole palace. Alternate translation: “the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: silver was not considered valuable in Solomon’s days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Silver was so common in Solomon’s days that if a king wanted to show his wealth, he would not do it by making things out of silver. Instead he would use gold, which was less common and more valuable. 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: “people did not value silver so much”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in Solomon’s days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here “Solomon’s days” refers to the time when Solomon ruled. Alternate translation: “when Solomon ruled”
2 Chronicles 9:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a fleet of oceangoing ships (0)Alternate translation: “a group of ships that travel on the ocean”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: along with the fleet of Hiram (0)Alternate translation: “along with Hiram’s fleet of ships”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: apes and baboons (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
It is not certain whether the word translated as “apes” here refers to apes, baboons, or monkeys. It is not certain whether the word translated as “baboons” here refers to baboons or peacocks. This can be translated more generally as “animals from far away” or “animals from Africa.”
2 Chronicles 9:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the kings of the earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The word “all” here is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Kings from around the world”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sought the presence of Solomon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The presence of a person is a metonym for being able to speak and listen to the person. Alternate translation: “wanted to visit Solomon” or “came to visit Solomon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to hear his wisdom, which God had put in his heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The heart is a metonym for what a person thinks, and here it is spoken of as if it were a container. Here, wisdom is a metonym for the wise things a person thinks or says. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word wisdom, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “to hear how wise God had enabled him to be” or “to hear him speak the wise words that God had enabled him to speak”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: which God had put in his heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
God putting wisdom in Solomon’s heart represents God making Solomon wise. Alternate translation: “which God had given him” or “because God had made him wise”
2 Chronicles 9:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: year after year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “every year”
2 Chronicles 9:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: four thousand stalls … twelve thousand horsemen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“4,000 stalls … 12,000 horsemen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stalls (0)This is a small enclosure where horses are kept.
2 Chronicles 9:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as much as the stones on the ground (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is an exaggeration to emphasize that there was such a great amount of silver.
2 Chronicles 9:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They brought horses for Solomon from Egypt and from all the lands (0)The word “they” may refer to Solomon’s merchants. However this sentence is not about what the merchants did, but about where Solomon’s horses came from. Alternate translation: “Horses were brought to Solomon from Egypt and from all the lands” or “Solomon’s horses were from Egypt and all the lands”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from all the lands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “from many other places” or “from many other countries”
2 Chronicles 9:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: first and last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
The phrase “first and last” represents the whole time of Solomon’s reign. Alternate translation: “from the beginning to the end of his reign”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: are they not written & (which also had information about Jeroboam son of Nebat)? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The author uses the question to remind the readers that other people had written about Solomon. It can be expressed in active form Alternate translation: “they are written … (which also had information about Jeroboam son of Nebat.)” or “people have written about them … (which also had information about Jeroboam son of Nebat).”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The History of Nathan the Prophet … The Prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite … The Visions of Iddo the Seer (0)These are the names of some writings that existed when 2 Chronicles was written, but they do not exist now.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahijah the Shilonite (0)This is a prophet from Shiloh who predicted that the nation of Israel would be divided into two kingdoms.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shilonite (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a people group from the town of Shiloh.
2 Chronicles 9:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This was a polite way to tell about him dying. Alternate translation: “He died”
2 Chronicles 10
2 Chronicles 10 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This begins a section on King Rehoboam. (2 Chronicles 10–12)
Special concepts in this chapter
Rehoboam’s taxes
The people asked Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, to reduce the heavy taxes and the forced labor Solomon had demanded but Rehoboam refused. He lacked the wisdom to follow the advice of the men who had been councilors of his father Solomon. So the ten northern tribes broke off and made Jeroboam their king. They were called “Israel” and Rehoboam’s kingdom was called Judah. This will cause confusion between the northern kingdom of Israel and the whole nation of Israel. (See: wise, wisdom)
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Metaphor
The people use the metaphor of a yoke to complain about the high taxes and forced labor Solomon demanded from the people. They said, “Your father made our yoke difficult.” (See: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 10:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel was coming (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Israel” is a metonym for the men of Israel. The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “the men of Israel were coming” (See also: Hyperbole)
2 Chronicles 10:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeroboam … Nebat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men. See how you translated these names in 2 Chronicles 9:29.
2 Chronicles 10:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they sent and called him (0)Alternate translation: “the men of Israel sent for Jeroboam”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeroboam and all Israel came (0)Alternate translation: “Jeroboam and all Israel came to Rehoboam”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel came (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Israel” is a metonym for the men of Israel. The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “the men of Israel came” (See also: Hyperbole)
2 Chronicles 10:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: made our yoke difficult (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A difficult yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. Alternate translation: “treated us cruelly” or “forced us to work very hard”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: make your father’s hard work easier, and lighten the heavy yoke that he put on us (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean the same thing. The yoke metaphor emphasizes the fact that Solomon had treated them harshly. Alternate translation: “make the hard work that your father gave us easier, and do not treat us as harshly as he did” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 10:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: after three days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“after 3 days”
2 Chronicles 10:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the old men who had stood before Solomon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
To “stand before” is an idiom for serving the king in his presence. Alternate translation: “the old men who counseled Solomon” or “the old men who attended to Solomon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to bring an answer to these people (0)Alternate translation: “to answer these people” or “to reply to these people”
2 Chronicles 10:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Rehoboam ignored the advice (0)Alternate translation: “Rehoboam did not follow the advice”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who had grown up with him, who stood before him (0)Alternate translation: “who were his long-time friends, and who advised him”
2 Chronicles 10:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Lighten the yoke that your father put on us (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
To “lighten the yoke” is a metaphor that represents easing the burden. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 10:4. Alternate translation: “Do not treat us as cruelly as your father did” or “Do not force us to work as hard as your father did”
2 Chronicles 10:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: made their yoke heavy (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A heavy yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. This metaphor is continued in this verses. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 10:4. Alternate translation: “treated them cruelly” or “forced them to work very hard”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This metaphor means that Rehoboam is more cruel and intimidating than his father. Alternate translation: “I rule much more harshly than my father ever did” or “I am much harsher than my father”
2 Chronicles 10:11
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorA heavy yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. This metaphor is continued in this verses. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 10:4.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will add to your yoke (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“I will make your yoke heavier.” A yoke is a metaphor for labor. Alternate translation: “I will force you to work harder”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will punish you with scorpions (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Possible meanings are that: (1) “scorpions” is a metaphor for any kind of painful punishment. Alternate translation: “I will punish you much more harshly” or (2) “scorpions” is a metaphor for whips with sharp metal barbs at the end. Alternate translation: “I will punish you with whips that have sharp pieces of metal at the ends”
2 Chronicles 10:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the third day (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“after three days”
2 Chronicles 10:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: made your yoke heavy, but I will add to it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A heavy yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. Alternate translation: “treated you cruelly, but I will be more cruel” or “forced you to work very hard, but I will make you work harder”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will punish you with scorpions (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Possible meanings are that: (1) “scorpions” is a metaphor for any kind of painful punishment. Alternate translation: “I will punish you much more harshly” or (2) “scorpions” is a metaphor for whips with sharp metal barbs at the end. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 10:11. Alternate translation: “I will punish you with whips that have sharp pieces of metal at the ends”
2 Chronicles 10:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So the king did not listen to the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “listen to the people” represents not care about what they said or about actually doing what they asked. Alternate translation: “So the king did not do what the people had asked him to do” or “So the king ignored the people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: it was a turn in events brought about by God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom and can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God caused things to happen like this” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that Yahweh might carry out his word … Nebat (0)Alternate translation: “that Yahweh might do according to the message that he told Ahijah the Shilonite to tell Jeroboam son of Nebat” or “that Yahweh might do what he had said he would do when he told Ahijah the Shilonite to give a message to Jeroboam son of Nebat”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that Yahweh might carry out his word (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “carry out his word” means to do what he had said he would do.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his word that Ahijah the Shilonite had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat (0)This refers to the message that God gave Ahijah to tell Jeroboam.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahijah the Shilonite … Jeroboam son of Nebat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated these names in 2 Chronicles 9:29.
2 Chronicles 10:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Israel” is a metonym for the men of Israel. The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “the men of Israel” (See also: Hyperbole)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king did not listen to them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “listen to the people” represents not caring about what they said or about actually doing what they asked. Alternate translation: “the king did not do what they had asked him to do” or “the king ignored them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What share do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people use this question and statement to imply that since they do not belong to David’s family, they are not obligated to support David’s grandson, King Rehoboam. Alternate translation: “We have no share in David. We will not have anything to do with the descendants of the son of Jesse” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What share do we have in David? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Having a share in someone represents being his descendants and receiving the good things that descendants receive. Alternate translation: “We do not belong to the family of David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Son of Jesse” here is a metonym for David, a son of Jesse. Having an inheritance in someone represents being his descendants and receiving the good things that descendants receive. Alternate translation: “We will not receive any inheritance from the son of Jesse” or “We will have nothing to do with the his descendants”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Each of you should go back to his tent (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Tent” here is a metonym representing people’s homes. Alternate translation: “Go to your homes, people of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now see to your own house, David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “see to” is an idiom meaning to take care of something, and “house” is a metonym for David’s lineage of power and prestige. Alternate translation: “Now take care of your own kingdom, descendant of David” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 10:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Adoniram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Adoniram is the name of a man. In the Hebrew text of this sentence, his name was written as Adoram.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who was over the forced laborers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Being over people represents having authority to tell them what to do. Alternate translation: “who was in charge of the forced laborers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stoned him to death with stones (0)Alternate translation: “killed Adoniram by stoning him”
2 Chronicles 10:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: against the house of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “the house of David” represents the kings who were descendants of David. Alternate translation: “against the kings descended from David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to this day (0)This refers to the general time when the author wrote this book. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9. Alternate translation: “even now”
2 Chronicles 11
2 Chronicles 11 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The section on King Rehoboam continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Strengthening their defenses
Rehoboam strengthened the defenses of Judah. Without the help of the northern tribes, the kingdom of Judah did not really have much power to defend itself from outside attacks. Therefore, Rehoboam felt it necessary to strengthen Judah’s military defenses.
Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
Israel
When the author speaks about Israel, he is now referring almost exclusively to the northern kingdom of Israel and not the united nation of Israel.
2 Chronicles 11:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Judah and Benjamin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “house” is a metonym that represents a tribe or descendants and refers specifically to the soldiers from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “all the soldiers from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 180,000 chosen men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and eighty thousand chosen men”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: chosen men who were soldiers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“choice men who were soldiers.” The phrase “chosen men” is an idiom that refers to elite soldiers who were skilled in battle. Alternate translation: “of the best soldiers”
2 Chronicles 11:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the word of Yahweh came … saying (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that is used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. Alternate translation: “Yahweh spoke this message … and he said” or “Yahweh spoke these words … and he said”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shemaiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the man of God (0)The expression “man of God” is a respectful way of referring to a prophet of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the man who belongs to God” or “the prophet of God”
2 Chronicles 11:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel in Judah and Benjamin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “Israel” refers to the Israelite people who live in the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “all of the Israelites in the tribes of Judah and Benjamin”
2 Chronicles 11:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your brothers (0)This is a reference to the ten northern tribes. By calling them “brothers,” Yahweh emphasizes the family relationship between all of the tribes.
2 Chronicles 11:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem and built cities (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Rehoboam build these cities. Alternate translation: “Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem and had his workers build cities”
2 Chronicles 11:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Etam, Tekoa (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of cities.
2 Chronicles 11:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zorah, Aijalon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of cities.
2 Chronicles 11:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He fortified the fortresses (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here the word “fortresses” refers to fortified cities. That Rehoboam “fortified the fortresses” means that he built up and strengthened the defenses of these fortified cities. Alternate translation: “He strengthened the defenses of the fortified cities”
2 Chronicles 11:12
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Quote: made them very strong (0)Alternate translation: “made the cities very strong”
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Quote: Judah and Benjamin belonged to him (0)Rehoboam was in control of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.
2 Chronicles 11:13
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Quote: The priests and the Levites … went over to him from within their borders (0)This could mean: (1) “The priests and Levites … supported Rehoboam from within their borders” or (2) “The priests and Levites … traveled from within their borders to join Rehoboam.”
2 Chronicles 11:14
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Quote: pasturelands (0)lands used for animals
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Quote: Jeroboam and his sons had driven them away (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
To “drive away” is an idiom that means to forcefully cause someone to leave. Alternate translation: “Jeroboam and his sons had forced them to leave”
2 Chronicles 11:15
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Quote: the goat and calf idols he had made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Jeroboam make these idols. Alternate translation: “the goat idols and calf idols that he had his craftsmen make”
2 Chronicles 11:16
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Quote: People … came after them (0)Alternate translation: “People … followed the Levites” or “People … came to Jerusalem after the Levites”
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Quote: those who set their hearts to seek Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “hearts” represents the thoughts and desires. The idiom “set their hearts” means to determine to do something. Alternate translation: “those who had determined to seek Yahweh” (See also: Idiom)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to seek Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were seeking Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to worship Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 11:17
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Quote: made Rehoboam son of Solomon strong (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The people supporting Rehoboam as king is spoken of as if they made Rehoboam strong. Alternate translation: “supported Rehoboam son of Solomon as king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they walked for three years in the way of David and Solomon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here a person’s actions and lifestyle are spoken of as if the person were walking along a path. Alternate translation: “they followed the example of David and Solomon for three years”
2 Chronicles 11:18
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Quote: Mahalath … Abihail (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of women.
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Quote: Jerimoth … Eliab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 11:19
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Quote: Jeush … Shemariah … Zaham (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 11:20
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Quote: Mahalath … Maacah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of women.
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Quote: Rehoboam took Maacah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that he married her. Alternate translation: “Rehoboam married Maacah”
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Quote: Abijah, Attai, Ziza, and Shelomith (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 11:21
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Quote: eighteen wives and sixty concubines … twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“18 wives and 60 concubines … 28 sons and 60 daughters”
2 Chronicles 11:22
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Quote: he had the thought of making him king (0)Alternate translation: “he had thought of making Abijah king”
2 Chronicles 11:23
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Quote: he scattered all his sons throughout all the land of Judah and Benjamin to every fortified city (0)Alternate translation: “he sent all his sons throughout all the land to every fortified city of Judah and Benjamin”
2 Chronicles 12
2 Chronicles 12 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter ends the section on King Rehoboam.
Special concepts in this chapter
Worshiping Yahweh
The safety of Israel and Judah was dependent upon the people worshiping Yahweh and not upon their military power. Because Rehoboam deserted the worship of God, God allowed the king of Egypt to take all of the wealth Solomon stored up.
2 Chronicles 12:1
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Quote: It came about (0)This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
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Quote: when Rehoboam’s reign was established (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “when Rehoboam had established his reign”
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Quote: all Israel with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the words “all Israel” refer specifically to the people of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, over which Rehoboam was king. The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “all the Israelite people whom he ruled also abandoned the law of Yahweh” (See also: Ellipsis)
2 Chronicles 12:2
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Quote: It happened (0)This phrase is used here to mark where the action starts. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
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Quote: in the fifth year of King Rehoboam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign as king. Alternate translation: “in the fifth year that Rehoboam was king” or “in year five of King Rehoboam’s reign” (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
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Quote: Shishak, king of Egypt, came up against Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Shishak, king of Egypt” here is a metonym for Shishak along with the Egyptian army. Alternate translation: “Shishak, king of Egypt, and his army with him, came up against Jerusalem”
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Quote: Shishak (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
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Quote: came up against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means marched against or attacked. Alternate translation: “came to attack”
2 Chronicles 12:3
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Quote: twelve hundred chariots and sixty thousand horsemen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“1,200 chariots and 60,000 horsemen”
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Quote: Soldiers without number (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This exaggeration means that there were more soldiers than a person could easily count. Alternate translation: “Many soldiers”
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Quote: Libyans, Sukkites, and Cushites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are people from Libya, Sukki, and Ethiopia. The location of Sukki is uncertain, but it may be a region in Libya. (See also: Translate Unknowns)
2 Chronicles 12:5
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Quote: Shemaiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man. See how you translated this word in 2 Chronicles 11:2.
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Quote: so I have also given you over into Shishak’s hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “hand” represents power. Yahweh speaks of enabling Shishak’s army to defeat the king and the others in Jerusalem as if he were placing them into Shishak’s hand. Alternate translation: “so I have enabled Shishak to defeat you” or “so I have given you to Shishak as captives” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 12:7
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Quote: they had humbled themselves (0)Alternate translation: “the princes of Israel and the king had humbled themselves”
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Quote: the word of Yahweh came … saying (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that is used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. Alternate translation: “Yahweh spoke this message … and he said” or “Yahweh spoke these words … and he said”
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Quote: I will rescue them to some extent (0)This could mean: (1) Yahweh will permit Shishak to attack Jerusalem and cause trouble for the people, but he will rescue them from total destruction or (2) the words “to some extent” can be translated as soon, meaning that Yahweh will rescue the people of Jerusalem before Shishak can completely destroy the city.
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Quote: my anger will not pour out on Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh speaks of his anger as if it were a liquid, and of expressing his anger as if he were to pour out that liquid. Alternate translation: “I will not express my anger against Jerusalem” or “Jerusalem will not suffer the effects of my anger”
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Quote: by means of Shishak’s hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the word “hand” represents Shishak himself. Alternate translation: “by means of Shishak”
2 Chronicles 12:9
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Quote: Shishak, king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Shishak, king of Egypt” here is a metonym for Shishak along with the Egyptian army. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 12:2. Alternate translation: “Shishak, king of Egypt, and his army with him, came up against Jerusalem”
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Quote: came up against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means marched against or attacked. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 12:2. Alternate translation: “came to attack”
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Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
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Quote: the shields of gold that Solomon had made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Solomon make these shields. Alternate translation: “the shields of gold that Solomon had his craftsmen make”
2 Chronicles 12:10
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Quote: King Rehoboam made shields of bronze (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Rehoboam make these shields. Alternate translation: “King Rehoboam had his craftsmen make shields of bronze”
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Quote: in their place (0)Alternate translation: “in place of the shields of gold”
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Quote: entrusted them into the hands of the commanders (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “hands” represents care or responsibility. Alternate translation: “made them the responsibility of the commanders”
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Quote: who guarded the doors to the king’s house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “doors” represents the entrance. Alternate translation: “who guarded the entrance to the king’s house”
2 Chronicles 12:11
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Quote: It happened that (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
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Quote: the guards would carry them (0)Alternate translation: “the guards would carry the shields”
2 Chronicles 12:12
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Quote: Yahweh’s anger turned away from him, so as not to destroy him completely (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Yahweh no longer being angry with Rehoboam is spoken of as if Yahweh’s anger were a person who turned away from Rehoboam. Alternate translation: “Yahweh was no longer angry with him and so did not destroy him completely”
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Quote: besides, there was (0)Alternate translation: “in addition, there was”
2 Chronicles 12:13
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Quote: forty-one years old … seventeen years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“41 years old … 17 years”
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Quote: so that he might put his name there (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Possible meanings for the phrase put his name are: (1) a metonym for “dwell.” Alternate translation: “so that he might dwell there” or (2) an idiom that refers to ownership. Alternate translation: “so that it might belong to him” (See also: Idiom)
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Quote: Naamah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
2 Chronicles 12:14
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Quote: he did not fix his heart to seek Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “heart” represents the thoughts and desires. The idiom “fix his heart” means to determine to do something. Alternate translation: “he was not committed to seeking Yahweh” (See also: Idiom)
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Quote: to seek Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were seeking Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to worship Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 12:15
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Quote: first and last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
“from beginning to end.” These two words form a merism and refer to everything that Rehoboam did from the beginning of his reign to the end of his reign. Alternate translation: “everything that he did”
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Quote: are they not written … Jeroboam? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be expressed in active form and assumes that the answer is positive. The question is rhetorical and is used for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “they are written … Jeroboam.” or “you could read about them … Jeroboam.” (See also: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shemaiah … Iddo (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
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Quote: the constant wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The names of the kings represent the armies that they led. Alternate translation: “the wars in which Rehoboam’s army and Jeroboam’s army constantly engaged”
2 Chronicles 12:16
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Quote: Abijah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
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Quote: Rehoboam slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Rehoboam dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Rehoboam died” (See also: Euphemism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was buried in the city of David (0)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: “people buried him in the city of David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: became king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Rehoboam”
2 Chronicles 13
2 Chronicles 13 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Trust
Trusting in God, King Abijah of Judah was able to overcome the army of Israel even though it was twice as big as his army. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
2 Chronicles 13:1
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Quote: In the eighteenth year of King Jeroboam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the eighteenth year of Jeroboam’s reign as king. Alternate translation: “In the eighteenth year that Jeroboam was king” or “in year 18 of King Jeroboam’s reign” (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 13:2
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Quote: Macaiah, the daughter of Uriel of Gibeah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Macaiah” is the name of a woman. “Uriel” is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: There was war between Abijah and Jeroboam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The names of the kings represent the armies that they led. Alternate translation: “There was war between the army of Abijah and the army of Jeroboam”
2 Chronicles 13:3
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Quote: 400,000 chosen men & 800,000 chosen men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“Four hundred thousand chosen men … eight hundred thousand chosen men.” The phrase “chosen men” is an idiom that refers to elite soldiers who were skilled in battle. Alternate translation: “400,000 skilled men … 800,000 skilled men” (See also: Idiom)
2 Chronicles 13:4
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Quote: Mount Zemaraim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
2 Chronicles 13:5
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Quote: Do you not know … by a formal covenant? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Abijah asks this rhetorical question to emphasize the positive answer that it anticipates. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know very well … by a formal covenant.”
2 Chronicles 13:7
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Quote: base fellows (0)Alternate translation: “wicked men” or “evil men”
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Quote: gathered to him (0)Alternate translation: “joined with Jeroboam”
2 Chronicles 13:8
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Quote: the kingdom of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This is a reference to a united Israel as it existed in the time of David and Solomon.
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Quote: that is held within the hand of the descendants of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “hand” represents authority and possession. Abijah is claiming that only the descendants of David have the rightful authority to rule Yahweh’s kingdom. 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 the descendants of David hold within their hand” or “which only the descendants of David have the authority to rule” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the golden calves that Jeroboam made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that Jeroboam had others make the golden calves. Alternate translation: “the golden calves that Jeroboam had his craftsmen make”
2 Chronicles 13:9
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Quote: But did you not drive out … as the people of other lands do? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Abijah asks this rhetorical question to rebuke the people and to emphasize the positive answer that it anticipates. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “But you drive out … as the people of other lands do.”
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Quote: Whoever comes to serve as a priest (0)Alternate translation: “Anyone who comes to serve as a priest”
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Quote: a priest of what are not gods (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The phrase “what are not gods” refers to the golden calves that Jeroboam had his craftsmen make. Although the priests served them as if they were gods, they were not really gods. Alternate translation: “a priest of idols that are not really gods”
2 Chronicles 13:10
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Quote: as for us (0)The word “us” refers to the people of the southern kingdom of Judah.
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Quote: who are at their work (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “work” can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “who are working”
2 Chronicles 13:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the bread of the presence (0)The “bread of the presence” refers to twelve loaves of bread that the priests placed on a golden table in the tabernacle or temple building as a sacrifice to God and as a symbol of God’s presence.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they also tend the lampstand (0)Alternate translation: “they also take care of the lampstand”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for them to burn every evening (0)Alternate translation: “so that the lamps burn every evening” or “and light the lamps every evening”
2 Chronicles 13:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God is with us at our head (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the front of the army is spoken of as if it were the head. Abijah is saying that God is the one who is leading the army of Judah in battle. Alternate translation: “God is with us as our leader”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do not fight against Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Since Yahweh is leading the army of Judah, Abijah speaks of the army of Israel fighting against the army of Judah as if they were fighting against Yahweh himself.
2 Chronicles 13:13
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Quote: an ambush behind them (0)Alternate translation: “a surprise attack behind the army of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the ambush was behind them (0)Alternate translation: “the soldiers who were to attack them by surprise were behind them”
2 Chronicles 13:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When Judah looked back (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” represents the soldiers in the army of Judah. Alternate translation: “When the soldiers of Judah looked back”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold (0)The word “behold” here shows that the soldiers were surprised by what they saw.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the fighting was both in front of them and behind them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “fighting” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “the army of Israel was fighting them from the front and from the back”
2 Chronicles 13:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God struck Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
God enabling the army of Judah to defeat Jeroboam and the army of Israel is spoken of as if God struck Jeroboam and Israel. Alternate translation: “God enabled Abijah and the army of Judah to defeat Jeroboam and all Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “Israel” refers to the army. Alternate translation: “the entire army of Israel”
2 Chronicles 13:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fled before Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “Judah” represents the army of Judah. Alternate translation: “fled before the army of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God gave them into the hand of Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of Judah to defeat the army of Israel is spoken of as if God had put the army of Israel in the hand of the army of Judah. Alternate translation: “God enabled Judah to defeat the people of Israel” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 13:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: killed them with great slaughter (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that they thoroughly defeated them, or that they killed very many of the soldiers. Alternate translation: “thoroughly defeated them” or “slaughtered many of their soldiers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 500,000 chosen men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“five hundred thousand chosen men.” The phrase “chosen men” is an idiom that refers to elite soldiers who were skilled in battle. Alternate translation: “500,000 of the best soldiers” (See also: Idiom)
2 Chronicles 13:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people of Israel were subdued (0)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: “the army of Judah subdued the people of Israel”
2 Chronicles 13:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abijah pursued (0)Alternate translation: “Abijah chased after”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeshanah … Ephron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of cities.
2 Chronicles 13:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh struck him, and he died (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh causing Jeroboam to die is spoken of as if Yahweh struck Jeroboam. It is possible that this refers to Yahweh causing Jeroboam to become ill. Alternate translation: “Yahweh caused Jeroboam to die” or “Yahweh caused Jeroboam to become ill, and he died” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 13:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he took fourteen wives for himself (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “took … wives” means that he married. Alternate translation: “he married fourteen women”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fourteen wives … twenty-two sons and sixteen daughters (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“14 wives … 22 sons and 16 daughters”
2 Chronicles 13:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his behavior, and words (0)Alternate translation: “his behavior, and his sayings” or “his behavior, and the things that he said”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: are written in the history of the prophet Iddo (0)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: “are in the history that the prophet Iddo wrote”
2 Chronicles 14
2 Chronicles 14 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter begins the section about King Asa. (2 Chronicles 14–16)
Special concepts in this chapter
Trust
Trusting in Yahweh, Asa was able to defeat million men of the army of Nubia. Trust in Yahweh is more important than military might. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
2 Chronicles 14:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abijah slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Abijah dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Abijah died” (See also: Euphemism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they buried him (0)Alternate translation: “people buried him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: became king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Abijah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: In his days (0)Alternate translation: “During his reign”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the land was quiet ten years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
There being no war is spoken of as if the land were quiet. Alternate translation: “there was peace in the land for ten years” or “there was no war in the land for ten years”
2 Chronicles 14:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was good and right in the eyes of Yahweh his God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “eyes” here represents seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Asa’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be good and right” or “what Yahweh considered to be good and right”
2 Chronicles 14:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He broke down the stone pillars and cut down the Asherah poles (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to do these things. Alternate translation: “He had his people break down the stone pillars and cut down the Asherah poles”
2 Chronicles 14:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He commanded Judah to seek Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “Judah” represents the people of Judah. Worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if it were seeking him. Alternate translation: “He commanded the people of Judah to worship Yahweh” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 14:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he took away the high places (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to do these things. Alternate translation: “he had his people take away the high places”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The kingdom had rest under him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
There being no war is spoken of as if the kingdom had rest. Alternate translation: “The kingdom had peace under him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: under him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“under his reign.” A king ruling a kingdom is spoken of as if the king is over the kingdom or the kingdom is under the king. Alternate translation: “during his reign” or “while he was king”
2 Chronicles 14:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He built fortified cities (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to do these things. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build fortified cities”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the land was quiet (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
There being no war is spoken of as if the land were quiet. Alternate translation: “there was peace in the land”
2 Chronicles 14:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asa said to Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” refers to the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “Asa said to the people of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: peace on every side (0)“peace all around.” This means that Judah was at peace with all of the surrounding nations.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So they built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The ellipsis may be supplied from the context. Alternate translation: “So they built the cities”
2 Chronicles 14:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 300,000 men & 280,000 men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“three hundred thousand men … two hundred and eighty thousand men”
2 Chronicles 14:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zerah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one million soldiers and three hundred chariots (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“1,000,000 soldiers and 300 chariots”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mareshah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
2 Chronicles 14:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Valley of Zephathah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asa went out to meet him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Asa” represents both the king and the army that he led into battle. It is implicit that he went out to meet him in battle. Alternate translation: “Asa led his army out to meet him in battle” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 14:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “name” represents Yahweh’s authority. Alternate translation: “on your behalf” or “by your authority”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do not let man defeat you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Since the army of Judah is fighting in Yahweh’s name, Asa speaks of Zerah defeating Judah as if Zerah were to defeat Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “do not let man defeat your people”
2 Chronicles 14:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh struck the Cushites before Asa and Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
God enabling the army of Judah to defeat the Cushites is spoken of as if God struck the Cushites. Alternate translation: “God enabled Asa and the army of Judah to defeat the Cushites”
2 Chronicles 14:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So many Cushites fell that they could not recover (0)This could mean: (1) “So many Cushites died that the army could not recover” or (2) “So many Cushites died that there were none who remained alive.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So many Cushites fell (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Here to “fall” is a euphemism for dying in battle. Alternate translation: “So many Cushites died”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for they were completely destroyed before Yahweh and his army (0)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: “for Yahweh’s army completely destroyed them”
2 Chronicles 14:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for terror of Yahweh had come on the inhabitants (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The inhabitants of the villages being terrified is spoken of as if terror were an object that came upon them. This could mean: (1) “terror of Yahweh” refers to terror from Yahweh. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh had caused the inhabitants to be terrified” or (2) “terror of Yahweh” refers to being terrified of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “for the inhabitants were terrified of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 15
2 Chronicles 15 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The section about King Asa continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Promise
The people promise to serve the Lord. This is something they will ultimately fail to do. (See: promise, promised)
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Idiom
The phrase “seek Yahweh” means “wanting to believe and obey Yahweh.” This is a common way to describe proper worship of Yahweh. It is possible the meaning of this idiom is about a desire to properly worship. (See: Idiom)
2 Chronicles 15:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Spirit of God came on Azariah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom which means that the spirit of God influenced Azariah and enabled him to prophesy. Alternate translation: “The Spirit of God gave Azariah the ability to prophesy”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Oded (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 15:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will be found by you (0)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: “you will find him” or “he will permit you to find him”
2 Chronicles 15:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Israel was without the true God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Israel” refers to the people of Israel. This refers to a time when the people of Israel did not worship the true God. Alternate translation: “The people of Israel did not worship the true God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: without a teaching priest (0)Alternate translation: “without a priest who taught them”
2 Chronicles 15:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was found by them (0)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: “they found him” or “he permitted them to find him”
2 Chronicles 15:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for him who traveled away, nor for him who traveled to here (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This phrase is an idiom that refers to a person who travels anywhere away from home. Alternate translation: “for the person who traveled anywhere”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: great troubles were on all the inhabitants of the lands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The people experiencing great troubles is spoken of as if those troubles were objects that were on the people. Alternate translation: “all the inhabitants of the lands experienced great troubles”
2 Chronicles 15:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They were broken in pieces, nation against nation, and city against city (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “they” refers to the words “nation” and “city.” Conquering one another is spoken of as if they were breaking each other into pieces. Alternate translation: “Nations and cities destroyed each other, nations fighting nations, cities fighting cities”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They were broken in pieces, nation against nation, and city against city (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “nation” and “city” are metonyms for the people who live there. You may also supply a connecting word to clarify the relationship between these two phrases. Alternate translation: “Nations and cities destroyed each other, as the people of one nation fought against the people of another nation, and the people of one city fought against the people of another city” (See also: Connecting Words and Phrases)
2 Chronicles 15:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do not let your hands be weak (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the word “hands” represents the people who work. Alternate translation: “do not become weak as you work”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for your work will be rewarded (0)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. Yahweh is the implied subject. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh will reward your work” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 15:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When Asa heard these words, the prophecy of Oded the prophet (0)The phrase “the prophecy of Oded the prophet” defines “these words.” Alternate translation: “When Asa heard the words that Oded the prophet spoke” or “When Asa heard the prophecy of Oded the prophet”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the prophecy of Oded the prophet (0)Many versions, including the UST, make this passage read, “the prophecy of Azariah, the son of Oded the prophet.” They do this in order to make the sense agree with 2 Chronicles 15:1. Translators will probably want to do the same in their versions.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: drove away the disgusting things (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The words “the disgusting things” refers to idols. Having his people remove or destroy the idols is spoken of as if it were driving them away. Alternate translation: “got rid of the disgusting idols” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 15:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He gathered all Judah and Benjamin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Here the word “all” is a generalization. The phrase means that David assembled people from all over Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “He gathered together people from all over Judah and Benjamin”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For they came from Israel (0)Alternate translation: “For people from of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon came from Israel”
2 Chronicles 15:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So they gathered together (0)“They” here refers to the tribes of Judah and Israel that were with Asa.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the third month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the third month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of May and the first part of June on Western calendars.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: third … fifteenth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
2 Chronicles 15:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: some of the plunder that they had brought (0)This refers to the plunder that they had taken from the villages around Gerar in 2 Chronicles 14:14.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seven hundred … seven thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“700 … 7,000”
2 Chronicles 15:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with all their heart and with all their soul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Together, these two phrases form an idiomatic expression that refers to a person’s entire being. Alternate translation: “with all their beings” or “wholeheartedly” (See also: Doublet)
2 Chronicles 15:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: be put to death (0)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: “should die”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: whether the person was small or great (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This could mean: (1) a person’s importance within the community is spoken of as if the person were small or great. Alternate translation: “whether the person was important or not” or (2) a young person is spoken of as if he were small and an old person is spoken of as if he were great. Alternate translation: “whether the person was young or old”
2 Chronicles 15:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All Judah rejoiced (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Here the word “all” is a generalization. The phrase means that people from all over Judah rejoiced. Alternate translation: “People all over Judah rejoiced”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with all their heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “with all their heart” means “with complete devotion.” Alternate translation: “with complete devotion” or “wholeheartedly”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was found by them (0)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. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 15:4. Alternate translation: “they found him” or “he permitted them to find him”
2 Chronicles 15:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a disgusting figure (0)This phrase refers to an idol.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asa cut down the disgusting figure, ground it … and burned it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to cut down the figure. Alternate translation: “Asa made his workers cut down the disgusting figure, grind it … and burn it”
2 Chronicles 15:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But the high places were not taken out of Israel (0)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: “But Asa did not command the people to take the high places out of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asa’s heart was completely devoted (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The heart represents the person. Alternate translation: “Asa was completely devoted”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all his days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This refers to the whole period of time that Asa lived. Alternate translation: “the whole time that he lived” or “throughout his whole life”
2 Chronicles 15:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of God”
2 Chronicles 15:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the thirty-fifth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“year 35”
2 Chronicles 16
2 Chronicles 16 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The section about King Asa is completed in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Asa did not trust Yahweh
When Baasha was building Ramah to blockade him, Asa asked the king of Aram to help him instead of trusting God to help him. This was sinful because he disobeyed Yahweh. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)
2 Chronicles 16:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the thirty-sixth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“year 36”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: built up Ramah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied that the army of Baasha first captured Ramah. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “captured and fortified Ramah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that he might not allow anyone to (0)Alternate translation: “so that no one could”
2 Chronicles 16:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then Asa brought the silver … of the king’s house, and sent it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Asa would have had his workers gather the gold and silver for him. Alternate translation: “Then Asa told his workers to take the silver … of the king’s house, and to take it”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ben Hadad (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He said (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This means he spoke by means of his servants. Asa told his servants what to say to Ben Hadad and they did. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Asa told his servants to say to Ben Hadad” or “Through his servants, Asa said to Ben Hadad” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 16:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let there be a covenant between me and you … between my father and your father (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A covenant being between two people represents those two people having a covenant with each other. Alternate translation: “Let us have a covenant with each other … with my father and your father” or “Let us make a peace treaty … with my father and your father”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Look, I have sent (0)Alternate translation: “As proof that I want a treaty with you, I have sent”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Break your covenant with Baasha, king of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Breaking a covenant represents canceling it and not doing what one has promised to do. Alternate translation: “Cancel your covenant with Baasha king of Israel” or “Do not be loyal to Baasha king of Israel as you promised in your covenant with him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Break your covenant with Baasha, king of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Asa wanted Ben Hadad to attack Israel. Ben Hadad could only do that if he broke his covenant with the king of Israel. The meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Break your covenant with Baasha, king of Israel, and attack Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: leave me alone (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Here Asa speaks of himself to represent himself along with his army. Alternate translation: “not attack me” (See also: Synecdoche)
2 Chronicles 16:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sent the commanders of his armies against the cities (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Asa’s armies are represented by their commanders. Alternate translation: “sent his armies to attack the cities”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ijon, Dan, Abel Maim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of cities in Israel.
2 Chronicles 16:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about that (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he stopped building up Ramah, and let his work cease (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Asa represents himself and his army. “his work” refers to other work that his workers were doing in Ramah. Alternate translation: “he commanded his army to stop fortifying Ramah and doing other work there” (See also: Ellipsis)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: building up (0)Alternate translation: “fortifying”
2 Chronicles 16:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took all Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This refers to all the men who live in Judah. Alternate translation: “took all the men of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: timbers (0)Timbers are large pieces of wood used to build houses or walls.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Baasha had been (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Baasha” refers to his workers. Alternate translation: “Baasha’s workers had been”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: building up … to build up (0)Alternate translation: “fortifying … to fortify”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then King Asa used (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “King Asa” represents his workers. Alternate translation: “Then King Asa had his workers use”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Geba (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city.
2 Chronicles 16:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hanani (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: out of your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the king’s “hand” refers to his control. This means that his army was unable to conquer the king of Aram’s army. Alternate translation: “from you” or “from your control”
2 Chronicles 16:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Were not the Cushites and the Libyans a huge army, with very many chariots and horsemen? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Hanani uses this rhetorical question to remind Asa of a previous victory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “The Cushites and the Libyans were a huge army, with very many chariots and horsemen.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Libyans (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are people from Libya.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he gave you victory (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This means that king Asa’s army was able to defeat the opposing army. Alternate translation: “he gave your army victory”
2 Chronicles 16:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the eyes of Yahweh run everywhere throughout the whole earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of Yahweh seeing everything that happens everywhere as if his eyes were a person that ran all over the earth. Alternate translation: “Yahweh sees what is happening all over the earth” (See also: Personification)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that he might show himself strong on behalf of (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that Yahweh shows people that he is strong by protecting his people. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh protects with his strength” or “so that he may show his strength by protecting”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: those whose hearts are perfect toward him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This speaks of a people’s will and desires as their “hearts.” To be “perfect toward” something means to be completely devoted to that person or thing. Alternate translation: “those who are completely committed to following him” or “those who are completely devoted to following him” (See also: Idiom)
2 Chronicles 16:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from first to last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “from the first thing that he did to the last thing that he did” or “everything he did”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the kings of Judah and Israel (0)This is a book that no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 16:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the thirty-ninth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“year 39”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet (0)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: “Asa had a disease in his feet”
2 Chronicles 16:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Asa slept with his ancestors, dying in (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The phrase “slept with his ancestors” is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: “Asa died during”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the forty-first year of his reign (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“in year 41 of his reign” or “when he reigned almost 41 years” (See also: Numbers)
2 Chronicles 16:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: which he had dug out for himself (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Asa would have had his workers prepare his tomb for him. Alternate translation: “which his workers had dug out for him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bier (0)A bier is a table on which a dead body is placed at a funeral.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sweet odors and various kinds of spices prepared by skilled perfumers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Putting plants that smell good with the dead body was one of the burial customs of the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “sweet smelling plants prepared by people skilled in this custom”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: prepared by skilled perfumers (0)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 skilled perfumers had prepared”
2 Chronicles 17
2 Chronicles 17 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter begins the story of King Jehoshaphat.
Special concepts in this chapter
Trust in Yahweh
Jehoshaphat trusted and obeyed God. Because of this, God made him strong. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
2 Chronicles 17:1
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Quote: in his place (0)Alternate translation: “after his father”
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Quote: strengthened himself against Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Jehoshaphat prepared the army for battle. Alternate translation: “prepared the army to be able to battle Israel”
2 Chronicles 17:2
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Quote: He placed forces (0)Alternate translation: “He places soldiers”
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Quote: garrisons (0)military encampments set up to protect the people
2 Chronicles 17:3
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Quote: Yahweh was with Jehoshaphat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “was with” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “God supported him” or “God helped him”
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Quote: walked in the first ways of his father (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here the way a person lives and conducts himself is spoken of as if it were walking. For most of David’s life he lived righteously and followed Yahweh closely. Alternate translation: “lived in the first ways of his father David” or “lived righteously as has father David had done in his earlier years” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
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Quote: did not seek the Baals (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that he did not worship the Baal idols in order to seek help from them.
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Quote: walked in (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word “walked” is used here as an idiom. Alternate translation: “followed”
2 Chronicles 17:4
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Quote: not after the behavior of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and did not behave in the ways of the people of Israel.” This refers to how most of the people of Israel did not follow Yahweh. Alternate translation: “and did not follow the evil practices that were common in Israel”
2 Chronicles 17:5
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Quote: Yahweh established the rule in his hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase “his hand” represents Jehoshaphat’s control. Alternate translation: “Yahweh enabled him to completely control his kingdom”
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Quote: honor in abundance (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “honor” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “was greatly honored” or “the people greatly honored him”
2 Chronicles 17:6
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Quote: His heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the king is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his will and desires. Alternate translation: “He”
2 Chronicles 17:7
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Quote: the third (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“year 3”
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Quote: Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
2 Chronicles 17:8
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Quote: Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tob-Adonijah … Elishama and Jehoram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
2 Chronicles 17:10
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Quote: Terror of Yahweh fell on all the kingdoms of the lands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “terror” can be expressed with the adjective “afraid.” Also, this speaks of the people becoming afraid as if the terror were something that fell upon them. Alternate translation: “The people in all the kingdoms surrounding Judah became very afraid of what Yahweh might do to punish them” (See also: Metaphor)
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Quote: against Jehoshaphat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Jehoshaphat represents his army. Alternate translation: “against Jehoshaphat’s army”
2 Chronicles 17:11
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Quote: 7,700 rams, and 7,700 goats (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
The number can also be written as seven thousand seven hundred. This is a description of the flocks that the Arabians brought Jehoshaphat.
2 Chronicles 17:12
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Quote: He built fortresses and store cities (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Jehoshaphat did not build these things himself, rather he commanded his workers to build them. Alternate translation: “His workers built fortresses and store cities”
2 Chronicles 17:14
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Quote: These were their divisions listed by the name of their fathers’ houses (0)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: “The divisions by the name of their fathers’ houses were as follows”
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Quote: the commanders of thousands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
The phrase “commander of thousands” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “thousands” represent the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 1,000 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “thousands” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a large military division. Alternate translation: “the commanders of large military divisions”
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Quote: Adnah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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Quote: 300,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“three hundred thousand”
2 Chronicles 17:15
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Quote: Jehohanan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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Quote: 280,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“two hundred and eighty thousand”
2 Chronicles 17:16
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Quote: Amasiah son of Zichri (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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Quote: 200,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“two hundred thousand”
2 Chronicles 17:17
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Quote: Eliada (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
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Quote: 200,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“two hundred thousand men” or “200,000 men” (See also: Ellipsis)
2 Chronicles 17:18
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Quote: Jehozabad (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
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Quote: 180,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and eighty thousand men” or “180,000 men” (See also: Ellipsis)
2 Chronicles 17:19
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Quote: besides those (0)Alternate translation: “in addition to”
2 Chronicles 18
2 Chronicles 18 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of Jehoshaphat as king continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
The will of God is accomplished, even when people try to avoid it. Ahab tried to disguise himself to hide from the soldiers of Aram but an arrow still hit and killed him. (See: will of God)
2 Chronicles 18:1
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Quote: Now Jehoshaphat had great riches and honor; he allied himself with Ahab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The word “now” is used here to mark background information. This happened before Ahab went down to Samaria.
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Quote: he allied himself with Ahab (0)Alternate translation: “he aligned himself with Ahab” or “he made himself a friend of Ahab”
2 Chronicles 18:2
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Quote: Ahab killed many sheep and oxen for him and the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that he had these animals slaughtered to prepare a feast for the people. Also, Ahab himself would not have prepared the animals, but rather would have commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “Ahab commanded his workers to slaughter many sheep and oxen for a feast for Jehoshaphat and the people” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 18:3
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Quote: Will you go with me to Ramoth Gilead (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here Ahab is requesting for Jehoshaphat to join him with his army to make war against Ramoth Gilead. This can be written explicitly. Also, in this question each of the kings represents themselves accompanied by their armies. Alternate translation: “Will you and your army go with my army to attack the city of Ramoth in the region of Gilead” (See also: Synecdoche)
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Quote: I am like you, and my people are like your people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Jehoshaphat is stating his allegiance to Ahab. Alternate translation: “I offer myself and my soldiers to you to use in any way you want”
2 Chronicles 18:4
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Quote: king of Israel (0)This refers to King Ahab.
2 Chronicles 18:5
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Quote: four hundred men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“400 men”
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Quote: should I not (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here about refers to himself accompanied by his army as himself. Alternate translation: “should we not”
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Quote: will give it into the hand of the king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the king’s “hand” refers to his control. This means that God will enable them to defeat the people at Ramoth Gilead. Alternate translation: “will enable your army to defeat them” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 18:7
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Quote: Micaiah son of Imlah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 18:10
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Quote: Kenaanah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
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Quote: horns of iron (0)This is a reference to the horns of a bull but they made of metal.
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Quote: you will push the Arameans until they are consumed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
The prophet’s actions are a symbolic metaphor that illustrates the way that Ahab would defeat the Arameans. Ahab’s army will win with great strength, as a bull attacks another animal. Alternate translation: “With horns like these, your army will keep attacking the army of Aram like a bull attacks another animal, until you completely destroy them” (See also: Metaphor)
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Quote: until they are consumed (0)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: “until you consume them”
2 Chronicles 18:11
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Quote: has given it into the hand of the king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the king’s “hand” refers to his control. This means that God will enable them to defeat the people at Ramoth Gilead. Alternate translation: “has allowed the king to capture it” or “will allow your armies to capture it” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 18:12
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Quote: Micaiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate this man’s name the same as in 2 Chronicles 17:7.
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Quote: Look (0)Alternate translation: “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
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Quote: the words of the prophets with one mouth are favorable to the king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The prophets all saying the same thing is spoken of as if they all spoke with the same mouth. The phrase “the words of the prophets” represents the message that the prophets declare. Alternate translation: “the prophets all declare that good things will happen to the king”
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Quote: your words (0)Alternate translation: “what you say”
2 Chronicles 18:13
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Quote: As Yahweh lives (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“as surely as Yahweh is alive.” The people use this expression to show that what they say next is certainly true. This is a way of making a solemn promise. Alternate translation: “I solemnly swear”
2 Chronicles 18:14
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Quote: or not (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The understood information may be supplied. Alternate translation: “or should we not go”
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Quote: should we go (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The word “we” refers to Ahab, Jehoshaphat, and their armies but not to Micaiah.
2 Chronicles 18:15
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Quote: How many times must I require … in the name of Yahweh? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Ahab asks this question out of frustration to rebuke Micaiah. Alternate translation: “Many times I have required … in the name of Yahweh.”
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Quote: in the name of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “name” refers to authority. Alternate translation: “as the representative of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 18:16
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Quote: I saw all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “all Israel” refers to the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “I saw the entire army of Israel”
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Quote: like sheep who have no shepherd (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
The people of the army are compared to sheep that have no one to lead them because their shepherd, the king, has died.
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Quote: These have no shepherd (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh speaks of the king as if he were a shepherd. Just like a shepherd is responsible to care for and protect his sheep, the king is responsible to lead and protect his people. Alternate translation: “These people no longer have a leader”
2 Chronicles 18:17
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Quote: Did I not tell you … but only disaster? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Ahab asks this question to emphasize that he had spoken the truth about Micaiah. Alternate translation: “I told you … but only disaster!”
2 Chronicles 18:18
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Quote: on his right hand and on his left (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This means that they were standing beside him on his left side and his right side. Alternate translation: “by his right side and by his left side”
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Quote: on his left (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies his left hand. Alternate translation: “on his left hand”
2 Chronicles 18:19
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Quote: entice (0)This means to attract someone by offering something appealing.
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Quote: fall at Ramoth Gilead (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Ahab dying in battle is spoken of as if he will fall. Alternate translation: “die at Ramoth Gilead” (See also: Euphemism)
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Quote: One said this and another that (0)This indicates that there was more than one opinion. The words “One … and another” refer to two or more angels in the heavenly host who were responding to Yahweh’s question in the previous verse.
2 Chronicles 18:21
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Quote: become a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “spirit” refers to the attitudes of the prophets and the words “the mouth” represents what they will say. Alternate translation: “cause all his prophets to speak lies”
2 Chronicles 18:22
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Quote: Now see, Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “Now pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: Yahweh”
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Quote: has put a lying spirit in the mouth of these prophets of yours (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “spirit” refers to the attitudes of the prophets and the words “the mouth” represents what they will say. Alternate translation: “has caused your prophets to speak lies”
2 Chronicles 18:23
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Quote: Kenaanah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate this man’s name the same as in 2 Chronicles 18:10.
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Quote: Which way did the Spirit of Yahweh take to go from me to speak to you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Zedekiah asks this sarcastic question to insult and rebuke Micaiah. Alternate translation: “Do not think that Yahweh’s Spirit left me to speak to you!”
2 Chronicles 18:24
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Quote: Look (0)Alternate translation: “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
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Quote: you will know that (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“you will know the answer to your question.” If Zedekiah’s rhetorical question is translated as a statement, this phrase may be translated to supply implicit information. Alternate translation: “you will know that the Spirit of Yahweh has spoken to me”
2 Chronicles 18:25
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Quote: king of Israel (0)This refers to Ahab.
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Quote: Amon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 18:27
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Quote: If you return safely (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
This describes something that would not happen. Yahweh had already told Micaiah that the king would not return safely.
2 Chronicles 18:28
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Quote: Ahab, the king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, went up against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the kings represent themselves accompanied by their armies. Alternate translation: “Ahab, the king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah led their armies up against”
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Quote: went up against (0)Alternate translation: “fought against”
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Quote: Ramoth Gilead (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate the name of this place as you did in 2 Chronicles 18:2
2 Chronicles 18:29
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Quote: disguise (0)This means to change the usual appearance so as not to be identified.
2 Chronicles 18:30
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Quote: Do not attack the unimportant or the important soldiers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
By mentioning both “the unimportant” and “the important soldiers,” the king meant all soldiers. Alternate translation: “Do not attack any of the soldiers”
2 Chronicles 18:31
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Quote: That is the king of Israel (0)Jehoshaphat was wrongly identified as the king of Israel because Ahab had insisted that he wear kingly robes.
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Quote: God turned them away from him (0)Alternate translation: “God caused them to stop pursuing him”
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Quote: It came about that (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
2 Chronicles 18:33
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Quote: drew his bow at random (0)This could mean: (1) he took aim to shoot a soldier without knowing that it was Ahab or (2) he drew his bow to shoot without any specific target in mind.
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Quote: between the joints of his armor (0)This is a place where two pieces of armor meet and is susceptible to arrows and swords.
2 Chronicles 18:34
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Quote: the king of Israel was held up in his chariot (0)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 held the king of Israel up in his chariot”
2 Chronicles 19
2 Chronicles 19 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of Jehoshaphat as king continues in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Levite judges
Jehoshaphat appointed many Levites to be judges and told them to be very fair. (See: appoint, appointed and judge, judgment)
2 Chronicles 19:2
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Quote: Hanani, the seer (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Hanani” is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 16:7.
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Quote: went out to meet him (0)Here the word “him” refers to Jehoshaphat.
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Quote: Should you be helping the wicked? Should you be loving those who hate Yahweh? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
These questions expect negative answers to make the point that Jehoshaphat should not have helped Ahab. Alternate translation: “You should not help the wicked! You should not love those who hate Yahweh!”
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Quote: the wicked (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
This refers to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: “wicked people”
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Quote: anger from Yahweh is on you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word anger, you can express the same idea with the word “angry.” This phrase can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is angry with you” (See also: Active or Passive)
2 Chronicles 19:3
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Quote: there is some good to be found in you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word good, you can express the same idea with an adjective. This phrase can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “you have done some good things” (See also: Active or Passive)
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Quote: you have taken the Asherah poles out of the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Jehoshaphat was king, he may have told his officials to do these things for him. Alternate translation: “you have had your people take the Asherah poles out of the land”
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Quote: Asherah poles (0)See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:3.
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Quote: fixed your heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here the heart represents the will. Jehoshaphat’s will is spoken of as being fixed or immovable, which means having an unchanging intention to seek God. Alternate translation: “firmly decided”
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Quote: seek God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Wanting to do what pleases God is spoken of as if Jehoshaphat were seeking him. Alternate translation: “do what pleases God”
2 Chronicles 19:4
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Quote: from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This is a merism that means the whole land over which Jehoshaphat reigned, from the most southern part to the most northern part, and is intended to include the whole land in between. Alternate translation: “of all the land of Judah”
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Quote: brought them back to Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author speaks of Jehoshaphat’s leading the people back to serving Yahweh as if he were carrying them back to where they were at an earlier time. Alternate translation: “convinced them to return to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their fathers (0)Alternate translation: “their ancestors” or “their forefathers”
2 Chronicles 19:5
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Quote: fortified cities (0)cities with walls around them for protection
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Quote: city by city (0)Alternate translation: “for every city”
2 Chronicles 19:6
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Quote: He said to the judges (0)Alternate translation: “Jehoshaphat said to the judges”
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Quote: he is with you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This could mean: (1) Yahweh was aware of what the judges decided or (2) Yahweh would hold the judges accountable for their decisions or (3) Yahweh would help and guide them in their decisions.
2 Chronicles 19:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let the fear of Yahweh be upon you (0)This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “you should remember to fear Yahweh when you judge”
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Quote: there is no iniquity with Yahweh our God, nor is there any favoritism or bribe taking (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The abstract nouns “iniquity,” “favoritism,” and “bribe” can be translated using the verbs “sin,” “favor,” and “bribe.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh our God will not sin or favor one person over another in judgment or be bribed”
2 Chronicles 19:8
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Quote: heads of the ancestral houses (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part, and “houses” represents families. Alternate translation: “leaders of the ancient families” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for carrying out judgment for Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word judgment, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “to judge.” Alternate translation: “for judging the people for Yahweh” or “for judging on Yahweh’s behalf”
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Quote: for the sake of disputes (0)Alternate translation: “for settling disputes” or “for resolving arguments”
2 Chronicles 19:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You must serve in reverence for Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word reverence, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “You must serve while fearing Yahweh” or “You must serve while respecting Yahweh”
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Quote: with your whole heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “with your whole being”
2 Chronicles 19:10
General Information:
The words “you” and “your” in this verse refers to those persons Jehoshaphat appointed to be judges.
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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Jehoshaphat continues to instruct some of the Levites and the priests, and some of the heads of the ancestral houses of Israel, who he appointed to be judges.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Whenever any dispute comes to you from your brothers who live in their cities (0)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: “Whenever your brothers who live in their cities bring you a dispute”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from your brothers (0)Here “brothers” is a general reference to fellow Israelites.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bloodshed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the killing of people is spoken of as shedding their blood, where “blood” represents their lives. Alternate translation: “the killing of people” or “murder”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: anger will come toward you and toward your brothers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word anger, you can express the same idea with the adjective “angry.” 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: “God will be angry with you and your brothers” (See also: Active or Passive)
2 Chronicles 19:11
General Information:
The words “you” and “your” in this verse refers to those persons Jehoshaphat appointed to be judges.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Jehoshaphat continues to instruct some of the Levites and the priests, and some of the heads of the ancestral houses of Israel, who he appointed to be judges.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See, Amariah (0)Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: Amariah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Amariah … Zebadiah … Ishmael (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: is over you (0)Alternate translation: “is in charge of you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: of all the matters of the king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Here Jehoshaphat speaks of himself in the third person. This can be translated in the first person. Alternate translation: “of all my royal matters”
2 Chronicles 20
2 Chronicles 20 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Jehoshaphat is completed in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Deliverance and trust
God rescues those who trust him. An enormous army came against Jehoshaphat but God promised that he would defeat them without Judah having to fight. Then the enemy fought among themselves and when the army of Judah arrived there were dead bodies. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and promise, promised)
2 Chronicles 20:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Meunites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a people group from the region of Meun which was near Edom, east of the Jordan River.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: came against Jehoshaphat to do battle (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “Jehoshaphat” represents himself and his army. Alternate translation: “came against Jehoshaphat’s army to do battle” or “came to fight against Jehoshaphat and his army”
2 Chronicles 20:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See, they are in Hazezon Tamar (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word “see” is used here as an idiom to add emphasis to what is said next. They could not see the army in Hazezon Tamar from where they were speaking. Alternate translation: “They are already in Hazezon Tamar”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hazezon Tamar (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place. It is another name for Engedi.
2 Chronicles 20:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: set himself to seek (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “determined himself to seek” or “devoted himself to seek”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to seek Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This speaks of seeking Yahweh’s advice as if he were looking for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to seek Yahweh’s advice”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He proclaimed a fast (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “fast” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “He proclaimed that all the people should fast”
2 Chronicles 20:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Judah gathered (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This refers to the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “The people of Judah gathered”
2 Chronicles 20:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: of Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This refers to the people from these places. Alternate translation: “of the people from Judah and Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 20:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: are you not God in heaven? Are you not the ruler over all the kingdoms of the nations? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jehoshaphat uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that God is in heaven and his authority over all things. This question can be written as statement. Alternate translation: “you are indeed God in heaven and the ruler over all the kings of the earth.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Power and might are in your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “Power” and “might” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the greatness of Yahweh’s power. The word “hand” refers to possession. Alternate translation: “You possess great power” or “You have great power and might” (See also: Synecdoche)
2 Chronicles 20:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Our God, did you not drive out the inhabitants of this land … to the descendants of Abraham? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jehoshaphat uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that God drove their enemies from their land and gave it to the Israelites. This question can be written as statement. Alternate translation: “It was you who drove out those who lived in this land for the sake of your people Israel and who gave it permanently to the descendants of Abraham.”
2 Chronicles 20:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for your name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Yahweh is represented by his “name.” Alternate translation: “for you” or “to honor you”
2 Chronicles 20:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The “sword” represents war. Alternate translation: “war” or “battle”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: before this house (0)This refers to the temple.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your name is in this house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Yahweh’s presence is represented by his “name.” Alternate translation: “your presence is here in this house”
2 Chronicles 20:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mount Seir (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a place where the Edomites lived.
2 Chronicles 20:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See how they are rewarding us; they are coming to drive us out of your land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony
Here Jehoshaphat speaks of the ironic situation. Alternate translation: “This is how they ‘repay’ us for the mercy we showed to them; they are coming to drive us out of your land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See how (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word “see” here is used as an idiom to emphasize what is said next.
2 Chronicles 20:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will you not judge them? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question is used as a request. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “please judge them.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: our eyes are on you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the people are represented by their “eyes” to emphasize that they are directing their attention to God. Alternate translation: “we are looking to you for help”
2 Chronicles 20:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Spirit of Yahweh came on (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom which means that the spirit of God influenced Jahaziel and enabled him to prophesy. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 15:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jahaziel … Zechariah … Benaiah … Jeiel … Mattaniah … Asaph (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 20:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “all you who live in Judah and Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the battle does not belong to you, but to God (0)This means that God is in control of the battle and of what happens.
2 Chronicles 20:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: go down against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means to go and meet the enemy army for battle. Alternate translation: “march against” or “go to battle against”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See (0)Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pass of Ziz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a narrow valley between two mountains southeast of Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 20:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Go out against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means to go and meet the enemy army for battle. Alternate translation: “March out against” or “Go to battle against”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the rescue of Yahweh with you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “rescue” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “Yahweh rescue you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here these places represent the people from them. Alternate translation: “people of Judah and Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 20:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bowed his head with his face to the ground … fell down before Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
These acts of worship that express humility and submission to God.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” refers to the people from Judah. Alternate translation: “All the people of Judah”
2 Chronicles 20:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kohathites and Korahites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of people groups descending from Kohath and Korah.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with a very loud voice (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of all the people praising Yahweh as if they together had one voice. Alternate translation: “with very loud voices”
2 Chronicles 20:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tekoa (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate the name of this city the same as in 2 Chronicles 11:6.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will be supported (0)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: “he will support you” or “he will help you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Trust in his prophets, and you will succeed (0)Alternate translation: “If you trust in Yahweh’s prophets, then you will succeed”
2 Chronicles 20:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his covenant faithfulness endures forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in 2 Chronicles 7:3. Alternate translation: “he faithfully loves us forever” or “he is always faithful to his covenant with us”
2 Chronicles 20:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to sing and to praise (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
They were singing to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to sing and to praise Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh set men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that Yahweh caused some of the enemy soldiers to ambush other enemy soldiers. Alternate translation: “Yahweh set some enemy soldiers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ambush (0)a surprise attack
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mount Seir (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate the name of this place the same as in 2 Chronicles 20:10.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They were defeated (0)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: “They defeated them” or “They defeated those they had ambushed”
2 Chronicles 20:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to completely kill them and destroy them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second intensifies the first. Alternate translation: “to completely annihilate them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When they had finished with (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to after they had destroyed them. Alternate translation: “When they had finished killing”
2 Chronicles 20:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Behold, they were dead (0)The word “behold” is used here to mark a surprising event.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they were dead, fallen to the ground (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase “fallen to the ground” is an idiomatic way to say that “they were dead.” Alternate translation: “they were all dead on the ground” (See also: Doublet)
2 Chronicles 20:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the fourth day (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“day 4”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Valley of Berakah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to this day (0)This means the day on which the writer wrote. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9.
2 Chronicles 20:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: every man of Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This is a reference to every man in the army. Alternate translation: “every soldier of Judah and Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoshaphat in their lead (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“with Jehoshaphat leading them.” The phrase “in their lead” is an idiom. King Jehoshaphat was in front of the whole army as they went back to Jerusalem.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rejoice over their enemies (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
They rejoiced because their enemies had been defeated. Alternate translation: “rejoice over their enemies’ defeat” or “rejoice because their enemies had been destroyed”
2 Chronicles 20:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The terror of God was on all the kingdoms of the nations (0)The word “terror” can be expressed with the verb “feared.” Alternate translation: “All the kingdoms of the nations greatly feared God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kingdoms of the nations (0)Alternate translation: “kingdoms in the nearby nations”
2 Chronicles 20:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was quiet (0)This speaks of the kingdom having peace as the kingdom being quiet. Alternate translation: “Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was at peace”
2 Chronicles 20:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thirty-five years old … twenty-five years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“35 years old … 25 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Azubah, the daughter of Shilhi (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Azubah” was the name of Jehoshaphat’s mother. Shilhi was the name of Azubah’s father.
2 Chronicles 20:32
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He walked in the ways of Asa, his father; he did not turn away from them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that he lived in a way that pleased Yahweh as his father had done. Here “walking” is an idiom for the way a person lives and behaves. Alternate translation: “He did things that were pleasing to Yahweh, like his father Asa had done, and he did not stop doing those things” (See also: Idiom)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he did what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes here represent seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Jehoshaphat’s actions. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “he did what Yahweh judged to be right” or “he did what Yahweh considered to be right”
2 Chronicles 20:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the high places were not taken away (0)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: “he did not get rid of the high places”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The people still had not directed their hearts to the God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This means that the people did not desire to obey God and were not devoted to him. Here people’s “hearts” represent their will and their desires. Alternate translation: “The people were still not devoted to the God” or “The people still were not committed to following the God”
2 Chronicles 20:34
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: first and last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
These two opposites are given to refer to everything concerning Jehoshaphat during his reign as king. Alternate translation: “from the beginning of his reign until he died”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold, they are written in the history … Israel (0)The word “behold” is used here to add emphasis to the important information that follows. Alternate translation: “anyone can look in the history … Israel and see that they are written there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they are written in … which is recorded in (0)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: “they are in … which is in”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hanani (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate this man’s name as you did in 2 Chronicles 16:7.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the history of Jehu son of Hanani (0)This is a historical account that was written by Jehu.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the kings of Israel (0)This is a book that no longer exists. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 16:11.
2 Chronicles 20:36
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ships (0)These are ships capable of traveling on large bodies of water.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tarshish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They built the ships (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Jehoshaphat and Ahaziah did not build the ships, rather, their workers built them. Alternate translation: “Their workers built the ships”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ezion Geber (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate the name of this place as you did in 2 Chronicles 8:17.
2 Chronicles 20:37
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Eliezer … Dodavahu (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mareshah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate this man’s name as you did in 2 Chronicles 11:8.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The ships were wrecked so that (0)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: “The ships became ruined and” or “The ships wrecked so that”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they were not able to sail (0)Alternate translation: “no one was able to sail them”
2 Chronicles 21
2 Chronicles 21 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Evil
Doing evil causes the country to decline. Jehoshaphat’s son was evil. Edom and Libna successfully revolted against him, the Arabs plundered him and he died of an intestinal disease. (See: evil, wicked, unpleasant)
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Simile
The author compares worship of Baal to being a prostitute: “to act like a prostitute.” Idolatry by the people of God is often pictured as prostitution. (See: Simile and people of God)
2 Chronicles 21:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Jehoshaphat dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “died”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: city of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is the city of Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 21:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariahu, Michael, and Shephatiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoshaphat, king of Israel (0)The southern kingdom was technically called “Judah,” but the writer of this book apparently wanted to make the point that the southern kingdom was, in its obedience to God, the true Israel.
2 Chronicles 21:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: large gifts (0)Alternate translation: “gifts of large amounts”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he gave the kingdom to Jehoram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The kingdom is spoken of as if it were a physical object that Jehoshaphat gave to Jehoram. Alternate translation: “he made Jehoram king”
2 Chronicles 21:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: risen up over his father’s kingdom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
To “rise up over” something is an idiom that means to control it. Alternate translation: “taken complete control over his father’s kingdom”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he killed all his brothers with the sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Jehoram probably did not kill them personally, but had other people do it for him. Alternate translation: “he caused all of his younger brothers to be killed”
2 Chronicles 21:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: walked in the ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means he followed their example. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 20:32. Alternate translation: “followed the example”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Ahab was doing (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab were doing”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he had Ahab’s daughter as his wife (0)Alternate translation: “he had married a daughter of Ahab”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The sight of Yahweh represents his judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “as Yahweh judged”
2 Chronicles 21:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the kingdom of Judah. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 10:19. Alternate translation: “the kingdom of Judah” or “the people of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he had promised that he would always give life to him and his descendants (0)“he had promised that David’s descendants would always be the ones who ruled Judah.” This was the covenant that Yahweh made with David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: always give life to him and his descendants (0)Alternate translation: “always cause him and his descendants to live” or “never destroy him and his descendants”
2 Chronicles 21:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: In Jehoram’s days (0)Alternate translation: “While Jehoram was king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from the control of Judah (0)Alternate translation: “against Judah’s control”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: set a king over themselves (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns
The word “set” is a metonym for choosing, and the words “over themselves” is a metonym for “to rule them.” Alternate translation: “chose a king to rule over them”
2 Chronicles 21:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: crossed over (0)Alternate translation: “crossed the border into Edom” or “went to Edom”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It was night when he rose up … surrounded him and his chariot commanders (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It may be helpful to reorder this sentence and to add implicit information. Alternate translation: “The Edomites surrounded him and his chariot commanders, but Jehoram and his army fought against them and escaped during the night”
2 Chronicles 21:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to this present day (0)This refers to the time when the book of 2 Chronicles was written. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Libnah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a town in Judah.
2 Chronicles 21:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoram had also built high places (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Other people helped Jehoram build these high places all over the mountains of Judah. Alternate translation: “Jehoram and the people had also built high places”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he made the inhabitants of Jerusalem to live like prostitutes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Jehoram caused the people to serve idols instead of Yahweh. People who serve other gods in order to receive something from them are spoken of as spiritual prostitutes. Alternate translation: “he caused the people of Jerusalem to leave Yahweh and serve other gods, as prostitutes serve men who are not their husbands”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he led Judah astray (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Not following Yahweh is spoken of as not following the correct path. Alternate translation: “he caused Judah to no longer follow Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 21:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: A letter from the prophet Elijah came to Jehoram (0)Alternate translation: “Jehoram received a letter from the prophet Elijah” or “The prophet Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: walked in the ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means he followed their example. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 20:32. Alternate translation: “followed the example”
2 Chronicles 21:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: act like a prostitute (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Jehoram caused the people to serve idols instead of Yahweh. People who serve other gods in order to receive something from them are spoken of as spiritual prostitutes. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 21:11. Alternate translation: “leave Yahweh and serve other gods, as a prostitute serves men who are not her husband”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Ahab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 21:6. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab”
2 Chronicles 21:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see (0)This tells Jehoram to pay attention to the message that follows.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: strike with a great plague (0)Alternate translation: “cause a great plague to happen to”
2 Chronicles 21:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You yourself (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns
The use of the reflexive “yourself” emphasizes that this is a personal judgment on Jehoram.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: until your intestines fall out because of the sickness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This could mean: (1) his intestines will literally fall out or (2) this is a metaphor that describes intestinal problems that will result in his death. Alternate translation: “until this disease causes your death”
2 Chronicles 21:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines and of the Arabians (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Stirring the spirit is a metonym for making someone want to act. Here “spirit” is singular and refers to the Philistines as a group and to the Arabians as a group. Alternate translation: “provoked against Jehoram the Philistines and the Arabians”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: against Jehoram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Jehoram refers to Jehoram and the people of Judah that he ruled. Alternate translation: “against Jehoram and the people of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the spirit of the Philistines and of the Arabians who were near the Cushites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The Philistines and the Arabians were two different nations. The Arabians lived southeast of Judah near the Cushites, and the Philistines lived west of Judah. These nations were stirred up separately. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the spirit of the Philistines and the spirit of the Arabians who were near the Cushites”
2 Chronicles 21:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: No son was left to him except Jehoahaz, his youngest son (0)Alternate translation: “They took away all of his sons except Jehoahaz, his youngest son” or “The only son they left to him was Jehoahaz, his youngest son”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoahaz, his youngest son (0)This same son is called “Ahaziah” in 2 Chronicles 22:1.
2 Chronicles 21:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh struck him in his intestines with an incurable disease (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “struck” is an idiom that means Yahweh caused him to be sick. Alternate translation: “Yahweh caused him to suffer from an incurable disease in his intestines”
2 Chronicles 21:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about (0)This phrase marks an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in due time (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that refers to a set or appointed time. Alternate translation: “in the proper time” or “when the time was right”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: made no fire in his honor as they had done for his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The custom of the Israelites was to make a bonfire to honor the king who had died. They did not do this for Jehoram to express their contempt for him. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “did not make a bonfire to honor him as they normally did to honor kings when they died”
2 Chronicles 21:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when he departed no one mourned him (0)Alternate translation: “no one was sad that he died”
2 Chronicles 22
2 Chronicles 22 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter is the beginning of the story of Queen Athaliah.
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Metaphor
The author compares Athaliah’s evil deeds to Ahab’s family’s evil lives: “walked in the ways of the house of Ahab.” Ahab is pictured as the epitome of evil. (See: Metaphor and evil, wicked, unpleasant and INVALID bible/kt/works)
2 Chronicles 22:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the band of men … had killed all his older sons (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This is background information about the events of 2 Chronicles 21:16 and 2 Chronicles 21:17. Ahaziah was called “Jehoahaz” in that earlier account. It is possible he changed his name when he became king.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all his older sons (0)Alternate translation: “all Jehoram’s older sons”
2 Chronicles 22:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-two years old (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“22 years old”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Athaliah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of Ahaziah’s mother.
2 Chronicles 22:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also walked in the ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “walked in the ways” is an idiom that means he followed Ahab’s example. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 20:32. Alternate translation: “He also followed the example”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Ahab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 21:6. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab”
2 Chronicles 22:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The sight of Yahweh represents his judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “as Yahweh judged”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Ahab was doing (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 21:6. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab were doing”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they were his advisors (0)Alternate translation: “descendants of Ahab advised him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to his destruction (0)Alternate translation: “and this caused his destruction”
2 Chronicles 22:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also followed their advice; he went (0)Alternate translation: “He also followed their advice and went” or “He also followed their advice to go”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to fight against Hazael, king of Aram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The reader should understand that Hazael did not fight alone, but that he took his army with him. Alternate translation: “to fight against Hazael, king of Aram, and his army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hazael (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man’s name.
2 Chronicles 22:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: of the wounds that they had given him (0)Alternate translation: “from the wounds that he received at the battle”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: went down to Jezreel (0)Jezreel was lower in elevation than Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 22:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now the destruction of Ahaziah was brought about by God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word destruction, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. 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: “God caused Ahaziah to die” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: visit to Joram … went with Jehoram (0)“Joram” and “Jehoram” are two names for the same person.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nimshi (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Ahab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 21:6. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab”
2 Chronicles 22:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: carrying out God’s judgment on the house of Ahab (0)This refers to killing the descendants of Ahab. Alternate translation: “killing all the descendants of Ahab as God had commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sons of Ahaziah’s brothers (0)This could mean: (1) Ahaziah’s nephews or (2) the sons of Ahaziah’s relatives .
2 Chronicles 22:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they caught him … killed him (0)Alternate translation: “they caught Ahaziah … killed Ahaziah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they buried him, for they said, “He is a son of Jehoshaphat, who sought Yahweh with all his heart.” (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
They honored him enough to bury his body because he was the descendant of Jehoshaphat, who was a good king. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: they buried his corpse, because they said, “He deserves to be buried, because he was a descendant of Jehoshaphat, who tried hard to please Yahweh.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Ahaziah had no more power to rule the kingdom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “house of Ahaziah” is a metonym that refers to Ahaziah’s descendants. Here “power to rule” is a metonym for a king. Since all the adult descendants of Ahaziah were dead, there was no one left to rule Judah.
2 Chronicles 22:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: she arose and killed all the royal children (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the writer speaks of Athaliah as if she killed the children herself, but the reader should understand that she would have ordered her servants to kill them. Alternate translation: “she commanded her servants to kill all the royal children”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the royal children (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers only to the males, because they could become king. Verse 11 confirms that the sons were the ones who were killed.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case, it refers to the kingdom of Judah. Alternate translation: “Judah” or “the kingdom of Judah”
2 Chronicles 22:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a daughter of the king … a daughter of King Jehoram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Here “the king” refers to Jehoram, the father of Ahaziah.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his nurse (0)This refers to a person who cares for a child, not to a medical person.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into a bedroom (0)Verse 12 makes it clear that this bedroom was located in the temple. Jehosheba could access that room because she was married to Jehoiada who was a priest.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoiada (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man’s name.
2 Chronicles 22:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He was with them (0)Alternate translation: “Joash was with Jehosheba and Jehoiada”
2 Chronicles 23
2 Chronicles 23 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The chapter ends the story of Queen Athaliah and begins the story of King Joash.
Special concepts in this chapter
Having a king
The high priest organized a coup and made seven-year-old Joash king. Athaliah objected, so the chief priest had her killed. This was an attempt by the priests to fulfill the covenant God made with David. (See: high priest, chief priests and priest, priesthood fulfill, fulfilled, carried out and covenant)
2 Chronicles 23:1
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitGeneral Information:
Throughout chapter 23, Joash is referred to as “the king.” It may be helpful to your readers to occasionally add “King Joash” or “Joash the king” to make his identity explicit.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoiada (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
the chief priest who served in the temple and was faithful to God. He was an advisor to Joash.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: showed his strength (0)He decided it was time to challenge Athaliah’s rule and reveal that Joash was alive and ready to be king. Alternate translation: “decided to act”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the commanders of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
The phrase “commander of hundreds” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “hundreds” represents the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “hundreds” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a military division. Alternate translation: “the commanders of military divisions”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: entered into a covenant (0)Alternate translation: “made an agreement”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Azariah … Ishmael … Azariah … Maaseiah … Elishaphat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These five men were the commanders of hundreds of soldiers.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeroham … Jehohanan … Obed … Adaiah … Zichri (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are men’s names.
2 Chronicles 23:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the heads of the ancestral houses of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part. And “houses” represents the families. Alternate translation: “leaders of the founding families of Israel” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 23:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king’s son (0)Here, “king” refers to Joash’s father. Alternate translation: “Joash, the son of the king”
2 Chronicles 23:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: A third (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“One-third”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will be guards at the doors (0)Alternate translation: “will be guards at the temple doors”
2 Chronicles 23:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Another third … the other third (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“Another one-third … the other one-third”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Foundation Gate (0)This gate may have also been called the “Middle Gate” or the “Sur Gate.” It was apparently an inner gate that was near the king’s palace.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization that refers to all the people who are present. Alternate translation: “All the other people who are present”
2 Chronicles 23:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Allow no one to come into the house of Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “Do not allow anyone to come into the house of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But all the other people must obey the commands of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It may be helpful to state that command. Alternate translation: “All the others must remain in the courtyard, obeying what Yahweh has commanded”
2 Chronicles 23:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Levites must surround the king on all sides (0)Alternate translation: “The Levites must surround the king on all sides in order to protect him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all sides, every man with his weapons in his hand (0)Alternate translation: “all sides, and every temple guard should have his weapons and be ready to fight”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Whoever comes into the house, let him be killed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This did not include the temple guards and the priests. This can be stated explicitly and in active form. Alternate translation: “You must kill anyone except the temple guards and the priests who come into the temple” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when he comes in and when he goes out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This could mean: (1) “at all times” or (2) “wherever he goes.”
2 Chronicles 23:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization to refer to all the people of Judah who were present in the courtyard that day.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: served in every way in the manner in which Jehoiada the priest commanded (0)Alternate translation: “did exactly what Jehoiada the priest commanded” or “obeyed everything that Jehoiada the priest commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Each one took his men … any of their divisions (0)The priests and guards served in divisions, with each group working for two weeks. This refers to the point in time when two divisions were present—the one ending their service and the one starting their service. Thus there were twice as many men as usual.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: were to leave off serving on the Sabbath (0)Alternate translation: “were finishing their work on that Sabbath day”
2 Chronicles 23:10
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitGeneral Information:
Throughout chapter 23, Joash is referred to as “the king.” It may be helpful to your readers to occasionally add “King Joash” or “Joash the king” to make his identity explicit.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with his weapon in his hand (0)This means they were ready to fight. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 23:7.
2 Chronicles 23:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king’s son (0)Here “king” refers to Joash’s father. Alternate translation: “Joash, the son of the king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: put the crown on him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This is a symbolic act to show that they are making him king.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gave him the covenant decrees (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
The symbolic act of giving him a scroll with the decrees shows that they expect him to obey them. It is unclear if these decrees were a portion of the law of Moses, or a separate set of rules for kings to obey. Alternate translation: “presented to him the covenant decrees that he should obey”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: anointed him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This was a symbolic act to show that he was chosen by God to be the king.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Long live the king (0)Alternate translation: “May the king live a long life”
2 Chronicles 23:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold (0)This alerts the reader that the following information is very important.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: standing by his pillar at the entrance (0)The relationship between the king and this particular pillar at the temple entrance is unclear.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the people of the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization to show that many people participated in the event. Alternate translation: “A very large number of the people of the land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Athaliah tore her clothes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This was a symbolic action to show her great distress.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Treason! Treason! (0)Treason is acting to overthrow the government. Athaliah had killed the legitimate heirs of the king and made herself ruler in 2 Chronicles 22:10. She was angry that Joash became king in her place. The exclamation is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: “You are committing treason!”
2 Chronicles 23:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoiada (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate this man’s name as in 2 Chronicles 22:11.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the commanders of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
The phrase “commander of hundreds” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “hundreds” represents the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “hundreds” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a military division. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 23:1. Alternate translation: “the commanders of military divisions”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who were over the army (0)Alternate translation: “who were leaders in the army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Bring her out between the ranks (0)This could mean: (1) “Surround her and bring her out of the temple courtyard” or (2) “Remove her from the people in the temple courtyard”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: anyone who follows her, let him be killed with the sword (0)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. It is implied that people who followed her would be trying to help her. Alternate translation: “Use your sword to kill anyone who comes to help her” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For the priest had said (0)Alternate translation: “For Jehoiada the priest had said”
2 Chronicles 23:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as she went into the entrance of the Horse Gate of the king’s house (0)Some versions have “and took her to the Horse Gate near the entrance of the kings’ house”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king’s house (0)Alternate translation: “the royal palace”
2 Chronicles 23:16
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitGeneral Information:
Throughout chapter 23, Joash is referred to as “the king.” It may be helpful to your readers to occasionally add “King Joash” or “Joash the king” to make his identity explicit.
2 Chronicles 23:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the people went to the house of Baal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization that means a large group of the people did this. Alternate translation: “a very large group of the people went to the temple of Baal”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mattan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 23:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: under the hand of the priests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents control. Alternate translation: “under the direction of the priests”
2 Chronicles 23:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that no one that was unclean in any way should enter (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A person who is not acceptable for God’s purposes is spoken of as if they were physically unclean. Alternate translation: “so that no one that was unacceptable to God in any way should enter”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that no one that was unclean in any way should enter (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “to make sure that only those who are clean could enter” or “to make sure only those who are acceptable to God could enter”
2 Chronicles 23:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the commanders of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
The phrase “commander of hundreds” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “hundreds” represents the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “hundreds” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a military division. Alternate translation: “the commanders of military divisions” See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 23:1.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the people of the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization that means he took very many people with him. Alternate translation: “a very large group of the people of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He brought down the king from the house of Yahweh (0)The temple was built on the highest hill in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “He brought the king down from the temple to the palace”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the throne of the kingdom (0)Alternate translation: “the royal throne”
2 Chronicles 23:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So all the people of the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is generalization to say that most of the people rejoiced.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the city was quiet (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “the city” represents the people of the city, and “quiet” represents peace, since no one opposed Joash after Athaliah died. Alternate translation: “the people of the city were at peace”
2 Chronicles 24
2 Chronicles 24 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Joash is completed in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Joash repairs the temple
Joash decided to repair the temple. The Levites collected money from people and gave it to the workmen to repair the temple. This was a sign of worship towards Yahweh. (See: temple, house, house of God and sign, proof, reminder)
Joash becomes evil
When Joash stopped worshiping Yahweh, he had many troubles. Joash remaind loyal to Yahweh as long as the chief priest lived, but when the chief priest died Joash started following other gods. The chief priest’s son warned him that he would have trouble, so he had him killed. The army of Aram defeated and plundered him and his servants murdered him. (See: priest, priesthood and god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)
2 Chronicles 24:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: began to reign (0)Alternate translation: “became king of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: forty years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“40 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zibiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a woman’s name.
2 Chronicles 24:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “eyes” here represents seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Joash’s actions. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:1. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” or “what Yahweh considered to be right”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the days of Jehoiada, the priest (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means “as long as Jehoiada, the priest, was alive.”
2 Chronicles 24:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoiada took for him two wives (0)Alternate translation: “Jehoiada chose two wives for Joash”
2 Chronicles 24:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about after this (0)This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
2 Chronicles 24:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: right away (0)Alternate translation: “immediately”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Levites did nothing at first (0)It may be helpful to add “but” to show that the Levites did not obey. Alternate translation: “But the Levites did not do it immediately”
2 Chronicles 24:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why have you not required the Levites … covenant decrees? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
King Joash asks this rhetorical question to accuse Jehoiada of not doing his duty. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have neglected your duty. I told you to require the Levites … covenant decrees, but you have not done it.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the tent of the covenant decrees (0)Although it refers to the temple that Solomon built, it is a reminder that this tax has been collected since the time of Moses and the “tent of meeting.”
2 Chronicles 24:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: holy things (0)This refers to the items used for worship in the temple.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to the Baals (0)Alternate translation: “to people to use for the worship of idols of Baal”
2 Chronicles 24:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a chest (0)a large wooden box
2 Chronicles 24:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they made a proclamation (0)Alternate translation: “they proclaimed” or “they announced”
2 Chronicles 24:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the leaders and all the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization. Some people probably did not respond this way.
2 Chronicles 24:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It happened that whenever (0)This phrase introduces a new, recurring action. If your language has a way to note this, you may use it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: take it and carry it back to its place (0)Alternate translation: “take the chest and carry it back to its place”
2 Chronicles 24:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stonemasons and carpenters (0)Alternate translation: “men who built with stone and men who built with wood”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: those who worked in iron and bronze (0)Alternate translation: “men who made things from iron and bronze”
2 Chronicles 24:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: went forward in their hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “forward” represents progress, and the word “hands” represents their control. Alternate translation: “made progress under their supervision”
2 Chronicles 24:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the rest of the money (0)This is money that was collected in the chest but not needed for repairs.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: furnishings (0)This refers to the “utensils” and “spoons” listed later in the verse.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for all the days of Jehoiada (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom refers to the lifespan of Jehoiada. Alternate translation: “for as long as Jehoiada lived” or “throughout the lifetime of Jehoiada”
2 Chronicles 24:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: grew old and was full of days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how long he lived. Alternate translation: “became very old”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was full of days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means he lived a long time.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 130 years old (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred and thirty years old”
2 Chronicles 24:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: among the kings (0)Alternate translation: “among the tombs of the kings” or “among the graves of the kings”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because he had done good in Israel, toward God, and to God’s house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
The nominal adjective “good” can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: “because he had done good things in Judah for God and for God’s temple”
2 Chronicles 24:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: did honor to the king (0)Alternate translation: “gave honor to King Joash” or “honored the king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then the king listened to them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The following verse indicates that they wanted the king to serve idols instead of Yahweh, and he agreed. Alternate translation: “Then they persuaded the king to do what they wanted”
2 Chronicles 24:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God’s anger came on Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
God’s anger is spoken of as something that covered over Judah and Jerusalem. Here the words “Judah” and “Jerusalem” are metonyms for the people who lived there. Alternate translation: “God became very angry with the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this wrongdoing of theirs (0)Alternate translation: “their sin”
2 Chronicles 24:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yet he sent (0)Here the word “yet” indicates a contrast between God’s anger and his sending of the prophets to give them a chance to repent and avoid judgment.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to himself, Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns
The reflexive pronoun emphasizes that Yahweh was the one to whom they should turn.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they refused to listen (0)Alternate translation: “the people refused to obey”
2 Chronicles 24:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Spirit of God came on Zechariah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom which means that the Spirit of God influenced Zechariah and enabled him to prophesy. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 15:1.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zechariah son of Jehoiada (0)This was not the same man as Zechariah son of Berechiah who wrote the Book of Zechariah.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why do you transgress the commandments of Yahweh, so that you cannot prosper? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Zechariah asked this rhetorical question to rebuke the people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are transgressing the commandments of Yahweh, so that is why you cannot prosper.”
2 Chronicles 24:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ignored the kindness that Jehoiada, Zechariah’s father, had done to him (0)Joash did not pay attention to the way that Jehoiada, Zechariah’s father, had been kind to Joash.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: call you to account (0)Alternate translation: “make you pay for the wrong you have done”
2 Chronicles 24:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about (0)This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sent all the plunder from them (0)Alternate translation: “sent all the plunder from Judah and Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 24:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: victory over a very great army (0)Alternate translation: “victory over the much larger army of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: In this way the Arameans brought judgment on Joash (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This refers to God’s judgment. This can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: “In this way God used the Arameans to judge Joash” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 24:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Joash had been severely wounded (0)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: “they had severely wounded Joash”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because of the murder of the sons of Jehoiada (0)Alternate translation: “because he had murdered the sons of Jehoiada”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They killed him in his bed (0)Alternate translation: “The servants killed Joash in his bed”
2 Chronicles 24:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zabad … Jehozabad (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shimeath, an Ammonite woman … Shimrith, a Moabite woman (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Shimeath, from the country of Ammon … Shimrith, from the country of Moab.” These are the names of two women.
2 Chronicles 24:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the accounts about his sons (0)Alternate translation: “the record of what his sons did”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the important prophecies that were spoken about him (0)Alternate translation: “the important things the prophets spoke about him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see, they are written (0)Here “see” alerts the reader to pay special attention to the information that follows.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the commentary on the book of the kings (0)This is a book which no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 25
2 Chronicles 25 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Worshiping other gods
When Amaziah trusted God he was successful against Edom. But when he started worshiping the idols of Edom he was badly defeated. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)
2 Chronicles 25:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-five years … twenty-nine years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“25 years … 29 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoaddan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a woman’s name.
2 Chronicles 25:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the word “eyes” represents sight, and sight represents Yahweh’s judgment or evaluation. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: but not with a whole heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here the phrase “whole heart” is an idiom that means “completely.” Alternate translation: “but not completely”
2 Chronicles 25:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about that (0)This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
2 Chronicles 25:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of Moses (0)This is a reference to the books of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
2 Chronicles 25:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gathered Judah together (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” refers to the people who lived in Judah. Alternate translation: “gathered the people of Judah together”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: registered them … numbered them (0)He had someone write their names on an official list.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by their ancestors’ houses (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “houses” is a metonym for the families that lived in them. Alternate translation: “by their ancestors’ families”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
This could mean: (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “commanders of 1,000 soldiers and commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the words translated as “thousands” and “hundreds” do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: “commanders of large military divisions and commanders of smaller military divisions” See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 1:2.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all of Judah and Benjamin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” and “Benjamin” refer to the people who lived in the wider kingdom of Judah. Alternate translation: “all the people of Judah and Benjamin”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty years old and upward (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here numbers that were larger than twenty are spoken of as if they were higher. Alternate translation: “20 years old and older”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: found them to be (0)Alternate translation: “learned that there were”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 300,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“three hundred thousand”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: chosen men (0)Alternate translation: “capable soldiers” or “skilled warriors”
2 Chronicles 25:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 100,000 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred thousand”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one hundred talents of silver (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“100 talents of silver.” You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about thirty-three hundred kilograms of silver” or “about 3,300 kilograms of silver” (See also: Biblical Weight)
2 Chronicles 25:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a man of God (0)Alternate translation: “a prophet of God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Israel … the people of Ephraim (0)These are two names for the same group people.
2 Chronicles 25:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: throw you down before the enemy … throw down (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the prophet speaks of military defeat as if the king would be thrown down on the ground. Alternate translation: “enable your enemy to defeat you … defeat”
2 Chronicles 25:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: about the one hundred talents (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about the thirty-three hundred kilograms of silver” or “about the 3,300 kilograms of silver” (See also: Numbers)
2 Chronicles 25:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the army that had come to him from Ephraim (0)These words refer to “the army of Israel” (verse 9).
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So their anger was greatly kindled (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the increase in their anger is spoken of as if it were a growing fire inside them. Alternate translation: “So their anger began to burn within them like a fire”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in fierce anger (0)Alternate translation: “very angry”
2 Chronicles 25:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took courage (0)Alternate translation: “became brave”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Valley of Salt (0)This is an area near the Dead Sea.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ten thousand men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“10,000 men”
2 Chronicles 25:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: another ten thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“another 10,000 soldiers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that they were all broken in pieces (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is an exaggeration to emphasize the thoroughness of the slaughter. Alternate translation: “so that they were all completely destroyed”
2 Chronicles 25:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the men of the army which Amaziah sent back (0)Alternate translation: “the men of the army of Israel which Amaziah sent back to Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Horon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a village near Jerusalem in Ephraim.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: struck down (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “struck down” is an idiom that means they killed them. Alternate translation: “killed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand of the people (0)Alternate translation: “3,000 people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took much plunder (0)Alternate translation: “took away a great amount of valuable things”
2 Chronicles 25:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now it came about (0)This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the slaughter of the Edomites (0)Alternate translation: “slaughtering the Edomites” or “killing the Edomites”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the gods of the people of Seir (0)Alternate translation: “the gods that the people of Seir worshiped”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bowed down … burned incense (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
These are symbolic acts of worship.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the gods (0)This expresses the popular opinion of the day that the gods determined who won battles.
2 Chronicles 25:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh’s anger was kindled against Amaziah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the increase in Yahweh’s anger is spoken of as if it were a growing fire. Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s anger grew like a fire against Amaziah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why have you sought after the gods of a people who did not even save their own people from your hand? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The prophet uses this rhetorical question to rebuke Amaziah for worshiping the powerless gods of the people he had defeated. Here the word “hand” is a metonym for power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have worshiped the gods of a people that did not even save their own people from your power, King Amaziah.” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the gods … who did not even save their own people (0)This expresses the popular opinion of the day that the gods determined who won battles.
2 Chronicles 25:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about that (0)This phrase is used here to mark the next important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Have we made you an advisor to the king? Stop! Why should you be killed? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The king used these rhetorical questions to rebuke the prophet for speaking against him. The questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “We certainly did not appoint you to be one of my advisors. So stop talking! If you say anything more, I will tell my soldiers to kill you!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you have done this deed (0)This refers back to Amaziah worshiping the gods of the Edomites in 2 Chronicles 25:14.
2 Chronicles 25:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoash … Jehoahaz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: meet each other face to face (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means they would both be there in person, rather than communicating through messages or other people. Alternate translation: “meet each other in person”
2 Chronicles 25:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: A thistle that was in Lebanon … trampled down the thistle (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables
This message is in the form of a parable. The worthless thistle represents Amaziah, and the cedar represents Jehoash. The trampling of the thistle by the beast expresses that something bad will happen to the thistle, and it will be powerless to stop it. The point of the parable is that Amaziah was foolish to challenge Jehoash.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thistle (0)This is a small, worthless plant with small, sharp thorns.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cedar (0)a very large type of tree
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” is a metonym for the people who lived in Judah. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah”
2 Chronicles 25:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your heart has lifted you up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means he had become proud. Alternate translation: “you have become proud”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: why should you cause yourself trouble and fall, both you and Judah with you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jehoash used this rhetorical question to warn Amaziah not to fight with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “you should not cause yourself trouble and fall, both you and Judah with you.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fall (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Here “fall” is a euphemism for “die.”
2 Chronicles 25:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this event was from God (0)Alternate translation: “God wanted this event to happen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into the hand of their enemies (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” refers to power to defeat. Alternate translation: “into the power of their enemies” or “so their enemies could defeat them”
2 Chronicles 25:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: met each other face to face (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means they were both at the battle in person, rather than only sending other people to fight. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 25:17. Alternate translation: “met each other in person”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Shemesh, which belongs to Judah (0)The city of Beth Shemesh was located in Judah.
2 Chronicles 25:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Judah was struck down before Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” and “Israel” are metonyms for the soldiers of Judah and Israel, and “struck down” is an idiom that means “defeated.” 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: “The soldiers of Israel defeated the soldiers of Judah” (See also: Idiom and Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: every man (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization that refers to the soldiers of Judah who survived the battle. Alternate translation: “the surviving soldiers of Judah”
2 Chronicles 25:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: four hundred cubits in distance (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “400 cubits in distance” or “a length of 180 meters” (See also: Biblical Distance)
2 Chronicles 25:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with Obed Edom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Obed Edom” refers to this man’s descendants. Alternate translation: “under the care of the descendants of Obed Edom” (See also: How to Translate Names)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king’s house (0)Alternate translation: “the royal palace”
2 Chronicles 25:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As for the other matters … are they not written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question is used to remind the reader that what happened to Amaziah is well-known. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “All of the matters concerning Amaziah, behold, are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the other matters concerning Amaziah, first and last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Here the phrase “first and last” refers to those extremes and everything in between. Alternate translation: “all the matters concerning Amaziah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold (0)This alerts the reader to pay special attention to the truth of what follows.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the kings of Judah and Israel (0)This refers to a book that no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 25:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turned away from following Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “turn away” is an idiom that means he no longer obeyed Yahweh. Alternate translation: “stopped obeying Yahweh” or “started to disobey Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they began to make a conspiracy … they sent (0)The text does not state to whom “they” refers. Retain the generic “they” in your translation if possible.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: make a conspiracy against him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word conspiracy, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “conspire against him” or “plot against him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Lachish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a city in Judah
2 Chronicles 25:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They brought (0)The text does not state to whom the word “They” refers. Retain the generic “they” in your translation if possible.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: brought him back (0)Alternate translation: “brought back his body”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: city of Judah (0)This was another name for Jerusalem, which was also called the city of David.
2 Chronicles 26
2 Chronicles 26 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Uzzah the leper
Uzzah was powerful when he followed Yahweh. When he entered the temple to burn incense like a priest, God made him a leper. Lepers could not properly worship Yahweh because they were always unclean. (See: temple, house, house of God and priest, priesthood and clean, wash)
2 Chronicles 26:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the people of Judah took Uzziah, who was sixteen years old, and made him king in place of his father Amaziah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The word “All” is a generalization. Some people may not have wanted him to be king. Alternate translation: “The people of Judah took the 16 year-old Uzziah and made him king after his father, Amaziah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sixteen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“16”
2 Chronicles 26:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It was he who rebuilt Elath (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Uzziah did not do this alone. Alternate translation: “It was he who ordered Elath to be rebuilt” or “It was he who supervised the rebuilding of Elath”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Elath (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a city in Judah
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: restored it to Judah (0)“returned it to Judah.” This means that his army captured the city so that now it belonged to Judah again.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a polite way to say he died.
2 Chronicles 26:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sixteen … fifty-two (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“16 … 52”
2 Chronicles 26:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judges to be right” or “what Yahweh considers to be right”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: following the example of his father, Amaziah, in everything (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies that his father had done what was right in God’s eyes. Alternate translation: “just as his father, Amaziah, had done”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in everything (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “in the same way”
2 Chronicles 26:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He set himself to seek God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “set himself” is a metaphor for being determined to do something. Seeking God represents choosing to know, worship, and obey him. Alternate translation: “He was determined to obey God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the days of Zechariah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “the days of Zechariah” is a metonym referring to the time period during which Zechariah was priest. Alternate translation: “when Zechariah was priest”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As long as he sought Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “During the whole time that he sought Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sought Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Seeking Yahweh represents choosing to know, worship, and obey him. Alternate translation: “chose to obey Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 26:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Uzziah went out and fought against the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “Uzziah” represents himself and his army that he led. Alternate translation: “Uzziah led his army out to fight against the Philistines” or “Uzziah and his army went out and fought against the Philistines”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He broke down … he built cities (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the pronouns “He” and “him” represent Uzziah and his army. Alternate translation: “Uzziah and his army broke down … they built cities”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jabneh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a town in northern Judah.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the country of Ashdod (0)Alternate translation: “the country surrounding Ashdod” or “near Ashdod”
2 Chronicles 26:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God helped him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the pronouns “He” and “him” represent Uzziah and his army. Alternate translation: “God helped them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gurbaal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a town in Arabia.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Meunites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is likely people who moved to that area from the kingdom of Maon near Mount Seir.
2 Chronicles 26:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his fame spread, even to the entrance of Egypt (0)His fame spreading is a metaphor for people in various places learning about him. Alternate translation: “people who lived even as far away as the border of Egypt learned about the things he was doing”
2 Chronicles 26:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Uzziah built towers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Uzziah” represents the workers he had commanded to build the towers. Alternate translation: “Uzziah had his workers build towers” or “Uzziah’s workers built towers”
2 Chronicles 26:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He built watchtowers … and dug many cisterns (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Uzziah commanded his workers, and they did these things. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build watchtowers … and dig many cisterns” or “They built watchtowers … and dug many cisterns”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he had much cattle … He had farmers … he loved farming (0)The word “he” refers to Uzziah.
2 Chronicles 26:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeiel … Maaseiah, the officer … Hananiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 26:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the leaders of the families who led the mighty men (0)Alternate translation: “the family leaders who led the mighty men”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 2,600 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“two thousand six hundred”
2 Chronicles 26:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 307,500 (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“three hundred seven thousand five hundred”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Under their hand was an army (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “their hand” represents their authority. Alternate translation: “Under their authority was an army” or “They commanded an army”
2 Chronicles 26:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: helmets (0)A helmet is a protective head covering.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: coats of mail (0)This is a covering for the body made of metal links or chains.
2 Chronicles 26:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he built machines that were designed by skillful men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “he built machines” represents Uzziah commanding his workers to build them. Alternate translation: “his workers built machines that were designed by skillful men”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the battlements (0)These were the corners of the city walls where soldiers could fight from.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was greatly helped (0)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: “God greatly helped him”
2 Chronicles 26:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his heart was lifted up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the heart being lifted up represents pride. Alternate translation: “he became proud”
2 Chronicles 26:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with him eighty priests of Yahweh, who were brave men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The verb “went” is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “with him went eighty priests of Yahweh, who were brave men” or “eighty priests of Yahweh, who were brave men, went with him”
2 Chronicles 26:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It is not for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to Yahweh” or “Uzziah, you do not have the right to burn incense to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sons of Aaron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “sons” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Aaron”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who are consecrated to burn incense (0)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: “whom God has consecrated to burn incense” or “whom God has chosen to burn incense”
2 Chronicles 26:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: censer (0)This is a special pan or bowl used for burning incense.
2 Chronicles 26:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold, he had become leprous (0)The word “behold” here shows that the priests were surprised by what they saw.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They quickly drove him out of there (0)Alternate translation: “They quickly forced him out of there” or “They quickly made him leave”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh had struck him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of Yahweh making him sick as if Yahweh had hit him. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had made him ill”
2 Chronicles 26:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to the day of his death (0)Alternate translation: “until he died” or “the rest of his life”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lived in a separate house (0)This indicates that he lived away from other houses and other people.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was cut off from the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here being “cut off” from Yahweh’s house represents being excluded from the temple. Alternate translation: “he was excluded from the house of Yahweh” or “he was not allowed to go to the temple”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jotham, his son, was over the king’s house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here being over something represents having responsibility or authority for it. Alternate translation: “Jotham, his son, was responsible for the king’s house” or “Jotham, his son, was in charge of the palace”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king’s house (0)This refers to the king’s palace, which the king was no longer living in.
2 Chronicles 26:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The other matters concerning Uzziah, from first to last, were recorded by the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz (0)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 for the other matters concerning Uzziah, from first to last, the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz recorded them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from first to last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This phrase represents the whole time of Uzziah’s reign. Alternate translation: “from the beginning of his reign to the end of his reign”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Amoz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 26:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So Uzziah slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is polite way to say that he died. Alternate translation: “So Uzziah died”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they buried him with his ancestors (0)Alternate translation: “the people buried him near his ancestors” or “they buried him where his ancestors were buried”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jotham, his son, became king in his place (0)Alternate translation: “Jotham, his son, became king after Uzziah”
2 Chronicles 27
2 Chronicles 27 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Trust in Yahweh
Jotham was able to conquer the people of Ammon because he obeyed the Lord. For Yahweh, trust in Yahweh is the key to victory in battle. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
2 Chronicles 27:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-five years old … sixteen years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“25 years old … 16 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jerushah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
2 Chronicles 27:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He did what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes here represent seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Jotham’s actions. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “He did what Yahweh judged to be right” or “He did what Yahweh considered to be right”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in everything (0)Alternate translation: “in everything he did”
2 Chronicles 27:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He built the upper gate … he built much (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Jotham was king, he may have had his workers build these things. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build the upper gate … he had his workers build many things”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hill of Ophel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a hill in Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 27:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he built cities … he built castles and towers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Jotham was king, he may have had his workers build these things. Alternate translation: “he had his workers build cities … he had his workers build castles and towers”
2 Chronicles 27:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He fought also with the king of the people of Ammon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
You may need to translate so that the reader understands that Jothan led his army to fight. Alternate translation: “He also led his army to fight with the king of the people of Ammon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with the king of the people of Ammon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
You may need to translate so that the reader understands that the king of Ammon led his army to fight. Alternate translation: “with the king of Ammon and his army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one hundred talents of silver (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
You may convert this to a modern measure. A “talent” is equivalent to 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “100 talents of silver” or “3,300 kilograms of silver” (See also: Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ten thousand measures of wheat (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
You may convert this to a modern measure. The word translated here as “measure” is “cor” and is equivalent to 220 liters. Alternate translation: “10,000 measures of wheat” or “2,200 kiloliters of wheat” (See also: Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ten thousand measures of barley (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
You may convert this to a modern measure. The word translated here as “measure” is “cor” and is equivalent to 220 liters. Alternate translation: “10,000 measures of barley” or “2,200 kiloliters of barley” (See also: Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the second and third years (0)Alternate translation: “in the second and third years after he defeated them”
2 Chronicles 27:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he walked firmly before Yahweh his God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Jotham’s actions and lifestyle are spoken of as if they were a path upon which he walked. That he walked firmly means that he was devoted to living in this way. Alternate translation: “he faithfully obeyed Yahweh his God”
2 Chronicles 27:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Jotham’s actions are spoken of as if they were a path upon which he walked. Alternate translation: “the things that he did”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see, they are written in the book … Judah (0)Alternate translation: “anyone can look in the book … Judah and see that they are written there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they are written in the book (0)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: “they are in the book” or “you can read of them in the book”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the kings of Israel and Judah (0)This is a book that no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 27:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-five years old … sixteen years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“25 years old … 16 years”
2 Chronicles 27:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jotham slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Jotham dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Jotham died” (See also: Euphemism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they buried him (0)Alternate translation: “people buried him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: became king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Jotham”
2 Chronicles 28
2 Chronicles 28 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
King Ahaz’s idolatry
Judah was defeated by all of the neighboring countries because King Ahaz was worshiping all sorts of foreign gods. (See: god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)
2 Chronicles 28:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty years old … sixteen years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“20 years old … 16 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes here represent seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Ahaz’s actions. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” or “what Yahweh considered to be right”
2 Chronicles 28:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he walked in the ways of the kings of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Walking represents behavior and actions. Alternate translation: “he acted the same way that the kings of Israel had acted” or “he did the things that the kings of Israel had done”
2 Chronicles 28:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Valley of Ben Hinnom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a valley in Jerusalem.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: before the people of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The people of those nations fled as the people of Israel moved into the land. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “before the people of Israel who moved into the land” or “as the people of Israel moved into the land”
2 Chronicles 28:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the high places and on the hills and under every green tree (0)These are places where the people of the other nations worshiped their false gods.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: under every green tree (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
God wanted his people to offer sacrifices to him in Jerusalem. The word “every” here is an exaggeration to show how determined King Ahaz was to disobey God by offering sacrifices in many other places instead. Alternate translation: “under many green trees” or “under many green trees around the country”
2 Chronicles 28:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh the God of Ahaz gave him into the hand of the king of Aram (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the metonym “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of the king of Aram to defeat Ahaz and his army is spoken of as if God had put Ahaz in the hand of the king of Aram. Alternate translation: “Yahweh the God of Ahaz enabled the king of Aram to defeat Ahaz” (See also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: carried away from him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“carried away from Ahaz.” Here “him” represents Ahaz’s army. Alternate translation: “carried away from Ahaz’s army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahaz was also given into the hand of the king of Israel who defeated him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the metonym “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of the king of Israel to defeat Ahaz and his army is spoken of as if God had put Ahaz in the hand of the king of Israel. 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 also enabled the king of Israel to defeat Ahaz” (See also: Metaphor and Active or Passive)
2 Chronicles 28:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Pekah son of Remaliah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was the king of Israel. Both “Pekah” and “Remaliah” are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 120,000 soldiers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“one hundred twenty thousand soldiers”
2 Chronicles 28:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zicri … Maaseiah … Azrikam … Elkanah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a powerful man (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that refers to a mighty warrior. Alternate translation: “a mighty warrior”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who was next to the king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that this man was the king’s assistant who was second in command. Alternate translation: “who was the king’s second in command”
2 Chronicles 28:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The army of Israel took captive from their relatives (0)“From their own relatives, the army of Israel took captive.” The word “their” refers to the army of Israel. The narrator speaks of the people of Judah as the relatives of the people of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 200,000 wives, sons, and daughters (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“two hundred thousand wives, sons, and daughters”
2 Chronicles 28:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Oded (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he gave them into your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of Israel to defeat the army of Judah is spoken of as if God had put the army of Judah in the hand of the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “God enabled you to defeat them” (See also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you have slaughtered them in a rage that reached up to heaven (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Oded speaks of Yahweh knowing how severely the army of Israel slaughtered the army of Judah as if the rage with which the army of Israel slaughtered them were an object so large that it reached into heaven. That Yahweh knows what they have done implies that he will respond. Alternate translation: “you have slaughtered them in such great rage that Yahweh himself has noticed and will take vengeance” (See also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
2 Chronicles 28:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But are you not guilty of sins of your own against Yahweh your God? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Oded asks this rhetorical question to rebuke the army of Israel and to emphasize the positive answer that the question anticipates. Alternate translation: “But you yourselves are guilty of sins of your own against Yahweh your God.”
2 Chronicles 28:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh’s fierce wrath is on you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Oded speaks of Yahweh being extremely angry with the Israelite army as if Yahweh’s wrath were an object that were upon them. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is extremely angry with you”
2 Chronicles 28:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Azariah son of Jehohanan, Berechiah son of Meshillemoth, Jehizkiah son of Shallum, and Amasa son of Hadlai (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are all names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stood up against those who came back from the war (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase “stood up against” is an idiom that means to confront or to oppose. Alternate translation: “confronted those who came back from the war” or “opposed those who came back from the war”
2 Chronicles 28:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: something that will bring on us sin (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The leaders speak of doing something that will cause them to be guilty of sin as if it were sin were an object that the action brings upon them. Alternate translation: “something that will cause us to be guilty of sinning”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there is fierce wrath against Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This phrase implies that it is Yahweh’s fierce wrath that is against Israel. The words “fierce wrath” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is extremely angry with the people of Israel” (See also: Abstract Nouns)
2 Chronicles 28:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The men who were assigned by name (0)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: “The men whom the leaders assigned by name”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sandals (0)This is a type of shoe.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: put the weak ones on donkeys (0)Alternate translation: “put the weak ones who were too weak to walk on donkeys”
2 Chronicles 28:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They took Beth Shemesh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Taking a city is an idiom that means to conquer or to capture the city. Alternate translation: “The Philistines captured Beth Shemesh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Shemesh, Aijalon, Gederoth, Soko … Timnah … Gimzo (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
2 Chronicles 28:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh brought Judah low because of Ahaz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The metonym “Judah” represents the people of Judah. Yahweh humiliating the people is spoken of as if he physically brought Judah low to the ground. Alternate translation: “Yahweh humiliated the people of Judah because of Ahaz” (See also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sinned against Yahweh very heavily (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Ahaz sinning very much is spoken of as if sin were a very heavy object. Alternate translation: “sinned very greatly against Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 28:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tiglath-Pileser (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is Tiglath-Pileser III, also known as Pul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: troubled him instead of strengthening him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Helping Ahaz against his enemies is spoken of as if it were strengthening Ahaz. Alternate translation: “caused him trouble instead of helping him”
2 Chronicles 28:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in his time of suffering (0)Alternate translation: “when he was suffering”
2 Chronicles 28:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the gods of Damascus (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The Syrians believed Damascus to be the city where their gods dwelt, much like Yahweh dwelt in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the gods whom the Syrians worshiped in Damascus”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gods that had defeated him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This expresses Ahaz’s opinion. Because the Syrians had defeated him and his army, Ahaz attributed his defeat to the gods whom the Syrians worshiped. Alternate translation: “gods whom he believed had enabled the Syrian army to defeat him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they were the ruin of him and of all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “ruin” can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “those gods ruined him and all Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel (0)Here “Israel” represents the southern kingdom of Judah.
2 Chronicles 28:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of God … the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of God … the temple of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in every corner of Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This could mean: (1) the word “corner” refers to street corners, or places where streets intersect. Alternate translation: “on every street corner in Jerusalem” or (2) the various parts of Jerusalem are spoken of as if they were the corners of the city. Alternate translation: “in every part of Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he made for himself altars (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Ahaz was king, he may have had his workers make these high places. Alternate translation: “he had his workers make altars for him”
2 Chronicles 28:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he made high places to burn sacrifices (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Ahaz was king, he may have had his workers make these high places. Alternate translation: “he had his workers make high places to burn sacrifices”
2 Chronicles 28:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all his ways, first and last (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Ahaz’s actions are spoken of as if they were a path upon which he walked. The phrase “first and last” refers to those extremes and everything in between. Alternate translation: “all that he did from the beginning of his reign to the end of his reign” (See also: Merism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see, they are written in the book … Israel (0)Alternate translation: “anyone can look at the book … Israel and see that they are written there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they are written in the book (0)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 has written them in the book” or “you can read of them in the book”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the kings of Judah and Israel (0)This is a book that no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 28:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahaz slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Ahaz dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Ahaz died” (See also: Euphemism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they buried him (0)Alternate translation: “people buried him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: became king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Ahaz”
2 Chronicles 29
2 Chronicles 29 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter begins the story of King Hezekiah. (2 Chronicles 29–32)
Special concepts in this chapter
Cleansing the temple
King Hezekiah was a great king. He cleaned and rededicated the temple. This was a sign that he wanted the people to return to worshiping Yahweh. (See: clean, wash and temple, house, house of God and sign, proof, reminder)
2 Chronicles 29:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-five years old … twenty-nine years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“25 years old … 29 years”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abijah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a woman’s name.
2 Chronicles 29:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “eyes” here represents seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Hezekiah’s actions. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:1. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” or “what Yahweh considered to be right”
2 Chronicles 29:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the first month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of March and the first part April on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah opened the doors … and repaired them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Hezekiah was king, he may have had his workers do these things. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah ordered his workers to open the doors … and to repair them”
2 Chronicles 29:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the east side (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the east side of the temple. Alternate translation: “on the east side of the temple”
2 Chronicles 29:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: carry away the filthiness from the holy place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “filthiness” refers to things that the people had used to worship other gods. The narrator speaks of these things making the temple unacceptable to Yahweh as if they were physically dirty. Alternate translation: “remove the things that defile the holy place” or “remove the things that make the holy place unacceptable to Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 29:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh our God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “sight” here represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of their ancestors’ actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh our God judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh our God considered to be evil”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turned away their faces from the place where Yahweh lives, and turned their backs on it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases share similar meanings. The words “faces” and “backs” represent the people who turned so that their faces were away from the temple and their backs were towards it. Alternate translation: “turned away from the place where Yahweh lives” (See also: Synecdoche)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turned away their faces from the place where Yahweh lives, and turned their backs on it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Rejecting Yahweh and no longer worshiping him is spoken of as if the people had turned away from the temple. Alternate translation: “abandoned Yahweh’s temple and stopped worshiping him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the place where Yahweh lives (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple where Yahweh lives”
2 Chronicles 29:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the wrath of Yahweh had fallen on Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the words “Judah and Jerusalem” refer to the people who live there. Hezekiah speaks of Yahweh being angry with the people and punishing them as if his wrath were an object that fell upon them. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh was angry, he had punished the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: an object of terror, of horror, and of scorn (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This can be translated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “something that terrifies and horrifies people, and something that people scorn”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as you can see with your own eyes (0)The phrase “with your own eyes” emphasizes that the people can see this for themselves without others having to tell them about it. Alternate translation: “as you can see for yourselves”
2 Chronicles 29:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: our fathers have fallen by the sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “fallen by the sword” means to die in battle. The word “sword” represents the soldiers, who used swords as their primary weapons. Alternate translation: “our fathers have died in battle” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 29:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: it is in my heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “heart” represents the thoughts and intentions. Hezekiah speaks of deciding to do something as if that thing were in his heart. Alternate translation: “it is my intention” or “I have decided” (See also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his fierce anger may turn away from us (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Hezekiah speaks of Yahweh no longer being angry with them as if Yahweh’s anger were a person who turns away from them Alternate translation: “he may no longer be angry with us” (See also: Personification)
2 Chronicles 29:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to stand before him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This could mean: (1) “to stand in his presence” or (2) this is an idiom that means to serve a person of high rank. Alternate translation: “to serve him”
2 Chronicles 29:12
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesGeneral Information:
These verses list the names of the Levites who began to do the work that Hezekiah had ordered them to do. These are all men’s names.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Levites arose (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here the word “arose” is an idiom that means that the Levites began to act. Alternate translation: “the Levites began to work”
2 Chronicles 29:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: following the words of Yahweh (0)This phrase shows that the king gave his command in obedience to the word of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “in obedience to the word of Yahweh” or “because of what Yahweh had said”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to cleanse the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A place that is fit to be used for God’s purposes is spoken of as if it were physically clean.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 29:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh … the courtyard of the house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh … the courtyard of the temple”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they brought out all the filth that they found in the temple of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “filth” refers to things that the people had used to worship other gods. The narrator speaks of these things making the temple unacceptable to Yahweh as if they were physically dirty. Alternate translation: “they brought out all the defiled things that they found in the temple of Yahweh” or “they brought out all the things that they found in the temple of Yahweh that made it unacceptable to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: brook Kidron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
A small body of water that flows on the east side of Jerusalem. At times it was used as a trash dump.
2 Chronicles 29:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the first day of the first month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The first day marks the day when Yahweh brought the people out of Egypt. This is near the middle of March on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the eighth day of the month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is near the end of March on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they reached the porch of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase “the porch of Yahweh” refers to the porch of the temple. “They reached” means that they began to cleanse this section. Alternate translation: “they had begun to cleanse the porch of Yahweh’s temple” (See also: Idiom)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sixteenth day of the first month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is near the beginning of April on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 29:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the bread of the presence (0)This is a reference to the 12 loaves of bread that were placed in front of the altar. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 2:4.
2 Chronicles 29:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See, they are (0)Alternate translation: “Look at them. You can see for yourself that they are”
2 Chronicles 29:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 29:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they killed the bulls, and the priests received the blood (0)Alternate translation: “the priests killed the bulls and took the blood”
2 Chronicles 29:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they laid their hands on them (0)Alternate translation: “the king and people in the assembly laid their hands on them”
2 Chronicles 29:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that a burnt offering and a sin offering should be made for all Israel (0)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 the priests should make a burnt offering and a sin offering for all Israel”
2 Chronicles 29:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cymbals (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:12.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: arranging them by the command of David, Gad, the king’s seer, and Nathan, the prophet (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “command” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “arranging the Levites as David, Gad, the king’s seer, and Nathan, the prophet had commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the command was from Yahweh by means of his prophets (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “command” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh had commanded this through his prophets”
2 Chronicles 29:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the song of Yahweh began also (0)The phrase “the song of Yahweh” refers to people singing a song to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the people began to sing a song to Yahweh also”
2 Chronicles 29:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: until the burnt offering was finished (0)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: “until the priests finished offering the burnt offering”
2 Chronicles 29:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When they had finished the offerings (0)Alternate translation: “When the priests had finished the offerings”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bowed and worshiped (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The object of worship may be supplied in translation. Alternate translation: “bowed and worshiped Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 29:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thank offerings (0)These were offerings of thanksgiving.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who had a willing heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the word “heart” represents the person who was willing. Alternate translation: “who were willing” or “who desired”
2 Chronicles 29:32
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seventy bulls, one hundred rams, and two hundred male lambs (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“70 bulls, 100 rams, and 200 male lambs”
2 Chronicles 29:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred oxen and three thousand sheep (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“600 oxen and 3,000 sheep”
2 Chronicles 29:34
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to skin all the burnt offerings (0)Alternate translation: “to remove the skins from all the burn offerings”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: until the work was done (0)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: “until they had finished the work”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: until the priests could consecrate themselves (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Since there were some priests who were already consecrated, this implies that more priests consecrated themselves. Alternate translation: “until more of the priests could consecrate themselves”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: had been more careful to consecrate themselves (0)There were enough Levites to do this work because they had been careful to consecrate themselves. This implies that the reason that there were not enough priests was because the priests were not careful to consecrate themselves.
2 Chronicles 29:35
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they were performed with the fat of the fellowship offerings (0)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: “the priests performed the burnt offerings with the fat of the fellowship offerings”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the service of the house of Yahweh was set in order (0)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: “Hezekiah set the service of the house of Yahweh in order”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was set in order (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that something is organized. Here it refers to the priestly service beginning in the temple again. Alternate translation: “was restored” or “began again”
2 Chronicles 29:36
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the work had been done quickly (0)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: “the people had done the work quickly”
2 Chronicles 30
2 Chronicles 30 General Notes
2 Chronicles 30:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel and Judah (0)This represents the nation of Israel in general. Earlier the nation had been split into two kingdoms called by these names.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ephraim and Manasseh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Ephraim and Manasseh were two of the tribes in the northern part of Israel. Here the phrase “Ephraim and Manasseh” refers to the people who belonged to all ten of the northern tribes of Israel. Alternate translation: “the northern tribes of Israel”
2 Chronicles 30:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: deciding to celebrate the Passover in the second month (0)The Israelites normally celebrated the passover during the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The first month is during the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: second month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the second month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of April and the first part of May on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 30:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This proposal (0)This refers to the proposal to celebrate the Passover in the second month instead of in the first month.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the eyes of the king and of all the assembly (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “in the judgment of the king and all the assembly” or “to the king and all the assembly”
2 Chronicles 30:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from Beersheba to Dan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
These are the most southern and most northern parts of Israel. By referring to them this way, the writer emphasizes that all of Israel was included. Alternate translation: “from Beersheba in the south to Dan in the north”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: according to what was written (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“as it was written that they should do.” It is implied that it was written that they should observe the Passover with large numbers of people. 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 Moses had written that they should observe it”
2 Chronicles 30:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: couriers (0)people who carry messages
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel and Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
The tribe of Judah was the largest of the tribes of Israel and was in the southern part of Israel. Here the phrase “Israel and Judah” refers to the people who belonged to the southern tribes of Israel. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 30:1. Alternate translation: “the southern tribes of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turn back to Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn back to Yahweh” represents submitting to him again. Alternate translation: “submit again to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that he may turn back to the remnant of you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn back to the remnant” represents protecting the remnant again. Alternate translation: “so that he may again protect the remnant of you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who have escaped from the hand of the kings of Assyria (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” often represents power or authority. Here it represents the kings’ cruel authority to force people to go to other countries. Alternate translation: “who have escaped from the power of the kings of Assyria”
2 Chronicles 30:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
This is a continuation of King Hezekiah’s message to the people of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your brothers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “brothers” represents other people of Israel. Alternate translation: “your people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he made them an object of horror (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word horror, you can express the same idea with the words “horrified” or “horrible.” The author writes of what God did to their ancestors in terms of how other people would react when the saw what God did. Alternate translation: “he made them something that people would be horrified to see” or “he punished them horribly” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 30:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: give yourselves to Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This represents submitting to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “submit to Yahweh” or “dedicate yourselves to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: come into his holy place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “his holy place” refers to God’s temple in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “come to his temple in Jerusalem for it is holy” or “come to his temple in Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that his fierce anger may turn away from you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author writes of anger as if it were a person that can turn away from people. God’s anger turning away from them represents him no longer being angry with them. Alternate translation: “so that he will no longer be angry with you”
2 Chronicles 30:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if you turn back to Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn back to Yahweh” represents submitting to him again. Alternate translation: “if you submit again to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your brothers and children will find compassion before those who led them away as prisoners (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “find compassion” is a metaphor for experiencing compassion. Finding it “before those who led them” means those who led them away will show them compassion. Alternate translation: “your brothers and children will experience compassion from those who led them away as prisoners” or “those who led your brothers and children away as prisoners will be kind to them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will not turn his face away from you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “turn his face away from you” represents rejecting them and refusing to protect them. Alternate translation: “will not reject you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if you return to him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “return to him” represents submitting to God again. Alternate translation: “if you submit again to him”
2 Chronicles 30:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the regions of Ephraim and Manasseh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Ephraim and Manasseh were two of the tribes in the northern part of Israel. Here the phrase “Ephraim and Manasseh” refers to the people who belonged to all ten of the northern tribes of Israel. See how you translated it in 2 Chronicles 30:1. Alternate translation: “the regions of the northern tribes of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the way to Zebulun (0)Zebulun was one of the tribes farthest in the north of Israel, but there were three other tribes that reached farther north.
2 Chronicles 30:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The hand of God also came on Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “the hand of God” represents his guidance as if he were guiding them with his hand. Alternate translation: “God guided the people of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to give them one heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Having “one heart” represents being united and agreeing. Alternate translation: “causing them to agree”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to carry out the command (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “carry out the command” is an idiom meaning to do what was commanded. Alternate translation: “to obey the command”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the command of the king and leaders by the word of Yahweh (0)The phrase “by the word of Yahweh” shows that the king and leaders gave their command in obedience to the word of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the command that the king and leaders gave them in obedience to the word of Yahweh” or “what the king and the leaders commanded because of what Yahweh had said”
2 Chronicles 30:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the second month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the second month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of April and the first part of May on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 30:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They rose and took away the altars (0)Here “They rose” means that they started to work at taking away the altars. Alternate translation: “They began to work and took away the altars” or “They took away the altars”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the altars that were in Jerusalem, and all the altars for incense (0)These two phrases refer to altars that people had built to false gods.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the brook Kidron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a small stream of water in the Kidron Valley.
2 Chronicles 30:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the fourteenth day of the second month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is near the beginning of May on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 30:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They stood in their place by their divisions (0)Alternate translation: “They stood in their appointed places”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the blood that they received from the hand of the Levites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the blood of the lambs that the Levites killed. Here “received from the hand of the Levites” is a metonym for the Levites giving the blood to the priests. Alternate translation: “the blood that they received from the Levites” or “the lambs’ blood that the Levites gave to them” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 30:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Passover lambs (0)Alternate translation: “the lambs for the Passover”
2 Chronicles 30:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ephraim and Manasseh, Issachar and Zebulun (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of some of the tribes that lived in the northern part of Israel. See how you translated “Zebulun” in 2 Chronicles 30:10.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: against the written instructions (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
To do something “against” instructions means to do something that is not in obedience to the instructions. If needed, the instructions can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “even though the written instructions said that they must purify themselves first”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the good Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
The word “good” here is a reminder to the people that Yahweh is kind. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, who is good”
2 Chronicles 30:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who sets his heart to seek God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This continues the sentence that begins with the word “everyone” in verse 18.Here “sets his heart” is a metaphor for being determined to do something, and “to seek God” is a metaphor for knowing, worshiping, and obeying him. “everyone who is determined to obey God” or “everyone who truly wants to honor God”
2 Chronicles 30:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So Yahweh listened to Hezekiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies that Yahweh responded favorably to Hezekiah. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh responded favorably to Hezekiah” or “So Yahweh did what Hezekiah asked”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: healed the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “healed the people” is a metaphor for forgiving the people and not punishing them. Alternate translation: “forgave the people” or “did not punish the people”
2 Chronicles 30:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kept the Festival of Unleavened Bread (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “kept the festival” is a idiom meaning to participate in the festival or celebrate the festival. Alternate translation: “celebrate the festival”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: singing with loud instruments to Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “singing and playing loud musical instruments to Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 30:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who understood the service of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
This was the reason that he spoke encouragingly to them. Alternate translation: “because they understood the service of Yahweh” or “because they served Yahweh skillfully”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So they ate throughout the festival (0)The word “they” refers to the people of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: making confession to Yahweh (0)This could mean: (1) “confession” here refers to saying that God is great. Alternate translation: “praising Yahweh” or (2) “confession” here refers to admitting their sins. Alternate translation: “confessing their sins to Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 30:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah … gave the assembly … bulls and … sheep as an offering (0)Hezekiah gave the animals to the people as an offering to the Lord for the people to eat.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one thousand bulls … seven thousand sheep … one thousand bulls … ten thousand sheep and goats (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“1,000 bulls … 7,000 sheep … 1,000 bulls … 10,000 sheep and goats”
2 Chronicles 30:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All the assembly of Judah (0)Here “Judah” probably refers to the southern tribes of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the people who came together from Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here “Israel” probably refers to the northern tribes of Israel. The people are members of those tribes. They came to Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Alternate translation: “all the people who came together from Israel in the north”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the foreigners who came from the land of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here “the land of Israel” probably refers to the land owned by the northern tribes of Israel. Alternate translation: “the foreigners who came from the land of Israel in the north”
2 Chronicles 30:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: since the time of Solomon son of David, king of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “since the time when Solomon son of David ruled as king of Israel” or “since the Passover Festival that the people held when Solomon son of David was king of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there had not been anything like it in Jerusalem (0)Alternate translation: “there had not been any Passover Festival in Jerusalem like this Passover Festival”
2 Chronicles 30:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Their voice was heard … their prayer went up to heaven, the holy place where God lives (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean the same thing and imply that God responded favorably to their prayer. Alternate translation: “God responded favorably to their prayer, which he heard in heaven, the holy place where he lives” or “God, who lives in the holy heaven, heard their prayer”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Their voice was heard (0)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: “God heard their voice” or “God heard what they said to him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their prayer went up to heaven (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Their prayer going up to heaven represents God in heaven paying attention to them praying on earth.
2 Chronicles 31
2 Chronicles 31 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Hezekiah continues in this chapter.
Important figures of speech in this chapter
Idiom
To express Hezekiah’s desire to please God, the author uses two idioms “to seek God” and “with all his heart.” This means that he really wanted to do what God wanted. (See: Idiom)
2 Chronicles 31:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who were there (0)Alternate translation: “who were in Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to his own possession (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Here “possession” means possessions in general. Alternate translation: “to his own property” or “to his own home”
2 Chronicles 31:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah assigned the divisions of the priests and the Levites organized by their divisions, each man assigned to his work, both the priests and the Levites (0)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: “Hezekiah organized the priests and the Levites into groups. He assigned each priest and Levite to their duties”
2 Chronicles 31:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: assigned the king’s portion for the burnt offerings from his own possessions (0)Hezekiah took the meat and grain used for the burnt offerings out of his own possessions.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the new moons (0)This was a festival coinciding with the movement of the moon.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the fixed festivals (0)This refers to festivals which occur on specific dates.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as it was written in the law of Yahweh (0)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: “just as Moses wrote in the law of Yahweh” or “just as Yahweh commanded in his law”
2 Chronicles 31:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As soon as the command was sent out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As soon as the people heard the command”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a tithe of everything (0)Alternate translation: “a tenth of all their crops”
2 Chronicles 31:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: third month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the third month of the Hebrew calendar. It is at the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the dry season. It is during the last part of May and the first part of June on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seventh month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. This is during the early rain season, which would soften the land for sowing. It is during the last part of September and the first part of October on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 31:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: of the house of Zadok (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “house” represents a family or descendants. Alternate translation: “a descendant of Zadok”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What was left over is this large amount here (0)The chief priest would have been pointing to the large heaps.
2 Chronicles 31:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah commanded storerooms to be prepared (0)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: “Hezekiah commanded the priests and Levites to prepare storerooms”
2 Chronicles 31:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Konaniah … Shimei (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
2 Chronicles 31:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismakiah, Mahath, and Benaiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: were managers under the hand of Konaniah and Shimei his brother (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. The phrase “under the hand” is an idiom that means to be under someone’s authority. Alternate translation: “were managers whom Konaniah and Shimei his brother supervised” (See also: Idiom)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the official over the house of God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “over” is an idiom that means to be in charge of. Alternate translation: “the official in charge of everyone who served in the house of God”
2 Chronicles 31:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kore … Imnah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the porter at the east gate (0)Alternate translation: “the gatekeeper at the east gate of the temple”
2 Chronicles 31:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Under him were Eden … in the cities of the priests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “under” is an idiom that means to be under someone’s authority. Alternate translation: “Eden … assisted Kore in the cities of the priests”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They filled offices of trust, in order to give (0)Alternate translation: “Their duty was to give” or “They faithfully gave”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to their brothers (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “brothers” is a metaphor for “fellow priests.” Alternate translation: “to their fellow priests”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: division by division (0)Alternate translation: “group by group”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to both the important and the unimportant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Here “important” and “unimportant” are used together to mean “everyone.” Alternate translation: “to everyone, including the important and the unimportant”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the important and the unimportant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This seems to imply the old and the young. This can be restated to removed the nominal adjectives. Alternate translation: “those who are old and those who are young” (See also: Nominal Adjectives)
2 Chronicles 31:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They also gave (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
It is understood that they gave the freewill offerings. Alternate translation: “They also gave freewill offerings”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three years old and up (0)Alternate translation: “three years old and older”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who were listed in the records (0)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: “whose names were in the records”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as required by the daily schedule, to do the work in their offices and their divisions (0)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: “to do the daily work that they were supposed to do”
2 Chronicles 31:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They distributed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
It is understood they distributed the freewill offerings. Alternate translation: “They distributed freewill offerings”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty years old and more (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“20 years old and older”
2 Chronicles 31:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there were men assigned by name to give portions (0)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: “there were men responsible for giving portions”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to all who were listed in the records (0)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: “to all whose names were in the records”
2 Chronicles 31:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to seek his God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Seeking Yahweh represents choosing to know, worship, and obey him. Alternate translation: “to obey his God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he performed it with all his heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “heart” refers to a person’s will and desire. Alternate translation: “he performed it with all his will” or “he was completely committed to what he did”
2 Chronicles 32
2 Chronicles 32 General Notes
Structure and formatting
The story of King Hezekiah is completed in this chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Trust in Yahweh
Because Hezekiah trusted God, God rescued Jerusalem from the attacked of the Assyrian army and healed Hezekiah when he was very sick. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
2 Chronicles 32:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: After these things and these acts of faithfulness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully.” Alternate translation: “After Hezekiah faithfully did all the things Yahweh commanded him to do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came … He camped (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Sennacherib represents his army. Alternate translation: “Sennacherib, king of Assyria, and his army came … They camped”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: came and entered Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Here “came” can be stated as “went.” Alternate translation: “went and entered Judah”
2 Chronicles 32:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that Sennacherib had come and that he intended (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Sennacherib also represents his army. Alternate translation: “that Sennacherib and his army had come and that they intended”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to fight against Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Jerusalem” represents the people there. Alternate translation: “to fight against the people of Jerusalem” or “to fight against the army of Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 32:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to stop up the waters of the springs that were outside the city (0)The people of the city would fill up wells and fountain springs with earth and rocks, hiding the water from the Assyrians, but the people would cause the water to flow into the city through secret pathways.
2 Chronicles 32:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why should the kings of Assyria come and find a lot of water? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people use a rhetorical question to emphasize that they do not want the kings of Assyria to find their water. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We do not want the kings of Assyria to come here and find a lot of water.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the kings of Assyria (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here, the word kings could mean: (1) this is an idiom that refers to the one king of Assyria. Alternate translation: “the king of Assyria” or (2) this may refer to the king and his other leaders. Alternate translation: “the king and the other leaders of Assyria”
2 Chronicles 32:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah took courage and built up … He built … He also … he made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The readers should understand that Hezekiah probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah took courage and commanded the people to build up … They built … They also … they made”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah took courage and built up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
This could mean: (1) Hezekiah strengthened his position by commanding the people to repair the walls of the city. You can make this clear by using the connecting word “by.” Alternate translation: “Hezekiah strengthened the city by building up” or (2) he became encouraged. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah became encouraged and built up”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Millo (0)This is a part of the wall on the north side of Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 32:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He placed military commanders over the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “place over” means to put in charge of. “He put military commanders in charge of the people”
2 Chronicles 32:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for someone is with us who is greater than those with him (0)Alternate translation: “for our God is with us and is more powerful than those with the king of Assyria”
2 Chronicles 32:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: is only an arm of flesh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “arm” represents strength, and “flesh” represents humanity. Alternate translation: “are only those with human power”
2 Chronicles 32:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: now he was … with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The word “now” is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator tells background information about the location of Sennacherib and his army.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Lachish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a city in Judah.
2 Chronicles 32:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What are you relying on in order to endure a siege in Jerusalem? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are not able to endure a siege in Jerusalem.”
2 Chronicles 32:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is not Hezekiah misleading you … king of Assyria’? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah is misleading you … king of Assyria.’”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that he may give you over to die by famine and by thirst (0)Alternate translation: “so that you will die from lack of food and water”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from the hand of the king of Assyria (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from the power of the king of Assyria” or “from the king of Assyria”
2 Chronicles 32:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Has not this same Hezekiah taken away … sacrifices’? (0)Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is the same Hezekiah who has taken away … sacrifices.’” or “Hezekiah has taken away … sacrifices.’”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: commanded Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” and “Jerusalem” represent the people who live there. Alternate translation: “commanded the people of Judah and Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 32:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do you not know what … lands? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know very well what … lands!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Were the gods … power? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There was no god … power!”
2 Chronicles 32:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Among all the gods … was there any god who … hand? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There was no god among all the gods … who … hand!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: out of my hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from my power” or “from me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why should your God be able … power? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no reason your God should be able … power!”
2 Chronicles 32:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now (0)Here the word “now” is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How much less will your God rescue you from my hand? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Your God will certainly not be able to rescue you from my hand!”
2 Chronicles 32:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: out of my hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from my power” or “from me”
2 Chronicles 32:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They cried out (0)Alternate translation: “Sennacherib’s servants shouted loudly”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to frighten them and trouble them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of fear. Alternate translation: “to make them very afraid”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they might capture (0)Alternate translation: “the Assyrian army might capture”
2 Chronicles 32:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They spoke of the God of Jerusalem as they had spoken of the gods of the other peoples of the earth (0)Alternate translation: “They mocked the God of Jerusalem as they had mocked the gods of the other peoples of the earth”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: which are merely the work of men’s hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This emphasizes that humans made these idols with their own hands and are therefore worthless. Alternate translation: “which are merely idols that men have made”
2 Chronicles 32:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cried out to heaven (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heaven” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “cried to Yahweh for help” or “pleaded to Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 32:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with shame on his face (0)Alternate translation: “embarrassed” or “ashamed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of his god (0)Alternate translation: “the temple of his god”
2 Chronicles 32:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from the hand of Sennacherib … from the hand of all others (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from the power of Sennacherib … from the power of all others” or “from Sennacherib … from all others”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gave them rest on every side (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word rest, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “peacefully.” Alternate translation: “caused them to live peacefully with all the people of the nations around them”
2 Chronicles 32:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was lifted up in the eyes of all nations (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “lifted up” is an idiom that means to honor. Also, “in the eyes” is a metaphor that represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “the people of all the nations honored him” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 32:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that he would be healed (0)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 he would heal Hezekiah”
2 Chronicles 32:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But Hezekiah did not pay back Yahweh for the help given to him (0)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: “But Hezekiah did not act in a grateful way after Yahweh helped him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his heart was lifted up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” is a metonym that represents a person’s inner being. Here “heart was lifted up” is an idiom that means to become proud. Alternate translation: “he became proud” (See also: Idiom)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So anger came on him, and on Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh becoming angry and punishing the people is spoken of as if “anger came on” them. “Judah” and “Jerusalem” are metonyms that represent the people who live there. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh became angry and punished him and the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 32:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: during Hezekiah’s days (0)Alternate translation: “during Hezekiah’s lifetime” or “during Hezekiah’s reign as king”
2 Chronicles 32:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stalls (0)This is a small enclosure where horses are kept. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 9:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pens (0)a storage place for small animals
2 Chronicles 32:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah who also stopped up … and who brought them straight down (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The readers should understand that Hezekiah probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah who ordered his workers to stop up … and to build a tunnel so that the water would flow down”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: waters of Gihon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a stream near Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 32:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the miraculous sign that had been done in the land (0)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: “the miracle that Yahweh had performed in the land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to know all that was in his heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” represents a person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “to reveal Hezekiah’s true character”
2 Chronicles 32:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hezekiah slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This was a polite way to tell about him dying. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 9:31. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah died”
2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles 33 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
King Manasseh
Manasseh angered God more than any other king of Judah. He worshiped the sun, stars and many foreign gods and even sacrificed his sons to the sun. (See: god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)
2 Chronicles 33:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “things that Yahweh said were evil” or “the things that Yahweh considers evil”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: like the disgusting things (0)Another possible meaning is “including the disgusting things.”
2 Chronicles 33:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he rebuilt the high places … he built altars … he made Asherah poles (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Manasseh would have commanded his workers to do the building for him. Alternate translation: “he had the high places rebuilt … he had altars built … he had Asherah poles made” or “he had his workers rebuild the high places … he had them build altars … he had them make Asherah poles”
2 Chronicles 33:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It is in Jerusalem that my name will be forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The name is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem is where I will forever make known who I am”
2 Chronicles 33:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He built altars for all the stars of heaven in the two courtyards of the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied that he built these altars so people could make sacrifices and worship the stars. Also, he would not have built these altars himself, rather he would have commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build altars in the two courtyards of the house of Yahweh so that the people could worship the stars and offer them sacrifices” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 33:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Valley of Ben Hinnom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place near Jerusalem that is also known as Gehenna.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he caused his sons to pass through the fire (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
You may need to make explicit why he put his son in the fire and what happened after he did so. Alternate translation: “he burned his sons to death as an offering to his gods”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: consulted with (0)Alternate translation: “asked for information from”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the dead (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
This refers to dead people. Alternate translation: “dead people” or “those who are dead”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Manasseh did much evil in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “Manasseh did many things that Yahweh said were evil” or “He practiced the things that Yahweh considered evil”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he provoked him to anger (0)Alternate translation: “Manasseh made Yahweh very angry”
2 Chronicles 33:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he had made (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Manasseh probably did not do the work. His servants would have done the work. Alternate translation: “Manasseh had ordered his servants to make”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that I will put my name forever (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here God is represented by his “name.” Alternate translation: “where I want people to worship me forever”
2 Chronicles 33:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that I assigned to their ancestors (0)Alternate translation: “that I gave to their ancestors”
2 Chronicles 33:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “Jerusalem” is a part of “Judah.” Alternate translation: “the people of Judah and Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: even more than the nations that Yahweh had destroyed before the people of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “nations” refers to the people who had lived in the land of Canaan before the Israelites had arrived. Alternate translation: “even more than the people whom Yahweh had destroyed as the people of Israel advanced through the land”
2 Chronicles 33:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: brought on them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Yahweh sent the army to attack Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “brought about an attack on them by”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The commanders were accompanied by their soldiers. Alternate translation: “the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria and their soldiers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took Manasseh in chains, bound him with fetters, and took him off to Babylon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here Manasseh being taken as a prisoner is represented by him being bound by chains and fetters. Fetters were chains placed around the feet. Alternate translation: “seized Manasseh, bound him in chains, and took him as a prisoner to Babylon”
2 Chronicles 33:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: implored (0)to beg for help
2 Chronicles 33:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He prayed to him; and God was begged by him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The second phrase intensifies the first phrase and emphasizes the earnestness of Manasseh’s prayer. 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: “He prayed to God and begged him” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into his kingship (0)Alternate translation: “to rule again as king”
2 Chronicles 33:14
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesGeneral Information:
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Manasseh built … He surrounded … and raised … He put (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself, rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “Manasseh commanded his workers to build … They surrounded … and raised … He commanded his workers to put”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gihon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was the name of a spring and a stream. See how you translated the “waters of Gihon” in 2 Chronicles 32:30. Alternate translation: “the waters of Gihon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hill of Ophel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate the name of this hill as you did in 2 Chronicles 27:3.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: raised the wall up (0)Alternate translation: “built the wall up”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the fortified cities (0)This refers to cities with walls around them.
2 Chronicles 33:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He took away … he had built … and threw (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself; rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “Manasseh commanded his workers to take away … they had previously built … and to throw”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the foreign gods (0)Alternate translation: “the false gods from other countries”
2 Chronicles 33:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He rebuilt (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself, rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “He commanded them to rebuild”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he commanded Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Judah” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “he commanded the people of Judah”
2 Chronicles 33:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold, they are written among the deeds … of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “anyone can look among the deeds … Israel and see that they are written there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they are written (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
These phrases can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “men have written them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the deeds of the kings of Israel (0)This in account of the history of Israel that no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 33:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the places where he had built high places and set up the Asherah poles and the carved figures (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself, rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “the place where he had the high places built and the Asherah poles and the carved figures set up” or “the places where he commanded his workers to build the high places and to set up the Asherah poles and carved figures”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Chronicles of the Seers (0)This is a book that no longer exists.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they are written about (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
These phrases can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “men have written about them”
2 Chronicles 33:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So Manasseh slept with his ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “So Manasseh died”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in his own house (0)Alternate translation: “in his palace”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Amon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “became the next king” or “became the king of Judah”
2 Chronicles 33:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-two years old (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“22 years old”
2 Chronicles 33:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “things that Yahweh said were evil” or “the things that Yahweh considers evil”
2 Chronicles 33:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this same Amon trespassed more and more (0)Alternate translation: “Amon sinned again and again” or “Amon continued to sin”
2 Chronicles 33:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: put him to death (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “killed him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: conspired against him (0)Alternate translation: “planned in secret to kill him”
2 Chronicles 33:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “became the next king” or “became the king of Judah”
2 Chronicles 34
2 Chronicles 34 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter is the beginning of the story of King Josiah. (2 Chronicles 34–35)
Special concepts in this chapter
Returning the people to Yahweh
Josiah worshiped Yahweh and cleaned out the idols and shrines from Judah. The people returned to worship Yahweh again. (See: clean, wash)
2 Chronicles 34:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thirty-one years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“31 years”
2 Chronicles 34:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was right in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh said were right” or “the things that Yahweh considers right”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: walked in the ways of David his ancestor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Josiah behaving as David did is spoken of as if he walked on the same road or way as David. Alternate translation: “lived the way David his ancestor had lived” or “followed the example of David his ancestor”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: did not turn away either to the right or to the left (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
To fully obey Yahweh is spoken of as if a person were on the correct road and never turned from it. Alternate translation: “did not do anything that would displease Yahweh” or “fully obeyed the laws of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 34:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the eighth year … the twelfth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“year 8 … year 12.” See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:2.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he began to cleanse Judah and Jerusalem from … the cast metal figures (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of Josiah getting rid of the things that were used for worshiping false gods from Judah and Jerusalem as if he were making the places physically clean. Josiah would have commanded his workers to remove these things. Alternate translation: “he began to make Judah and Jerusalem acceptable again to Yahweh by having his workers remove from them the high places, the Asherah poles, the craved figures, and the cast metal figures” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 34:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in his presence (0)Alternate translation: “in Josiah’s presence”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he cut apart … He broke … He scattered (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Josiah probably commanded his workers to do much or all of this work. Alternate translation: “he had them cut apart … He commanded them to break … He had them scatter” or “he and his workers cut apart … He and his workers broke … He and his workers scattered” (See also: Synecdoche)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: dust (0)very small pieces that could be carried away by the wind
2 Chronicles 34:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He burned (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Josiah probably commanded his workers to do much or all of this work. Alternate translation: “He commanded them to burn” or “He and his workers burned” (See also: Synecdoche)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He burned the bones of their priests on their altars (0)This means that the bones of the priests who offered sacrifices on the altars to the false gods were burned on the altars that the priests had previously made sacrifices on.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he cleansed Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of Josiah causing Judah and Jerusalem to be acceptable to Yahweh as if he made them physically clean. Alternate translation: “he caused Judah and Jerusalem to be acceptable again to Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 34:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He broke down the altars, beat … cut apart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Josiah would have commanded his workers to do these things. Alternate translation: “He commanded his workers to break down the altars, to beat … to cut apart”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into powder (0)“into dust.” This means to smash them until they have become powder.
2 Chronicles 34:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the eighteenth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“year 18”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Josiah had cleansed the land and the temple (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of Josiah causing Judah and Jerusalem to be acceptable to Yahweh as if he made them physically clean. Alternate translation: “Josiah had caused the land and the temple to become acceptable again to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shaphan … Azaliah … Maaseiah … Joah … Joahaz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 34:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hilkiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: entrusted to him (0)Alternate translation: “gave to him the responsibility of using the money”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that had been brought into the house of God, that the Levites, the guards of the doors, had gathered (0)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 the Levites who guarded the doors had brought into the house of God all that they had gathered”
2 Chronicles 34:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They entrusted (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “they” refers to the men that Josiah had sent to Hilkiah the high priest. They first gave the money to him and then he distributed it to the men who supervised the building. Alternate translation: “Then Hilkiah entrusted”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the money (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This refers to some on the money that was entrusted to Hilkiah. Alternate translation: “some of the money”
2 Chronicles 34:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: carpenters (0)workers who build with wood
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: braces (0)pieces used to connect large beams
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: had let fall apart (0)Alternate translation: “had allowed to rot”
2 Chronicles 34:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jahath … Meshullam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Merari (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate this man’s name as you did in 2 Chronicles 29:12.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kohathites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate the name of the clan as you did in 2 Chronicles 20:19.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Obadiah … Zechariah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Translate these men’s names the same as you did for other men by the same names in 2 Chronicles 17:7.
2 Chronicles 34:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: These Levites were in charge of those who carried building material and all other men who worked in any way (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that they were in charge of all the men who did any type of building work. Alternate translation: “These Levites were in charge of all of the men who did any kind of building work”
2 Chronicles 34:14
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesGeneral Information:
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When they brought out the money that was brought into (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
The word “they” refers to Hilkiah and whoever was helping him. 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 they brought out the money for the supervisors from”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that had been given through Moses (0)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 Yahweh had given to the people through Moses”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the law (0)Most likely these laws were written on a scroll. A scroll was a type of book made of one long, rolled-up sheet of papyrus or leather.
2 Chronicles 34:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shaphan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
2 Chronicles 34:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: everything that has been entrusted to them (0)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: “everything that you entrusted to them to do” or “everything that you gave them the responsibility to do”
2 Chronicles 34:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They have emptied out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “They have gathered all”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into the hand of the supervisors and to the workmen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The supervisors and workmen are represented by their “hand” to emphasize their possession. Alternate translation: “to the supervisors and the workmen”
2 Chronicles 34:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It came about that when (0)This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he tore his clothes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This is a symbolic action that indicates intense grief or sadness. Alternate translation: “he tore his clothes because he was very upset”
2 Chronicles 34:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahikam son of Shaphan, Abdon son of Micah, Shaphan … Asaiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 34:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ask Yahweh’s will for me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word “will” can be translated as a verb. Also, it is made clear in 2 Chronicles 34:22 that the king means for the men to go to the prophetess of Yahweh to determine Yahweh’s will. Alternate translation: “Ask Yahweh what he wants me to do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because of the words (0)Alternate translation: “concerning the words”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the words of the book that has been found (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “words” represents the laws. 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: “the laws in the book that Hilkiah has found” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For it is great, the anger of Yahweh that has been poured out on us. It is great (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Emotions such as anger are often spoken of in Scripture as if they were liquids. Alternate translation: “For Yahweh’s anger towards us is great, like water that could totally wash us away” or “For great is Yahweh’s anger with which he has punished us”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all that was written in it (0)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: “all that is written in it” or “all that is in this book”
2 Chronicles 34:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Huldah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shallum … Tokhath … Hasrah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: keeper of the wardrobe (0)This refers to Shallum. This could mean: (1) the person who took care of the clothing that priests wore in the temple or (2) the person who took care of the king’s clothing.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Second District (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
This was a cerain part of Jerusalem. It may have been a newer part. Alternate translation: “The Second Part”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they spoke with her in this way (0)Alternate translation: “they had the following conversation with her”
2 Chronicles 34:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the man who sent you to me (0)Here “the man” refers to King Josiah.
2 Chronicles 34:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word is used here as an idiom to draw the listener’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I am about to bring disaster on this place and on its inhabitants (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh causing terrible things to happen is spoken of as if disaster were an object that he could bring to a place. Alternate translation: “I will soon cause terrible things to happen to this place and to those who live there”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on this place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“to Jerusalem” This refers to the city of Jerusalem which represents the whole land of Judah. Alternate translation: “on Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the curses that have been written (0)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: “all the curses written” or “all the curses”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on this place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “this place” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “on these people”
2 Chronicles 34:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they have provoked me to anger (0)Alternate translation: “they have made me angry”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: therefore, my anger will be poured out on this place, and it will not be extinguished (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Emotions such as anger are often spoken of in Scripture as if they were liquids. Alternate translation: “therefore, my anger against this place is like a fire, and nothing will stop it”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my anger will be poured out (0)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: “I will pour out my anger”
2 Chronicles 34:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: About the words that you heard (0)Alternate translation: “About the message that you heard”
2 Chronicles 34:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because your heart was tender (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” represents a person’s inner being. Feeling sorry is spoken of as if the heart were tender. Alternate translation: “because you felt sorry” or “because you repented” (See also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: torn your clothes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This is a symbolic action that indicates intense grief or sadness.
2 Chronicles 34:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see, I will gather you to your ancestors. You will be gathered to your grave in peace (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
Both statements mean basically the same thing. They are polite ways of saying he will die. Alternate translation: “so I will allow you to die and be buried peacefully” (See also: Euphemism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You will be gathered to your grave (0)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: “I will gather you to your grave”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your eyes will not see (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “eyes” represents the whole person. Also, the phrase “will not see” represents not experiencing something. Alternate translation: “you will not experience” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the disaster I will bring on this place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh causing terrible things to happen is spoken of as if disaster were an object that Yahweh would bring to a place. Alternate translation: “the terrible things I will cause to happen to this place”
2 Chronicles 34:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “many other people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from great to small (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This merism includes everyone in between. Alternate translation: “from the most important to the least important”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He then read in their hearing (0)Alternate translation: “Then the king read aloud so that they could hear”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that had been found (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “that Hilkiah had found” or “that they had found”
2 Chronicles 34:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stood in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the place where the king stood at the temple. Alternate translation: “stood where he was supposed to stand at the entrance to the temple”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: walk after Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The way a person lives is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path, and “to walk after” someone is a metonym for doing what that other person does or wants others to do. Alternate translation: “live obeying Yahweh” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his commandments, his regulations, and his statutes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These words all share similar meanings. Together they emphasize everything that Yahweh had commanded in the law.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with all his heart and all his soul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “with all his heart” means “completely” and “with all his soul” means “with all his being.” These two phrases have similar meanings. Alternate translation: “with all his being” or “with all his energy” (See also: Doublet)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that were written in this book (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “that this book contained”
2 Chronicles 34:32
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all who were found in Jerusalem and Benjamin (0)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: “all who lived in Jerusalem and Benjamin”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stand by the covenant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “accept the terms of the covenant” or “promise to obey the covenant”
2 Chronicles 34:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Josiah took away all (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Josiah would have commanded his workers to do this. Alternate translation: “Josiah commanded his workers to take away all”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the disgusting things (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
These are the idols that were repulsive to God. Alternate translation: “the disgusting idols”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For all of his days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Josiah’s life is represented by his “days.” Alternate translation: “For all of his life” or “As long as Josiah was alive”
2 Chronicles 35
2 Chronicles 35 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This is the end of the story of King Josiah.
Special concepts in this chapter
Passover
Josiah organized a large Passover celebration and people shared their animals with those without animals to sacrifice. The celebration of Passover was a sign of proper worship by the people. (See: Passover and sign, proof, reminder)
2 Chronicles 35:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Josiah kept a Passover to Yahweh (0)Josiah commanded the people to celebrate the Passover that Yahweh had commanded their ancestors to celebrate.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in Jerusalem (0)Yahweh had commanded Moses that all the people of Israel were to go to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the fourteenth day of the first month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The fourteenth day is near the beginning of April on Western calendars. (See also: Ordinal Numbers)
2 Chronicles 35:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He placed the priests in their positions (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Placing the priests in a position is a metaphor for telling the priests which jobs they are to do. The reader should probably understand that Josiah commanded his officials to give instructions to the priests. Alternate translation: “He had people tell the priests which jobs to do” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the service of (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word service, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as they served in” or “to serve well in”
2 Chronicles 35:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that Solomon son of David, king of Israel built (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “that Solomon, king of Israel, commanded the people to build”
2 Chronicles 35:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by the name of your ancestral houses and your divisions (0)The word “name” is a collective noun, referring to each name of each ancestral house and each division. Your language may need to say “according to the names of your ancestral houses and your divisions.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your ancestral houses (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “the families that are descendants of your ancestors”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: divisions (0)groups into which the people had divided the priests and Levites
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the written instructions of David … and those of Solomon, his son (0)Alternate translation: “the instructions that David … and Solomon, his son, wrote”
2 Chronicles 35:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Stand in the holy place, taking your position (0)Alternate translation: “Take your positions in the temple area”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your divisions (0)This refers to the work group to which the people had assigned each Levite. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:4.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the ancestral houses (0)This refers to the various clans among the Levites. It seems that Levites were assigned to different work groups on the basis of the kind of work assigned to each clan or ancestral house. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:4.
2 Chronicles 35:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: consecrate yourselves (0)This probably refers to the priests and Levites washing themselves before they did work in the temple.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to do according to the word of Yahweh that was given by the hand of Moses (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the word “hand” refers to Moses himself. Yahweh used Moses as the agent to deliver his command. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “to obey all of the commands that Yahweh gave to the people through Moses” or “to do everything that Yahweh commanded Moses to tell the people” (See also: Active or Passive)
2 Chronicles 35:7
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersGeneral Information:
(See also: How to Translate Names)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thirty thousand lambs (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“30,000 lambs”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kids (0)baby goats
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand bulls (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“3,000 bulls”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: these were from the king’s possessions (0)Alternate translation: “all these lambs, kids, and bulls that he gave were ones that he himself owned”
2 Chronicles 35:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 2,600 small cattle (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“two thousand six hundred small cattle”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three hundred oxen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“300 oxen”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hilkiah … Zechariah … Jehiel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are all the names of men.
2 Chronicles 35:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Konaniah … Shemaiah … Nethanel … Hashabiah … Jeiel … Jozabad (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are all the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: five thousand small cattle (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“5,000 small cattle”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: five hundred oxen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“500 oxen”
2 Chronicles 35:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the service was prepared (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “they prepared everything they needed so they could perform the Passover”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their divisions (0)the groups into which the people had divided the priests and Levites. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:4.
2 Chronicles 35:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the blood that they received from the Levites’ hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the word “hand” refers to the Levites. Alternate translation: “the blood that the Levites gave them”
2 Chronicles 35:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ancestral houses of the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “the families that were the descendants of their ancestors”
2 Chronicles 35:13
General Information:
All instances of “they” and “themselves” refer to the Levites (2 Chronicles 35:10).
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They roasted the Passover lambs with fire (0)Alternate translation: “They cooked the Passover lambs over fires”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they boiled them in pots, cauldrons, and pans (0)Alternate translation: “they cooked them in water in containers of different sizes”
2 Chronicles 35:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They … prepared offerings for themselves and for the priests (0)Alternate translation: “They … prepared the offerings that they would eat and the offerings that the priests would eat”
2 Chronicles 35:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as directed by David, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun the king’s seer (0)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 David, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun the king’s seer had directed them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Heman … Jeduthun (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 35:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the entire service of Yahweh was carried out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This refers to everything associated with the preparation, the sacrifice, and the worship of Yahweh during the Passover. The word “service” can be expressed as a verb and 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: “they did everything that needed to be done to serve Yahweh” (See also: Active or Passive)
2 Chronicles 35:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kept the Passover (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “observed the Passover” or “celebrated the Passover”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: then the Festival of Unleavened Bread (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
This refers to celebrating the festival. Alternate translation: “then kept the Festival of Unleavened Bread” or “then celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread”
2 Chronicles 35:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Such a Passover celebration had never been held in Israel (0)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: “There had never been such a Passover celebration in Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: held in Israel (0)This refers specifically to the nation of Israel as a whole, as it was before the northern kingdom and southern king split.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from the days (0)Alternate translation: “from the time”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the other kings of Israel (0)Here “Israel” refers specifically to the northern kingdom of Israel.
2 Chronicles 35:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This Passover was kept (0)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: “They observed this Passover”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was kept (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “was observed” or “was celebrated”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the eighteenth year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“year 18”
2 Chronicles 35:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: set the temple in order (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This means that he restored the worship in the temple as God had intended it to be. Alternate translation: “restored proper worship to the temple”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Necho, king of Egypt, went up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of the king of Egypt. Here the king represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “Necho, king of Egypt, went up with his army” (See also: Synecdoche)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: against Carchemish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city. Here the city represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “against the people of Carchemish” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Josiah went to fight against him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here both Josiah and Necho represent themselves accompained by their armies. Alternate translation: “Josiah and his army went to fight against Necho and his army”
2 Chronicles 35:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What have I to do with you, king of Judah? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Necho uses this rhetorical question to tell Josiah that he is not in conflict with him and that Josiah should not attack him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have no reason to attack me, king of Judah.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I am not coming against you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the king Josiah represents his kingdom. Alternate translation: “I am not fighting your kingdom”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: against the house with which (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” refers to the house of Babylon, where “house” is a metonym for the kingdom. The kingdom is a synechdoche representing the Babylonian army. Alternate translation: “against the house of Babylon, with whom” (See also: Synecdoche)
2 Chronicles 35:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He disguised himself (0)Josiah disguised himself so that the other armies would not recognize him.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fight with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word “him” refers to Necho who represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “fight with the army of Egypt”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that had come from the mouth of God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here God is represented by his “mouth” to emphasize his speech. Alternate translation: “that had come from God” or “that God had said to him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so he went (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word “he” refers to Josiah who represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “so he and his army went”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Valley of Megiddo (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
2 Chronicles 35:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All Judah and Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Judah” and “Jerusalem” represent the people who live there. Alternate translation: “All the people of Judah and Jerusalem”
2 Chronicles 35:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to this day (0)This means the day on which the writer wrote. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold, they (0)This could mean: (1) “this is where they are: they” or (2) “they still exist: they.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the songs of lament (0)This was an ancient scroll of funeral songs.
2 Chronicles 35:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his good deeds done (0)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: “the good deeds that he did”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what is written (0)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: “the words”
2 Chronicles 35:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: and his deeds … are written in the book (0)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 men have written of all his deeds … in the book”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his deeds, from beginning to end, (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This refers to all of the significant things that he did from the beginning of his reign as king to the end of his life. Alternate translation: “all of his deeds” or “everything he did from the beginning of his reign to when he died”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the book of the kings of Judah and Israel (0)This is a book that no longer exists.
2 Chronicles 36
2 Chronicles 36 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This is the end of the story of Judah as an independent country.
Special concepts in this chapter
Punishment
God warned the people through the prophets, that he would punish them if they did not worship Yahweh. The people refused to listen to the prophets or to stop their evil deeds. God finally punished them by letting the Babylonians conquer them. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and evil, wicked, unpleasant and INVALID bible/kt/works)
2 Chronicles 36:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jehoahaz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man’s name.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in his father’s place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The phrase “in his … place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “instead of his father”
2 Chronicles 36:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twenty-three years old … three months (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“23 years old … 3 months”
2 Chronicles 36:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The king of Egypt removed him at Jerusalem (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “removed him at Jerusalem” means that he caused him no longer to be king in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “The king of Egypt removed him from being king in Jerusalem”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fined the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “land” represents the people who lived there. Alternate translation: “fined the people of the land”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one hundred talents of silver and one talent of gold (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
You may convert this to a modern measure. A talent was about 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “thirty-three hundred kilograms of silver and thirty-three kilograms of gold” or “about 3,300 kilograms of silver and 33 kilograms of gold” (See also: Numbers)
2 Chronicles 36:4
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Quote: Eliakim … Jehoahaz (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
2 Chronicles 36:5
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Quote: twenty-five years old … eleven years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“25 years old … 11 years”
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Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh his God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “sight” represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Jehoiakim’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh considered to be evil”
2 Chronicles 36:6
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Quote: attacked him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “him” refers to Jehoiakim. Jehoiakim represents either Jerusalem or the nation of Judah. Alternate translation: “attacked Jerusalem” or “attacked Judah”
2 Chronicles 36:7
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Quote: Nebuchadnezzar also carried (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Nebuchadnezzar was king, he may have had his soldiers do this. Alternate translation: “Nebuchadnezzar also had his soldiers carry”
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Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 36:8
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Quote: the disgusting things that he did (0)This usually refers to worshiping false gods, which Yahweh hated.
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Quote: what was found against him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom refers to things that he did for which people could accuse him of wrong. 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: “what people found against him” or “things that he did for which people could accuse him” (See also: Active or Passive)
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Quote: behold, they are written (0)Alternate translation: “anyone can look in the book … Israel and see they are written there”
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Quote: they are written in the book (0)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 has written them in the book” or “you can read of them in the book”
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Quote: the book of the kings of Judah and Israel (0)This is a book that no longer exists. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:27.
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Quote: became king in his place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Jehoiakim”
2 Chronicles 36:9
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Quote: eight years old … three months and ten days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“8 years old … 3 months and 10 days”
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Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “sight” here represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Jehoiachin’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh considered to be evil”
2 Chronicles 36:10
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Quote: brought him to Babylon (0)Alternate translation: “brought Jehoiachin to Babylon”
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Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh”
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Quote: his relative (0)Alternate translation: “Jehoiachin’s relative”
2 Chronicles 36:11
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Quote: twenty-one years old … eleven years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“21 years old … 11 years”
2 Chronicles 36:12
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Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh his God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “sight” represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Zedekiah’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh his God judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh his God considered to be evil”
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Quote: who spoke from the mouth of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “mouth” represents the words that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “who spoke the words that Yahweh spoke to him”
2 Chronicles 36:13
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Quote: Zedekiah stiffened his neck and hardened his heart against turning to Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The phrases “stiffened his neck” and “hardened his heart” are both metaphors that mean to become stubborn. Zedekiah refusing to worship Yahweh is spoken of as if he refused to turn to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Zedekiah stubbornly refused to worship Yahweh” (See also: Metaphor)
2 Chronicles 36:14
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Quote: they followed the disgusting practices of the nations (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “followed the … practices” means to do those things. Alternate translation: “they did the disgusting things that the nations did”
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Quote: disgusting practices (0)This phrase refers to worshiping other gods.
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Quote: They polluted the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A place that is unfit to be used for God’s purposes is spoken of as if it were physically dirty. The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “They polluted the temple of Yahweh” (See also: Metonymy)
2 Chronicles 36:15
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Quote: again and again (0)Alternate translation: “many times”
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Quote: the place where he lives (0)This refers to the temple.
2 Chronicles 36:16
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Quote: the wrath of Yahweh arose against his people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the word “arose” refers to beginning an action. Yahweh punishing his people in his anger is spoken of as if his wrath were a person who acted against them. Alternate translation: “in his wrath, Yahweh began to punish his people”
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Quote: there was no help for it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that nobody could do anything to prevent what happened. Alternate translation: “there was no way to avoid it”
2 Chronicles 36:17
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Quote: God brought on them the king of the Chaldeans, who (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom “brought on them” means to cause to attack with his army. Alternate translation: “God caused the king of the Chaldeans to attack them, and he”
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Quote: who killed their young men with the sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The king probably did not personally kill their young men. Rather, his army killed them. Alternate translation: “whose army killed their young men with swords”
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Quote: God gave them all into his hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” is a metonym for the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: “God allowed the Chaldean army to defeat them”
2 Chronicles 36:18
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Quote: the house of God … the house of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of God … the temple of Yahweh”
2 Chronicles 36:19
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Quote: They burned down (0)“They” refers to the Babylonian soldiers.
2 Chronicles 36:20
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Quote: The king carried away to Babylon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “the king” refers to his soldiers whom he ordered to do the work. The phrase “carried away” is an idiom that means to forcefully bring them to Babylon. Alternate translation: “The king had his army forcefully take to Babylon” (See also: Idiom)
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Quote: until the rule of the kingdom of Persia (0)Alternate translation: “until the kingdom of Persia came to power”
2 Chronicles 36:21
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Quote: the word of Yahweh by the mouth of Jeremiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the noun “word” can be translated with the verb “spoke.” The word “mouth” represents Jeremiah. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh spoke through Jeremiah” or “the word from Yahweh that Jeremiah spoke”
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Quote: until the land should have enjoyed its Sabbath rests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The people were supposed to obey the Sabbath law by not farming the land every seventh year. This phrase speaks about this as if the land were a person that would obey the Sabbath law and rest. Alternate translation: “until the land had rested according to the Sabbath law” or “until, as required by the Sabbath law, no one had farmed the land”
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Quote: It observed its Sabbath for as long as it lay abandoned (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The word “it” refers to the land. The land is spoken of as if it were a person who observed the Sabbath. Alternate translation: “The requirements of the Sabbath law were fulfilled as long as the land lay abandoned”
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Quote: in order to pass seventy years in this way (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“so that 70 years passed while the land lay abandoned”
2 Chronicles 36:22
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Quote: in the first year (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
This refers to the beginning of the reign of King Cyrus.
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Quote: so that the word of Yahweh by the mouth of Jeremiah might be carried out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the noun “word” can be translated with the verb “spoke.” The word “mouth” represents Jeremiah. 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: “so that what Yahweh spoke through Jeremiah might happen” or “so that the word from Yahweh that Jeremiah spoke might happen” (See also: Active or Passive)
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Quote: Yahweh motivated the spirit of Cyrus, king of Persia (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Motivating the spirit is a synecdoche for making someone want to act. Alternate translation: “Yahweh made Cyrus, king of Persia, want to act”
2 Chronicles 36:23
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Quote: all the kingdoms of the earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is an exaggeration, as there were kingdoms over which Cyrus did not rule.
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Quote: to build a house for him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the word “house” represents a temple. Alternate translation: “to build a temple for him”
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Quote: his people (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s people”
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Quote: Let him go up to the land (0)Alternate translation: “Let that person go up to the land of Judah”