Romans

Romans front

Introduction to Romans

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the book of Romans

1. Introduction (1:1–15)
2. Main Theme: Righteousness is received by trusting in Jesus Christ (1:16–17)
3. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)
4. Righteousness is received through Jesus Christ by trusting in him (3:21–5:21)
5. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)
6. God’s plan for Israel (9:1–11:36)
7. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
8. Conclusion (15:14–16:27)

Who wrote the book of Romans?

The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans and many other books in the New Testament. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was part of a strict Jewish religious group called the Pharisees. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire, telling people about Jesus.

Paul probably wrote this letter while he was staying in the city of Corinth during his third trip through the Roman Empire.

What is the book of Romans about?

Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Rome. Paul wanted to get them ready to receive him when he visited them. He said his purpose was to “bring about the obedience of faith” (16:26).

In this letter Paul most fully described the gospel of Jesus Christ. He explained that both Jews and non-Jews have sinned, and God will forgive them and declare them righteous only if they believe in Jesus (chapters 1–11). Then he gave them practical advice for how believers should live (chapters 12–16),

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Romans.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Rome,” or “A Letter to the Christians in Rome.” (See: How to Translate Names)

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What are the titles used to refer to Jesus?

In Romans, Paul described Jesus Christ by many titles and descriptions: Jesus Christ (1:1), the Seed of David (1:3), the Son of God (1:4), the Lord Jesus Christ (1:7), Christ Jesus (3:24), Propitiation (3:25), Jesus (3:26), Jesus our Lord (4:24), Lord of Hosts (9:29), a Stone of Stumbling and Rock of Offense (9:33), the End of the Law (10:4), the Deliverer (11:26), Lord of the Dead and the Living (14:9), and the Root of Jesse (15:12).

How should theological terms in Romans be translated?

Paul uses many theological terms that are not used in the four Gospels. As early Christians learned more about the meaning of Jesus Christ and his message, they needed words and expressions for new ideas. Some examples of these words are “justification” (5:1), “works of the law” (3:20), “reconcile” (5:10), “propitiation” (3:25), “sanctification” (6:19), and “the old man” (6:6). If your language doesn’t have similar words, you can develop short phrases to communicate these ideas. For example, the term “gospel” can be translated as “the good news about Jesus Christ.”

Translators should also remember that some of these terms have more than one meaning. The meaning will depend on how the author is using the word in that particular passage. For example, “righteousness” sometimes means that a person obeys God’s law. At other times, “righteousness” means that Jesus Christ has perfectly obeyed God’s law for us.

What did Paul mean by “a remnant” of Israel (11:5)?

The idea of a “remnant” is important both in the Old Testament and for Paul. Most of the Israelites were either killed or scattered among other people when the Assyrians and then the Babylonians conquered their land. Only a relatively few Jews survived. They were known as “the remnant.”

In 11:1–9, Paul speaks of another remnant. This remnant is the Jews whom God saved because they believed in Jesus. (See: remnant)

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What did Paul mean by being “in Christ”?

The phrase “in Christ” and similar phrases occur in 3:24; 6:11, 23; 8:1, 2, 39; 9:1; 12:5, 17; 15:17; and 16:3, 7, 9, 10. Paul used these kinds of phrases as a metaphor to express that Christian believers belong to Jesus Christ. Belonging to Christ means the believer is saved and is made a friend with God. The believer is also promised to live with God forever. However, this idea can be difficult to represent in many languages.

These phrases also have specific meanings that depend on how Paul used them in a particular passage. For example, in 3:24 (“the redemption that is in Christ Jesus”), Paul referred to our being redeemed “because” of Jesus Christ. In 8:9 (“you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit”), Paul spoke of believers submitting “to” the Holy Spirit. In 9:1 (“I tell the truth in Christ”), Paul meant that he is telling the truth that “is in agreement with” Jesus Christ.

Nevertheless, the basic idea of our being united with Jesus Christ (and with the Holy Spirit) is seen in these passages as well. Therefore, the translator has a choice in many passages that use “in.” He will often decide to represent the more immediate sense of “in,” such as, “by means of,” “in the manner of,” or “in regard to.” But, if possible, the translator should choose a word or phrase that represents the immediate sense and the sense of “in union with.” (See: in Christ, in Jesus, in the Lord, in him)

How are the ideas of “holy,” “saints” or “holy ones,” and “sanctify” represented in Romans in the ULT?

The Scriptures use such words to indicate any one of some various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, the ULT uses the following principles:

• Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God considers Christians to be sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact is that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless and faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones” or “holy people.” (See: 1:7)
• Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In cases where some other English versions have “saints” or “holy ones,” the ULT uses “believers.” (See: 8:27; 12:13; 15:25, 26, 31; 16:2, 15)
• Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates the idea of someone or something set apart for God alone. In these cases, the ULT uses “set apart,” “dedicated to,” “consecrated,” or “reserved for.” (See: 15:16)

The UST will often be helpful as translators think about how to represent these ideas in their own versions.

What are the major issues in the text of the book of Romans?

For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT includes the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote.

• “he \[God\] works all things together for good” (8:28). Some older versions read, “All things work together for good.”
• “But if it is by grace, it is no longer by works. Otherwise grace would no longer be grace” (11:6). Some older versions read: “But if it is by works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.”

The following verse is not in the best ancient copies of the Bible. Translators are advised not to include this verse. However, if in the translators’ region there are older Bible versions that have this verse, the translators can include it. If it is translated, it should be put inside square brackets (\[\]) to indicate that it is probably not original to the book of Romans.

• “May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen” (16:24).

(See: Textual Variants)

Romans 1

Romans 1 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Introduction (1:1–15)
   • Greeting (1:1–7)
   • Paul plans to visit Rome (1:8–15)
2. Main Theme: Righteousness is received by having faith in Jesus Christ (1:16–17)
3. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)
   • All non-Jews have sinned (1:18–32)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

The gospel

This chapter refers to the contents of the book of Romans as “the gospel” (1:2). Romans is not a Gospel as are Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John, which are historical accounts of the life of Jesus. Instead, chapters 1–8 present the biblical gospel, which is the good news of salvation. The gospel contains the following true ideas: everyone has sinned, Jesus died for our sins, and Jesus came back to life again so that we might live for his glory and receive eternal life when we die.

Universal Condemnation and the Wrath of God

In this chapter Paul explains that no one has an excuse for sinning. We all know about the true God, Yahweh, from his creation all around us. Because of our sin and our sinful nature, every person justly deserves the eternal punishment of God. The requirement for this punishment was satisfied by Jesus dying on a cross for those who believe in him. (See: believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

“God gave them over”

Many scholars view the phrases “God gave them over” and “God gave them up” as theologically significant. For this reason, it is important to translate these phrases with God playing a passive role in the action. God allows men to pursue their own sinful desires; he does not force them to act sinfully. (See: Active or Passive)

Romans 1:1

Paul

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

In the culture of this time, letter writers would give their own names first. Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul”

a servant of Christ Jesus, a called apostle

Quote: δοῦλος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ, κλητὸς ἀπόστολος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

These two phrases give further information about Paul. He describes himself as being someone whom God has given the position and authority of being Christ’s servant and apostle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a person whom God has made a servant of Christ Jesus, and whom he has called to represent him”

a called apostle, set apart

Quote: κλητὸς ἀπόστολος, ἀφωρισμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom Jesus called to be an apostle and set apart”

for the gospel of God

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

Here, for introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Jesusset him apart. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order to preach the gospel of God” or “so that I could announce the good news from God”

the gospel of God

Quote: εὐαγγέλιον Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the gospel that comes from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the gospel from God”

Romans 1:2

which

Quote: ὃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, which indicates that what follows is further information about “the gospel of God” mentioned in the previous verse. Paul is emphasizing that “the gospel of God” originated from the holy Scriptures, which also come from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “that is, the gospel”

Romans 1:3

concerning his Son

Quote: περὶ τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives us further information about “the gospel of God.” Paul means that the message of God’s promised good news is about God’s Son, “Christ Jesus”, as mentioned in 1:1. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “that is, the gospel about his Son”

his Son

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title that describes the relationship between God and Jesus.

the one having been born from a seed of David

Quote: τοῦ γενομένου ἐκ σπέρματος Δαυεὶδ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, from a seed of David is an idiom that refers to a descendant of David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “who was born a descendant of David”

according to the flesh

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

Here, according to the flesh is an idiom meaning “with reference to physical descent.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “according to natural descent”

Romans 1:4

the one having been designated the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection of dead ones

Quote: τοῦ ὁρισθέντος Υἱοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν δυνάμει κατὰ Πνεῦμα ἁγιωσύνης ἐξ ἀναστάσεως νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

In this verse, Paul places these phrases in the order he wants to emphasize. If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases, as in the UST.

the one having been designated the Son of God

Quote: τοῦ ὁρισθέντος Υἱοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that God did it. Alternate translation: “whom God designated as the Son of God”

the Son of God

Quote: Υἱοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title that describes the relationship between God and Jesus.

having been designated the Son of God in power

Quote: ὁρισθέντος Υἱοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν δυνάμει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in power could refer to: (1) the means by which God designated Jesus as the Son of God. Alternate translation: “who was designated the Son of God by means of power” (2) a new level of power God gave to the Son of God. Alternate translation: “who was designated as the powerful Son of God”

the Spirit of holiness

Quote: Πνεῦμα ἁγιωσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe God’s Spirit that is characterized by holiness. This refers to the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression, as in the UST.

by the resurrection of dead ones

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of resurrection, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “by being resurrected from the dead ones”

of dead ones

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

Here, the phrase translated of dead ones refers to dead people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from among dead people”

of dead ones

Quote: νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the place from where Jesus was resurrected. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “from death” or “from among the dead ones”

our

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

Here, our refers to all Christians, so it is inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

Romans 1:5

through whom

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

Here, whom refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through Jesus”

through whom we received grace and apostleship

Quote: δι’ οὗ ἐλάβομεν χάριν καὶ ἀποστολὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and apostleship, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “he who acted kindly toward us and made us his apostles”

we received

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

Here, we is exclusive, and your language may require you to mark this form. It could refer to: (1) Paul and other apostles, as in the UST. (2) Paul speaking about himself in a plural form. Alternate translation: “I received”

for

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

Here, for introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Jesus made Paul and other people his apostles. Use a natural way in your language to introduce a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of”

for obedience of faith among all the Gentiles

Quote: εἰς ὑπακοὴν πίστεως ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of obedience and faith, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “for people to faithfully obey Jesus among all the Gentiles”

for obedience of faith

Quote: εἰς ὑπακοὴν πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, obedience of faith could refer to: (1) obedience that is characterized by trust in God. Alternate translation: “for obedience by trusting in God” or “obedience that comes from trusting in God” (2) obedience that results from trusting in God. Alternate translation: “faith that results in obedience”

among all the Gentiles

Quote: ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Gentiles could refer to: (1) the nations. Use this interpretation if you interpreted we to refer to all the apostles and retained it in your translation. Alternate translation: “among all people groups” (2) non-Jewish people groups. Use this interpretation if you interpreted we to refer only to Paul and translated it as “I”. Alternate translation: “among all non-Jewish people”

we received grace and apostleship for obedience of faith among all the Gentiles, for the sake of his name

Quote: ἐλάβομεν χάριν καὶ ἀποστολὴν εἰς ὑπακοὴν πίστεως ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν ὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “we received grace and apostleship for the sake of his name, for obedience of the faith among all the Gentiles”

for the sake of his name

Quote: ὑπὲρ τοῦ ὀνόματος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name could refer to: (1) Jesus himself. Alternate translation: “for the sake of Jesus” (2) Jesus’ reputation. Alternate translation: “for the sake of Jesus’ fame”

Romans 1:6

among whom

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

Here, whom refers to “the Gentiles” who were mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. See how you translated “the Gentiles” in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “among the nations” or “among the Gentiles”

you

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

In this letter, with four exceptions, the words you and “your” are plural and refer to the recipients of this letter, who are the believers in Rome (See 1:7). If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you believers in Christ at Rome”

called ones of Jesus Christ

Quote: κλητοὶ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe called ones who were called by Jesus Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “ones called by Jesus Christ”

Romans 1:7

To all the ones being in Rome

Quote: πᾶσιν τοῖς οὖσιν ἐν Ῥώμῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would then say to whom they were writing, and they would name those people in the third person. If that would be confusing in your language, you could use the second person. Alternate translation: “To all of you who are in Rome”

beloved of God

Quote: ἀγαπητοῖς Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective beloved as a noun in order to describe the church at Rome. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are loved of God”

beloved of God

Quote: ἀγαπητοῖς Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the beloved who are loved by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “loved by God”

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

In this culture, letter writers would offer a good wish for the recipient before introducing the main business of the letter. Use a form in your language that makes it clear that this is a greeting and blessing. Alternate translation: “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace”

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and peace, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ show his gracious acts to you and make you feel peaceful”

God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

The word Father here is an important title that describes the relationship between God and Jesus and the relationship between God and believers. Alternate translation: “our Father God and the Lord Jesus, the Christ”

our Father

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

When Paul writes our here, he is speaking of himself and his readers, so our would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “who is the Father of us Christians”

Romans 1:8

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ concerning all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed in the whole world

Quote: πρῶτον μὲν εὐχαριστῶ τῷ Θεῷ μου διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ περὶ πάντων ὑμῶν, ὅτι ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν καταγγέλλεται ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ κόσμῳ. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses, since the second clause gives the reason for the result that the first clause describes. Alternate translation: “Because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world, I first want to thank my God through Jesus Christ”

First

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

First here indicates that Paul has finished his introduction to the letter, and what follows is the beginning of the content of the letter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The first thing I want to say is”

my God

Quote: τῷ Θεῷ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form my God to express that he belongs to God. Paul does not mean that he owns God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the God I belong to” or “the God that owns me”

your faith

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the way you trust in Christ”

your faith is being proclaimed

Quote: ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν καταγγέλλεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context indicates that other believers are proclaiming how great the faith of the Roman believers is. Alternate translation: “other people are proclaiming your faith”

in the whole world

Quote: ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, the whole world is an exaggeration that refers to all the parts of the world that were familiar to Paul and his readers, particularly the Roman Empire. Paul is not referring to every place on the planet. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “across the known world” or “wherever the Roman Empire is”

Romans 1:9

For

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

For indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul could say in the previous verse that he thanks God for the Roman believers. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “You can be sure this is true because”

God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son, how I continually make mention of you

Quote: μάρτυς & μού ἐστιν ὁ Θεός, ᾧ λατρεύω ἐν τῷ πνεύματί μου ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ, ὡς ἀδιαλείπτως μνείαν ὑμῶν ποιοῦμαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses and make a new sentence, if you need to do so. Alternate translation: “God is my witness how I continually make mention of you. I serve him in my spirit in the gospel of his Son”

my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son

Quote: μάρτυς & μού & ᾧ λατρεύω ἐν τῷ πνεύματί μου ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “my witness, and I serve him in my spirit in the gospel of his Son”

my witness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of witness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the one who testifies about me”

in my spirit

Quote: ἐν τῷ πνεύματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, spirit refers to the inner person, which is what a person thinks and feels. Paul means that he serves God with complete devotion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternative translation: “with my whole heart” or “wholeheartedly”

in the gospel

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

Here, in indicates the means by which Paul served God and gospel refers specifically to proclaiming the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by proclaiming the gospel”

in the gospel of his Son

Quote: ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the gospel that is about God’s Son. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in the gospel about his Son”

of … Son

Quote: Υἱοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

continually

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

Here, continually is an exaggeration that emphasizes how frequently Paul prayed for the church at Rome. Paul does not mean that he spends all of his time praying for them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I regularly” or “I habitually”

I … make mention of you

Quote: μνείαν ὑμῶν ποιοῦμαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, making mention is an idiom for praying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I am … praying for you”

Romans 1:10

always requesting in my prayers

Quote: πάντοτε ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν μου, δεόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

This phrase means the same thing as “I continually make mention of you” in the previous verse. Paul uses them to emphasize how intensely he prays that God will allow him to visit the church at Rome. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase for the similar passage in the previous verse and in this verse provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “in all my prayers, I beg God”

always

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

Here, the word always is an exaggeration that figuratively expresses the frequency of Paul’s prayers to God for the church at Rome. Paul does not mean that he spends all of his time praying for them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “frequently”

by the will of God

Quote: ἐν τῷ θελήματι τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of will, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because God wills for me” or “because God wants me”

Romans 1:11

For

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

For here indicates that this is a reason clause. Paul is indicating why he constantly prays to visit the church at Rome in 1:9–10. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “I am always requesting this because”

to see you

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

Paul uses see to describe not only seeing the Christians in Rome, but also visiting them and spending time with them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to visit you”

so that

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

Here, so that indicates that this is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why he wants to visit the believers at Rome. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

Romans 1:12

and that is

Quote: τοῦτο δέ ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, and that is gives further information about why Paul wants to share “some spiritual gift” with the believers in Rome. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “namely” or “specifically”

to be mutually encouraged with you

Quote: συνπαρακληθῆναι ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to mutually encourage each other”

through each other’s faith, both yours and mine

Quote: διὰ τῆς ἐν ἀλλήλοις πίστεως, ὑμῶν τε καὶ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to refer to the trust in Jesus that both he and his readers shared. Paul means that they should mutually encourage each other because they have a mutual faith in Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “by both you and I sharing with one another how we trust in God” or “through talking about our common Christian faith”

faith

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

See how you translated faith in 1:5

Romans 1:13

Now I do not want you to be uninformed

Quote: οὐ θέλω δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “I definitely want you to be informed”

to be uninformed

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to not know”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brother is masculine, Paul is using the word here to refer to both male and female believers in Christ. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

but I was hindered until now

Quote: καὶ ἐκωλύθην ἄχρι τοῦ δεῦρο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul assumes that his readers will know that until now means “even at the present time.” He does not mean that he was no longer hindered at the moment he wrote these words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but I have been hindered and still am hindered now”

I was hindered

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God hindered me”

so that I might have some fruit among you also

Quote: ἵνα τινὰ καρπὸν σχῶ καὶ ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, fruit could refer to: (1) people believing in the gospel as a result of Paul’s preaching, which would connect this verse to the idea in 1:15. Alternative translation: “so that I might lead people to salvation among you also” (2) strengthening the believers in Rome, in which case this would have the same meaning as “some spiritual, gracious gift” in 1:11. Alternative translation: “so that I might strengthen you also”

Romans 1:14

I am a debtor

Quote: ὀφειλέτης εἰμί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of himself as if he were a debtor who owed money to people who were not Jews, such as Greeks and barbarians. Paul means that he was obligated to preach the gospel to non-Jews because God had commanded him to do so. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternative translation, “I am obliged to preach the gospel”

both to Greeks and to barbarians

Quote: Ἕλλησίν τε καὶ βαρβάροις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Here Paul uses Greeks and barbarians to represent all the Gentiles referred to in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to all types of Gentiles”

both to wise ones and to foolish ones

Quote: σοφοῖς τε καὶ ἀνοήτοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Here Paul uses wise ones and foolish ones to represent all types of people among the Gentiles referred to in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to all types of people among the Gentiles”

both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise ones and to foolish ones

Quote: Ἕλλησίν τε καὶ βαρβάροις, σοφοῖς τε καὶ ἀνοήτοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize that he is obligated to preach the gospel to every kind of Gentile. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “to each and every kind of Gentile” or “to every single non-Jewish person”

Romans 1:15

So

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

So here indicates that this a reason clause. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is the reason why”

Romans 1:16

For

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

For indicates the reason why Paul is eager to proclaim the gospel in Rome. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “I am eager to do this because”

I am not ashamed

Quote: οὐ & ἐπαισχύνομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “I am proud”

I am not ashamed of the gospel, … the power

Quote: οὐ & ἐπαισχύνομαι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, gospel refers specifically to the preaching of the gospel that was mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am not ashamed to preach the gospel”

for it is the power of God for salvation

Quote: δύναμις γὰρ Θεοῦ ἐστιν εἰς σωτηρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the gospel as the powerful way that God saves people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression Alternate translation: “for it is the powerful way that God saves”

for salvation

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

Here, for indicates that salvation is the result of the gospel. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “that results in the salvation”

for salvation to all

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “for saving everyone”

to all the ones believing

Quote: παντὶ τῷ πιστεύοντι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “to everyone who believes that Jesus is the Messiah”

both to the Jew first and to the Greek

Quote: Ἰουδαίῳ τε πρῶτον καὶ Ἕλληνι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of Jewish people and Greek people in general, not of one particular Jew or Greek. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “both to the Jewish people first and to the Greek people”

both to the Jew first

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

The phrase the Jew first means that the Jewish people were the first people to hear the gospel. Paul does not mean that the Jew is better or has a high status than the Greek. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “both to the Jews, who first heard the gospel,”

to the Greek

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

Here, the Greek refers to non-Jewish people in general. It does not refer only to people from the country of Greece. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the non-Jew”

Romans 1:17

For

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

For indicates that what follows is the reason why the gospel is the power of God that leads to salvation, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “The gospel can save everyone who believes because”

the righteousness of God is revealed in it

Quote: δικαιοσύνη & Θεοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ ἀποκαλύπτεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it reveals the righteousness of God”

the righteousness of God is revealed in it

Quote: δικαιοσύνη & Θεοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ ἀποκαλύπτεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks about the righteousness of God as if it were an object that could be revealed. He means that people learn about the righteousness of God when someone proclaims the gospel to them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternative translation: “when people preach the gospel, those who hear it learn about the righteousness of God”

the righteousness of God

Quote: δικαιοσύνη & Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here Paul is using the possessive form of God that could refer to: (1) righteousness that comes from God. Alternate translation: “the righteousness from God” (2) righteousness that characterizes God. Alternate translation: “God’s righteousness”

the righteousness of God

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the way in which God causes people to become righteous”

in it

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

The pronoun it here refers to “the gospel” that was mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the gospel”

from faith to faith

Quote: ἐκ πίστεως εἰς πίστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, from faith to faith describes how the righteousness of God is revealed. It is an idiom that could mean: (1) completely by faith alone. Alternate translation: “by faith from beginning to end” or “through faith from first to last” (2) by the faith that all believers share, in the way that the phrase “from sea to sea” means “from one sea to another sea.” Alternate translation: “from one person’s faith to another person’s faith” (3) by faith that leads to increasing faith. Alternate translation: “through faith for faith” or “from one degree of faith to another”

just as it is written

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

Here Paul uses just as it is written to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Habakkuk 2:4). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “just as it is written in the Scriptures”

just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was written by the prophet Habakkuk. Alternate translation: “just as the prophet Habakkuk wrote”

But the righteous one will live by faith

Quote: ὁ δὲ δίκαιος ἐκ πίστεως ζήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

will live by faith

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

Here, live could refer to: (1) eternal life. Alternative translation: “will live eternally by faith” (2) the quality of one’s physical life. Alternative translation: “will truly live by faith”

faith

Quote: πίστεως (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated faith in 1:5

Romans 1:18

For

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

For indicates that what follows is the reason why “the righteous one must live by faith,” as mentioned in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “The righteous one must live this way because”

the wrath of God is revealed

Quote: ἀποκαλύπτεται & ὀργὴ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God is revealing his wrath”

the wrath of God

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

Here Paul uses wrath to refer to the outcome of God’s wrath, which is judging and punishing people because they are unrighteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “God’s wrathful punishment”

against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men

Quote: ἐπὶ πᾶσαν ἀσέβειαν καὶ ἀδικίαν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of ungodliness and unrighteousness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “against all the ungodly and unrighteous acts of men”

against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men

Quote: ἐπὶ πᾶσαν ἀσέβειαν καὶ ἀδικίαν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, ungodliness and unrighteousness of men refer to the people who do ungodly and unrighteous things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “against people who do any ungodly or unrighteous deeds”

the ones holding back the truth in unrighteousness

Quote: τῶν τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἐν ἀδικίᾳ κατεχόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for these ideas of unrighteousness and truth, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “who, because they do not want to act righteously, keep holding back what is true about God”

of men

Quote: ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people”

the ones holding back the truth in unrighteousness

Quote: τῶν τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἐν ἀδικίᾳ κατεχόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives us further information about the nature of people, who are called men in the previous phrase. It is not making a distinction between different kinds of men. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “these same people who in unrighteousness are holding back the truth”

the ones holding back the truth in unrighteousness

Quote: τῶν τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἐν ἀδικίᾳ κατεχόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of truth as if it were a person who could be restrained or held back. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “who in unrighteousness prevent the truth from being known”

Romans 1:19

that which {is} known about God

Quote: τὸ γνωστὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “what people can know about God”

them, … to them

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

The pronoun them refers to the ungodly and unrighteous people mentioned in the previous verse. Unless, otherwise noted, them, “their”, and “they” refer to ungodly and unrighteous people throughout 1:19–32. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “all these ungodly and unrighteous people … all these ungodly and unrighteous people”

Romans 1:20

his invisible qualities, both his eternal power and divine nature, are clearly seen

Quote: τὰ & ἀόρατα αὐτοῦ & καθορᾶται; ἥ τε ἀΐδιος αὐτοῦ δύναμις καὶ θειότης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of qualities, power, and nature, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what people cannot see about God, both how eternally powerful he is and who he is are clearly seen”

are clearly seen

Quote: καθορᾶται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses seen to refer to perceiving something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “are clearly perceived”

are clearly seen

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people can clearly see”

of the world

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

Paul uses the world figuratively to refer to the whole universe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of all that God made”

being understood by the things that have been made

Quote: τοῖς ποιήμασιν νοούμενα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which the things God has made understand”

So they are without excuse

Quote: εἰς τὸ εἶναι αὐτοὺς ἀναπολογήτους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

So indicates that this is a result clause. Use the natural way in your language to introduce a result clause. Alternate translation: “As a result, they are without excuse” or “This is why they are without excuse”

Romans 1:21

having known God

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

Here Paul uses having known to imply that these people know about God or know that God exists. He does not mean that they know God personally. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “having known about God”

they did not glorify {him} as God, nor did they give {him} thanks

Quote: οὐχ ὡς Θεὸν ἐδόξασαν ἢ ηὐχαρίστησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Here, not glorify him and nor give him thanks mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize that ungodly people dishonor God. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “they thanklessly despise God” or “they completely disregard God”

did they give {him} thanks

Quote: ηὐχαρίστησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of expressions of thanks as if they were something that could be given to a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “did they thank him”

they became futile in their thoughts, and their senseless heart was darkened

Quote: ἐματαιώθησαν ἐν τοῖς διαλογισμοῖς αὐτῶν, καὶ ἐσκοτίσθη ἡ ἀσύνετος αὐτῶν καρδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how foolish these ungodly people became by refusing to honor God. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “they became completely senseless in the way they think”

they became futile in their thoughts

Quote: ἐματαιώθησαν ἐν τοῖς διαλογισμοῖς αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they began to think futile things”

their senseless heart was darkened

Quote: ἐσκοτίσθη ἡ ἀσύνετος αὐτῶν καρδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the heart as if it could mentally sense things or could become black in color. He also uses darkened to refer to someone losing the ability to understand something. He means that these people lack spiritual sensitivity and are unable to understand spiritual things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “their heart became incapable of feeling or understanding spiritual things”

heart

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

Here Paul uses heart to refer a person’s inner being or mind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “inner being” or “mind”

heart

Quote: καρδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The word heart is a singular noun that refers to the inner beings or minds of a group of people. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “inner beings” or “hearts”

Romans 1:22

they became foolish

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

The phrase they became foolish is in contrast to what these unrighteous people claimed about themselves in the previous clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “instead they became foolish”

they became foolish

Quote: ἐμωράνθησαν (1)

Alternate translation: “they became fools” or “they acted like fools” or “they started acting like fools”

Romans 1:23

and

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

Here, and indicates that what follows describes what these ungodly and unrighteous people did after they “became foolish,” as stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. You may want to start a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “; then they” or “Then they”

and exchanged the glory of the imperishable God for a likeness of an image of perishable man, and of birds, and of four-footed beasts, and of creeping things

Quote: καὶ ἤλλαξαν τὴν δόξαν τοῦ ἀφθάρτου Θεοῦ ἐν ὁμοιώματι εἰκόνος φθαρτοῦ ἀνθρώπου, καὶ πετεινῶν, καὶ τετραπόδων, καὶ ἑρπετῶν. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses exchanged to describe the actions of these ungodly people as if they were exchanging goods or money. Paul means that they stopped worshiping God and started worshiping idols that resembled these creatures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. You may want to start a new sentence here. Alternative translation, “; then they stopped glorifying the imperishable God in order to worship images things that God created: perishable humans, birds, four-footed animals, and creeping things” or “Then they stopped glorifying the imperishable God in order to worship images things that God created: perishable humans, birds, four-footed animals, and creeping things”

the glory of the imperishable God for a likeness of an image of perishable man

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τοῦ ἀφθάρτου Θεοῦ ἐν ὁμοιώματι εἰκόνος φθαρτοῦ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The two phrases the glory of the imperishable God and a likeness of an image of perishable man mean the opposite thing. Paul says the opposite thing with similar phrases to emphasize the contrast between God and man. Use a natural way in your language to express a contrast that uses parallel ideas.

the glory of the imperishable God

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τοῦ ἀφθάρτου Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what glorifies the imperishable God”

the glory of the imperishable God

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τοῦ ἀφθάρτου Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the relationship between glory and the imperishable God. This phrase could refer to: (1) the glory that characterizes God. Alternate translation: “the glory that characterizes the imperishable God” (2) the glory that belongs to God. Alternate translation: “the glory that belongs only to the imperishable God”

a likeness of an image

Quote: ὁμοιώματι εἰκόνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The words translated as likeness and image were used in the Greek translation of the Old Testament to refer to the same thing (Genesis 1:26). Here Paul is using the possessive form to indicate that image is an explanation of likeness. Use a word or phrase that introduces a further explanation or elaboration in your language. Alternate translation: “a likeness, that is, an image”

and of birds, and of four-footed beasts, and of creeping things

Quote: καὶ πετεινῶν, καὶ τετραπόδων, καὶ ἑρπετῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a phrase would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “and likenesses of birds, and likenesses of four-footed animals, and likenesses of creeping things”

of four-footed beasts

Quote: τετραπόδων (1)

The phrase four-footed beasts refers to animals that walk on four feet. Use the most natural form to describe this kind of animal in your language. Alternate translation: “of quadrupeds” or “of four-legged beasts”

Romans 1:24

Therefore

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

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Therefore here introduces a result clause. Paul is stating the result of people rejecting the glory of God, as described in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to introduce a result clause. Alternate translation: “As a result” or “This is why” or “Because of this”

God gave them over to the lusts of their hearts

Quote: παρέδωκεν αὐτοὺς ὁ Θεὸς ἐν ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις τῶν καρδιῶν αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if God were physically giving them to lusts. He means that God is allowing them to have what they desire. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “God permitted them to become controlled by the lusts of their hearts”

the lusts of their hearts

Quote: ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις τῶν καρδιῶν αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe lusts that come from their hearts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the lusts that come from their hearts”

of their hearts

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

See how you translated “heart” in 1:21.

for uncleanness

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

This is a result clause. Paul is stating the result of people indulging in the lusts of their hearts. Use the natural way in your language to express result. Alternate translation (with a comma preceding): “, resulting in uncleanness”

for uncleanness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of uncleanness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to become unclean”

for uncleanness

Quote: εἰς ἀκαθαρσίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses uncleanness to refer to sexual immorality as if it were something dirty. He means that these lustful people become spiritually impure as a result of doing sexually immoral acts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “to become sexually immoral”

to dishonor

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

Here, to dishonor could refer to: (1) the result of God giving the people over to their lusts. Alternate translation: “which results in them dishonoring” (2) the purpose for which God gave them over to their lusts. Alternate translation: “in order to dishonor”

to dishonor their bodies

Quote: τοῦ ἀτιμάζεσθαι τὰ σώματα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

In this clause Paul uses dishonor their bodies figuratively to refer to sexually immoral acts. This is a polite way of referring to a shameful act. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to commit sexually immoral acts” or “to indulge in sexually immoral activity”

Romans 1:25

who exchanged the truth of God for the lie

Quote: οἵτινες μετήλλαξαν τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν τῷ ψεύδει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses exchanged to describe the actions of these ungodly people as if they were exchanging goods or money. Paul means that they stopped believing what is true about God and started believing in idols, which are false gods. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated exchanged in 1:23. Alternative translation, “these people refused to trust what God says is true and accepted what is false”

the truth of God for the lie

Quote: τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν τῷ ψεύδει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of truth and lie, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is correct about God for what is incorrect”

the truth of God

Quote: τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe truth that is about God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the truth about God”

worshiped and served

Quote: ἐσεβάσθησαν καὶ ἐλάτρευσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize that these people completely rejected worshiping the true God. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “wholeheartedly worshiped”

the creation

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of creation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what was created”

the Creator, who is blessed to eternity

Quote: τὸν κτίσαντα, ὅς ἐστιν εὐλογητὸς εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about the Creator. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “the Creator God who is blessed to eternity”

who is blessed to eternity

Quote: ὅς ἐστιν εὐλογητὸς εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

After naming the Creator, Paul adds a blessing. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “may he be blessed to eternity”

blessed

Quote: εὐλογητὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective blessed as a noun in order to describe the Creator. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the Blessed One”

Romans 1:26

God gave them over to

Quote: παρέδωκεν αὐτοὺς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 1:24.

passions of dishonor

Quote: πάθη ἀτιμίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe passions that are characterized by dishonor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “dishonorable passions”

passions of dishonor

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of passions and dishonor, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “dishonor themselves by doing what they are passionate about”

for

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

The word translated for introduces an explanation of passions of dishonor. This explanation begins after the word for and continues through the end of the next verse. Use a word or phrase that introduces a further explanation or elaboration in your language. Alternate translation: “that is,”

exchanged the natural use for that {which is} contrary to nature

Quote: μετήλλαξαν τὴν φυσικὴν χρῆσιν εἰς τὴν παρὰ φύσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses exchanged to describe the actions of ungodly women as if they were exchanging goods or money. Paul means that they stopped doing natural sexual acts with men and started doing sexual acts with other women, which is contrary to nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated exchanged in 1:23 and 25. Alternative translation, “stopped doing natural sexual acts with men and started doing unnatural sexual acts with women”

the natural use

Quote: τὴν φυσικὴν χρῆσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Paul uses the natural use figuratively to refer to sexual activity between women and men. This is a polite way of referring to something that would be offensive in some cultures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “sexual activity with males”

that {which is} contrary to nature

Quote: τὴν παρὰ φύσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Paul uses contrary to nature figuratively to refer to sexual activity between women and other women. This is a polite way of referring to something immoral. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “sexual activity with other females”

Romans 1:27

and likewise, the males also

Quote: ὁμοίως τε καὶ οἱ ἄρσενες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

This phrase emphasizes that what follows is similar to 1:26. Alternate translation: “in the same way, even the males”

having left

Quote: ἀφέντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these men as if they were leaving their location to go to another one. He means that they are abandoning or rejecting the way God intended for people to do sexual acts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “having abandoned” or “having rejected”

the natural use of the female

Quote: τὴν φυσικὴν χρῆσιν τῆς θηλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the natural use in the previous verse.

the natural use of the female

Quote: τὴν φυσικὴν χρῆσιν τῆς θηλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the natural use that is associated with the female. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the natural use associated with the female”

of the female

Quote: τῆς θηλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of these females in general, not of one particular female. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “of females”

burned in their lust for one another

Quote: ἐξεκαύθησαν ἐν τῇ ὀρέξει αὐτῶν εἰς ἀλλήλους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of lust as if it were something that could burn like a fire. He means that their lust is out of control, like a wildly burning fire. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “passionately lusted after one another” or “intensely desired each other”

burned in their lust for one another

Quote: ἐξεκαύθησαν ἐν τῇ ὀρέξει αὐτῶν εἰς ἀλλήλους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of lust, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “burned lustfully for one another”

male with male producing shameless acts

Quote: ἄρσενες ἐν ἄρσεσιν τὴν ἀσχημοσύνην κατεργαζόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

This phrase refers to men doing sexual acts with other men. This is a polite way of referring to something immoral. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “males shamelessly engaging in sexual activity with each other”

producing

Quote: κατεργαζόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of men doing unnatural things with each other as if their interaction could produce something, a shameless act. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “committing” or “engaging in”

and receiving in themselves the penalty which was necessary for their perversion

Quote: καὶ τὴν ἀντιμισθίαν ἣν ἔδει τῆς πλάνης αὐτῶν, ἐν ἑαυτοῖς ἀπολαμβάνοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

In the original language the phrase the penalty is at the front of the clause for emphasis. If it would be more natural in your language, you could arrange the order of these phrases to show that emphasis. Alternate translation: “and the penalty, which was necessary for their perversion, receiving in themselves”

and

Quote: καὶ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and indicates that what follows is the result of the shameless acts. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “and as a result”

receiving in themselves

Quote: ἐν ἑαυτοῖς ἀπολαμβάνοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the penalty for their sinful activity as if it were something that they could receive inside of themselves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “experiencing in their own bodies” or “receiving among themselves”

the penalty

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of penalty, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the punishing act”

which was necessary for their perversion

Quote: ἣν ἔδει τῆς πλάνης αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of perversion, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “which was necessary for their perverted acts”

Romans 1:28

they did not approve of having God in their full awareness

Quote: οὐκ ἐδοκίμασαν, τὸν Θεὸν ἔχειν ἐν ἐπιγνώσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, having God in their full awareness is an idiom that refers to thinking about God or acknowledging God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “they did not approve of thinking about God”

having God in their full awareness

Quote: τὸν Θεὸν ἔχειν ἐν ἐπιγνώσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of full awareness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “being fully aware of God” or “fully acknowledging that God exists”

God gave them over to

Quote: παρέδωκεν αὐτοὺς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 1:24 and 26.

to a disapproved mind

Quote: εἰς ἀδόκιμον νοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of the minds of these ungodly people in general, not of one particular mind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “to disapproved minds”

to a disapproved mind

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

Here, mind refers to a person’s will and moral reasoning. The mind of one of these ungodly people is disapproved, which means that it has been rejected by God as worthless. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to a mind that has become worthless”

to do

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

Here, to do could refer to: (1) the result of a disapproved mind. Alternate translation: “and as a result they do” or “causing them to practice” (2) the purpose of a disapproved mind. Alternate translation: “so that they do”

the things that are not proper

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

The phrase those things that are not proper refers to what Paul describes in 1:29–31. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those improper things that follow”

Romans 1:29

filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, {and} malice

Quote: πεπληρωμένους πάσῃ ἀδικίᾳ, πονηρίᾳ, πλεονεξίᾳ, κακίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses filled with to refer to these ungodly people as if they were a container filled with the sins that Paul lists in this clause. Like a container that has been filled with something, the people are completely controlled by these sins. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “fully controlled by unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, and malice”

filled

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they filled themselves”

filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, {and} malice

Quote: πεπληρωμένους πάσῃ ἀδικίᾳ, πονηρίᾳ, πλεονεξίᾳ, κακίᾳ; (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, and malice, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “filled with all unrighteous, wicked, covetous, and malicious thoughts”

they are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, {and} evil intent

Quote: μεστοὺς φθόνου, φόνου, ἔριδος, δόλου, κακοηθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses full of to refer to these ungodly people as if they were a container full of the sins that Paul lists in this clause. Like a container that is full of something, the people are completely controlled by these sins. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “fully controlled by envy, murder, strife, deceit, and evil intent”

they are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, {and} evil intent

Quote: μεστοὺς φθόνου, φόνου, ἔριδος, δόλου, κακοηθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and evil intent, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “they are full of envious, murderous, contentious, and deceitful thoughts, and they intend to do evil things”

Romans 1:30

haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, … disobedient

Quote: θεοστυγεῖς, ὑβριστάς, ὑπερηφάνους, ἀλαζόνας & ἀπειθεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using these adjectives as nouns in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who hate God, people who are insolent, people who are arrogant, people who are boastful … people who are disobedient”

slanderers, … inventors of evil things

Quote: καταλάλους & ἐφευρετὰς κακῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of slanderers and inventors, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “people who speak against others … people who invent ways to do evil things”

inventors of evil things

Quote: ἐφευρετὰς κακῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe inventors who invent evil things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “inventing evil things”

Romans 1:31

senseless, faithless, heartless, {and} merciless

Quote: ἀσυνέτους, ἀσυνθέτους, ἀστόργους, ἀνελεήμονας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using these adjectives as nouns in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are senseless, faithless, heartless, and merciless”

Romans 1:32

the righteous decree

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of decree, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what is rightly decreed”

the righteous decree of God

Quote: τὸ δικαίωμα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a the righteous decree that comes from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “God’s righteous decree” or “that what God decrees is right”

that

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

Here, that indicates that what follows is the content of the the righteous decree of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “namely, that” or “in other words, that”

such things … these things, … the ones practicing them

Quote: τὰ τοιαῦτα & αὐτὰ & τοῖς πράσσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronouns such things and things and them refer to the litany of “the things that are not proper” in 1:28–31. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “such improper things … these improper things … those who keep doing these improper things” or “these kinds of evil things … these evil things … those who keep doing these evil things”

worthy of death

Quote: ἄξιοι θανάτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective worthy as a noun in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who deserve death”

are worthy of death

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of death, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “are worthy to die”

are worthy of death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “are worthy to die spiritually” or “are worthy of spiritual death”

Romans 2

Romans 2 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)
   • All non-Jews have sinned (1:18–32)
   • All Jews have sinned (2:1–3:8)

In this chapter Paul shifts his audience from Roman Christians to people who “judge” other people and do not believe in Jesus. (See: judge, judgment and believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“The Law”

In this chapter Paul uses the singular noun “the law” to refer to the group of laws that God gave Israel through Moses. Paul says that those who try to obey the law of Moses will not be justified by trying to obey it. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. (See: Collective Nouns and law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

In 2:1–5 Paul uses the singular pronoun “you” and the singular noun “man” to refer to all people in general. If your language does not use singular pronouns or singular nouns to refer to a group of people, you can use a different expression. (See: Singular Pronouns that refer to Groups and Collective Nouns)

Romans 2:1

Therefore

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

Therefore here marks a new section of the letter. It also introduces a result clause that summarizes the consequences of the behavior that Paul described in 1:18–32. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “As a result” or “So then”

you are … you judge … you condemn yourself; … you, the one judging practice

Quote: εἶ & κρίνεις & σεαυτὸν κατακρίνεις & πράσσεις, ὁ κρίνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Paul uses the singular pronoun you here to refer to all people in general. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “every one of you is … every one of you judges … every one of you condemns yourself … every one of you who judges practices”

without excuse

Quote: ἀναπολόγητος (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 1:20.

O man

Quote: ὦ ἄνθρωπε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

O man here is an exclamation that is meant to convict every judgmental person in the human race. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this idea. Alternate translation: “every human being”

man

Quote: ἄνθρωπε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, man is a singular noun that refers to humanity in general. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “human being”

for

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

Here, for introduces a reason clause. In the rest of the verse Paul gives the reasons why everyone judging is without excuse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because” or “since”

in that which

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

The word translated that which is a pronoun that refers to any way or any time a person might judge someone else. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “anytime” or “in anything that”

the other

Quote: τὸν ἕτερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the other refers to any other person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “any other person”

for

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

Here, for introduces a clause that explains why these judgmental people are self-condemned. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “this is because”

the same things

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

The phrase the same things refers to acts for which people judge one another. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the very same deeds” or “the same things you judge them for doing”

Romans 2:2

we know

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

Here, we could refer to: (1) Paul and the church at Rome. Alternate translation: “all of us believers in Christ” (2) mankind in general. Alternate translation: “all people” Your language may require you to mark these forms.

the judgment of God

Quote: τὸ κρίμα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the judgment that God does. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “God’s judgment” or “how God judges”

the judgment of God is according to truth

Quote: τὸ κρίμα τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐστιν κατὰ ἀλήθειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of judgment and truth, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how God judges is according to what is true”

according to truth

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

This phrase indicates the manner in which God will judge those who act sinfully. He will judge them according to the sins they truly committed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “based on the facts”

the ones practicing

Quote: τοὺς & πράσσοντας (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 1:32.

such things

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

Here, such things refers to the litany of “the things that are not proper” in 1:28–32. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “such improper things” or “these kinds of evil things”

Romans 2:3

But do you think this, O man, the one judging the ones practicing such things and you are doing the same things, that you will escape from the judgment of God

Quote: λογίζῃ δὲ τοῦτο, ὦ ἄνθρωπε, ὁ κρίνων τοὺς τὰ τοιαῦτα πράσσοντας, καὶ ποιῶν αὐτά, ὅτι σὺ ἐκφεύξῃ τὸ κρίμα τοῦ Θεοῦ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that these judgmental people should know that God will finally judge them. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “But you should not think, O man, who judges those who are practicing such things and you are doing the same things, that you will escape from the judgment of God!”

this

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

The pronoun this refers to the final clause of this verse that you will escape from the judgment of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this result”

this, O man, the one judging the ones practicing such things and you are doing the same things, that you will escape from the judgment of God

Quote: τοῦτο, ὦ ἄνθρωπε, ὁ κρίνων τοὺς τὰ τοιαῦτα πράσσοντας, καὶ ποιῶν αὐτά, ὅτι σὺ ἐκφεύξῃ τὸ κρίμα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “that you will escape from the judgment of God, O man, who judges those who are practicing such things and you are doing the same things”

O man

Quote: ὦ ἄνθρωπε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 2:1.

such things … the same things

Quote: τὰ τοιαῦτα & αὐτά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrases such things and the same things refer to the litany of “the things that are not proper” in 1:28–32. See how you translated such things in 2:2 and the same things in 2:1.

that you will escape from the judgment of God

Quote: ὅτι σὺ ἐκφεύξῃ τὸ κρίμα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of judgment as if it were a person from whom someone could escape. Paul means that no one can avoid God’s judgment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “that you will not prevent God’s judgment”

the judgment of God

Quote: τὸ κρίμα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 2:2.

Romans 2:4

Or do you scorn the wealth of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance

Quote: ἢ τοῦ πλούτου τῆς χρηστότητος αὐτοῦ, καὶ τῆς ἀνοχῆς, καὶ τῆς μακροθυμίας καταφρονεῖς, ἀγνοῶν ὅτι τὸ χρηστὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ, εἰς μετάνοιάν σε ἄγει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that these judgmental people should know that the kindness of God leads them to repentance. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You who scorn the wealth of his kindness and forbearance and patience surely know that the kindness of God leads you to repentance!”

do you scorn … you

Quote: καταφρονεῖς & σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

In this verse Paul uses the singular pronoun you here to refer to all of humanity in general. See how you translated you in 2:1 and 2:3.

the wealth of his kindness and forbearance and patience

Quote: τοῦ πλούτου τῆς χρηστότητος αὐτοῦ, καὶ τῆς ἀνοχῆς, καὶ τῆς μακροθυμίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of God’s kindness and forbearance and patience as if they were wealth that could be acquired or rejected. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “acquiring his wonderful kindness and forbearance and patience”

of his kindness and forbearance and patience

Quote: τῆς χρηστότητος αὐτοῦ, καὶ τῆς ἀνοχῆς, καὶ τῆς μακροθυμίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of kindness, forbearance, and patience, you could express these ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of how kind, forbearing, and patient he is”

of his kindness and forbearance and patience, … the kindness of God

Quote: τῆς χρηστότητος αὐτοῦ, καὶ τῆς ἀνοχῆς, καὶ τῆς μακροθυμίας & τὸ χρηστὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the kindness, forbearance, and patience that characterize God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of God’s kindness, forbearance, and patience … God’s kindness”

the kindness of God leads you to repentance

Quote: τὸ χρηστὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ, εἰς μετάνοιάν σε ἄγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Paul speaks of the kindness of God as if it were a person who could lead someone to repentance. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God uses his kindness to cause you to repent”

leads you to repentance

Quote: εἰς μετάνοιάν σε ἄγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to repentance is a goal clause. Paul is stating the goal of the kindness of God. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a goal clause. Alternate translation: “leads you to repent” or “guides you to completely change the way you perceive things”

repentance

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of repentance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to fully change the way you perceive things”

Romans 2:5

But according to your hardness

Quote: κατὰ δὲ τὴν σκληρότητά σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if they were a hard substance. He means that these people stubbornly refuse to repent from their judgmental way of life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “But according to your stubbornness”

unrepentant heart

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

Here, heart refers to a person’s will or inner being. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “unrepentant will” or “unwillingness to repent”

you are storing up for yourself wrath

Quote: θησαυρίζεις σεαυτῷ ὀργὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of wrath as if it were an object that someone could store up. He means that the longer people refuse to repent, the greater is God’s wrath against them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “you are increasing how much wrath God has against you”

wrath … of wrath

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

Here Paul uses wrath to refer to the outcome of God’s wrath, which is judging and punishing people because they are unrighteous. See how you translated the same use of this word in 1:18.

on the day of wrath and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God

Quote: ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ὀργῆς καὶ ἀποκαλύψεως δικαιοκρισίας τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul assumes that his readers will know that both the day of wrath and the revelation of the righteous judgment of God refer to the time in the future when God will punish all wicked people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the time God finally punishes wicked people and reveals his righteous judgment”

on the day of wrath and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God

Quote: ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ὀργῆς καὶ ἀποκαλύψεως δικαιοκρισίας τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a day that is characterized by wrath and by the revelation of the righteous judgment of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “on the day characterized by God’s wrath and the revelation of his righteous judgment”

on the day of wrath and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God

Quote: ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ὀργῆς καὶ ἀποκαλύψεως δικαιοκρισίας τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wrath, revelation, and judgment, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “on the day of God’s wrathful acts, when he reveals how righteously he judges”

of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God

Quote: ἀποκαλύψεως δικαιοκρισίας τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the righteous judgment of God as what the revelation reveals. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “when God reveals his righteous judgment”

of the righteous judgment of God

Quote: δικαιοκρισίας τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the righteous judgment that is carried out by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of God judging righteously”

Romans 2:6

will pay back to each one according to his deeds

Quote: ἀποδώσει ἑκάστῳ κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

This clause is a quotation from the Old Testament (Psalm 62:12). If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “who ‘will pay back to each one according to his deeds’”

will pay back to each one according to his deeds

Quote: ἀποδώσει ἑκάστῳ κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses pay back to refer to appropriately punishing or rewarding someone as if the punishment or reward was reciprocal payment for that person’s deeds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will appropriately punish or reward each one according to his deeds”

his deeds

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of deeds, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how he acts” or “what he does”

Romans 2:7

General Information:

In 2:7–10 Paul explains what he means when he said in 2:6 that God will “pay back to each according to his deeds.”

eternal life to the ones, according to endurance of good work, seeking glory and honor and incorruptibility

Quote: τοῖς & καθ’ ὑπομονὴν ἔργου ἀγαθοῦ, δόξαν καὶ τιμὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν ζητοῦσιν, ζωὴν αἰώνιον; (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “eternal life to those who are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibility according to endurance of good work”

eternal life

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “eternal life is what God pays back”

to the ones, … seeking

Quote: τοῖς & ζητοῦσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses seeking to refer to these people as if they were trying to find something. He means that they are trying to live in such a way as to obtain glory and honor and incorruptibility. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “to those who … keep trying to attain”

eternal life to the ones, according to endurance of good work, seeking glory and honor and incorruptibility

Quote: τοῖς & καθ’ ὑπομονὴν ἔργου ἀγαθοῦ, δόξαν καὶ τιμὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν ζητοῦσιν, ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)

Here, according to could indicate: (1) the means by which these people are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibility. Alternate translation: “everlasting life to those who, by means of endurance of good work, are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibility” (2) the reason why God gives these people everlasting life. Alternate translation: “because they endure in good work and are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibility, everlasting life”

according to endurance of good work

Quote: καθ’ ὑπομονὴν ἔργου ἀγαθοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of endurance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “according to the fact that they keep on doing good work”

glory and honor and incorruptibility

Quote: δόξαν καὶ τιμὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of glory, honor, and incorruptibility, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “for God to glorify, honor, and cause them to live forever”

Romans 2:8

from selfish ambition

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of ambition, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “from being selfishly ambitious”

indeed being disobedient to the truth and becoming obedient to unrighteousness, wrath and anger

Quote: καὶ ἀπειθοῦσι τῇ ἀληθείᾳ, πειθομένοις δὲ τῇ ἀδικίᾳ ὀργὴ καὶ θυμός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how sinful these people are. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “who are disobedient to all that is true and right”

being disobedient to the truth and becoming obedient to unrighteousness

Quote: ἀπειθοῦσι τῇ ἀληθείᾳ, πειθομένοις δὲ τῇ ἀδικίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the truthas if it were a person whom someone could disobey, and he speaks of unrighteousness as if it were a person whom someone could obey. Paul means that by disobeying him these people reject what God says is true and right. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who reject what God says is true and right by disobeying him”

to the truth … to unrighteousness

Quote: τῇ ἀληθείᾳ & τῇ ἀδικίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of truth and unrighteousness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to what is true … to what is unrighteous”

wrath and anger

Quote: ὀργὴ καὶ θυμός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the 2:6. Alternate translation: “wrath and anger are what God pays back”

wrath

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

Here Paul uses wrath to refer to the outcome of God’s wrath, which is judging and punishing people because they are unrighteous. See how you translated the same use of this word in 1:18.

wrath and anger

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wrath and anger, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “God is wrathful and angry”

wrath and anger

Quote: ὀργὴ καὶ θυμός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The words wrath and anger mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize God’s intense anger toward people who are disobedient to the truth. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “fierce wrath” or “angry wrath” or “wrathful anger”

Romans 2:9

Tribulation and distress {will be} on every soul of man that produces the evil

Quote: θλῖψις καὶ στενοχωρία, ἐπὶ πᾶσαν ψυχὴν ἀνθρώπου τοῦ κατεργαζομένου τὸ κακόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Tribulation and distress as if these ideas were located on top of a person. He means that every evil person will experience Tribulation and distress. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “Every human soul that produces the evil will experience tribulation and distress”

Tribulation and distress

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of Tribulation and distress, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “Difficult and distressing times”

Tribulation and distress

Quote: θλῖψις καὶ στενοχωρία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two words mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how intense God’s judgment will be against these people. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “Distressing tribulation” or “Intense distress”

every soul of man

Quote: πᾶσαν ψυχὴν ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses soul of man to refer to the whole life of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “every human being”

of man

Quote: ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “of a person”

the evil

Quote: τὸ κακόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective evil as a noun in order to describe things people do. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “what is evil” or “things that are evil”

both to the Jew first and to the Greek

Quote: Ἰουδαίου τε πρῶτον καὶ Ἕλληνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase could mean: (1) the Jews will have greater responsibility because God offered salvation to them first. Alternate translation: “especially for the Jewish person and also for the non-Jewish person” (2) the Jews will be judged before non-Jews, which is the same meaning as in 1:16. Alternate translation: “first for the Jewish person and then for the non-Jewish person”

to the Greek

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:16.

Romans 2:10

glory and honor and peace will be to everyone

Quote: δόξα & καὶ τιμὴ, καὶ εἰρήνη, παντὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of glory and honor, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “God will glorify and honor and bring peace to everyone”

peace

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Here, peace could refer to: (1) feeling calm and secure. Alternate translation: “a peaceful feeling” (2) being at peace with God. Alternate translation: “a peaceful relationship with God” (3) both a peaceful feeling and a peaceful relationship with God. “a peaceful feeling and a peaceful relationship with God”

the good

Quote: τὸ ἀγαθόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective good as a noun in order to describe things people do. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “good deeds” or “things that are good”

both to the Jew first and to the Greek

Quote: Ἰουδαίῳ τε πρῶτον καὶ Ἕλληνι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

Romans 2:11

there is no favoritism with God

Quote: οὐ & ἐστιν προσωπολημψία παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of favoritism, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God does not honor one type of person above another” or “God is not more favorable toward one person than another”

Romans 2:12

For

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

For here indicates that what follows in 2:12–16 gives the reason for the phrase “there is no favoritism with God” in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true because”

as many as have sinned without the law

Quote: ὅσοι & ἀνόμως ἥμαρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses this phrase to refer to non-Jews, whom he calls “the Greek” in 2:9–10. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as many non-Jewish people as have sinned without the law”

without the law … without the law, … the law … the law

Quote: ἀνόμως & ἀνόμως & νόμῳ & νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The word law is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. See the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “without God’s laws … without God’s laws … God’s laws … God’s laws”

without the law … without the law

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

Here, without the law refers to not knowing God’s law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “without knowing God’s law” or “in ignorance of God’s law”

will also perish

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

Here Paul uses perish to refer to eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will also be punished eternally” or “will also experience eternal punishment”

as many as have sinned with the law

Quote: ὅσοι ἐν νόμῳ ἥμαρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses this phrase to refer to Jews, who are the people to whom God gave his law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as many Jewish people as have sinned with the law”

will be judged by the law

Quote: διὰ νόμου κριθήσονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God will judge by his law”

by the law

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

Here, by indicates that the law is the standard by which God will judge those who know his law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “according to what the law requires” or “by what the law says”

Romans 2:13

For

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

For here indicates that this verse gives the reason why God judges both groups of people mentioned in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “God judges both groups of people impartially because”

of the law {… of the law

Quote: νόμου & νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in the previous verse.

are} not righteous with God

Quote: οὐ & δίκαιοι παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses with God here to describe righteous people as if they were located in the presence of God. He means that God makes them right with himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “are not made righteous by God”

the doers of the law will be justified

Quote: οἱ ποιηταὶ νόμου δικαιωθήσονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who will do the action, Paul implies that “God” will do it. Alternate translation: “God will justify the doers of the law”

Romans 2:14

For

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

For here indicates that 2:14–16 give another reason why God judges both groups of people mentioned in 2:12. 2:14–16 explain why Gentiles who do not know God’s law are still sinners. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “God also judges both groups of people impartially because”

the ones not having the law, … not having the law

Quote: τὰ μὴ νόμον ἔχοντα & νόμον μὴ ἔχοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if they do not own or possess the law. He means that they did not receive the law that God gave to the Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated “without the law” in 2:12. Alternative translation: “who are unaware of God’s law … who are unaware of God’s law”

the law, … of the law, … the law

Quote: νόμον & τοῦ νόμου & νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 2:12.

do by nature

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of nature, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “naturally do”

the things of the law

Quote: τὰ τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the specific rules that make up the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the commands within the law”

are a law to themselves

Quote: ἑαυτοῖς εἰσιν νόμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of Gentiles as if they were a law. Paul means that the non-Jewish people have their own rules about what is right and wrong, and their rules are similar to God’s law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning in plainly. Alternate translation: “are actually obeying the God’s law”

Romans 2:15

who show the work of the law written in their hearts

Quote: οἵτινες ἐνδείκνυνται τὸ ἔργον τοῦ νόμου, γραπτὸν ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the non-Jewish people obeying some basic rules from the law of Moses as if they were showing the work of the law to other people. He means that non-Jewish people demonstrate that they naturally understand some rules of the law by obeying those rules. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “who make others aware that they understand the work of the law”

the work of the law written in their hearts

Quote: τὸ ἔργον τοῦ νόμου, γραπτὸν ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the works of the law as if they can be written on the surfaces of peoples’ hearts. He means that God has enabled non-Jewish people to know generally what is right or wrong even though they do not know the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they know the work of the law”

the work of the law

Quote: τὸ ἔργον τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the work that characterizes obeying the law. This phrase has a similar meaning to “the things of the law” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the work that the law requires a person to do”

written in their hearts

Quote: γραπτὸν ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God wrote on their hearts”

in their hearts

Quote: ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated “heart” in 1:21.

their conscience bearing witness

Quote: συνμαρτυρούσης αὐτῶν τῆς συνειδήσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul uses the singular conscience figuratively to refer to the individual consciences of these people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “their consciences bearing witness”

their conscience bearing witness

Quote: συνμαρτυρούσης αὐτῶν τῆς συνειδήσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of conscience as if it were a person bearing witness in a courtroom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “their conscience confirms that this is true”

bearing witness, the thoughts between themselves both accusing or even defending them

Quote: συνμαρτυρούσης & καὶ μεταξὺ ἀλλήλων, τῶν λογισμῶν κατηγορούντων ἢ καὶ ἀπολογουμένων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause explains what bearing witness means. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer or begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “bearing witness, namely, the thoughts of each person both accusing or even defending them”

the thoughts between themselves both accusing or even defending them

Quote: καὶ μεταξὺ ἀλλήλων, τῶν λογισμῶν κατηγορούντων ἢ καὶ ἀπολογουμένων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of thoughts as if they were a person who could accuse or defend someone in court. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation (remove preceding comma): “by accusing or defending them in the way they think”

Romans 2:16

on the day

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

Here, day refers to a point in time when something happens. It does not refer to a 24-hour length of time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a point in time is coming”

on the day when God will judge

Quote: ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ὅτε κρίνει ὁ Θεὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul assumes that his readers will know that the day when God will judge refers to the time in the future when God will judge everyone, as Paul also mentioned in 2:2 and 2:5. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the future time when God finally judges”

the secrets of men

Quote: τὰ κρυπτὰ τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe secrets that men have. These secrets are specifically secret thoughts that people have, as indicated by the word “thoughts” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “men’s secrets” or “the secrets that men keep”

the secrets of men

Quote: τὰ κρυπτὰ τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of secrets, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what men secretly think”

of men

Quote: τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “of human beings” or “of people”

according to my gospel, through Christ Jesus

Quote: κατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου, διὰ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “through Christ Jesus, according to my gospel”

according to my gospel

Quote: κατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the gospel as if it belongs to him. He means that this is the gospel God has entrusted him to preach. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “according to God’s gospel that I preach”

Romans 2:17

But

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

Connecting Statement:

But here indicates that in 2:17–29 Paul changes topics from talking about non-Jewish people who don’t know the law of Moses to Jews who know the law. He explains why the Jews as well cannot escape God’s judgment. Alternate translation: “You also need to know that” or “However”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Here, if indicates the beginning of a conditional sentence that extends from this verse to 2:21. Paul speaks as if these descriptions of Jews were hypothetical possibilities, but he means that they are actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since” or “because”

you

Quote: σὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is speaking to Jewish people, he is hypothetically addressing an individual, so you and your and yourself is singular throughout 2:17–27 unless otherwise noted. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural forms of you and your and yourself in your translation.

you name yourself a Jew

Quote: σὺ Ἰουδαῖος ἐπονομάζῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the Jews as if they named themselves. He means that they consider themselves to be Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “you call yourself Jewish” or “you regard yourself as truly Jewish”

rely upon the law

Quote: ἐπαναπαύῃ νόμῳ, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context, which is God’s judgment of sinners. Alternate translation: “rely upon the law to escape God’s judgment” or “rely upon the law to save you from God’s judgment”

boast in God

Quote: καυχᾶσαι ἐν Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the Jews as if they were boasting inside of God. He means that the Jews brag that they are the only nation that knows God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “brag that you are the only ones who know God”

Romans 2:18

and know his will and approve of the things that are excellent, being instructed from the law

Quote: καὶ γινώσκεις τὸ θέλημα, καὶ δοκιμάζεις τὰ διαφέροντα, κατηχούμενος ἐκ τοῦ νόμου, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “and because you are instructed from the law, you know his will and approve of what is excellent”

his will

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of will, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what God wills”

being instructed from the law

Quote: κατηχούμενος ἐκ τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “others having instructed you from the law”

Romans 2:19

and you have become confident that you are a guide

Quote: πέποιθάς τε σεαυτὸν ὁδηγὸν εἶναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word yourself to emphasize how convinced the Jews are that they are the only ones who can spiritually guide others. Use a way that is natural in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “and you have convinced yourself that you alone are a guide”

that … are a guide to blind men

Quote: ὁδηγὸν εἶναι τυφλῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses guide to refer to the Jews as if they were the only people who could clearly see. He also uses blind to refer to non-Jews as if they were unable to see. He means that the Jews think they are the only ones who can teach others God’s truth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “that you are a helper to those separated from God”

that … are a guide to blind men

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of guide, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “that you can serve as a guide to blind men”

to blind men

Quote: τυφλῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “to blind people”

a guide to blind men, a light to the ones in darkness

Quote: ὁδηγὸν & τυφλῶν, φῶς τῶν ἐν σκότει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how strongly the Jews believed that non-Jews were ignorant about God’s truth. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the two ideas into one. Alternate translation: “the only ones who can guide those who are unaware of what is true about God”

a light to the ones in darkness

Quote: φῶς τῶν ἐν σκότει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses light to refer to a Jewish person, and he uses those in darkness figuratively to refer to non-Jews. He means that the Jews think they can teach non-Jews about God the way that a light shines on people who are in a dark place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “someone who can reveal what is true about God to those who do not know about God”

Romans 2:20

an instructor of foolish men, a teacher of little children, having in the law the form of the knowledge and of the truth

Quote: παιδευτὴν ἀφρόνων, διδάσκαλον νηπίων, ἔχοντα τὴν μόρφωσιν τῆς γνώσεως καὶ τῆς ἀληθείας ἐν τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases, since the third phrase gives the reason for the result that the first two phrases describe. Alternate translation: “since having in the law the form of the knowledge and of the truth, you believe you should be an instructor of foolish men, a teacher of little children”

an instructor of foolish men, a teacher of little children, having in the law

Quote: παιδευτὴν ἀφρόνων, διδάσκαλον νηπίων, ἔχοντα & ἐν τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how strongly the Jews believed that non-Jews were ignorant about God’s truth. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “the only people who can instruct those people who are as foolish as children and are the only people who have in the law”

a teacher of little children

Quote: διδάσκαλον νηπίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the non-Jews as if they were little children. He means that they are ignorant about God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternative translation: “people who are spiritually ignorant”

having in the law the form of the knowledge and of the truth

Quote: ἔχοντα τὴν μόρφωσιν τῆς γνώσεως καὶ τῆς ἀληθείας ἐν τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the law as if it were a physical shape that someone could possess. He means that the law contains God’s true knowledge that the Jews think they exclusively own. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “understanding through God’s law how a person can truly know God”

the form of the knowledge and of the truth

Quote: τὴν μόρφωσιν τῆς γνώσεως καὶ τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive forms of the knowledge and of the truth to describe the form of the law. Here, of knowledge and of the truth could indicate: (1) what the law contains. Alternate translation: “the form that contains the knowledge and the truth” (2) what the law represents. Alternate translation: “what represents knowledge and truth”

of the knowledge and of the truth

Quote: τῆς γνώσεως καὶ τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of knowledge and ** truth**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of what we know about God and what is true about God”

Romans 2:21

then you, the one teaching another, do you not teach yourself? You, the one preaching not to steal, do you steal

Quote: ὁ οὖν διδάσκων ἕτερον, σεαυτὸν οὐ διδάσκεις? ὁ κηρύσσων μὴ κλέπτειν, κλέπτεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In 2:21–23 Paul transitions from his description of the Jews in 2:17–20 to a series of rhetorical questions. These questions emphasize the hypocrisy of the Jews, who thought they were superior to non-Jews because they knew the law of Moses. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate Paul’s words as statements or exclamations and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “then you, who teach another, do not teach yourself! You, who preach not to steal, actually steal!”

then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is the second half of the factual conditional statement that Paul began with “if you name yourself a Jew” in 2:17. Paul wants to show that what the Jews believe and how they live are in contrast. If you divided 2:17–21 into separate sentences, then you may need to include a short form of the “if” statement here. Alternate translation: “if all this is really true, then” or “since all this is really true, then”

another

Quote: ἕτερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, another is a singular pronoun that refers to a group of people. If your language does not use singular pronouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “other people”

do you not teach yourself

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

Here Paul implies that the Jews need to teach themselves, because they do not actually obey the laws that they teach. They live their lives as if they do not know the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “since you yourself don’t obey the law, do you not teach yourself”

Romans 2:22

You, the one saying not to commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You, the one abhorring idols, do you rob temples

Quote: ὁ λέγων μὴ μοιχεύειν, μοιχεύεις? ὁ βδελυσσόμενος τὰ εἴδωλα, ἱεροσυλεῖς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Like in the previous verse, Paul is not asking for information here, but is using the question form twice to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as statements or exclamations and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You who say not to commit adultery actually commit adultery! You who abhor idols actually rob temples!”

do you rob temples

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

Here Paul implies that the temples the Jews rob are where idols are kept and worshiped. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “do you rob temples where idols are kept” or “should you actually enter an idol temple and rob it”

Romans 2:23

You, who boast in the law, do you dishonor God through the transgression of the law

Quote: ὃς ἐν νόμῳ καυχᾶσαι διὰ τῆς παραβάσεως τοῦ νόμου, τὸν Θεὸν ἀτιμάζεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

As in the previous two verses, Paul is not asking for information here, but is using the question form to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You who boast in the law actually dishonor God through the transgression of the law!”

You, who boast in the law

Quote: ὃς ἐν νόμῳ καυχᾶσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses in the law as if it were something that people could boast inside of. He means that the Jews brag that they are the only nation who knows God’s law, which has similar meaning to “boast in God” in 2:17. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “You, who brag that you are the only ones who know God’s law”

through the transgression of the law

Quote: διὰ τῆς παραβάσεως τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of transgression, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “by transgressing the law” or “by breaking the law”

Romans 2:24

For “the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” just as it is written

Quote: τὸ γὰρ ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ δι’ ὑμᾶς βλασφημεῖται ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν, καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “For, just as it is written, ‘the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.’”

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “These things that I have said about you are true because”

the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you

Quote: τὸ & ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ δι’ ὑμᾶς βλασφημεῖται ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this clause Paul quotes part of Isaiah 52:5. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

the name of God

Quote: τὸ & ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to indicate the name that belongs to God. Paul does not mean that God is a name. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “God’s name”

the name of God

Quote: τὸ & ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses the name of God figuratively to refer toGod himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly, as in the UST.

the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you

Quote: τὸ & ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ δι’ ὑμᾶς βλασφημεῖται ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Gentiles blaspheme the name of God because of you”

the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you

Quote: τὸ & ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ δι’ ὑμᾶς βλασφημεῖται ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “because of you the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles”

because of you

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

Paul quotes Isaiah implying that the bad behavior of the Jews is what causes the Gentiles to blaspheme the name of God. Since the Jews were supposed to represent God to the world, their bad behavior misrepresented God so that the Gentiles blasphemed him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as a result of how you act” or “because of the way you behave”

because of you

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

Here, you is the plural and refers to the Jewish people. This is the only occurrence of plural you in 2:17–27. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you Jewish people”

just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since Paul is referring to something Isaiah wrote, you could indicate Isaiah as the subject. Alternate translation: “just as Isaiah wrote”

just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

Romans 2:25

For

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

For here indicates that [2:25–29] provide another reason why both Jews and Gentiles will be punished for their sins, as stated in 2:12. Paul is arguing against the idea that circumcision guaranteed a Jew’s salvation, which some Jews believed. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “Jews will be judged along with Gentiles because”

circumcision … your circumcision has become uncircumcision

Quote: περιτομὴ & ἡ περιτομή σου, ἀκροβυστία γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of circumcision and uncircumcision, you could express the same ideas in a different way. Alternate translation: “being circumcised … your being circumcised has become being uncircumcised”

benefits

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

Paul is leaving out a word here that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the context. Alternate translation: “benefits you”

a transgressor of the law

Quote: παραβάτης νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a person who transgresses the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “one who transgresses the law” or “one who breaks the law”

your circumcision has become uncircumcision

Quote: ἡ περιτομή σου, ἀκροβυστία γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, your circumcision becomes uncircumcision is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show how important it is for God’s people to practice the law. Paul does not mean that the person who transgresses God’s law is no longer physically circumcised. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it is as if you were not circumcised” or “it is the same as if you were never circumcised”

Romans 2:26

If, then

Quote: ἐὰν οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers recognize the benefits for the uncircumcised one who keeps the requirements of the law. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “Let’s suppose then that”

the uncircumcision

Quote: ἡ ἀκροβυστία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective uncircumcision as a noun in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the one who is uncircumcised”

keeps

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

Here, keeps is an idiom that refers to obeying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is obedient to”

the requirements of the law

Quote: τὰ δικαιώματα τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe requirements found in the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “what the law requires” or “the law’s requirements”

will not his uncircumcision be considered as circumcision

Quote: οὐχ ἡ ἀκροβυστία αὐτοῦ εἰς περιτομὴν λογισθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize how important it is do what the law requires. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “certainly God will consider his uncircumcision to be circumcision”

will not his uncircumcision be considered as circumcision

Quote: οὐχ ἡ ἀκροβυστία αὐτοῦ εἰς περιτομὴν λογισθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who will do the action, Paul implies that “God” will do it. Alternate translation: “will God not consider his uncircumcision to be circumcision”

his uncircumcision … circumcision

Quote: ἡ ἀκροβυστία αὐτοῦ & περιτομὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated uncircumcision and circumcision in the previous verse.

Romans 2:27

the uncircumcision by nature, fulfilling the law, will judge

Quote: κρινεῖ ἡ ἐκ φύσεως ἀκροβυστία, τὸν νόμον τελοῦσα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “since he is fulfilling the law, the uncircumcised by nature will judge”

the uncircumcision

Quote: ἡ & ἀκροβυστία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated this in the previous verse.

the uncircumcision by nature

Quote: ἡ ἐκ φύσεως ἀκροβυστία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of nature, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the naturally uncircumcised”

fulfilling

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

Here, fulfilling is an idiom that refers to fully obeying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “is fully obedient to”

through letter and circumcision

Quote: διὰ γράμματος καὶ περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through could mean: (1) the Jews will be judged despite having the letter and circumcision. Alternate translation: “despite having letter and circumcision” (2) the Jews will be judged while having the letter and circumcision. Alternate translation: “while having letter and circumcision”

letter

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

Paul is describing the law by association with the letters that make up the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the written law code” or “God’s written law”

circumcision

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

See how you translated circumcision in the previous two verses.

a transgressor of the law

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for transgressor, you could express the idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “someone who transgresses the law” or “someone who breaks God’s law”

Romans 2:28

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason for what has just been stated. This verse is Paul’s conclusion to the statements he made in 2:25–27. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “In fact” or “Truly”

a Jew

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

Here Paul uses Jew to refer to someone who is one of God’s people because he truly trusts in God for salvation, as Abraham did. Jew here does not refer to someone who only has Jewish ancestors. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a spiritual Jew”

visibly

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

Here, visibly refers to the Jewish religious practices that other people can see, such as circumcision or wearing special clothing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “does externally visible Jewish rituals”

this circumcision

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

Here Paul uses circumcision to refer to the change in thinking and attitude that happens when God saves a person. It can also be considered an inward mark of belonging to God’s people, like how circumcision was an outer mark of being Jewish. This was called “circumcision of the heart” in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4). Here, circumcision does not refer to the Jewish ritual. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “this spiritual circumcision”

in the flesh

Quote: ἐν σαρκὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses the flesh figuratively to mean “the whole body,” which is made of flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “on the body”

Romans 2:29

Jew in secret {is

Quote: ἐν τῷ κρυπτῷ Ἰουδαῖος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated secretly refers to something that other people cannot see or that is hidden. The meaning here is the opposite of “visibly” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a Jew in an inward way not seen by others”

Jew

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

Here Paul uses Jew in the same way he did in the previous verse. See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

circumcision {is} of the heart

Quote: περιτομὴ καρδίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a circumcision that is performed in the heart. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “circumcision is performed in the heart” or “circumcision is an inward change”

circumcision {is} of the heart

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

The phrase circumcision of the heart is an idiom that refers to the change in thinking and attitude that happens when God saves a person. It can also be considered an inward mark of belonging to God’s people, just as circumcision was an outer mark of being Jewish. This expression first occurred in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. See how you translated “this circumcision” in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “truly belongs to God’s people by removal of sin”

of the heart

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

See how you translated this word in 1:21.

in the Spirit, not in the letter

Quote: ἐν Πνεύματι, οὐ γράμματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, both occurrences of in indicate the means by which something happened. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of the Spirit, not by means of the letter”

in the Spirit

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

Here, the Spirit could refer to: (1) the Holy Spirit, who changes a person’s thoughts and attitude when God saves that person, as in the UST. (2) a person’s spirit, which would require interpreting in to refer to a place. Alternate translation: “in one’s spirit”

in the letter

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

See how you translated letter in 2:27.

whose the praise

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

The pronoun whose refers to the one who is inwardly a Jew. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “that inward Jew’s praise”

whose the praise

Quote: οὗ ὁ ἔπαινος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form whose to indicate who receives the praise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “his praise”

from men

Quote: ἐξ ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “from people”

Romans 3

Romans 3 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. All mankind is condemned because of sin (1:18–3:20)
   • All non-Jews have sinned (1:18–32)
   • All Jews have sinned (2:1–3:8)
   • Everyone has sinned (3:9–20)
2. Righteousness is received through Jesus Christ by trusting in him (3:21–5:21)
   • God’s righteousness is received through faith (3:21–26)
   • No one can boast in works (3:27–31)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with verses 10–18 of this chapter, which are quotations from the Old Testament.

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Rhetorical Questions

In 3:1–9 and 27–31 Paul frequently uses rhetorical questions in this chapter in order to answer objections that Jews might make about what he is saying. You may need to indicate that Paul is asking these questions as if he were a non-Christian Jew responding to these arguments. When Paul asks the rhetorical questions, he is speaking as if he were a non-Christian Jew arguing against Paul. When Paul answers those questions, he is speaking as himself. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this change in speakers with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate quotations, as in the UST. (See: Rhetorical Question and Quote Markings)

Romans 3:1-9

Connecting Statement:

In 3:1–9 Paul uses a series of rhetorical questions and answers in order to emphasize that both “Jews and Greeks” are “under sin.”

Romans 3:1

What then {is

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous chapter, especially what he said in 2:28–29. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “If these things are true, then what is”

What then {is} the advantage of the Jew, or what {is} the benefit of the circumcision

Quote: τί οὖν τὸ περισσὸν τοῦ Ἰουδαίου, ἢ τίς ἡ ὠφέλια τῆς περιτομῆς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This verse contains two rhetorical questions connected by or. Paul is not asking for information, but here he is using these two questions to express the objections that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous chapter, especially what he said in 2:28–29. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then the Jew certainly has no advantage, and circumcision certainly has no benefit!”

What then {is} the advantage of the Jew, or what {is} the benefit of the circumcision

Quote: τί οὖν τὸ περισσὸν τοῦ Ἰουδαίου, ἢ τίς ἡ ὠφέλια τῆς περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this verse Paul is speaking as if he were a non-Christian Jew arguing against Paul. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

What then {is} the advantage of the Jew, or what {is} the benefit of the circumcision

Quote: τί οὖν τὸ περισσὸν τοῦ Ἰουδαίου, ἢ τίς ἡ ὠφέλια τῆς περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of advantage or benefit, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “How then is being a Jew advantageous, or how is being circumcised beneficial”

of the Jew

Quote: τοῦ Ἰουδαίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form of the Jew to describe for whom there is the advantage. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “for the Jew”

of the circumcision

Quote: τῆς περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form of the circumcision to describe from where the benefit comes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “that comes from circumcision” or “from being circumcised”

Romans 3:2

Great in every way

Quote: πολὺ κατὰ πάντα τρόπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse Paul responds to the rhetorical questions in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘Great in every way!’”

Great in every way

Quote: πολὺ κατὰ πάντα τρόπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “The advantage of the Jew and the benefit of the circumcision are great in every way”

Great in every way

Quote: πολὺ κατὰ πάντα τρόπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Great in every way is an exaggeration that Paul uses to emphasize the value of being Jewish and being circumcised. Paul does not mean that everything about being a Jew and being circumcised is beneficial. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows enthusiasm. Alternate translation: “Great in many ways”

indeed first, that

Quote: πρῶτον μὲν & ὅτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, indeed first, that could indicate that: (1) what follows is the first reason in a list of several reasons why being a Jew is beneficial, in which case Paul does not continue the list in this chapter. Alternate translation: “the first of many benefits is indeed that” or “one benefit is indeed that” (2) what follows is the most important reason why being a Jew is beneficial. Alternate translation: “the primary benefit is indeed that” or “the most important thing is indeed that”

they were entrusted with the sayings of God

Quote: ἐπιστεύθησαν τὰ λόγια τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God entrusted them with his sayings” or “God trusted them with the sayings of God”

with the sayings of God

Quote: τὰ λόγια τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the sayings of God could refer to: (1) the entire Old Testament. Alternate translation: “with what God said in the Scriptures” (2) direct speech from God recorded in the Old Testament. Alternate translation: “with the messages that God announced to them in the Scriptures”

with the sayings of God

Quote: τὰ λόγια τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the possessive form of God could refer to: (1) sayings that came from God. Alternate translation: “with the sayings from God” (2) says that are about God. Alternate translation: “with the sayings about God”

Romans 3:3

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “If these things are true, then”

what if some were unfaithful? Their unfaithfulness will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it

Quote: τί & εἰ ἠπίστησάν τινες? μὴ ἡ ἀπιστία αὐτῶν, τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Θεοῦ καταργήσει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this verse Paul is not asking for information, but is using these two questions here to express the objections that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous verse. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “But some of them were unfaithful! Their unfaithfulness surely cannot nullify the faithfulness of God!”

For what if some were unfaithful? Their unfaithfulness will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it

Quote: τί γάρ εἰ ἠπίστησάν τινες? μὴ ἡ ἀπιστία αὐτῶν, τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Θεοῦ καταργήσει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this verse Paul is speaking as if he himself were a non-Christian Jew arguing against Paul. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

some

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

The pronoun some refers to some Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “some Jewish people”

Their unfaithfulness will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it

Quote: μὴ ἡ ἀπιστία αὐτῶν, τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Θεοῦ καταργήσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of unfaithfulness or faithfulness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “The fact that they are unfaithful will not nullify God’s faithful acts, will it”

the faithfulness of God

Quote: τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the faithfulness that characterizes God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the faithfulness that characterizes God”

Romans 3:4

May it never be

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

In this verse Paul responds to the rhetorical questions he wrote in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘May it never be!’”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

May it never be is an exclamation that communicates a strong prohibition. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating a strong prohibition. Alternate translation: “Absolutely not” or “Certainly not”

Instead

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

Instead here indicates that what follows is a contrast to the idea in the previous verse that unfaithful Jews could “nullify the faithfulness of God.” Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “But” or “However”

let God be true

Quote: γινέσθω & ὁ Θεὸς ἀληθής (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Here, let God be true is an imperative phrase, but this is not a command. Instead, Paul is exclaiming that people must consider that God is always truthful regardless of what people think. Use a form in your language that would be used in this type of situation. Alternate translation: “let people always know that God is true” or “may people always declare that God is true”

every man a liar

Quote: πᾶς & ἄνθρωπος ψεύστης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of liar, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “every man lies”

every man a liar

Quote: πᾶς & ἄνθρωπος ψεύστης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “let every man be a liar”

every man

Quote: πᾶς & ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “every person”

Just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

Just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was written by David. Alternate translation: “just as David wrote”

So that you might be justified in your words and you will prevail when you are judged

Quote: ὅπως ἂν δικαιωθῇς ἐν τοῖς λόγοις σου, καὶ νικήσεις ἐν τῷ κρίνεσθαί σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 51:4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

So that

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

So that indicates that what follows is the result of what David had written previously in Psalm 51:4, which is about how David had sinned. Paul assumes that his readers would be familiar with the earlier part of that verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “I have sinned so that” or “Because of my sin”

So that you might be justified in your words and you will prevail when you are judged

Quote: ὅπως ἂν δικαιωθῇς ἐν τοῖς λόγοις σου, καὶ νικήσεις ἐν τῷ κρίνεσθαί σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

In this sentence, you and your refer to God and are singular. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

you might be justified … when you are judged

Quote: δικαιωθῇς & ἐν τῷ κρίνεσθαί σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people would acknowledge how righteous you are … when people attempt to judge you” or “you would prove yourself to be righteous … when others try to judge you”

in your words

Quote: ἐν τοῖς λόγοις σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul records David using words to describe the things that God said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in what you say”

Romans 3:5

But if

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

In this verse, Paul is speaking as if he were an unbelieving Jew and is challenging the statement that Paul made in the previous verse. But here indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous verse. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “If indeed that is true” or “Now if”

But if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, what will we say? God {is} not unrighteous for imposing his wrath, {is he

Quote: εἰ δὲ ἡ ἀδικία ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην συνίστησιν, τί ἐροῦμεν? μὴ ἄδικος ὁ Θεὸς, ὁ ἐπιφέρων τὴν ὀργήν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these sentences Paul is speaking as if he were a non-Christian Jew arguing against Paul. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, what will we say

Quote: εἰ & ἡ ἀδικία ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην συνίστησιν, τί ἐροῦμεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to develop the argument that an unbelieving Jew would make. Alternate translation: “suppose our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God. Then what will we say”

our … will we say

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

Here, our and we are used exclusively to speak of Paul and other Jews. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “Jewish … will we Jews say”

our unrighteousness … the righteousness of God

Quote: ἡ ἀδικία ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of unrighteousness or righteousness, you could express these ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how unrighteous we are … how righteous God is”

God {is} not unrighteous for imposing his wrath, {is he

Quote: μὴ ἄδικος ὁ Θεὸς, ὁ ἐπιφέρων τὴν ὀργήν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this sentence Paul is not asking for information, but is using this question here to express an objection that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous verse. This sentence is also the answer to the hypothetical question that precedes it. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “God certainly cannot be unrighteousness for imposing his wrath!”

if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, what will we say? God {is} not unrighteous for imposing his wrath, {is he

Quote: εἰ & ἡ ἀδικία ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην συνίστησιν, τί ἐροῦμεν? μὴ ἄδικος ὁ Θεὸς, ὁ ἐπιφέρων τὴν ὀργήν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could combine the hypothetical conditional statement of the first sentence with the rhetorical question of the second sentence. Alternate translation: “if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, then we certainly cannot say that God is unrighteousness for imposing his wrath!”

for imposing his wrath

Quote: ὁ ἐπιφέρων τὴν ὀργήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Paul uses imposing his wrath to refer to the outcome of God’s anger, which is carried out by judging and punishing people because they are unrighteous. See how you translated the same use of wrath in 1:18.

I speak according to men

Quote: (κατὰ ἄνθρωπον λέγω.) (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-aside

Paul could be saying this as an aside in order to show that he is not trying to challenge the righteousness of God. If this would be confusing in your language, you could add parentheses, as seen in the ULT, or use a natural way in your language to indicate an aside. Alternate translation: “I am reasoning like a human being”

I speak according to men

Quote: (κατὰ ἄνθρωπον λέγω.) (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase according to men is an idiom meaning “the way people do” or “like a human being.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I speak based on how human beings perceive things” or “I speak according to mere human reasoning”

Romans 3:6

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this in 3:4.

Otherwise, how will God judge the world

Quote: ἐπεὶ πῶς κρινεῖ ὁ Θεὸς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here Paul is giving the reason why God is “not unrighteous for imposing his wrath,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “Because if God were unrighteous, how would he judge the world”

how will God judge the world

Quote: πῶς κρινεῖ ὁ Θεὸς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this clause Paul is not asking for information, but is using his question to emphasize that God could not judge the world if he were unrighteous. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “God certainly could not judge the world!”

the world

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

Here Paul uses world to refer to the people who live in the world. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people in the world”

Romans 3:7-9

General Information:

In 3:7–9, Paul is speaking as if he were an unbelieving Jew and is challenging the statement Paul made in 3:6. A note will inform you of the one parenthetic statement within these verses in which Paul interjects his own voice into the argument.

Romans 3:7

But if

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

But here indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous verse. In this verse, Paul is speaking as if he were an unbelieving Jew and is challenging the statement Paul made in the previous verse. See how you translated this in 3:5.

if the truth of God through my lie abounds to his glory, why am I still being judged as a sinner

Quote: εἰ & ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν τῷ ἐμῷ ψεύσματι ἐπερίσσευσεν εἰς τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ, τί ἔτι κἀγὼ ὡς ἁμαρτωλὸς κρίνομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to develop the argument an unbelieving Jew would make. Alternate translation: “suppose the truth of God through my lie abounds to his glory. Then why am I still being judged as a sinner”

But if the truth of God through my lie abounds to his glory

Quote: εἰ δὲ ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν τῷ ἐμῷ ψεύσματι ἐπερίσσευσεν εἰς τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “But if the truth of God abounds to his glory through my lie”

the truth of God

Quote: ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “how truthful God is”

the truth of God

Quote: ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the truth that characterizes God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “God’s truthfulness”

through my lie … am I … as a sinner

Quote: ἐν τῷ ἐμῷ ψεύσματι & κἀγὼ ὡς ἁμαρτωλὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here Paul uses my and I to refer to a Jewish person who might give this hypothetical response. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternative translation: “when we Jews act falsely … are we … as sinners” or “when we Jews lie … are we … as sinners”

through my lie

Quote: ἐν τῷ ἐμῷ ψεύσματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of lie, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “when I act falsely” or “when I lie”

to his glory

Quote: εἰς τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, to indicates that this is a result clause. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “with the result that he is glorified”

to his glory

Quote: εἰς τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “to demonstrate how glorious he is” or “to glorify him”

why am I still being judged as a sinner

Quote: τί ἔτι κἀγὼ ὡς ἁμαρτωλὸς κρίνομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this clause Paul is not asking for information, but is using this question to express an objection that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous verse, which was also repeated in the previous clause. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “surely I should not still be judged as a sinner!”

am I still being judged

Quote: ἔτι κἀγὼ & κρίνομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who does the action, Paul implies that “God” does it. Alternate translation: “does God still judge me” or “should God keep on judging me”

a sinner

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sinner, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “someone who sins” or “as if I were sinful”

Romans 3:8

And

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

And here indicates that in this verse Paul continues speaking as if he were an unbelieving Jew and is challenging the statement he made in 3:6. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Furthermore” or “In addition”

And not (just as we are blasphemed and just as some affirm us to say), “Let us do the evil things, so that the good things may come

Quote: καὶ μὴ καθὼς βλασφημούμεθα, καὶ καθώς φασίν τινες ἡμᾶς λέγειν, ὅτι ποιήσωμεν τὰ κακὰ, ἵνα ἔλθῃ τὰ ἀγαθά? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “And not, ‘Let us do evil, so that good may come,’ just as we are blasphemed and just as some affirm we say?”

And not

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “And why not say”

not (… Let us do the evil things, so that the good things may come

Quote: μὴ & ὅτι ποιήσωμεν τὰ κακὰ, ἵνα ἔλθῃ τὰ ἀγαθά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this sentence Paul is not asking for information, but is using an elided question here (“And why not say”) to emphasize that God could not judge the world if he were unrighteous. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you should say … ‘Let us do the evil things, so that the good things may come!’”

just as we are blasphemed and just as some affirm us to say

Quote: καθὼς βλασφημούμεθα, καὶ καθώς φασίν τινες ἡμᾶς λέγειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-aside

Paul is saying this as an aside in order to show that people have been falsely accusing him of teaching that people should sin in order to show how good God is. If this would be confusing in your language, you could add parentheses like the ULT or use a natural way in your language to indicate an aside. Alternate translation: “Some people blaspheme us and affirm that we are saying such things”

we are blasphemed … us

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

When Paul says we and us, he could be (1) speaking only of himself in a formal manner. Alternate translation: “I am blasphemed … me” (2) speaking of himself and all other Christians. Alternate translation: “we Christians are blasphemed … us”

we are blasphemed

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people blaspheme us”

not (just as we are blasphemed and just as some affirm us to say), “Let us do the evil things

Quote: μὴ καθὼς βλασφημούμεθα, καὶ καθώς φασίν τινες ἡμᾶς λέγειν, ὅτι ποιήσωμεν τὰ κακὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “not say (just as we are blasphemed and just as some affirm us to say) that we should do the evil things”

whose judgment is just

Quote: ὧν τὸ κρίμα ἔνδικόν ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-aside

Paul is saying this as an aside to show that the people who have been falsely accusing him of teaching people to “do the evil things, so that the good things may come” are the ones who deserve to be judged by God. If this would be confusing in your language, you could add parentheses as in the ULT or use a natural way in your language to indicate an aside.

whose judgment is just

Quote: ὧν τὸ κρίμα ἔνδικόν ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun whose here refers to the people who slander Paul by claiming that he teaches people to “do the evil things, so that the good things may come.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the judgment of those who say this is just”

whose judgment is just

Quote: ὧν τὸ κρίμα ἔνδικόν ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “who are justly judged” or “whom God justly judges”

Romans 3:9

What then? Are we better off

Quote: τί οὖν? προεχόμεθα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here Paul concludes his series of rhetorical questions by using the same phrase What then he used to begin this discussion. See how you translated this phrase in 3:1.

Are we better off

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

Paul is using the question form to express an objection that a Jew might have to what Paul has said previously. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely we are not better off!”

Are we better off

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

Here, we is used exclusively to speak of Paul and his fellow Jews. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “Are we Jews better off”

Not at all

Quote: οὐ πάντως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

Not at all is an exclamation that communicates a strong negative response to the previous statement. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this idea. Alternate translation: “Absolutely not!” or “In no way!”

Not at all

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “We are not better off at all”

For we have already accused

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “We are not better off because we have already accused”

we have already accused

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

Here, we could mean: (1) Paul is speaking only of himself in a formal manner. Alternate translation: “I have already accused” (2) Paul is speaking of himself and other Christians. Alternate translation: “we Christians have already accused” See how you translated we in the previous verse.

Greeks

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

Here, Greeks refers to non-Jewish people in general. It does not refer only to people from the country of Greece. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “non-Jewish people”

under sin

Quote: ὑφ’ ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase under sin is an idiom that means “under the power of sin” or “controlled by one’s desire to sin.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “controlled by sin” or “unable to stop sinning”

Romans 3:10

Just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

Just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Just as the prophets wrote”

There is none righteous, not even one

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δίκαιος οὐδὲ εἷς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is Paul’s paraphrase of Psalm 14:3. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

There is none righteous, not even one

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δίκαιος οὐδὲ εἷς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that not even one person is righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “There is not even one person who is righteous” or “Absolutely no one who is righteous”

There is none righteous, not even one

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δίκαιος οὐδὲ εἷς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the singular adjectives none righteous and one as nouns in order to describe all people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “There are no righteous people, not any people” or “There is no righteous person, not even one person”

Romans 3:11

There is none who understands. There is none who seeks out God

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν ὁ συνίων; οὐκ ἔστιν ὁ ἐκζητῶν τὸν Θεόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is Paul’s paraphrase of Psalm 14:2 and Psalm 53:3. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

There is none … There is none

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν & οὐκ ἔστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjectives none as nouns in order to describe all people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “There are no man … There are no man” or “There is no person … There is no person”

There is none who understands

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν ὁ συνίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, who understands refers to someone who is able to think wisely or correctly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “There is none who is wise”

who seeks out God

Quote: ὁ ἐκζητῶν τὸν Θεόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul quotes David using seeks to describe people attempting to know God as if God were lost and people needed to find him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who attempts to know God”

Romans 3:12

All of them turned away. They together became useless. There is none doing kindness—there is not even one

Quote: πάντες ἐξέκλιναν, ἅμα ἠχρεώθησαν; οὐκ ἔστιν ποιῶν χρηστότητα, οὐκ ἔστιν ἕως ἑνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is quotation of Psalm 14:3 and Psalm 53:4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

turned away

Quote: ἐξέκλιναν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David using turned away to describe these people as if they had left a path that leads to where God is. David means that they refuse to live according to God’s rules. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “refused to live the way God requires”

They together became useless

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

Here, useless implies that these sinful people are so sinful that they benefit neither God nor humankind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “They together became worthless for benefitting anyone”

There is none doing kindness—there is not even one

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν ποιῶν χρηστότητα, οὐκ ἔστιν ἕως ἑνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean the same thing. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that not even one type of person can continually do kindness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “There is not even one person who does kindness” or “Absolutely no one is doing kindness”

none … one

Quote: οὐκ & ἑνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated none and one in 3:10.

kindness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of kindness, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “what is kind”

Romans 3:13

Their throat {is} an opened grave. They keep deceiving with their tongues

Quote: τάφος ἀνεῳγμένος ὁ λάρυγξ αὐτῶν; ταῖς γλώσσαις αὐτῶν ἐδολιοῦσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

These two sentences are a quotation from Psalm 5:10. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Their throat {is} an opened grave. They keep deceiving with their tongues. The poison of asps {is} under their lips

Quote: τάφος ἀνεῳγμένος ὁ λάρυγξ αὐτῶν; ταῖς γλώσσαις αὐτῶν ἐδολιοῦσαν; ἰὸς ἀσπίδων ὑπὸ τὰ χείλη αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These three sentences mean the same thing. Paul says the same thing three times, in slightly different ways, to show how harmful the words are that these people say. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “The things they say are deadly, deceptive, and damaging”

Their throat

Quote: ὁ λάρυγξ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul quotes David speaking of these people’s throats in general, not of one particular throat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Each of their throats”

Their throat

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

Here Paul quotes David using throat to describe something people would say by using their throats to say it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “What they say”

Their throat {is} an opened grave

Quote: τάφος ἀνεῳγμένος ὁ λάρυγξ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David using opened grave to describe these people’s throat as if it were a deep hole containing rotting corpses. He means that the things these people say are morally corrupt and offend God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “Their words express moral corruption”

with their tongues

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

Here Paul quotes David using tongues to describe something people would say to deceive someone, using their tongues to say it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with what they say”

The poison of asps {is} under their lips

Quote: ἰὸς ἀσπίδων ὑπὸ τὰ χείλη αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 140:3. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

The poison of asps

Quote: ἰὸς ἀσπίδων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe poison that comes from asps, which are venomous snakes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Asp’s poison”

The poison of asps

Quote: ἰὸς ἀσπίδων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David using poison of asps to refer to what people say as if what they say contained poison. He means that the things they say harm people as does deadly venom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternative translation: “What hurts people like a poisonous snake bite” or “Speech that hurts people”

is} under their lips

Quote: ὑπὸ τὰ χείλη αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Paul quotes David using lips to describe something people would say to harm someone by using their lips to say it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is in what they say”

Romans 3:14

whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness

Quote: ὧν τὸ στόμα ἀρᾶς καὶ πικρίας γέμει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 10:7. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

mouth

Quote: τὸ στόμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul quotes David speaking of these people’s mouths in general, not of one particular mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “speech”

whose mouth

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

Here Paul quotes David using mouth to describe people speaking curses and bitter things by using their mouth to say them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what they say” or "whose speech"

is full of cursing and bitterness

Quote: ἀρᾶς καὶ πικρίας γέμει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David using cursing and bitterness as if these concepts were things with which people could fill or load their mouth. He means that these people habitually curse and say bitter things against others. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “habitually curses and says bitter things against others”

Romans 3:15-17

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

General Information:

Verses 15–17 are Paul’s paraphrase of Isaiah 59:7–8. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Romans 3:15

Their feet

Quote: οἱ πόδες αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul quotes Isaiah using feet, a part of the human body, to refer to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “These people”

to pour out blood

Quote: ἐκχέαι αἷμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Isaiah using pour out blood to refer to violently murdering people, which usually causes blood to come out of the people who are murdered. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “to murder others”

Romans 3:16

Destruction and suffering

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of Destruction and suffering, you could express the same ideas with other expressions. Alternate translation: “Demolishing lives and making people suffer”

are} in their ways

Quote: ἐν ταῖς ὁδοῖς αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, ways is an idiom meaning “wherever they go” or “how they behave.” It refers to a person’s daily life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “characterize how they behave”

Romans 3:17

a way

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

See how you translated “ways” in the previous verse.

a way of peace

Quote: ὁδὸν εἰρήνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a way that is characterized by peace. He means that these people do not understand how to live peacefully. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a peaceful way” or “a peaceful way to behave”

Romans 3:18

There is no fear of God before their eyes

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν φόβος Θεοῦ ἀπέναντι τῶν ὀφθαλμῶν αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 36:1. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

There is no fear of God

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν φόβος Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fear, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “There are no fearful feelings about God before their eyes”

fear of God

Quote: φόβος Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe fear that people should feel toward for God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “fear for God” or “fear about God”

before their eyes

Quote: ἀπέναντι τῶν ὀφθαλμῶν αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here,before their eyes is an idiom that refers to thinking about something. Paul means that these people do not think at all about how terrifying God is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “in their minds”

Romans 3:19

Now

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

Now here indicates that what follows summarizes Paul’s teachings about the law and “the righteousness of God” in 3:1–9. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Indeed”

we know

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

Here, we is used exclusively to speak of Paul and other Jews. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we Jews know”

as many things as the law says, it speaks

Quote: ὅσα ὁ νόμος λέγει & λαλεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a person who could speak. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as many things as God says in the law, he speaks”

the law … the law

Quote: ὁ νόμος & τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Paul uses the law to refer to the entire Old Testament, which includes the law. Here he is not referring to only the law of Moses, as he did earlier in the chapter. We know this because in 3:10–18 Paul quoted verses from parts of the Old Testament that are not in the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Scriptures … the Scriptures”

to the ones with the law

Quote: τοῖς ἐν τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses those with the law to refer to the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2:12. Alternative translation: “to Jews” or “to those who know the law”

so that

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

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for what the law says. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “in order that”

every mouth may be shut

Quote: πᾶν στόμα φραγῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, every mouth may be shut is an idiom that means “no one can say anything to excuse themselves.” Paul means that no one can defend themselves before God, because everyone has sinned. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “no human being can excuse himself”

may be shut

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “may stop talking”

all the world

Quote: πᾶς ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul usesall the world figuratively to refer to all the people living in the world. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all the people in the world”

may become accountable to God

Quote: ὑπόδικος γένηται & τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase may become accountable to God means that God will judge everyone at the final judgment according to how they lived their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “may fall under God's judgment of guilt”

Romans 3:20

because

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

Here. because introduces a reason clause. Paul is stating the reason why all humanity is “accountable to God,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a reason clause. You may need to begin a new sentence, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “The reason for this is that” or “As a result,”

not any flesh will be justified

Quote: οὐ δικαιωθήσεται πᾶσα σὰρξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who will do the action, Paul implies that “God” will do it. Alternate translation: “God will not justify any flesh” or “God will not make any flesh righteous”

flesh

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

Paul uses flesh figuratively to refer to a human being, who is made of flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “human being”

by works of law … full awareness of sin {is} through law

Quote: ἐξ ἔργων νόμου & διὰ & νόμου ἐπίγνωσις ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse Paul speaks of the law as if it were a person who could justify someone or give them full awareness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by doing what God requires in his law … God gives full awareness of sin through his law”

by works of law

Quote: ἐξ ἔργων νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated a similar phrase in 2:15.

of law … law

Quote: νόμου & νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

In this verse law is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. It does not refer to the entire Old Testament, as in the previous verse. See how you translated this use of law in 2:12.

before him

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

Here, before him is an idiom meaning “in his presence.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “in his presence”

full awareness of sin

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of full awareness and sin, you could express the same ideas in a different way. Alternate translation: “fully aware of being sinful”

full awareness of sin

Quote: ἐπίγνωσις ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe full awareness about the sin a person has committed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “full knowledge about sin”

is} through law

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

Here, through law indicates the means by which a person becomes fully aware of sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of law”

Romans 3:21

But now

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

But now here indicates that what follows is in contrast to Paul’s discussion about the law in 2:1–3:20. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Yet now”

But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been made visible

Quote: νυνὶ δὲ χωρὶς νόμου, δικαιοσύνη Θεοῦ πεφανέρωται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “But now, the righteousness of God has been made known apart from the law”

the law, … the Law

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

While the first occurrence of the law in this verse refers to the laws that God gave the Jews through Moses, the second occurrence refers to the first five books in the Old Testament that were written by Moses. The ULT shows this difference by using the law and the Law respectively. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the laws that God gave Israel … the part of Scripture that Moses wrote”

apart from the law

Quote: χωρὶς νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, apart from the law could mean: (1) apart from doing what the law requires. Alternate translation: “without having to do what the law requires” (2) outside of what the law says. Alternate translation: “not related to what the law says” or “differently than what the law says”

the righteousness of God has been made visible

Quote: δικαιοσύνη Θεοῦ πεφανέρωται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God has made his righteousness visible” or “God has revealed his righteousness”

the righteousness of God

Quote: δικαιοσύνη Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets

Quote: μαρτυρουμένη ὑπὸ τοῦ νόμου καὶ τῶν προφητῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Law and the Prophets bearing witness”

being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets

Quote: μαρτυρουμένη ὑπὸ τοῦ νόμου καὶ τῶν προφητῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul uses the Law and the Prophets as if they were people who could witness or testify in a courtroom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what God says in the Law and the Prophets is a written testimony to this”

by the Law and the Prophets

Quote: ὑπὸ τοῦ νόμου καὶ τῶν προφητῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul is using the name of two parts of the Hebrew Scriptures, the Law and the Prophets, to represent the entire Hebrew Scriptures in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in your Scriptures”

Romans 3:22

but

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

Here, but indicates that what follows explains how a person receives “the righteousness of God”. It does not indicate a contrast. Alternate translation: “namely,” or “even”

the righteousness of God

Quote: δικαιοσύνη & Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

is} through faith in Jesus Christ

Quote: διὰ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, faith in Jesus Christ is a possessive form that indicates faith that is associated with Jesus Christ. This could refer to: (1) trust in Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “by trusting in Jesus Christ” or “by believing in Jesus Christ” (2) the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “through the faithfulness that Jesus Christ possesses” or “through how faithful Jesus Christ is”

the ones believing

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

Paul is leaving out some words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “those who believe in him” or “those who believe in Jesus for salvation”

for

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

Here, for introduces a reason clause. Paul is giving the reason why the righteousness of God is for all those who believe. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “because”

there is no distinction

Quote: οὐ & ἐστιν διαστολή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of distinction, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “God does not discriminate” or “God is not partial”

Romans 3:23

For

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

For here introduces a reason clause. Paul is giving the reason why “there is no distinction,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “The reason for this is that”

all

Quote: πάντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Here Paul uses the adjective all as a noun that refers to all the people who have ever existed or ever will exist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all people”

fall short of the glory of God

Quote: ὑστεροῦνται τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of all people as if they were something that fails to reach its destination. He means that they lack or do not attain the glory of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “lack the glory of God” or “fail to attain the glory of God”

of the glory of God

Quote: τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here the possessive form the glory of God could refer to: (1) the glory that God shared with humans when he created them, but which they lost when the first humans sinned. Alternate translation: “the glory God once gave them” or “the glory from God” (2) glorifying God, as in the similar phrase “the glory of the imperishable God” in 1:23. Alternate translation: “of glorifying God”

Romans 3:24

being justified freely by his grace

Quote: δικαιούμενοι δωρεὰν τῇ αὐτοῦ χάριτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of grace as if it were a person who could justify someone. Paul means that God graciously makes people righteous as a gift. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and are gifted with becoming righteous because God is gracious”

being justified freely

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

Paul assumes that his readers know that those who are being justified freely are “all” those who “have sinned” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “all people are being freely justified”

freely

Quote: δωρεὰν (1)

Alternate translation: “as a gift” or “without payment”

by his grace through the redemption that {is} in Christ Jesus

Quote: τῇ αὐτοῦ χάριτι, διὰ τῆς ἀπολυτρώσεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and redemption, you could express the same ideas with different forms. Alternate translation: “by God being gracious through redeeming them in Christ Jesus” or “due to how kind God is, because Christ Jesus redeemed them”

redemption

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

The word translated as redemption refers to rescuing someone from captivity by paying a ransom. Your language may require you to indicate what the people are redeemed from. This could mean: (1) Jesus redeems people from eternal punishment. Alternative translation: “redemption from eternal punishment” (2) Jesus redeems people from being enslaved to sin. Alternative translation: “redemption from enslavement to sin”

that {is} in Christ Jesus

Quote: τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul speaks of redemption as if it were an object that could be inside Jesus. Paul means that God redeemed all people who believe in Jesus by uniting them to Christ Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you can express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “that comes through union with Christ Jesus” or “that is through being united to Christ Jesus”

Romans 3:25

whom God presented {as} a propitiation

Quote: ὃν προέθετο ὁ Θεὸς ἱλαστήριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses presented as if Jesus were an Old Testament atonement sacrifice that was presented to God in the temple. He means that Jesus’ death was a sacrifice for the sins of humankind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “whom God offered to atone for the sins of humanity”

as} a propitiation through faith … for a demonstration of his righteousness

Quote: ἱλαστήριον, διὰ πίστεως & εἰς ἔνδειξιν τῆς δικαιοσύνης αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of propitiation, faith, demonstration, or righteousness, you could express the same ideas with different forms. Alternate translation: “to atone for people’s sins by trusting … to demonstrate how he makes people righteous”

in his blood

Quote: ἐν τῷ αὐτοῦ αἵματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Paul uses his blood to refer to Jesus’ death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in Christ’s death”

for a demonstration of his righteousness

Quote: εἰς ἔνδειξιν τῆς δικαιοσύνης αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for indicates that the phrase that follows is the purpose for which God presented Jesus as a propitiation. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order to demonstrate his righteousness”

of his righteousness

Quote: τῆς δικαιοσύνης αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated “the righteousness of God” in 1:17.

because of the overlooking of the sins

Quote: διὰ τὴν πάρεσιν τῶν & ἁμαρτημάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of overlooking, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “because he overlooked the sins”

of the sins that happened previously

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sin, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “how they had sinned previously”

Romans 3:26

in

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

Here, in introduces a reason clause. Paul is giving the reason for God “overlooking of the sins that happened previously,” as stated in the previous verse. Starting a new sentence, use a natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “The reason for this is”

in the forbearance of God

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἀνοχῇ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of forbearance, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “because God is so forbearing” or “since God forbears”

in the forbearance of God

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἀνοχῇ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe God as being characterized by forbearance. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in God’s forbearance”

for the demonstration of his righteousness

Quote: πρὸς τὴν ἔνδειξιν τῆς δικαιοσύνης αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

at this present time

Quote: ἐν τῷ νῦν καιρῷ (1)

Alternate translation: “at this time in history” or “currently”

so that he could be

Quote: εἰς τὸ εἶναι αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that what follows is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God now demonstrates his righteousness. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “in order that he would be”

the one who {is} from faith in Jesus

Quote: τὸν ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of all people who have faith in Jesus, not one particular person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “anyone who is from faith in Jesus” or “every person who trusts in Jesus”

the one who {is} from faith in Jesus

Quote: τὸν ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here Paul is using the possessive form to describe a person who is characterized by faith in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the one who is characterized by faith in Jesus”

faith in Jesus

Quote: πίστεως Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 3:22.

Romans 3:27-31

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Connecting Statement:

In 3:27–31 Paul uses a series of rhetorical questions and answers in order to emphasize that God alone makes people righteous through faith in Jesus. Like in 3:1–9, Paul is speaking as if he were a non-Christian Jew when he asks the rhetorical questions, but he is speaking as himself when he answers those questions.

Romans 3:27

then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in 3:21–26. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, inserting a parenthetical phrase between commas. Alternate translation: “, if it is God who makes people righteous through faith in Jesus,”

Where then {is} the boasting

Quote: ποῦ οὖν ἡ καύχησις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using this question to express an objection that a Jew might have to what Paul said in 3:21–26. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “There then is no grounds for boasting!”

Where then {is} the boasting

Quote: ποῦ οὖν ἡ καύχησις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of boasting as if it were an object that could be in a location. He means that no one can boast, because only God makes people righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “Then can anyone boast”

Where then {is} the boasting

Quote: ποῦ οὖν ἡ καύχησις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of boasting, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “Who then can boast”

It is excluded

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

In this sentence Paul responds to the rhetorical question in the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘It is excluded!’”

It is excluded

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has excluded it” or “God does not allow it”

Through what kind of law? Of the works? … through a law of faith

Quote: διὰ ποίου νόμου? τῶν ἔργων? & διὰ νόμου πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that these sentences would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “Through what kind of law is a person made righteous? Is a person made righteous through the works of the law? … a person is made righteous through a law of faith”

Through what kind of law? Of the works

Quote: διὰ ποίου νόμου? τῶν ἔργων? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In these two sentences Paul is not asking for information, but is using these two questions to express the objections that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous sentence and in 3:21–26. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely through a kind of law! Surely through the works!” or “Surely a person is made righteous through a kind of law! Surely a person is made righteous through works!”

Of the works

Quote: τῶν ἔργων? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a law that is characterized by works. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Through a law characterized by works?” or “By doing what the law requires?”

No! But through a law of faith

Quote: οὐχί, ἀλλὰ διὰ νόμου πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this sentence Paul responds to the rhetorical questions in the previous two sentences. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘No! But through a law of faith.’”

No

Quote: οὐχί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

No! is an exclamation that communicates a strong contrast to the previous statement. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “Not at all!”

through a law of faith

Quote: διὰ νόμου πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a law that is characterized by faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “through a law characterized by faith” or “by doing what faith requires”

of faith

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “of trusting in God”

Romans 3:28

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, what follows explains what “the law of faith” means in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

we reckon

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

Here, we is used exclusively to speak of Paul and other Christian Jews, as indicated in 3:9. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we believing Jews consider” or “we believing Jews regard”

a man

Quote: ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Paul is using the word here in the generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “humankind” or “a person”

a man to be justified

Quote: δικαιοῦσθαι & ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in an active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “that God justifies a man” or “that God makes a man righteous”

by faith

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “by believing in Jesus”

works of the law

Quote: ἔργων νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to refer to the works that God requires in the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the works that the law requires”

Romans 3:29

Or

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

Or here indicates that the next two sentences are the responses that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Or you Jews might say”

Is he} not also of Gentiles? Yes, also of Gentiles

Quote: οὐχὶ καὶ ἐθνῶν? ναὶ, καὶ ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that these sentences would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Is he not also God of Gentiles? Yes, he is also God of Gentiles”

of Gentiles? … of Gentiles

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

See how you translated Gentiles in 1:5.

is he} God of Jews only? {Is he} not also of Gentiles

Quote: Ἰουδαίων ὁ Θεὸς μόνον? οὐχὶ καὶ ἐθνῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using these two questions here to express the responses that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous verse. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “God is surely not only the God of Jews! He is surely also the God of Gentiles!”

Yes, also of Gentiles

Quote: ναὶ, καὶ ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this sentence Paul responds to the rhetorical questions in the previous two sentences. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘Yes, also of Gentiles’”

Yes

Quote: ναὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

Yes is an exclamation that communicates enthusiasm. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating enthusiasm. Alternate translation (change the period to an exclamation point): “Of course!”

Romans 3:30

if, indeed

Quote: εἴπερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul uses if as if the rest of the verse were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation, (without either comma preceding): “Since we know” or “Because it is true that”

if, indeed

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

This phrase introduces the reason why Paul could say in the previous verse that God is also the God of the Gentiles. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a reason clause. Alternate translation: “since, indeed” or “we know this is true because, indeed”

God {is} one

Quote: εἷς ὁ Θεός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of God as if he were a number. He means that God is the one and only true God for both Jews and Gentiles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “there is only one God”

who will justify the circumcision by faith and the uncircumcision through the {same} faith

Quote: ὃς δικαιώσει περιτομὴν ἐκ πίστεως, καὶ ἀκροβυστίαν διὰ τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about who our God is. It is not making a distinction between the one true God and false gods. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he is the one who will justify the circumcision by faith, and he will justify the uncircumcision through the same faith”

the circumcision … the uncircumcision

Quote: περιτομὴν & ἀκροβυστίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The words circumcision and uncircumcision are singular nouns that refer to groups of people. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the circumcised people … the uncircumcised people”

the circumcision … the uncircumcision

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

Here Paul uses the circumcision to refer to the Jews by associating them with circumcision, and he uses the uncircumcision figuratively to refer to the Gentiles by associating them with uncircumcision. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish people … the non-Jewish people”

by faith … through the {same} faith

Quote: ἐκ πίστεως & διὰ τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 3:26.

Romans 3:31

Do we then nullify the law

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

Here, then indicates that this sentence is the response that a Jew might have made to what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Then you Jews might say, ‘Do we nullify the law’”

Do we then nullify the law through the {same} faith

Quote: νόμον οὖν καταργοῦμεν διὰ τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using this question to express the response that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous verse. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we surely nullify the law through the same faith!”

Do we then nullify

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

Here, we is used exclusively to speak of the unbelieving Jews on whose behalf Paul is speaking. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “Do we Jews then nullify”

Do we then nullify the law

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

Here, nullify the law means to make the law useless or no longer applicable to anyone. Paul is stating that the Jews might worry that he is teaching that the law of Moses does not have any function at all because God makes people righteous by faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Do we make the law useless” or “Do we throw away the law”

through the {same} faith

Quote: διὰ τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

May it never be! Instead, we uphold the law

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο! ἀλλὰ νόμον ἱστάνομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In these two sentences Paul responds to the rhetorical questions in the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘May it never be! Instead, we establish the law’”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:6.

we uphold the law

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

Here, we is used exclusively to refer to Paul and other Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we Christians uphold the law”

we uphold the law

Quote: νόμον ἱστάνομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses uphold to refer to the law as if it were an object that people could hold up high. The meaning of uphold here is the opposite meaning of nullify, used earlier in the verse. It could mean: (1) Christians fulfill the requirements of the law by trusting in Jesus, who fulfilled the law for them. Alternate translation: “we fulfill the law by faith” (2) Christians value the law and affirm that it is useful. Alternative translation: “we confirm that the law is useful” or “we affirm that the law has value”

Romans 4

Romans 4 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Righteousness is received through Jesus Christ by trusting in him (3:21–5:21)
   • God’s righteousness is received through faith (3:21–26)
   • No one can boast in works (3:27–31)
   • The examples of Abraham and David (4:1–25)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 4:7–8 of this chapter, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

The purpose of the law of Moses

In this chapter Paul continues to develop his argument based on what he wrote in the previous chapter. He explains how God made Abraham, the ancestor of all Jews, righteous a long time before God gave the law of Moses to the Jews. Even Abraham could not become righteous by what he did. Rather, God made Abraham righteous on the basis of Abraham’s faith. Obeying the law of Moses does not make a person righteous. People have always become righteous only by faith. (See: just, justice, unjust, injustice, justify, justification and law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and faith)

Circumcision

Circumcision was important to the Israelites. It identified a person as a descendant of Abraham. It was also a sign of the covenant between Abraham and Yahweh. However, being circumcised never made anyone righteous. In this chapter Paul uses “circumcision” to refer to Jews and “uncircumcision” to refer to non-Jews. (See: circumcise, circumcised, circumcision, uncircumcised, uncircumcision and covenant)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Rhetorical Questions

In 4:1, 3, and 9–10 Paul continues using rhetorical questions like he did in the previous chapter. He does this in order to answer objections that Jews might make about what he is saying.

Romans 4:1-12

Connecting Statement:

4:1–12 are a series of rhetorical questions and answers that Paul uses to emphasize that even Abraham, the ancestor of the Jewish people, was made righteous by God “through faith.”

Romans 4:1

What then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous chapter, especially what he said in 3:27–31. See how you translated What then in 3:1.

What then will we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has discovered

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν, εὑρηκέναι Ἀβραὰμ τὸν προπάτορα ἡμῶν κατὰ σάρκα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this verse Paul is not asking for information, but is using a question to express the objections that a Jew might have to what Paul said in the previous chapter, especially what he said in 3:27–31. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we will say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has surely discovered something!”

What then will we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has discovered

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν, εὑρηκέναι Ἀβραὰμ τὸν προπάτορα ἡμῶν κατὰ σάρκα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this verse and the first part of the next verse, Paul is speaking as if he were a non-Christian Jew arguing against Paul. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

will we say

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

In 4:1–9 Paul uses we exclusively to speak of himself and other Jews. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “will we Jews say”

that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has discovered

Quote: εὑρηκέναι Ἀβραὰμ τὸν προπάτορα ἡμῶν κατὰ σάρκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “that Abraham has discovered, who is our forefather according to the flesh”

according to the flesh

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

See how you translated according to the flesh in 1:3.

Romans 4:2

For if Abraham was justified by works, he has a boast

Quote: εἰ γὰρ Ἀβραὰμ ἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη, ἔχει καύχημα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

These clauses continue the the statements that an unbelieving Jew might make against Paul that began in the previous verse. You may need to indicate this with a closing quotation mark at the end of these clauses or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation.

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason for the statement in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This must be the case because”

if Abraham was justified by works, he has a boast

Quote: εἰ & Ἀβραὰμ ἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη, ἔχει καύχημα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that the unbelieving Jew might think that this is actually true. In Paul’s time some Jewish teachers taught that Abraham had a right to boast because of his faith. However, since translating this as if it were true might confuse your readers, it is best to use a hypothetical sentence, as in the UST.

Abraham was justified

Quote: Ἀβραὰμ & ἐδικαιώθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God justified Abraham” or “God made Abraham right with himself”

by works

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

Paul assumes that his readers would understand that worksmeans “works of the law” as in 3:28. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by doing what God requires from his people”

but not before God

Quote: ἀλλ’ οὐ πρὸς Θεόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this clause Paul begins to respond to the rhetorical questions he wrote in the previous clauses and previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘But not before God!’”

but not before God

Quote: ἀλλ’ οὐ πρὸς Θεόν. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

What follows the word but here is an emphatic contrast to what was just stated. Paul is negating the argument that he presented earlier in this verse and in the previous verse. You could make this emphasis explicit by replacing the period with an exclamation point or another natural way in your language for introducing am emphatic contrast. Alternate translation: “but certainly not before God!” or “however, not from God’s perspective!”

before God

Quote: πρὸς Θεόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Abraham as if he were located in the presence of God. He means that Abraham could not boast to God about his righteousness if it was righteous by works. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “from God’s perspective”

Romans 4:3

For

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

For here indicates that what follows in this verse is the reason why Paul said in the previous verse that Abraham cannot boast “before God.” Use a natural way in your language to introduce a reason clause. Alternative translation: “This is true because”

what does the scripture say

Quote: τί & ἡ Γραφὴ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “the scripture surely says”

what does the scripture say

Quote: τί & ἡ Γραφὴ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul uses say as if the scripture were a person who could speak. He means that the scripture he is about to quote contains information related to the topic he is discussing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what information is in the scripture”

what does the scripture say

Quote: τί & ἡ Γραφὴ λέγει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses what does the scripture say to indicate a quotation from an Old Testament book (Genesis 15:6). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “what is written in the scripture”

the scripture

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

Here, the scripture refers specifically to the quotation from Genesis 15:6 that follows in this verse. It does not refer to the Scriptures in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the scripture that Moses wrote in Genesis”

it was credited to him as righteousness

Quote: ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God credited it to him as righteousness”

it was credited

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

The pronoun it refers to Abraham’s faith, which was implied by the statement that Abraham believed God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his faith was credited” or “his trust in God was credited”

righteousness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “being righteous” or “being right with God”

Romans 4:4

Now

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

Now here indicates that what follows in verses 4–5 is an explanation of the scripture quotation in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “In fact,” or “Certainly,”

to the one working

Quote: τῷ & ἐργαζομένῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here, the one who works refers to a hypothetical person who obeys the laws God gave through Moses and is “made righteous by works” (See: 4:2). However, since the meaning of verses 4–5 is given in the next verse, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

the wage is not credited according to grace

Quote: ὁ μισθὸς οὐ λογίζεται κατὰ χάριν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he does not consider his wage as grace” or “he does not regard his pay as grace”

according to grace, … according to obligation

Quote: κατὰ χάριν & κατὰ ὀφείλημα (1)

Alternate translation: “as a matter of grace … as a matter of obligation” or “as a gift … as an obligation”

according to grace, … according to obligation

Quote: κατὰ χάριν & κατὰ ὀφείλημα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and obligation, you could express the same ideas with different forms. Alternate translation: “as what is gracious … as what is owed” or “as something gifted … as something owed”

Romans 4:5

Now

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

Now here indicates that what follows in this verse is in contrast to what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to express contrasting ideas. Alternate translation: “But”

to the one not working

Quote: τῷ & μὴ ἐργαζομένῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one who does not work refers to a person who does not obey the laws God gave through Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the one who is does not obey God’s laws”

the one justifying

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

Here, the one who justifies refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God who justifies” or “God who makes righteous”

the ungodly

Quote: τὸν ἀσεβῆ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the singular adjective phrase the ungodly as a noun in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are ungodly” or “people who do ungodly things”

his faith is credited as righteousness

Quote: λογίζεται ἡ πίστις αὐτοῦ εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who does the action, Paul implies that “God” does it. See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:3. Alternate translation: “God credited his faith as righteousness”

his faith … as righteousness

Quote: ἡ πίστις αὐτοῦ εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of faith and righteousness, you could express the same ideas with different forms. Alternate translation: “how he trusts … as being righteous” or “how he trusts in God … as being right with God”

Romans 4:6

David also speaks {of

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

Paul uses David also speaks of here to introduce a scripture quotation from Psalm 31:1–2, which David wrote. This occurs in 4:7–8. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from the Old Testament. Alternate translation: “David also wrote in the Old Testament of”

the blessedness of the man

Quote: τὸν μακαρισμὸν τοῦ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of blessedness, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “how blessed the man is”

the blessedness of the man

Quote: τὸν μακαρισμὸν τοῦ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the man that is characterized by blessedness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the blessed man” or “the happy man”

of the man

Quote: τοῦ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of people in general, not of one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “of a person”

to whom God credits righteousness apart from works

Quote: ᾧ ὁ Θεὸς λογίζεται δικαιοσύνην χωρὶς ἔργων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about the the man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “that is, the man God credits as righteous apart from works”

credits righteousness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “counts being righteous” or “counts being right with himself”

apart from works

Quote: χωρὶς ἔργων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 3:28.

Romans 4:7

Blessed {are those} whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins have been covered

Quote: μακάριοι, ὧν ἀφέθησαν αἱ ἀνομίαι καὶ ὧν ἐπεκαλύφθησαν αἱ ἁμαρτίαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is the beginning of a quotation from Psalm 31:1–2. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation.

Blessed {are those} whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins have been covered

Quote: μακάριοι, ὧν ἀφέθησαν αἱ ἀνομίαι καὶ ὧν ἐπεκαλύφθησαν αἱ ἁμαρτίαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean the same thing. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to show how Blessed these people are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “How blessed are those people whom God forgives completely for all their sins”

whose lawless deeds … whose sins

Quote: ὧν & αἱ ἀνομίαι & ὧν & αἱ ἁμαρτίαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of lawless deeds and sins, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “the lawless things they have done … the sins they have committed”

have been forgiven, … have been covered

Quote: ἀφέθησαν & ἐπεκαλύφθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God forgives … God covers”

whose sins have been covered

Quote: ὧν ἐπεκαλύφθησαν αἱ ἁμαρτίαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul quotes David leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “blessed are those whose sins have been covered”

have been covered

Quote: ἐπεκαλύφθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David using covered to refer to God forgiving sins as if he covers sins so that he no longer sees them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “have been forgiven”

Romans 4:8

Blessed {is} a man whose sin the Lord does certainly not count

Quote: μακάριος ἀνὴρ, οὗ οὐ μὴ λογίσηται Κύριος ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

The end of this verse is the end of a quotation from Psalm 31:1–2. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation.

Blessed {is} a man whose sin the Lord does certainly not count

Quote: μακάριος ἀνὴρ, οὗ οὐ μὴ λογίσηται Κύριος ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

This verse means the same thing as the two clauses in the previous verse. Paul says the same thing here in a slightly different way to emphasize how Blessed people are whom God forgives for their sins. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “How truly blessed is a man whose sin the Lord does certainly not count!”

a man

Quote: ἀνὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul quotes David speaking of people in general, not of one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “a person”

sin

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sin, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “sinful deeds”

does certainly not count

Quote: οὐ μὴ λογίσηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David using count to refer to God remembering or regarding people’s sins after he has forgiven them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “does certainly not regard”

certainly not

Quote: οὐ μὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The phrase certainly not translates two negative words in Greek. Paul quotes David using them together to emphasize how certain it is that God does not regard people’s sin after he has forgiven them. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “never”

Romans 4:9

Then

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

Then here introduces a result clause. This verse indicates the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in 4:6–8. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result,”

is} this blessedness upon the circumcision, or also upon the uncircumcision

Quote: ὁ μακαρισμὸς & οὗτος ἐπὶ τὴν περιτομὴν, ἢ καὶ ἐπὶ τὴν ἀκροβυστίαν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “this blessedness is surely upon the circumcision and also upon the uncircumcision!”

is} this blessedness

Quote: ὁ μακαρισμὸς & οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this blessedness refers to the joyful state of those people whom God forgives and makes righteous, as mentioned in 4:6–8. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is this blessed state of being forgiven by God” or “is this blessed forgiveness from God”

is} this blessedness upon the circumcision, … upon the uncircumcision

Quote: ὁ μακαρισμὸς & οὗτος ἐπὶ τὴν περιτομὴν & ἐπὶ τὴν ἀκροβυστίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of blessedness as if it were an object that could be put upon someone. He means that both circumcised and uncircumcised people can receive the blessing of forgiveness from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is this blessedness given to the circumcision … to the uncircumcision”

the circumcision, … the uncircumcision

Quote: τὴν περιτομὴν & τὴν ἀκροβυστίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated these words in 3:30.

For

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

For here indicates that what follows answers the rhetorical question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Indeed, ”

we say

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

Here Paul uses we exclusively to refer to Paul and other Jews. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we Jewish people say”

we say

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

Paul uses we say here to introduce a modified scripture quotation from Genesis 15:6, which Moses wrote. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from the Old Testament. Alternate translation: “we say what Moses wrote in the Old Testament”

His faith was credited to Abraham as righteousness

Quote: ἐλογίσθη τῷ Ἀβραὰμ ἡ πίστις εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated the similar clauses in 4:3 and 4:5.

Romans 4:10

How then was it credited? Being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision

Quote: πῶς οὖν ἐλογίσθη? ἐν περιτομῇ ὄντι, ἢ ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In these two sentences Paul is not asking for information, but is using these two questions to emphasize that Abraham was made righteous without being circumcised. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. You may need to combine these sentences. Alternate translation: “Then you surely know how it was credited to him! You surely know whether it was in circumcision or in uncircumcision!” or “Then you surely know how it was credited to him, whether in circumcision or in uncircumcision!”

How then

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

Here, then introduces a result clause that is in the form of a rhetorical question. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “How, as a result,” or “So then, how”

How

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

How here means “in what circumstances.” Paul is not asking how God made Abraham righteous, but is asking whether or not Abraham was circumcised when God made him righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “In what circumstances”

was it credited? … It was} not in circumcision

Quote: ἐλογίσθη & οὐκ ἐν περιτομῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse the pronoun it refers to Abraham’s faith, as stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “was Abraham’s faith credited … His faith was not in circumcision”

How then was it credited

Quote: πῶς οὖν ἐλογίσθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “How then did God credit it”

Being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? {It was} not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision

Quote: ἐν περιτομῇ ὄντι, ἢ ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ? οὐκ ἐν περιτομῇ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here Paul is leaving out some the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “Was it credited being in circumcision, or was it credited being in uncircumcision? It was not credited in circumcision, but it was credited in uncircumcision”

Being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? {It was} not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision

Quote: ἐν περιτομῇ ὄντι, ἢ ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ? οὐκ ἐν περιτομῇ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of circumcision and uncircumcision, you could express the same ideas in a different way. Paul implies that Abraham is the subject of these sentences. Alternate translation: “While Abraham was circumcised, or while he was uncircumcised? It was not while he was circumcised, but while he was uncircumcised”

Romans 4:11

of circumcision, … in his uncircumcision … through uncircumcision

Quote: περιτομῆς & ἐν τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ & δι’ ἀκροβυστίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of circumcision and uncircumcision, you could express the same ideas in a different way. Alternate translation: “of being circumcised … while being uncircumcised … through being uncircumcised”

the sign of circumcision

Quote: σημεῖον & περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the sign that is circumcision. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the sign that is circumcision”

a seal of the righteousness of the faith that {he had} in his uncircumcision

Quote: σφραγῖδα τῆς δικαιοσύνης τῆς πίστεως τῆς ἐν τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about the sign of circumcision. Circumcision is not only a sign, but also a seal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these clauses clearer. Alternate translation: “that is, a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had in his uncircumcision”

a seal of the righteousness

Quote: σφραγῖδα τῆς δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a seal that proves the righteousness to be real. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a seal that proves the righteousness”

of the righteousness of the faith

Quote: τῆς δικαιοσύνης τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe righteousness that comes from faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of the righteousness from faith” or “of being right with God that comes from trusting in him”

that {he had} in his uncircumcision

Quote: τῆς ἐν τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about the faith that Abraham had. Paul is referring to the faith that Abraham had before he was circumcised. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “that Abraham had in his uncircumcision”

in his uncircumcision

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of uncircumcision as if it were a location someone could be in. He means that Abraham was in the state of being uncircumcised. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “while he was uncircumcised”

so that he would be

Quote: εἰς τὸ εἶναι αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God required Abraham to become circumcised. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that he would be”

the father of all the ones believing through uncircumcision

Quote: πατέρα πάντων τῶν πιστευόντων δι’ ἀκροβυστίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses father to refer to Abraham as if he physically produced all those who believe in God. Paul means that Abraham spiritually represents all uncircumcised non-Jews who trust in God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternative translation: “the spiritual representative of all those who believe through uncircumcision” or “like the father of all those who believe through uncircumcision”

through uncircumcision

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

Here the word translated as through refers to going through a time period. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “during uncircumcision” or “throughout the time they were uncircumcised”

so that the righteousness would be credited to them

Quote: εἰς τὸ λογισθῆναι αὐτοῖς τὴν δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that this clause could refer to: (1) the purpose of Abraham being the father of all those who believe. Alternate translation: “in order that the righteousness would be credited to them” (2) the result of Abraham being the father of all those who believe. Alternate translation: “resulting in the righteousness being credited to them”

so that the righteousness would be credited to them

Quote: εἰς τὸ λογισθῆναι αὐτοῖς τὴν δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated counted in 4:3–5 and 9–10.

the righteousness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “being righteous” or “being right with God”

Romans 4:12

and the father of circumcision

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

Here, and indicates that what follows is another purpose for God commanding Abraham to be circumcised after he trusted in God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could repeat some of the information from the previous sentence and start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “and also so that he would be the father of circumcision”

the father of circumcision to the one {being} not only from the circumcision, but to the ones also following in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham in uncircumcision

Quote: πατέρα περιτομῆς τοῖς οὐκ ἐκ περιτομῆς μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ τοῖς στοιχοῦσιν τοῖς ἴχνεσιν τῆς ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ πίστεως, τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses father of circumcision to indicate that Abraham is both the physical ancestor and spiritual ancestor of Jewish people who believe in Jesus. They are both physically circumcised and have the “circumcision of the heart,” which Paul refers to in 2:29. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to those Jews who are not only circumcised, but who also follow in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham in his uncircumcision”

to the one {being} not only from the circumcision, but to the ones also following in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham in uncircumcision

Quote: τοῖς οὐκ ἐκ περιτομῆς μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ τοῖς στοιχοῦσιν τοῖς ἴχνεσιν τῆς ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ πίστεως, τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul assumes that his readers will know that these two clauses refer to those Jews who are not only circumcised in their bodies, but also have the same faith in God that Abraham had before he was circumcised. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to those Jews who are not only circumcised, but who also follow in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham in uncircumcision”

to the ones also following in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham

Quote: καὶ τοῖς στοιχοῦσιν τοῖς ἴχνεσιν τῆς & πίστεως, τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, follow in the steps is an idiom that means to follow someone’s example. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “who follow the example of the faith of our father Abraham”

of the faith of our father Abraham

Quote: τῆς & πίστεως, τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the faith that our father Abraham had. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of our father Abraham’s faith”

of our father Abraham

Quote: τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, our refers to Paul and his fellow believing Jews, as in 3:9. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “of our Jewish father Abraham”

in uncircumcision

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

Here, in uncircumcision has the same meaning as “through circumcision” stated in the previous verse. See how you translated the phrase there.

Romans 4:13

For

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

For here gives the reason why Abraham is the spiritual “father” of both non-Jews and Jews, as stated in 4:11–12. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

the promise … that he would be heir of the world

Quote: ἡ ἐπαγγελία & τὸ κληρονόμον αὐτὸν εἶναι κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of promise and heir, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “God promised … that he would inherit the world”

or

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

Here, the world translated or indicates that the promise is to Abraham and his seed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and also”

to his seed

Quote: τῷ σπέρματι αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses seed to refer to “offspring.” Just as plants produce seeds that grow into many more plants, so people can have many offspring. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to his descendants”

of the world

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

Here the world could refer to: (1) all the land of the world. Although God had promised to give the land of Canaan to Abraham’s descendants, the Jews in Paul’s time understood that this promise included the whole earth. This will indeed take place when Jesus, a descendent of Abraham, rules over the whole world. Alternate expression: “of all the land in the world” (2) the people who live in the world, as in 3:19. Alternate translation: “of the people who live in the world”

was} not through the law but through the righteousness

Quote: οὐ & διὰ νόμου & ἀλλὰ διὰ δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the word translated as through indicates the means by which God gave the promise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “was not by means of the law but by means of the righteousness” or “was not on the basis of the law but on the basis of the righteousness”

the law

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

See how you translated the law in 3:21.

the righteousness of faith

Quote: δικαιοσύνης πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the similar phrase in 4:11.

Romans 4:14

For

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

For here indicates that 4:14–15 give the reasons why God’s promise to Abraham was given “through the righteousness of faith” and not “through the law,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing reasons. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

if the heirs {are} from the law, the faith has been emptied

Quote: εἰ & οἱ ἐκ νόμου κληρονόμοι, κεκένωται ἡ πίστις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers recognize the serious implications of how people inherit God’s promises. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “suppose the heirs are from the law, then the faith has been emptied”

the heirs {are} from the law, the faith … the promise

Quote: οἱ ἐκ νόμου κληρονόμοι & ἡ πίστις & ἡ ἐπαγγελία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated “heir”, the law, and faith in the previous verse.

heirs {are

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

Here, heirs refers to “Abraham” and “his seed” from the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the heirs, Abraham or his seed, are”

the heirs {are} from the law

Quote: οἱ ἐκ νόμου κληρονόμοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from the law refers to those who try to obey the law of Moses so that God will count them as righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the heirs are those who try to obey the law so that God will count them as righteous”

the faith has been emptied

Quote: κεκένωται ἡ πίστις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of faith as if it were a container that could be emptied. He means that faith would become powerless or useless to make a person righteous if simply obeyingthe law allows a person to inherit God’s promises. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “then it would be impossible to become righteous by trusting in God”

Romans 4:15

For

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

For indicates that the rest of the verse gives the reason why inheriting God’s promise by obeying the law would nullify faith and the promise, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

the law brings about wrath

Quote: ὁ & νόμος ὀργὴν κατεργάζεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a person who could produce something. He means that the law causes God to punish people because they cannot obey it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “the law results in wrath for those who do not obey it”

wrath

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

See how you translated the same use of this word in 1:18.

but where there is no law, neither {is there} transgression

Quote: οὗ δὲ οὐκ ἔστιν νόμος, οὐδὲ παράβασις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the law and transgression as if they were located in a specific place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “but where the law is not present, neither is transgression present” or “but in a place where God’s law does not exist, transgression also does not exist”

transgression

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

See how you translated the same use of transgression in 2:23.

Romans 4:16

it is} by faith

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

Here, it refers to the promise mentioned later in the verse and introduced in 4:13. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the promise is by faith”

it is} by faith

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

Here, by faith indicates the means by which someone acquires the promise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a person acquires God’s promise by faith”

in order that {it may be

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

This phrase introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God makes faith the means for acquiring the promise. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “so that”

according to grace

Quote: κατὰ χάριν (1)

Alternate translation: “by grace” or “on the basis of grace”

grace

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “how gracious God is”

so that the promise might be certain

Quote: εἰς τὸ εἶναι βεβαίαν, τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that could indicate: (1) a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order for the promise to be certain” (2) a result clause. Alternate translation: “with the result that the promise might be certain”

the promise

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

See how you translated promise in 4:13.

to all the seed

Quote: παντὶ τῷ σπέρματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The phrase all the seed is singular but refers to a group of people. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “all the descendants”

to all the seed

Quote: παντὶ τῷ σπέρματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated seed in 4:13.

not only to the one from the law, but also to the one from the faith of Abraham

Quote: οὐ τῷ ἐκ τοῦ νόμου μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ τῷ ἐκ πίστεως Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

These clauses give further information about the phrase all the seed. They distinguish between the seed associated with the law and the seed associated with the faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “both from those believers associated with Abraham through the law and those associated with the faith of Abraham”

from the law

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

See how you translated this phrase in 4:14.

from the faith of Abraham

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

Here, from the faith of Abraham refers to those who trust in God the way Abraham did. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who has the same faith as Abraham”

who is the father of us all

Quote: ὅς ἐστιν πατὴρ πάντων ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses father to refer to Abraham as if he physically produced all human beings. Paul means that Abraham is the physical ancestor of all believing Jews and the spiritual ancestor of all believing non-Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “who spiritually represents all of us who believe”

of us all

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

Here, us all refers to all the seed and so is inclusive of all believing Jews and non-Jews. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “of all believers in God” or “of all of us who trust in God”

Romans 4:17

just as it is written, “I have appointed you the father of many nations

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται, ὅτι πατέρα πολλῶν ἐθνῶν τέθεικά σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Here Paul interrupts the sentence he began in the previous verse and inserts these two clauses in order to support his argument. If it would be helpful in your language, you could mark these clauses in a way that shows they are inserted into the middle of a sentence, as in the UST. You could also move these clauses to the end of the verse so that they do not divide the main sentence.

just as it is written

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

Here Paul uses a quotation from the Old Testament in order to support the statement in the previous verse that Abraham “is the father of us all.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between this verse and the previous verse clearer. Alternate translation: “The fact that Abraham is the father of us all is written in the Scriptures, which say”

just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was written by Moses. Alternate translation: “just as Moses wrote”

I have appointed you the father of many nations

Quote: πατέρα πολλῶν ἐθνῶν τέθεικά σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this clause Paul quotes Genesis 17:5. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

I have appointed you … he trusted

Quote: τέθεικά σε & ἐπίστευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun I refers to God, and you and he refer to Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, have appointed you, Abraham, as … Abraham trusted”

the father of many nations

Quote: πατέρα πολλῶν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes God using father to refer to Abraham as if he were going to physically produce children who would comprise many nations. God means that Abraham would become the spiritual ancestor of a large number of people from many nations who trust in God as does Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “the spiritual representative of numerous groups of people”

in the presence of God whom he trusted

Quote: κατέναντι οὗ ἐπίστευσεν Θεοῦ, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul continues the sentence from the previous verse that he had interrupted with the first two clauses in this verse. This clause completes the previous statement from the previous verse, “who is the father of us all.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. You made need to start a new sentence, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “Abraham is the father of us all in the presence of God whom he trusted”

in the presence of God

Quote: κατέναντι & Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses in the presence of to refer to Abraham as if he were physically present with God. Paul means that God personally considers Abraham to represent the believers that come from many nations. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “according to what God thinks” or “in God’s view”

whom he trusted, the one making the dead ones live and calling the things not existing as existing

Quote: οὗ ἐπίστευσεν & τοῦ ζῳοποιοῦντος τοὺς νεκροὺς, καὶ καλοῦντος τὰ μὴ ὄντα ὡς ὄντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

These clauses give further information about God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer by making new sentences or by another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “This is the God whom he trusted. It is this God who makes the dead live and calls the things not existing as existing”

calling the things not existing as existing

Quote: καλοῦντος τὰ μὴ ὄντα ὡς ὄντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the things not existing as if God were calling to them. Paul means that God creates things by commanding them to exist, as Moses describes in Genesis 1:3–27. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “summons into being things that did not previously exist” or “by speaking, creates things that did not previously exist”

Romans 4:18

who … he … your

Quote: ὃς & αὐτὸν & σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronouns who and he and your refer to Abraham, not God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly.

who against hope believed on the basis of hope

Quote: ὃς παρ’ ἐλπίδα, ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ἐπίστευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, against hope is an idiom meaning “despite what seemed hopeless.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “although it seemed hopeless, he believed on the basis of hope”

who against hope believed on the basis of hope

Quote: ὃς παρ’ ἐλπίδα, ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ἐπίστευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of hope, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “who hopefully believed although it seemed hopeless”

believed

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “believed in God” or “believed what God had promised”

so that he might become

Quote: εἰς τὸ γενέσθαι αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, so that indicates that this is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the result of Abraham believing on the basis of hope. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a result clause. Alternate translation: “which resulted in him becoming”

the father of many nations

Quote: πατέρα πολλῶν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 4:17.

what {was} said

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

Here Paul uses what was said to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Genesis 15:5). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “what was said in the Scriptures”

what {was} said

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was spoken by God. Alternate translation: “what God said”

So will your seed be

Quote: οὕτως ἔσται τὸ σπέρμα σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul assumes that his readers would know the rest of what God said in the verse he is quoting (Genesis 15:5). If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Look now at the heavens and count the stars, if you are able to count them. So will your seed be”

seed

Quote: τὸ σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated seed in 4:16.

Romans 4:19

And not weakening in the faith, he considered his own body as already being dead (being about a hundred years old)—and the deadness of the womb of Sarah

Quote: καὶ μὴ ἀσθενήσας τῇ πίστει, κατενόησεν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σῶμα ἤδη νενεκρωμένον, ἑκατονταετής που ὑπάρχων, καὶ τὴν νέκρωσιν τῆς μήτρας Σάρρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “He considered his own body as already having died (being about a hundred years old)—and the deadness of the womb of Sarah—but he was not weakening in the faith”

And not weakening in the faith

Quote: καὶ μὴ ἀσθενήσας τῇ πίστει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “And being strengthened in the faith” of "And being strong in the faith"

not weakening in the faith

Quote: μὴ ἀσθενήσας τῇ πίστει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Abraham’s faith as if it were something in which a person could be weakening. He means that Abraham kept trusting God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not ceasing to trust”

in the faith

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “in how he trusted God”

as already being dead

Quote: ἤδη νενεκρωμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Abraham as if he actually thought his body was dead. Paul means that Abraham knew he was too old to produce a child. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “unable to father a child” or “useless for procreating”

being about a hundred years old

Quote: ἑκατονταετής που ὑπάρχων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Here Paul provides background information about Abraham’s age to help his readers understand why Abraham considered his own body as already being dead. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “since he was about 100 years old”

the deadness of the womb of Sarah

Quote: τὴν νέκρωσιν τῆς μήτρας Σάρρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “he also considered the deadness of the womb of Sarah”

the deadness of the womb of Sarah

Quote: τὴν νέκρωσιν τῆς μήτρας Σάρρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of deadness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “that the womb of Sarah was dead”

the deadness of the womb of Sarah

Quote: τὴν νέκρωσιν τῆς μήτρας Σάρρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Sarah’s womb as if it were dead. He means that she was unable to conceive children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “how Sarah was unable to conceive” or “that Sarah could not bear children”

the deadness of the womb of Sarah

Quote: τὴν νέκρωσιν τῆς μήτρας Σάρρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul assumes that his readers would know that Sarah had been unable to become pregnant throughout her life, as described in the Old Testament book of Genesis. This fact makes Abraham’s faith even more amazing. If your readers would be unfamiliar with the story of Abraham and Sarah, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the deadness of the womb of Sarah, since she could never become pregnant before” or “the deadness of the womb of Sarah, which had always been dead”

Romans 4:20

But toward the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief

Quote: εἰς δὲ τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ, οὐ διεκρίθη τῇ ἀπιστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “Abraham did not waver in unbelief about what God promised”

But

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

But here indicates that what follows emphasizes Abraham’s faith in the promise of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Nonetheless," or “In fact,”

toward the promise of God

Quote: εἰς & τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated as toward could also mean “with regard to” or “regarding.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “with regard to the promise of God” or “regarding the promise of God”

the promise of God

Quote: τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the promise that comes from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the promise that came from God” or “the promise from God”

the promise of God

Quote: τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of promise, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “the things God promised” or “the things God said would happen”

he did not waver in unbelief

Quote: οὐ διεκρίθη τῇ ἀπιστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

Here, did not waver and unbelief form a double negative expression. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “he did not waver in believing” or “his belief did not waver”

in unbelief, … in the faith

Quote: τῇ ἀπιστίᾳ & τῇ πίστει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of unbelief and faith, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “by distrusting … by trusting”

was strengthened in the faith

Quote: ἐνεδυναμώθη τῇ πίστει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God strengthened him in the faith”

was strengthened in the faith

Quote: ἐνεδυναμώθη τῇ πίστει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Abraham’s faith as if it were something in which a person could be strengthened. He means that God enabled Abraham to continue trusting him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “was enabled to keep on trusting”

having given glory to God

Quote: δοὺς δόξαν τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “having glorified God”

Romans 4:21

having been fully convinced

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God fully convinced him”

he had promised, he is

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

The pronoun he refers to God, not Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God had promised, God is”

what he had promised

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

Here, what he had promised refers to the promise Paul describes in 4:13. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the things God promised to Abraham”

Romans 4:22

And therefore

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

Here, therefore introduces a result clause. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “And for this reason” or “And this is the reason why”

it was credited to him as righteousness

Quote: ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This clause is a quotation from Genesis 15:6. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate quotations.

it was credited to him as righteousness

Quote: ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated this in 4:3.

Romans 4:23

it was not written only for his sake, “It was credited to him

Quote: οὐκ ἐγράφη & δι’ αὐτὸν μόνον, ὅτι ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases and combine them. Alternate translation: “Now the phrase ‘it was credited to him,’ was not written only for his sake”

his … to him

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

The pronouns his and him refer to Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Abraham’s … to him”

it was not written only for his sake

Quote: οὐκ ἐγράφη & δι’ αὐτὸν μόνον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Moses wrote the quotation. Alternate translation: “Moses did not write it only for Abraham’s sake”

for his sake

Quote: δι’ αὐτὸν (1)

Alternate translation: “for him” or “regarding him”

It was credited to him

Quote: ὅτι ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This clause is a quotation from Genesis 15:6. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate quotations.

It was credited to him

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

See how you translated this in the previous verse.

Romans 4:24

for our sake, to whom it is about to be credited, to the ones believing in the one having raised Jesus our Lord from the dead ones

Quote: δι’ ἡμᾶς, οἷς μέλλει λογίζεσθαι, τοῖς πιστεύουσιν ἐπὶ τὸν ἐγείραντα Ἰησοῦν, τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν, ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, our and whom refer to all those who believe in Jesus. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “for the sake us believers who are about to be credited, to us who believe in the one who raised from the dead ones Jesus, the Lord of us all”

for our sake

Quote: δι’ ἡμᾶς (1)

See how you translated “for his sake” in the previous verse.

to whom it is about to be credited

Quote: οἷς μέλλει λογίζεσθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who will do the action, Paul implies that “God” will do it. Alternate translation: “to whom God is about to credit it”

it is about

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

Here the pronoun it refers to the “faith” mentioned in 4:5 and 4:20. Previously it referred to Abraham’s faith, but in this verse it refers to our faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “our faith is about”

to be credited

Quote: λογίζεσθαι (1)

See how you translated credited in the previous verse.

the one having raised Jesus our Lord from the dead ones

Quote: τὸν ἐγείραντα Ἰησοῦν, τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν, ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead ones”

having raised Jesus our Lord

Quote: ἐγείραντα Ἰησοῦν, τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, raised is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who caused Jesus our Lord to live again”

from the dead ones

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

Here, the phrase translated the dead ones refers to dead people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from the place where dead people are”

Romans 4:25

who … our … our justification

Quote: ὃς & ἡμῶν & τὴν δικαίωσιν ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the pronoun who refers to Jesus, and our refers to all “those who believe” in him, as mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus … we believers’ … the justification of us believers”

who was given up … was raised

Quote: ὃς παρεδόθη & ἠγέρθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “whom God gave up … God raised”

who was given up

Quote: ὃς παρεδόθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Jesus as if he were a thing that could be given up to another person. Paul means that God allowed people to arrest and kill Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “who was allowed to be killed”

for the sake of our trespasses … for the sake of our justification

Quote: διὰ τὰ παραπτώματα ἡμῶν & διὰ τὴν δικαίωσιν ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for these ideas of trespasses and justification, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “because we trespassed … to make us righteous”

for the sake of our trespasses

Quote: διὰ τὰ παραπτώματα ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here Paul uses for the sake of differently than he did in 4:23–24. Here Paul uses this phrase to indicate the reason why Jesus was given up. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because of our trespasses”

was raised

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

See how you translated raised in the previous verse.

for the sake of our justification

Quote: διὰ τὴν δικαίωσιν ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here Paul uses for the sake of differently than he did in the first part of this verse. Here Paul uses this phrase to indicate one of the purposes for Jesus being raised. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of our justification”

Romans 5

Romans 5 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Righteousness is received through Jesus Christ by trusting in him (3:21–5:21)
   • God’s righteousness is received through faith (3:21–26)
   • No one can boast in works (3:27–31)
   • The examples of Abraham and David (4:1–25)
   • The blessings of justification (5:1–11)
   • Adam and Christ are compared (5:12–5:21)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

The second Adam

Adam was the first man. He was created by God and called the first “son” of God. He brought sin and death into the world by eating the forbidden fruit. In this chapter Paul describes Jesus as the “second Adam” and the true son of God. Jesus brings eternal life and overcame sin and death by dying on the cross. (See: Son of God, the Son and INVALID bible/other/death)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we”, “us”, and “our” refer inclusively to all believers in Christ. Paul calls these people those who have been “justified by faith” in 5:1. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

Romans 5:1

Therefore

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

The word Therefore here marks a new section of the letter. It also introduces a result clause that summarizes the blessed results of a person becoming righteous by trusting in Jesus, which Paul just discussed in 1:18–4:25. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “Since all these things are true” or “As a result of everything that I have just told you being true”

having been justified by faith, let us have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: δικαιωθέντες & ἐκ πίστεως, εἰρήνην ἔχωμεν πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν, διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “let us have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, because we have been justified by faith” or “we can have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, since we have been justified by faith”

having been justified

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “because God makes us righteous” or “since God makes us right with him”

by faith

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

See how you translated this phrase in 4:16.

let us have peace

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

Some ancient copies say “we have peace,” which makes sense, since 5:1–5 are a list of blessings that belong to those people who have been justified by faith. If the reading let us have peace is correct, this phrase may be indicating Paul’s desire that his fellow believers continue to experience the peace they have with God. If a translation of the Bible already exists in your area, you could consider using the reading in that translation. If there is not already a Bible translation in your area, we recommend that you follow the readings of ULT and UST.

let us have

Quote: ἔχωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Paul uses the phrase let us have peace to exhort his Christian readers to continue living peacefully with God. It is not a command. This phrase does not imply that those who have been justified by faith do not yet have peace with God. Use a form in your language that communicates an exhortation. Alternate translation: “we must continue to have”

let us have peace

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea with a verbal form, as in the UST.

let us have peace

Quote: εἰρήνην ἔχωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if they could possess or own peace. He means that they can live peacefully with God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “let us live in a peaceful manner”

let us have … our

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

Here and throughout this chapter, us and our inclusively refer to all those having been justified by faith in Jesus. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “let us believers have … our”

through our Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through indicates that our Lord Jesus Christ is the means by which believers have peace with God. This refers to what Jesus did for believers in order for them to have peace with God, as briefly mentioned in 4:25. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through what our Lord Jesus Christ did for us” or “which was caused by our Lord Jesus Christ”

Romans 5:2

through whom we also have access by this faith into this grace in which we stand

Quote: δι’ οὗ καὶ τὴν προσαγωγὴν ἐσχήκαμεν, τῇ πίστει εἰς τὴν χάριν ταύτην, ἐν ᾗ ἑστήκαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of access, faith, or grace, you could express the same ideas another way. Alternate translation: “through whom we also access and stand in how gracious God is by trusting in him”

whom

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

The pronoun whom refers to “our Lord Jesus Christ,” as mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “our Lord Jesus Christ”

we also have … we stand, … we boast

Quote: καὶ & ἐσχήκαμεν & ἑστήκαμεν & καυχώμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

The pronoun we in this verse refers inclusively to all believers in Christ. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “we believers also have … we believers stand … we believers boast”

into this grace in which we stand

Quote: εἰς τὴν χάριν ταύτην, ἐν ᾗ ἑστήκαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of grace as if it were a location that someone could access and stand within. He means that trusting in Jesus allows believers to confidently experience how gracious God is toward his people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “to confidently experience how kind God is” or “to safely experience how gracious God is”

we boast on the basis of hope of the glory of God

Quote: καυχώμεθα ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of hope and glory, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “we may boast because we are confident that we will be glorified with God”

of the glory of God

Quote: τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using possessive forms to describe how glory relates to God. This could refer to: (1) the glory that God shares with believers. This was the same glory that God shared with humans when he created them, but which they lost when the first humans sinned, as mentioned in 3:23. Alternate translation: “of sharing in the glory God has” or “of the glory from God” (2) glorifying God, as in the similar phrase “the glory of the imperishable God” in 1:23. Alternate translation: “of glorifying God”

Romans 5:3

And not only this

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

The pronoun this here refers to boasting about “the hope of the glory of God,” as mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And we not only boast on the basis of the hope of the glory of God”

we also boast in our sufferings

Quote: καὶ καυχώμεθα ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, in our sufferings could mean: (1) believers can boast about their sufferings. Alternate translation: “we can also boast about our sufferings” (2) believers can boast while they are experiencing sufferings. Alternate translation: “we can also boast when we are distressed”

knowing

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

Here, knowing indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse are the reasons why believers can boast in our sufferings. Use a natural way in your language for introducing reasons. Alternate translation: “since we know”

in our sufferings, … this suffering … endurance

Quote: ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσιν & ἡ θλῖψις & ὑπομονὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sufferings, suffering, and endurance, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “when we suffer … when we suffer, it … a way to endure”

this suffering produces endurance

Quote: ἡ θλῖψις ὑπομονὴν κατεργάζεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of endurance as if it were an object that could be produced. He means that when Christians trust in God while suffering, they develop greater endurance than they had before experiencing suffering. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “this suffering helps us know how to endure”

Romans 5:4

and this endurance, character; and this character, hope

Quote: ἡ δὲ ὑπομονὴ δοκιμήν, ἡ δὲ δοκιμὴ ἐλπίδα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “and endurance produces character, and this character produces hope”

this endurance

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

See how you translated endurance in the previous verse.

character; and this character

Quote: δοκιμήν, ἡ δὲ δοκιμὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word translated character refers specifically to the mental and moral qualities of someone who has been approved by God because they have successfully endured testing. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of character, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “qualities of which God approves, and the approved qualities”

hope

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

See how you translated hope in 5:2.

Romans 5:5

And that hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, the one given to us

Quote: ἡ δὲ ἐλπὶς οὐ καταισχύνει, ὅτι ἡ ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐκκέχυται ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου, τοῦ δοθέντος ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second clause gives the reason for the result that the first clause describes. Alternate translation: “And because the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us, that hope does not disappoint”

And that hope

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

Here, that hope refers to "the hope of the glory of God" in 5:2. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And being confident in God’s glory” or “And the hope of the glory of God”

because the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, the one given to us

Quote: ὅτι ἡ ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐκκέχυται ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου, τοῦ δοθέντος ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of love as if it were something that could be poured out of a container, and he speaks figurative of our hearts as though they were containers that could be filled. He means that the Holy Spirit has completely revealed to God’s people how much God loves them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “because the Holy Spirit, who was given to us, has deeply revealed how much God loves his people”

the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, the one given to us

Quote: ἡ ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐκκέχυται ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου, τοῦ δοθέντος ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit, whom God gave us, has poured the love of God into our hearts”

the love of God

Quote: ἡ ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe how love relates to God. Here, the love of God could refer to: (1) God’s love for us. Alternate translation: “God’s love” or “God’s love for us” (2) our love for God. Alternate translation: “our love for God”

into our hearts

Quote: ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this word in 1:21.

Romans 5:6

For

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

For here indicates that what follows in 5:6–8 explains “the love of God” in 5:5. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Indeed,”

we still being weak

Quote: ἔτι & ὄντων ἡμῶν ἀσθενῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

In this clause Paul is describing something that was true during the time period he is describing in the rest of the verse. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “during the time we were still being weak”

we still being weak

Quote: ἔτι & ὄντων ἡμῶν ἀσθενῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, weak means that people are completely unable to make themselves righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “we still being powerless to make ourselves righteous”

on behalf of ungodly ones

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

Here, ungodly ones refers to the we mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on behalf of us ungodly ones”

Romans 5:7

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here,For introduces an explanation, by contrast, of how surprising it is that Christ would die on behalf of ungodly sinners, as stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression, as in the UST.

For someone will hardly die … Perhaps, though, someone

Quote: μόλις γὰρ & τις ἀποθανεῖται & γὰρ & τάχα τις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

Paul uses someone twice in this verse in two hypothetical situations. He does this to help his readers recognize how rare it is for someone to voluntarily die on behalf of another person. Use the natural form in your language for expressing hypothetical situations. Alternate translation: “Let us consider how rare it would be for someone to die … Let us, though, suppose that perhaps someone”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: γὰρ & τάχα τις (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

What follows the word though here is in contrast to what Paul stated in the previous sentence. Although someone will hardly die for a righteous person, someone might possibly be willing to die for a good person. Although Paul does not state the difference between a righteous person and a good person, he contrasts both examples to emphasize how unlikely it is for a person to willingly die on behalf of another person. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “By contrast, perhaps someone”

might even dare to die

Quote: καὶ τολμᾷ ἀποθανεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of dying as if it were a dare or challenge for someone to overcome. He means that someone would be brave enough to give their life for the sake of someone else. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “might even be willing to die” or “would even be brave enough to die”

Romans 5:8

own

Quote: ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word his own to emphasize how much God loves his people. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “his very own” or “his personal”

his own love toward us

Quote: τὴν ἑαυτοῦ ἀγάπην εἰς ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of love, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “how much God loves us”

we still being sinners

Quote: ἔτι ἁμαρτωλῶν ὄντων ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

In this clause Paul is describing something that was true during the time period he is describing in the rest of the verse. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “during the time we were still being sinners”

we still being sinners, Christ died for us

Quote: ἔτι ἁμαρτωλῶν ὄντων ἡμῶν, Χριστὸς ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ἀπέθανεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation (omitting the preceding comma): “Christ died for us while we were still being sinners”

Romans 5:9

Much more then

Quote: πολλῷ οὖν μᾶλλον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, then indicates that what follows is the result of what Paul described in 5:6–8. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “Much more, therefore”

Much more then

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

Much more then here strongly emphasizes that what follows is another important result of what Christ did for us. Use a natural way in your language to express strong emphasis. Alternate translation: “It is then much more certain that”

having now been justified by his blood

Quote: δικαιωθέντες νῦν ἐν τῷ αἵματι αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause states the reason why we can be much more certain that we will be saved. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because we have now been justified by his blood”

having now been justified by his blood

Quote: δικαιωθέντες νῦν ἐν τῷ αἵματι αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express these ideas with active forms or in other ways that are natural in your language. Alternate translation: “his blood having now justified us”

by his blood

Quote: ἐν τῷ αἵματι αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated his blood in 3:25.

we will be saved through him

Quote: σωθησόμεθα δι’ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express these ideas with active forms or in other ways that are natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he will save us”

the wrath

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of the wrath, you could use a different expression. Here, the wrath refers specifically to “the day of wrath”, which is mentioned in 2:5. Alternate translation: “when God finally judges sinners”

Romans 5:10

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “So”

if, being enemies

Quote: εἰ & ἐχθροὶ ὄντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since, being enemies”

we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son

Quote: κατηλλάγημεν τῷ Θεῷ διὰ τοῦ θανάτου τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use passive forms in this way, you could express these ideas with active forms or in other ways that are natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the death of his Son reconciled us to God”

of his Son

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

much more

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

Here, much more strongly emphasizes that what follows is an important result of having been reconciled with God. See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “it is much more certain”

having been reconciled

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express this idea with an active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he having reconciled us”

having been reconciled

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

This clause states the reason why we can be much more certain that we will be saved. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because we have been reconciled”

will we be saved by his life

Quote: σωθησόμεθα ἐν τῇ ζωῇ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express this idea with an active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “his life will save us”

will we be saved

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the similar statement in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “when God finally judges people, we will be saved ”

his life

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

Here life implies the life that Jesus has after God made him alive again. This resurrection life showed that God had accepted Jesus’ death as the payment for the sins of everyone who trusts in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus’ life after God caused him to become alive again”

his life

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of life, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “him being alive again”

Romans 5:11

Not only this, but

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

The pronoun this could refer to: (1) what Paul said in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Not only are we saved by his life, but” (2) what Paul said in 5:2–10. Alternate translation: “Not only are all these things true, but”

we also are boasting in God

Quote: καὶ καυχώμενοι ἐν τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if they were boasting inside of God. Paul means that these believers in Christ boast about how great God is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “we also are boasting about how great God is” or “we also are boasting because of God”

through our Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through indicates that our Lord Jesus Christ is the means by which believers can boast. This refers to what Jesus did for believers in order for them to be able to boast. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through what our Lord Jesus Christ did for us”

through whom we now have received the reconciliation

Quote: δι’ οὗ νῦν τὴν καταλλαγὴν ἐλάβομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through indicates that Jesus is the means by which believers have received the reconciliation. This refers to what Jesus did for believers in order for them to have peace with God, as briefly mentioned in 4:25. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through what he did for us that caused us to receive the reconciliation”

we now have received the reconciliation

Quote: νῦν τὴν καταλλαγὴν ἐλάβομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of reconciliation, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “we have now been reconciled with God”

Romans 5:12

For this reason

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

The phrase For this reason indicates that what follows in 5:12–21 is Paul’s explanation of the relationship between human sin and God’s grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Because of this”

just as through one man sin entered into the world, and through sin, death, so also death spread to all men

Quote: ὥσπερ δι’ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου ἡ ἁμαρτία εἰς τὸν κόσμον εἰσῆλθεν, καὶ διὰ τῆς ἁμαρτίας ὁ θάνατος; καὶ οὕτως εἰς πάντας ἀνθρώπους ὁ θάνατος διῆλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of sin and death as if they were objects that could enter a place or spread within people. Paul means that the way God intended for the world and human beings to function became thoroughly corrupted by sin and death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “just as through one man sin began to exist in the world, and that sin would result in that man’s death, so also all men born after that man would die too”

through one man

Quote: δι’ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses the phrase one man to refer to Adam, the first human being. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in 5:14. Alternate translation: “through the first man, Adam,”

sin … sin, death, so also death

Quote: ἡ ἁμαρτία & τῆς ἁμαρτίας ὁ θάνατος; καὶ οὕτως & ὁ θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sin and death, you could use different expressions. Alternate translation: “sinful things … sinful things, living things could die, so also the ability to die”

through sin, death

Quote: διὰ τῆς ἁμαρτίας ὁ θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and through sin death entered into the world”

men

Quote: ἀνθρώπους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people”

because of which all sinned

Quote: ἐφ’ ᾧ πάντες ἥμαρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the pronoun which could refer to: (1) the fact that Paul states in the next phrase. Alternate translation: “because of this fact, namely, that all sinned” (2) the one man mentioned earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “because of the one man, all sinned”

all

Quote: πάντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective all as a noun in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “all men” or “all humanity” or “all people”

Romans 5:13

For

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

For here indicates that what follows in 5:13–14 explains what came before it. Here it explains how death and sin existed before the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

For until law, … there} being no law

Quote: ἄχρι γὰρ νόμου & μὴ ὄντος νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “For until the law came … as that was when there was no law”

law, … law

Quote: νόμου & νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

In this verse law refers to the laws that God gave the Jews. See how you translated law in 2:12.

sin … sin

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

See how you translated sin in the previous verse.

sin was in the world

Quote: ἁμαρτία ἦν ἐν κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were an object that could exist in a place. Paul means that people sinned in the world before God gave his laws to Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “people sinned in the world”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ἁμαρτία & οὐκ ἐλλογεῖται (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God did not charge them with sinning” or “God did not reckon it as sin”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ἁμαρτία & οὐκ ἐλλογεῖται (2)

Alternate translation: “a record of sin is not kept” or “no account is kept of sins”

there} being no law

Quote: μὴ ὄντος νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, being could indicate: (1) the reason why sin is not charged. Alternate translation: “because there was no law” (2) the time when sin is not charged. Alternate translation: “when there was no law”

there} being no law

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

Here, no law implies that God had not yet given people his laws that could help them identify what sin is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “being no law to identify to people what sin is”

Romans 5:14

death ruled from Adam until Moses, even over the ones

Quote: ἐβασίλευσεν ὁ θάνατος ἀπὸ Ἀδὰμ μέχρι Μωϋσέως, καὶ ἐπὶ τοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of death as if it were a king who ruled over people. Paul means that nobody could prevent themselves from dying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “no human from Adam until Moses could escape dying, even those” or “human life from Adam until Moses inevitably ended in death, even the lives of those”

death

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

See how you translated death in 5:12.

from Adam until Moses

Quote: ἀπὸ Ἀδὰμ μέχρι Μωϋσέως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Adam refers to the period of time when Adam lived and Moses refers to the period of time when Moses lived. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from the time when Adam lived until the time when Moses lived”

even over the ones not having sinned in the likeness of the transgression of Adam

Quote: καὶ ἐπὶ τοὺς μὴ ἁμαρτήσαντας ἐπὶ τῷ ὁμοιώματι τῆς παραβάσεως Ἀδάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about over whom death ruled. It is not making a distinction between those who lived during the time of Adam and Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “even over the people who did not disobey God in the same way as did Adam”

in the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a pattern of the one coming

Quote: ἐπὶ τῷ ὁμοιώματι τῆς παραβάσεως Ἀδάμ, ὅς ἐστιν τύπος τοῦ μέλλοντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of likeness, transgression, and pattern, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in the same way that Adam transgressed, who typifies the one who is coming” or “exactly how Adam transgressed, who resembles the one who is coming”

in the likeness of the transgression of Adam

Quote: ἐπὶ τῷ ὁμοιώματι τῆς παραβάσεως Ἀδάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe how the likeness relates to the transgression. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “like Adam’s transgression” or “in the same way Adam transgressed”

of Adam, who is a pattern of the one coming

Quote: Ἀδάμ, ὅς ἐστιν τύπος τοῦ μέλλοντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Adam as if he were a model or pattern. Paul means that Adam’s role is similar to the role of the one who is coming because both people do things that affect all human beings. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “Adam, who is a replica of the one who is coming” or “Adam, who models the one who is coming”

of the one coming

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

The phrase the one who is coming refers to Jesus. Paul means that Adam represents the ideal human being, Jesus, who would come in the future. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “representing Jesus, who would come in the future” or “prefiguring Jesus, who was destined to come”

Romans 5:15

the trespass, … the gracious gift. … by the trespass of the one … the grace of God and the gift by grace

Quote: τὸ παράπτωμα & τὸ χάρισμα & τῷ τοῦ ἑνὸς παραπτώματι & ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ ἡ δωρεὰ ἐν χάριτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of trespass, gracious gift, grace, and gift, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “how Adam trespassed … what God graciously gave … when the one man trespassed … how gracious God is and what he graciously gave”

not like the trespass, so also {is} the gracious gift

Quote: οὐχ ὡς τὸ παράπτωμα, οὕτως καὶ τὸ χάρισμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “the gracious gift is not like the trespass”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of the difference between the trespass and the gracious gift. Use a connection word or other way to indicate that the second sentence of this verse explains the first one. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” or “You see,”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is true. He has concluded that the benefits of the gracious gift are superior to the consequences of the trespass. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is true. Alternate translation: “as”

by the trespass of the one

Quote: τῷ τοῦ ἑνὸς παραπτώματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the trespass that was committed by the one man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “by one man’s trespass” or “because one man trespassed”

the many … the many

Quote: οἱ πολλοὶ & τοὺς πολλοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Here Paul is using the adjective many as a noun in order to describe a large group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase, as in the UST.

how much more

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

Here, how much more strongly emphasizes the difference between the results of the trespass of Adam and the grace of God that comes through Jesus Christ. Use a natural way in your language to express strong emphasis. Alternate translation: “even more certainly”

did the grace of God and the gift by grace that {is} of the one man, Jesus Christ, abound to the many

Quote: ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ ἡ δωρεὰ ἐν χάριτι, τῇ τοῦ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, εἰς τοὺς πολλοὺς ἐπερίσσευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “abounded to the many the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ”

the grace of God

Quote: ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe grace that comes from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “God’s grace” or “the grace from God” or “how kind God is”

of the one man

Quote: τοῦ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the grace that comes from the one man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “from the one man” or “associated with the one man”

Romans 5:16

And the gift {is} not as through one who sinned. For indeed, the judgment from one, to condemnation, but the gracious gift from many trespasses, to justification

Quote: καὶ οὐχ ὡς δι’ ἑνὸς ἁμαρτήσαντος, τὸ δώρημα; τὸ μὲν γὰρ κρίμα ἐξ ἑνὸς, εἰς κατάκριμα, τὸ δὲ χάρισμα ἐκ πολλῶν παραπτωμάτων, εἰς δικαίωμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these sentences, since the second sentence gives the reason for the result that the first sentence describes. Alternate translation: “Indeed, because the judgment came from one man unto condemnation, but the gift came from many trespasses unto justification. This is why the gift is not the same as through the one man who sinned”

the gift {… but the gracious gift

Quote: τὸ δώρημα & τὸ δὲ χάρισμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated these two phrases in the previous verse.

as through one who sinned

Quote: ὡς δι’ ἑνὸς ἁμαρτήσαντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the same as what came through one who sinned”

one who sinned

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

Here, one who sinned refers to Adam, as mentioned in 5:12–15. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Adam, the one who sinned”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τὸ & κρίμα (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way, as in the UST.

from one

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

Here, one refers to the one sin Adam committed. It does not refer to Adam himself, as the previous one does. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from Adam’s trespass” or “from the sin Adam committed”

from one

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

Here, from one could indicate: (1) that the judgment happened after the one trespass. Alternate translation: “after one” (2) that the judgment happened because of the one trespass. Alternate translation: “because of one”

to condemnation, … trespasses, to justification

Quote: εἰς κατάκριμα & παραπτωμάτων, εἰς δικαίωμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of condemnation, trespasses, and justification, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to cause God to condemn … sinful deeds people have done, to cause God to justify”

to condemnation

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

Here, to indicates that was follows is the result of God’s judgment. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation (omitting the comma): “to the resulting condemnation”

from many trespasses

Quote: ἐκ πολλῶν παραπτωμάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, from many trespasses could indicate: (1) that the gracious gift happened after many trespasses. Alternate translation: “after many trespasses” (2) that the gracious gift happened because of many trespasses. Alternate translation: “because of many trespasses”

to justification

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

Here, to indicates that was follows is the result of God’s gracious gift. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “to the resulting justification”

Romans 5:17

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces a further explanation of the difference between the trespass and the gracious gift, as discussed in 5:15–16. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is true. He has concluded that the benefits of the gift are superior to the consequences of the trespass. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is true. Alternate translation: “considering that”

by the trespass of the one

Quote: τῷ τοῦ ἑνὸς παραπτώματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 5:15.

of the one, … the one, … the one

Quote: τοῦ ἑνὸς & τοῦ ἑνός & τοῦ ἑνὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the first occurrence of one in the previous verse.

by the trespass of the one, death … the abundance of the grace and the gift of the righteousness … in life

Quote: τῷ τοῦ ἑνὸς παραπτώματι, ὁ θάνατος & τὴν περισσείαν τῆς χάριτος καὶ τῆς δωρεᾶς τῆς δικαιοσύνης & ἐν ζωῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for these ideas, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “because the one man trespassed, the fact that people die … how abundantly kind God is and how he makes people righteous … by living”

death ruled

Quote: ὁ θάνατος ἐβασίλευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated this phrase in 5:14.

through the one

Quote: διὰ τοῦ ἑνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, through indicates that the one is the reason why death ruled. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because of the one”

how much more

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

See how you translated this phrase in 5:10 and 5:15.

will … rule in life through the one, Jesus Christ

Quote: ἐν ζωῇ βασιλεύσουσιν, διὰ τοῦ ἑνὸς, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “through the one man Jesus Christ will … rule in life”

will the ones … rule in life

Quote: οἱ & ἐν ζωῇ βασιλεύσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if they were kings who rule in a location called life. This could mean: (1) they will have control over their sinful desires while physically alive. Alternate translation: “will those … have control over their sinfulness while alive” (2) they will rule with Jesus Christ while living eternally. Alternative translation: “will those … rule and live eternally”

the ones receiving the abundance of the grace and the gift of the righteousness

Quote: οἱ τὴν περισσείαν τῆς χάριτος καὶ τῆς δωρεᾶς τῆς δικαιοσύνης λαμβάνοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause describes the people who will rule in life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “those who receive the abundance of the grace and the gift of the righteousness as well”

the ones receiving the abundance of the grace

Quote: οἱ τὴν περισσείαν τῆς χάριτος & λαμβάνοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe abundance that relates to grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “those who receive God’s abundant grace” or “those who experience how abundantly gracious God is”

the gift of the righteousness

Quote: τῆς δωρεᾶς τῆς δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe how righteousness is a gift. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the gift, which is that of being made righteous,”

through the one, Jesus Christ

Quote: διὰ τοῦ ἑνὸς, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, through indicates that the one, Jesus Christ is the reason why his people will rule in life. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because of the one, Jesus Christ”

the one, Jesus Christ

Quote: τοῦ ἑνὸς, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase the one, Jesus Christ refers to what Jesus did for believers in order for them to rule in life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what the one, Jesus Christ has done for them”

Romans 5:18

So then, as through one trespass to all men {led} to condemnation, so also through one righteous act to all men {led} to justification of life

Quote: ἄρα οὖν ὡς δι’ ἑνὸς παραπτώματος, εἰς πάντας ἀνθρώπους εἰς κατάκριμα, οὕτως καὶ δι’ ἑνὸς δικαιώματος, εἰς πάντας ἀνθρώπους εἰς δικαίωσιν ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “So then, as one man trespassed and this trespass caused all men to become condemned, so also one man acted righteously and this act caused all men to become justified for living eternally”

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows in 5:18–21 summarizes the ideas of 5:12–17. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a clearer expression. Alternate translation: “Finally” or “In summary”

through … through

Quote: δι’ & δι’ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

See how you translated through in the previous verse.

trespass … condemnation, … justification

Quote: παραπτώματος & κατάκριμα & δικαίωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated trespass, condemnation, and justification in 5:16.

all men {… all men

Quote: πάντας ἀνθρώπους (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. See how your translated all men in 5:12.

justification of life

Quote: δικαίωσιν ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe how justification relates to life. This could mean: (1) justification that leads to life. Alternate translation: “justification that brings eternal life” (2) justification that is life. Alternate translation: “justification, which is eternal life”

of life

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

Here, life refers to “eternal life.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of eternal life” or “for living forever”

Romans 5:19

For

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

For here indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

just as … so also

Quote: ὥσπερ & οὕτως καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated the similar connective words just as and so also in the previous verse.

through … through

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

See how you translated through in the previous two verses.

the disobedience of the one man … the obedience of the one

Quote: τῆς παρακοῆς τοῦ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου & τῆς ὑπακοῆς τοῦ ἑνὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of disobedience and obedience, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. You may need to supply an object for the verbs, such as “God” or “God’s command.” Alternate translation: “the one man disobeying God … the one man obeying God”

of the one man

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

Here, the one man refers to “Adam.” See how you translated the similar use of one man in 5:12.

through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners

Quote: διὰ τῆς παρακοῆς τοῦ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου, ἁμαρτωλοὶ κατεστάθησαν οἱ πολλοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the disobedience of the one man caused the many to become sinners”

the many … the many

Quote: οἱ πολλοί (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the many in 5:15.

sinners

Quote: ἁμαρτωλοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated sinners in 5:8.

through the obedience of the one will the many be made righteous ones

Quote: διὰ τῆς ὑπακοῆς τοῦ ἑνὸς, δίκαιοι κατασταθήσονται οἱ πολλοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the obedience of the one caused the many to become righteous ones”

of the one

Quote: τοῦ ἑνὸς (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one refers to “Jesus Christ.” See how you translated the third occurrence of **the one ** in 5:17.

Romans 5:20

the law

Quote: νόμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 2:12.

slipped in

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

The word translated slipped in can refer to sneaking in unnoticed, as in Jude 1:4. Paul may be stressing how the coming of the law was like an unwelcome person secretly intruding at some location. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “intruded like a person sneaking in unnoticed”

the trespass … the sin … the grace

Quote: τὸ παράπτωμα & ἡ ἁμαρτία & ἡ χάρις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated trespass in 5:15–18, sin in 5:12–13, and grace in 5:15 and 5:17.

the trespass might increase. … the sin increased, the grace abounded even more

Quote: πλεονάσῃ τὸ παράπτωμα & ἐπλεόνασεν ἡ ἁμαρτία, ὑπερεπερίσσευσεν ἡ χάρις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the trespass, sin, and grace as if they were objects that could increase in amount. He means that the power or influence of these concepts expanded throughout humanity. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “the trespass might be more evident … sin became more evident, the grace became even more obvious”

so that the trespass might increase

Quote: ἵνα πλεονάσῃ τὸ παράπτωμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

This clause could refer to: (1) one of God’s purposes for giving the law. Alternate translation: “in order to increase the trespass” (2) the result of God giving the law. Alternate translation (with preceding comma): “resulting in the trespass increasing”

where

Quote: οὗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses where to refer to sin and grace as if they were located somewhere. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “as”

Romans 5:21

so that

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

The phrase so that here introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God caused grace to abound, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “for the purpose that”

just as … so also

Quote: ὥσπερ & οὕτως καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated just as and so also in the 5:19.

sin … in death, … grace … righteousness … everlasting life

Quote: ἡ ἁμαρτία ἐν τῷ θανάτῳ & ἡ χάρις & δικαιοσύνης & ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated sin and grace in the previous verse, death and righteousness in 5:17, and eternal life in 2:7.

sin ruled

Quote: ἐβασίλευσεν ἡ ἁμαρτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a king ruling over people. Paul means that everyone was controlled by their sinful desires. While death ruled in 5:14, sin ruled after God gave the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “everyone was controlled by sin”

in death

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

Here, in death could refer to: (1) the location in which sin ruled. Alternate translation: “in the place where death exists” (2) the means by which sin ruled. Alternate translation: “by means of death”

grace might rule through righteousness

Quote: χάρις βασιλεύσῃ διὰ δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of grace as if it were a king ruling over people. Paul means that God’s grace allows people to become righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “how gracious God is might make people become righteous”

through … through

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

See how you translated through in the 5:17–19.

to everlasting life

Quote: εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, to indicates that was follows is the result of God’s grace ruling through righteousness. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “resulted in eternal life”

Jesus Christ our Lord

Quote: Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase Jesus Christ our Lord refers to what Jesus did for believers in order for them to have eternal life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for them”

Romans 6

Romans 6 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)
   • Baptism represents union with Christ’s death (6:1–14)
   • Christians are now slaves of righteousness (6:15–23)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Slavery

In this chapter Paul frequently uses the metaphor of the relationship between slaves and their masters. He speaks figuratively of people who live sinfully as if they were slaves to sin and the death it causes (6:6, 16–17, 20). He also speaks figuratively of Christians as if God has freed them from being enslaved to sin and has himself or righteousness as their master (6:18, 22). Because Christians are no longer controlled by their desire to sin, they should instead serve God and live in a way that glorifies him (6:12–14, 19). (See: servant, serve, maidservant, young man, young women)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Rhetorical Questions

In 6:1–3, 15–16, and 21 Paul uses rhetorical questions in order to answer objections that people might make about what he is saying.

Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we”, “us”, and “our” refer inclusively to all believers in Christ. Paul calls these people those who have been “baptized into Christ Jesus” in 6:3. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

Romans 6:1

What then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous chapter, especially what he said in 5:20. See how you translated What then in 3:1 and 4:1.

What then will we say? Should we continue in the sin so that the grace might increase

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? ἐπιμένωμεν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ, ἵνα ἡ χάρις πλεονάσῃ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In this verse Paul is not asking for information, but is using a question to address rumors some people may have been spreading that misrepresent his teachings. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation or communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we will say that we should continue in the sin so that the grace might increase!”

What then will we say? Should we continue in the sin so that the grace might increase

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? ἐπιμένωμεν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ, ἵνα ἡ χάρις πλεονάσῃ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this verse and the first part of the next verse, Paul is speaking as if he were a Christian who misunderstood what Paul had taught in the previous chapter. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

will we say? Should we continue

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

Here, we includes all those of whom Paul spoke as those “who were baptized into Christ Jesus,” as mentioned in 6:3, so we is inclusive of all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

in the sin … the grace

Quote: τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ & ἡ χάρις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated sin and grace in 5:21.

Should we continue in the sin

Quote: ἐπιμένωμεν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of sin as if it were a location. He is referring to the idea of people continuing to live sinfully after they have become Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “Should we continue to live sinfully”

so that the grace might increase

Quote: ἵνα ἡ χάρις πλεονάσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks here of grace as if it were an object that could increase in amount, as he also does in 5:20. He is referring to the idea of Christians experiencing the power or influence of grace in their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “so that we can experience more grace”

so that the grace might increase

Quote: ἵνα ἡ χάρις πλεονάσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

The phrase so that here introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the supposed purpose for which someone would sin. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order to increase the grace”

Romans 6:2

May it never be

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

In this verse Paul responds to the rhetorical questions he wrote in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘May it never be!’”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:4.

We who died to sin, how will we still live in it

Quote: οἵτινες ἀπεθάνομεν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ, πῶς ἔτι ζήσομεν ἐν αὐτῇ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We who died to sin surely cannot still live in it!”

We who died to sin, how will we still live in it

Quote: οἵτινες ἀπεθάνομεν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ, πῶς ἔτι ζήσομεν ἐν αὐτῇ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of sin as if it were a location where Christians could live or die. Here, died to sin refers to the idea that Christians are no longer controlled by their sinful desires. By contrast, live in sin means to continue being controlled by sinful desires. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “We who are no longer controlled by our desire to sin, how could we still live as though we are controlled by that desire”

Romans 6:3

Or do you not know that as many as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death

Quote: ἢ ἀγνοεῖτε, ὅτι ὅσοι ἐβαπτίσθημεν εἰς Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν, εἰς τὸν θάνατον αὐτοῦ ἐβαπτίσθημεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You surely know that as many as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death!”

as many as

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

Paul is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “as many people as”

as many as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death

Quote: ὅσοι ἐβαπτίσθημεν εἰς Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν, εἰς τὸν θάνατον αὐτοῦ ἐβαπτίσθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “as many people as someone baptized into Christ Jesus someone also baptized into his death”

were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death

Quote: ἐβαπτίσθημεν εἰς Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν, εἰς τὸν θάνατον αὐτοῦ ἐβαπτίσθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Christ Jesus and his death as if they were locations into which someone could be baptized. Here, into Christ Jesus refers to being united with Christ Jesus, and into his death refers to sharing in the spiritual benefits of his death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning of these two phrases plainly. Alternative translation: “were baptized are united with Christ Jesus and also share in the benefits of his death”

death

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

See how you translated death in 5:21.

Romans 6:4

We were buried, then

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

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “We were buried, therefore”

We were buried, then, with him

Quote: συνετάφημεν οὖν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Christians as if they were buried with Jesus when they were baptized. Paul mentions burial because it emphasizes that Jesus did indeed die. Here he means that Christians are indeed united with Christ’s death and share in its spiritual benefits. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “We are indeed united, then, with Christ’s death” or “We are so united, then, with Christ’s death that it is as if we were really buried with him”

through the baptism into his death

Quote: διὰ τοῦ βαπτίσματος εἰς τὸν θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through indicates that the following phrase is the means by which Christians were buried with Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of the baptism into his death”

into his death

Quote: εἰς τὸν θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

his death … the glory … of life

Quote: τὸν θάνατον & τῆς δόξης & ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated death in 6:3, glory in 5:2, and life in 5:21.

so that just as Christ was raised from dead ones through the glory of the Father, so also we in newness of life might walk

Quote: ἵνα ὥσπερ ἠγέρθη Χριστὸς ἐκ νεκρῶν διὰ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Πατρός, οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς ἐν καινότητι ζωῆς περιπατήσωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that what follows is a purpose clause. Paul is stating one purpose for which God instituted baptism. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “in order for us to walk in newness of life, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father”

just as … so also

Quote: ὥσπερ & οὕτως καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated just as and so also in the 5:19.

just as Christ was raised from dead ones through the glory of the Father, so also we in newness of life might walk

Quote: ὥσπερ ἠγέρθη Χριστὸς ἐκ νεκρῶν διὰ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Πατρός, οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς ἐν καινότητι ζωῆς περιπατήσωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that the new way a Christian should live after being baptized is similar to being raised from the dead, as Christ was. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we should live in a new way, similar to when Christ was raised from death through the glory of the Father”

Christ was raised from dead ones through the glory of the Father

Quote: ἠγέρθη Χριστὸς ἐκ νεκρῶν διὰ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the glory of the Father raised Christ from dead ones”

Christ was raised from dead ones

Quote: ἠγέρθη Χριστὸς ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 4:24.

from dead ones

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

See how you translated this phrase in 4:24.

through the glory of the Father

Quote: διὰ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe glory that comes from or characterizes the Father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “through the glory from the Father” or “through the Father’s glory”

the glory

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

Here, the glory refers specifically to God’s glorious power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the glorious power”

of the Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

we … might walk

Quote: ἡμεῖς & περιπατήσωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses walk to refer to how a person lives and behaves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “we … might act”

in newness of life

Quote: ἐν καινότητι ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe life that is characterized by newness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “with a new life” or “like those made newly alive”

Romans 6:5

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “So then,”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “because”

we have become planted together in the likeness of his death

Quote: σύμφυτοι γεγόναμεν τῷ ὁμοιώματι τοῦ θανάτου αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of death as if it were something with which Christians could be physically planted together. He means that by being baptized, Christians show that they participate in the spiritual benefits obtained by Christ’s death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “we participate in Christ’s death through baptism”

in the likeness of his death, … the resurrection

Quote: τῷ ὁμοιώματι τοῦ θανάτου αὐτοῦ & τῆς ἀναστάσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for these ideas of likeness and resurrection, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in what is like his death … his resurrecting from the dead”

in the likeness of his death

Quote: τῷ ὁμοιώματι τοῦ θανάτου αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul implies that likeness of his death refers to the “baptism” referred to in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the likeness of his death that is represented by baptism” or “in baptism, which represents dying with him”

we will also certainly become {part of} the resurrection

Quote: ἀλλὰ καὶ τῆς ἀναστάσεως ἐσόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of resurrection as if it were something of which Christians could become part. He means that Christians will one day rise from the dead like Christ did. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “we will also certainly be resurrected like Christ”

Romans 6:6

our old man was crucified together {with him

Quote: ὁ παλαιὸς ἡμῶν ἄνθρωπος συνεσταυρώθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God crucified our old man together with him”

our old man was crucified together {with him

Quote: ὁ παλαιὸς ἡμῶν ἄνθρωπος συνεσταυρώθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of our sinful human nature as if it were an old man who was nailed to the same cross as Christ. Paul means that when Christ was crucified, he destroyed the power of sin and death that controlled all humans. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “God destroyed the power of sin that controlled people when Christ was crucified”

was crucified together {with him

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

The pronoun him refers to Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “was crucified with Christ”

in order that

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

Here, in order that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God crucified our old man. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “so that”

the body of sin might be nullified

Quote: καταργηθῇ τὸ σῶμα τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God might nullify the body of sin”

the body of sin might be nullified

Quote: καταργηθῇ τὸ σῶμα τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the body of sin as if it were a condition of slavery that could be cancelled. He means that Christ’s crucifixion removed the ability of sinful desires to control people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “God might completely end how living sinfully controls people”

the body of sin

Quote: τὸ σῶμα τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe how the body is related to sin. Use a natural way in your language to express this idea. Here, the body of sin could refer to: (1) how humans tend to sin. Alternate translation: “our human tendency to sin” or “how living sinfully controls us” (2) how sin controls the human body. Alternate translation: “how sin controls our bodies”

of sin … to the sin

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

See how you translated sin in 6:1.

for it} to no longer enslave

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

Here, for could indicate: (1) God’s purpose for nullifying the body of sin. Alternate translation: “in order for it to no longer enslave” (2) the result of the body of sin being nullified. Alternate translation: “causing it to no longer enslave”

for it} to no longer enslave us to the sin

Quote: τοῦ μηκέτι δουλεύειν ἡμᾶς τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the body of sin as if it could enslave people. Here he means that the desire to sin that controls people would no longer do so. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “for it to no longer make us live sinfully”

Romans 6:7

the one having died

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

Here Paul implies that the one having died is the same “old man” whom Paul said “was crucified” with Christ in the previous verse. Paul means that God considers any person who has “died to sin” (6:2) to be freed from living sinfully. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who has died to sin”

has been freed from the sin

Quote: δεδικαίωται ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul continues the metaphor of sin enslaving people from the previous verse. Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were something that people need to be freed from. He means that the desire to sin that controls people would no longer do so. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “no longer has to live sinfully”

has been freed

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God has freed”

sin

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

See how you translated sin in the previous verse.

Romans 6:8

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

In this verse, Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is true. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is true. Alternate translation: “because”

we died together with Christ

Quote: ἀπεθάνομεν σὺν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Christians as if they physically died with Christ. He means that through baptism Christians show that they participate in the spiritual benefits obtained by Christ’s death and will one day live together with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “we are united to Christ’s death when baptized”

we believe

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

Paul implies that since Christians have died with Christ, the result is that they have confidence that they will live together with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “we are confident” or “this persuades us”

we will also live together with him

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

Here Paul implies that live together with him refers to “eternal life”, as he mentioned in 5:21 and 6:4–5. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “we will also live forever with him”

Romans 6:9

knowing that Christ, having been raised from dead ones, no longer dies

Quote: εἰδότες ὅτι Χριστὸς ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν, οὐκέτι ἀποθνῄσκει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “knowing that Christ no longer dies, having been raised from dead ones”

knowing that

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

See how you translated the similar phrase in 6:6.

Christ, having been raised from dead ones

Quote: Χριστὸς ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God raised Christ from dead ones, Christ”

having been raised from dead ones

Quote: ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar clause in 6:4.

no longer dies; death no longer is lord over him

Quote: οὐκέτι ἀποθνῄσκει; θάνατος αὐτοῦ οὐκέτι κυριεύει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean similar things. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that Christ can never die again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “will absolutely never die again”

death no longer is lord over him

Quote: θάνατος αὐτοῦ οὐκέτι κυριεύει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of death as if it were a lord who could rule over someone. Paul means that Jesus could not possibly die again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he no longer submits to being dead” or “he can never die again”

death

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

See how you translated death in 6:4.

Romans 6:10

For

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

For indicates that what follows is the reason why Christ “no longer dies,” as stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language for indicating a reason, as in the UST.

that which

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

Here, that which refers to Christ’s death and life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the death which”

he died to sin

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

Here, to sin implies that Christ died for the sake of freeing humanity from being “enslaved to sin.” It does not mean that Jesus himself was ever controlled by sin before he died. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternative translation: “he died for the sake of removing sin’s control over people” or “he died to stop sin from controlling people”

But what he lives

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

Here, what he lives refers to Christ’s life after God raised him from the dead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “But the life which”

he lives to God

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

Here, to God implies that Christ now lives for the sake of glorifying God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternative translation: “he lives for the sake of glorifying God”

Romans 6:11

you

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

Throughout 6:11–23, the pronouns you and “your” are plural and refer to the believers in Rome to whom Paul wrote this letter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you believers at Rome”

to be dead indeed to sin

Quote: εἶναι νεκροὺς μὲν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated “died to sin” in 6:2.

alive to God

Quote: ζῶντας & τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar phrase “he lives to God” in the previous verse.

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 3:24.

Romans 6:12

Therefore

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

Therefore here introduces a result clause. Paul is stating how he wants his readers to act in response to what he said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to introduce a result clause. Alternate translation: “This is why” or “Because of this”

do not let sin rule in your mortal body

Quote: μὴ & βασιλευέτω ἡ ἁμαρτία ἐν τῷ θνητῷ ὑμῶν σώματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a king who rules over a place called mortal body. By do not let sin rule, Paul means that Christians should not allow sin to control the way they use their bodies. See how you translated a similar use of rule in 5:21. Alternate translation: “do not let your physical body become controlled by sinning”

in your mortal body

Quote: ἐν τῷ θνητῷ ὑμῶν σώματι, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Although body here is a singular noun, Paul is referring to the bodies of his readers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a plural form. Alternate translation: “in your mortal bodies”

in your mortal body

Quote: ἐν τῷ θνητῷ ὑμῶν σώματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, body could refer to: (1) the whole person. Alternative translation: “in you” or “in your whole being” (2) the physical human body. Alternative translation: “in your physical body”

to obey its lusts

Quote: εἰς τὸ ὑπακούειν ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here to indicates that what follows is the result of letting sin rule. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “causing you to obey its lusts” or “resulting in you obeying your lusts”

to obey its lusts

Quote: εἰς τὸ ὑπακούειν ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of lusts as if they were people who could be obeyed. He means that people can submit to their desires to do sinful things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to submit to your lustful desires” or “to do what you lust for”

its lusts

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of lusts, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how it urges you to lust”

its

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

The pronoun its refers to mortal body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “your mortal body’s”

Romans 6:13

And do not keep presenting your members {as} tools of unrighteousness to sin. But present yourselves to God, as living from dead ones, and your members {as} tools of righteousness to God

Quote: μηδὲ παριστάνετε τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν, ὅπλα ἀδικίας τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ, ἀλλὰ παραστήσατε ἑαυτοὺς τῷ Θεῷ, ὡσεὶ ἐκ νεκρῶν ζῶντας, καὶ τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν, ὅπλα δικαιοσύνης τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses in order to emphasize the similar ideas. Alternate translation: “And do not keep presenting your members as tools of unrighteousness to sin, but present your members as tools of righteousness to God. And present yourselves to God, as living from dead ones”

And do not keep presenting your members {as} tools of unrighteousness to sin. … and your members {as} tools of righteousness to God

Quote: μηδὲ παριστάνετε τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν, ὅπλα ἀδικίας τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ & καὶ τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν, ὅπλα δικαιοσύνης τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of body parts as if they were tools that could be offered to someone or used by someone. He means that he wants his readers to stop using their body parts for sinning, but instead to use them to live in the way God wants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “And do not keep using your members to act unrighteously by sinning … and use your members to act righteously for God”

as} tools of unrighteousness

Quote: ὅπλα ἀδικίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe tools that are characterized by unrighteousness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “as unrighteous tools” or “as tools for living unrighteously”

as} tools … as} tools

Quote: ὅπλα & ὅπλα (1)

The word translated as tools often refers to “weapons.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as weapons … as weapons”

of unrighteousness … of righteousness

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of unrighteousness and righteousness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of what is unrighteous … of what is righteous”

present yourselves to God

Quote: παραστήσατε ἑαυτοὺς τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of his readers as if they could offer themselves as slaves to their master, who is God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “give yourselves to God”

as living from dead ones

Quote: ὡσεὶ ἐκ νεκρῶν ζῶντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that Christians should live in such a way that demonstrates that they are now dead to sin, but alive to God, as mentioned in 6:11. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as those who are free from living sinfully” or “as those who are no longer controlled by living sinfully”

from dead ones

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

See how you translated this phrase in 6:4.

and your members

Quote: καὶ τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this from the beginning of this sentence. Alternate translation: “and present your members”

as} tools of righteousness

Quote: ὅπλα δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe tools that are characterized by righteousness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “as righteous tools” or “as tools for living righteously”

Romans 6:14

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

sin must not be lord over you, for you are not under law, but under grace

Quote: ἁμαρτία & ὑμῶν οὐ κυριεύσει, οὐ γάρ ἐστε ὑπὸ νόμον, ἀλλὰ ὑπὸ χάριν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second clause gives the reason for the result that the first clause describes. Alternate translation: “because you are not under law, but under grace, do not allow sin to rule over you”

sin must not be lord over you

Quote: ἁμαρτία & ὑμῶν οὐ κυριεύσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated the similar phrase in 6:12.

sin must not be lord over

Quote: ἁμαρτία & οὐ κυριεύσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using a future statement to give a command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for a command. Alternate translation: “sin must not rule over” or “do not allow sin to rule over”

for

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

Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul urges his readers to not allow sin to lord over them. Use the most natural form in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “since”

for you are not under law, but under grace

Quote: οὐ γάρ ἐστε ὑπὸ νόμον, ἀλλὰ ὑπὸ χάριν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Paul speaks of law and grace as if they were rulers under whose authority people have to live. He means that Christians are no longer controlled by the requirements of the law, which resulted in people sinning more, as stated in 5:20. By contrast, Christians now serve the gracious God, as is explained in 6:15–23. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “for the law no longer controls you, but you are now controlled by God’s grace”

law

Quote: νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated law in 2:12.

under grace

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

Here, grace refers specifically to God’s gracious empowering of people to stop sinning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternative translation: “controlled by God’s grace”

Romans 6:15

What then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in 6:1–14. See how you translated What then in 3:1, 4:1, and 6:1.

What then? Should we sin because we are not under law, but under grace

Quote: τί οὖν? ἁμαρτήσωμεν ὅτι οὐκ ἐσμὲν ὑπὸ νόμον, ἀλλὰ ὑπὸ χάριν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using a question form here to address an objection that some people may have to what he said in the previous verses. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation or communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we should sin because we are not under law, but under grace!”

What then? Should we sin because we are not under law, but under grace

Quote: τί οὖν? ἁμαρτήσωμεν ὅτι οὐκ ἐσμὲν ὑπὸ νόμον, ἀλλὰ ὑπὸ χάριν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these two sentences, Paul is speaking as if he were a Christian who misunderstood what Paul had taught in the previous verses. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

under law, … under grace

Quote: ὑπὸ νόμον & ὑπὸ χάριν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated these phrases in the previous verse.

May it never be

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

In this sentence Paul begins to respond to the rhetorical questions he posed earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘May it never be!’”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:4 and 6:2.

Romans 6:16

Do you not know that to what you keep presenting yourselves {as} slaves for obedience, you become slaves to what you obey—whether of sin {leading} to death, or of obedience {leading} to righteousness

Quote: οὐκ οἴδατε, ὅτι ᾧ παριστάνετε ἑαυτοὺς δούλους εἰς ὑπακοήν, δοῦλοί ἐστε ᾧ ὑπακούετε—ἤτοι ἁμαρτίας εἰς θάνατον, ἢ ὑπακοῆς εἰς δικαιοσύνην? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You surely know that to what you keep presenting yourselves as slaves for obedience, you become slaves to what you obey—whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness!”

to what … to what

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

The pronoun translated what here indicates a general reference to a thing or person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to whomever or whatever … to whomever or whatever”

you keep presenting yourselves {as} slaves … you become slaves to what you obey

Quote: παριστάνετε ἑαυτοὺς δούλους & δοῦλοί ἐστε ᾧ ὑπακούετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of people as if they could offer themselves as slaves to someone or something. He is referring to being controlled by someone or something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “you keep being controlled by … you become controlled by what you obey”

for obedience

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

Here, for indicates that this is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which these people are presenting themselves as slaves. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order to obey” or “for the purpose of obeying”

for obedience, … of obedience

Quote: εἰς ὑπακοήν & ὑπακοῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of obedience, you could express the same idea in a different way. Alternate translation: “to obey … to obey”

whether of sin {leading} to death, or of obedience {leading} to righteousness

Quote: ἤτοι ἁμαρτίας εἰς θάνατον, ἢ ὑπακοῆς εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, sin and obedience are spoken of as if they were masters that slaves would obey. Paul means that people can be controlled either by their desire to sin or a desire to obey God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “whether you are controlled by sinning, leading to death, or you are controlled by obeying God, leading to righteousness”

of sin {… of obedience

Quote: ἁμαρτίας & ὑπακοῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe slaves that belong to sin or obedience. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “slaves that belong to sin … slaves that belong to obedience” or “sin’s slaves … obedience’s slaves”

of sin {… righteousness

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

See how you translated sin in 6:1 and righteousness in 6:13.

leading} to death, … leading} to righteousness

Quote: εἰς θάνατον & εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, leading to indicates result. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “resulting in death … resulting to righteousness” or “causing death … causing righteousness”

leading} to death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “leading to spiritual death” or “causing one to die spiritually”

Romans 6:17

thanks {be} to God

Quote: χάρις & τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

Here, thanks be to God is an exclamatory phrase that communicates Paul’s thankfulness. Use an exclamation form that is natural in your language for communicating thanks. Alternate translation: “I give thanks to God!”

that you were slaves of sin

Quote: ὅτι ἦτε δοῦλοι τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, that indicates that the clause that follows provides a contrast between who Paul’s readers were before they became Christians and who they were after they had listened from the heart to true Christian teaching. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “even though you were slaves of sin”

slaves of sin

Quote: δοῦλοι τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated the similar phrase of sin in the previous verse.

but you listened from the heart to the pattern of teaching

Quote: ὑπηκούσατε δὲ ἐκ καρδίας, εἰς & τύπον διδαχῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the pattern of teaching as if it were a person who could be listened to. He means that his readers accepted the true Christian teaching that Christians were teaching them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but you accepted the form of teaching”

you listened

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

The word translated listened implies that the people who listened also responded by obeying what they heard. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you clung”

you listened from the heart

Quote: ὑπηκούσατε & ἐκ καρδίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, from the heart is an idiom that refers to being sincere or doing something with one’s will and emotions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you totally listened” or “you listened from deep within”

to the pattern of teaching that you were given over to

Quote: εἰς ὃν παρεδόθητε τύπον διδαχῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the pattern of teaching as if it were a slave-master to which people are given over to as slaves when they become Christians. Paul means that Christians should submit to the authority of true Christian teaching. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the pattern of teaching that you were submitted to” or “to the pattern of teaching that you were handed over to, as if you were its slave”

that you were given over to

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that God gave you over to” or

Romans 6:18

And having been freed from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness

Quote: ἐλευθερωθέντες δὲ ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας, ἐδουλώθητε τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin and righteousness as if they were slave-masters that people could be enslaved to. Paul means that his readers are no longer controlled by their sinful desires, but are controlled by the desire to live righteously. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And having been freed from having to live sinfully, you now have to live righteously”

And having been freed from sin, you became enslaved

Quote: ἐλευθερωθέντες δὲ ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας, ἐδουλώθητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use passive forms in this way, you could express these ideas in active forms or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “And God having freed you from sin, he enslaved you”

sin, … to righteousness

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

See how you translated sin and righteousness in 6:16.

Romans 6:19

I speak as a man because of the weakness of your flesh

Quote: ἀνθρώπινον λέγω, διὰ τὴν ἀσθένειαν τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Because of the weakness of your flesh, I speak as a man” or “Because you are still immature, I have to speak in simple terms”

I speak as a man

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

Here, as a man is an idiom meaning “the way people do” or “like a human being.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I am speaking based on how human beings perceive things” or “I am talking like a mere human being”

the weakness of your flesh. … to uncleanness and to more and more lawlessness, … to righteousness {leading} to sanctification

Quote: τὴν ἀσθένειαν τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν & τῇ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, καὶ τῇ ἀνομίᾳ εἰς τὴν ἀνομίαν & τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ εἰς ἁγιασμόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of weakness, uncleanness, lawlessness, righteousness, and sanctification, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how weak your flesh is … to act impurely and to be more and more lawless … for living righteously, which leads to being sanctified”

the weakness of your flesh

Quote: τὴν ἀσθένειαν τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, flesh is an idiom that refers to human nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “your human weakness” or “your natural limitations”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in 6:17–18. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Moreover,”

just as … so

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

See how you translated just as and so in the 5:19.

you presented your members as slaves to uncleanness and to more and more lawlessness, … present your members {as} slaves to righteousness

Quote: παρεστήσατε τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν δοῦλα τῇ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, καὶ τῇ ἀνομίᾳ εἰς τὴν ἀνομίαν & παραστήσατε τὰ μέλη ὑμῶν, δοῦλα τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Paul speaks of body parts as if they were slaves that could be offered to someone or used by someone. He means that his readers used to use their body parts to act impurely and to disobey God’s laws, but now they should use them to live in the way God wants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated similar phrases in 6:13. Alternative translation: “you used your members to act uncleanly and to disobey God more and more … use your members to act righteously”

leading} to sanctification

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

The phrase leading to indicates result. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “resulting in sanctification” or “causing sanctification”

Romans 6:20

For

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

For here introduces a result clause. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “This reason for this is that”

when you were slaves of sin, you were free with respect to righteousness

Quote: ὅτε & δοῦλοι ἦτε τῆς ἁμαρτίας, ἐλεύθεροι ἦτε τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul speaks of sin and righteousness as if they were slave-masters. Paul means that when his readers had previously used their bodies to act sinfully, they were not serving God’s purposes as slaves of righteousness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when you were controlled by sin, you did not serve God” or “when you were living sinfully, you did not live righteously”

you were free with respect to righteousness

Quote: ἐλεύθεροι ἦτε τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

Paul is not making a serious suggestion here that sinful people are not required to live righteously. Paul means to communicate the opposite of the literal meaning of free. If this would be misunderstood in your language, consider expressing the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you were unrighteous” or “you were unable to live righteously”

Romans 6:21

what fruit were you then having because of which things you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things {is} death

Quote: τίνα & καρπὸν εἴχετε τότε, ἐφ’ οἷς νῦν ἐπαισχύνεσθε? τὸ γὰρ τέλος ἐκείνων θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these sentences since the second sentence gives the reason for the result that the first sentence describes. Alternate translation: “since the outcome of those things is death, what fruit were you then having because of which things you are now ashamed?”

So what fruit were you then having because of which things you are now ashamed

Quote: τίνα οὖν καρπὸν εἴχετε τότε, ἐφ’ οἷς νῦν ἐπαισχύνεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the futility of being “slaves to sin” in the previous verse. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation in order to communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “So you were not then having any fruit because of which things you are now ashamed!”

fruit

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

Here, fruit is an idiom that refers to a benefit or advantage. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “advantage” or “profit”

because of which things … of those things

Quote: ἐφ’ οἷς & ἐκείνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, which things and those things refer to sins. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because of which sins … of those sins”

For the outcome of those things {is} death

Quote: τὸ γὰρ τέλος ἐκείνων θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of outcome and death, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “For those things finally result in you dying”

is} death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16.

Romans 6:22

But now

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

But now introduces a contrast with the previous two verses, a contrast that focuses on time. The word translated now refers to the time after the Roman believers became Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify what now refers to. Alternate translation: “But now that you believe in Jesus,”

having been freed from sin and having been enslaved to God

Quote: ἐλευθερωθέντες ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας, δουλωθέντες δὲ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause indicates the reason why Paul’s readers have fruit leading to sanctification. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because you have been freed from sin and have been enslaved to God”

having been freed from sin and having been enslaved to God

Quote: ἐλευθερωθέντες ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας, δουλωθέντες δὲ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin and God as if they were slave-masters. Paul means that Christians are no longer controlled by their desire to sin, but are supposed to obey God instead. See a similar phrase in 6:18. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “having been freed from having to live sinfully and having begun to serve God”

having been freed from sin and having been enslaved to God

Quote: ἐλευθερωθέντες ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας, δουλωθέντες δὲ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use passive forms in this way, you could express these ideas in active forms or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God having freed you from sin and having enslaved you to himself” or “God having released you from being controlled by your sin and having caused you to serve him”

you have your fruit

Quote: ἔχετε τὸν καρπὸν ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated fruit in the previous verse.

leading} to sanctification, … the outcome {is} eternal life

Quote: εἰς ἁγιασμόν, τὸ & τέλος ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated sanctification in 6:19, outcome in 6:21, and eternal life in 5:21.

leading} to sanctification

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

See how you translated this phrase in 6:19.

Romans 6:23

For

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

For here indicates that this verse gives the reason for what Paul said in the previous two verses. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true because”

the wages of sin {is} death

Quote: τὰ & ὀψώνια τῆς ἁμαρτίας θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could pay wages. Paul means that the result of living sinfully is eternal death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when a person lives sinfully, it results in eternal death”

the wages of sin {is} death

Quote: τὰ & ὀψώνια τῆς ἁμαρτίας θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of death as if it were wages paid to those who sin. He means that the result of living sinfully is eternal death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternative translation: “whoever lives sinfully receives eternal death as the result” or “whoever lives sinfully earns eternal death as if it were wages for work”

the wages of sin

Quote: τὰ & ὀψώνια τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the wages that come from sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “sin’s wages” or “the wages that come from sin”

is} death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16 and 6:21.

is} death, … the gracious gift … is} eternal life

Quote: θάνατος; τὸ & χάρισμα & ζωὴ αἰώνιος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated death in 6:21, gracious gift in 5:15–16, and eternal life in 6:22.

the gracious gift of God

Quote: τὸ & χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the gracious gift that comes from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “God’s gracious gift” or “the gracious gift from God”

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of eternal life as if it were occupying space inside of Christ Jesus. Paul means that eternal life comes by being united to Christ Jesus, as stated in 6:11. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “for those who are united to Christ Jesus” or “comes through being united to Christ Jesus”

Romans 7

Romans 7 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)
   • Baptism represents union with Christ’s death (6:1–14)
   • Christians are now slaves of righteousness (6:15–23)
   • Christians have been freed from the law (7:1–6)
   • The law is not sinful (7:7–12)
   • Christians still struggle with indwelling sin (7:13–25)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“The Law”

Throughout most of this chapter Paul uses the singular noun “the law” to refer to the group of laws that God gave Israel through Moses. However, in 7:21–25 Paul uses the word “law” in several different ways. Each of these different uses will be addressed in the notes. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Marriage

Scripture commonly uses marriage as a metaphor. Here Paul uses it to describe how the church relates to the law of Moses and now to Christ. (See: Metaphor)

Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we”, “us”, and “our” refer inclusively to all Jewish believers in Christ. Paul calls these people “brothers” in 7:1 and 7:4. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

Romans 7:1

Or do you not know, brothers (for I am speaking to those knowing the law), that the law is lord of the man for as long as he lives

Quote: ἢ ἀγνοεῖτε, ἀδελφοί (γινώσκουσιν γὰρ νόμον λαλῶ), ὅτι ὁ νόμος κυριεύει τοῦ ἀνθρώπου ἐφ’ ὅσον χρόνον ζῇ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that the Jew is required to obey the law of Moses his whole life. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You surely know, brothers (for I am speaking to those who know the law), that the law is lord of the man for as long as he lives!”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here to refer to both male and female Jewish believers in Christ. Alternate translation: “my fellow Jewish Christians”

for I am speaking to those knowing the law

Quote: (γινώσκουσιν γὰρ νόμον λαλῶ) (1)

Here Paul interrupts himself in order to clarify that he is specifically directing this part of the letter to the Jewish believers in the church at Rome. If this would be confusing in your language, you could add parentheses, as done in the ULT, or use a natural way in your language to indicate this.

for

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

Here, for indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it explains the reason why Paul expects these brothers to understand what he is saying. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “I know you should understand this because”

I am speaking

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

The pronoun I here and throughout this chapter refers to Paul (See: 6:19). If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, am speaking”

the law), … the law

Quote: νόμον & ὁ νόμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

For every occurrence of the law in 7:1–20, translate the phrase in the same way you translated it in 2:12.

the law is lord of the man

Quote: ὁ νόμος κυριεύει τοῦ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a king. Paul means that, like a king, the law must be obeyed by those who are obligated to do so. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “like a king, the law must be obeyed by every Jewish person”

of the man … he lives

Quote: τοῦ ἀνθρώπου & ζῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the man and he are masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “of a person … that person lives”

Romans 7:2

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of an example from God’s law that illustrates how “the law rules over the man for as long as he lives,” as Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “For example,” or “As an illustration,”

the married woman remains bound by law to the living husband, but if the husband dies, she has been released … of the husband

Quote: ἡ & ὕπανδρος γυνὴ τῷ ζῶντι ἀνδρὶ δέδεται νόμῳ; ἐὰν δὲ ἀποθάνῃ ὁ ἀνήρ, κατήργηται & τοῦ ἀνδρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of Jewish married women and husbands in general, not of one particular woman or husband. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “married women remain bound by law to their living husbands, but if their husbands die, they have been released … of their husbands”

the married woman remains bound by law … she has been released

Quote: ἡ & ὕπανδρος γυνὴ & δέδεται νόμῳ & κατήργηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the law continually binds the married woman … God releases her”

the married woman remains bound by law to the living husband, … she has been released from the law of the husband

Quote: ἡ & ὕπανδρος γυνὴ τῷ ζῶντι ἀνδρὶ δέδεται νόμῳ & κατήργηται ἀπὸ τοῦ νόμου τοῦ ἀνδρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a person who could tie a woman to her husband. Paul means that the law of Moses requires a married woman to stay married to her husband only while he is alive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God requires in his law that the married woman remain married to her living husband … she is no longer required to remain married to the husband”

the law of the husband

Quote: τοῦ νόμου τοῦ ἀνδρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the law that is related to the husband. This phrase refers to the law already described in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the law that requires her to remain bound to the husband”

Romans 7:3

So then

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

See how you translated this phrase in 5:18.

the husband being alive, if she becomes {married} to another husband, she will be titled an adulteress

Quote: ζῶντος τοῦ ἀνδρὸς, μοιχαλὶς χρηματίσει, ἐὰν γένηται ἀνδρὶ ἑτέρῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “if she becomes married to another husband, the first husband being alive”

the husband being alive

Quote: ζῶντος τοῦ ἀνδρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

In this clause Paul is describing something that was occurring during the same time period as what he describes in the next clause. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “at the same time that the husband is alive”

the husband … the husband

Quote: τοῦ ἀνδρὸς & ὁ ἀνήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

she will be titled an adulteress

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the law will title her an adulteress”

she is free from the law

Quote: ἐλευθέρα ἐστὶν ἀπὸ τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were an object or person someone could be freed from. Paul means that the law that prohibited a woman from marrying another husband did not apply if her first husband died. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar phrase “she has been released from the law” in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “she is no longer required to remain married to the first husband”

Romans 7:4

So then

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

So then here introduces the result of what Paul said in 7:1–3. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a result clause. Alternate translation: “Since this is true”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 7:1.

you yourselves were also made dead to the law

Quote: καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐθανατώθητε τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you also died to the law”

you yourselves were also made dead

Quote: καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐθανατώθητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word yourselves to emphasize that even Jewish Christians are not required to obey the law of Moses. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “you very Jews yourselves were also made dead” or “even you Jews yourselves were also made dead”

you yourselves were also made dead to the law

Quote: καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐθανατώθητε τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses made dead to refer to Jewish Christians not being required to obey the law of Moses. Just as dead people don’t have to obey the law, so too, Jewish Christians no longer have to obey it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “your yourselves no longer have to obey the law” or “you yourselves are like dead people in that you do not have to obey the law”

through the body of Christ

Quote: διὰ τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through indicates that the body of Christ is the means by which believers were made dead to the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of the body of Christ”

through the body of Christ

Quote: διὰ τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the body of Christ refers to the death of Jesus’ body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through the death of Christ’s body”

so that you might become {married} to another

Quote: εἰς τὸ γενέσθαι ὑμᾶς ἑτέρῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God made believers dead to the law. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order for us to become married to another”

so that you might become {married} to another

Quote: εἰς τὸ γενέσθαι ὑμᾶς ἑτέρῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses married to another to refer to Christians being united with Christ as if they became married to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “so that you might become united to Jesus” or “so that you might be united with Christ like a woman becomes married to another husband”

to the one having been raised from dead ones

Quote: τῷ ἐκ νεκρῶν ἐγερθέντι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to the one whom God raised from dead ones”

to the one having been raised from dead ones

Quote: τῷ ἐκ νεκρῶν ἐγερθέντι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:24.

in order that we might produce fruit for God

Quote: ἵνα καρποφορήσωμεν τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, in order that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God raised Jesus from dead ones. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “in order for us to produce fruit for God”

we might produce fruit for God

Quote: καρποφορήσωμεν τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses fruit here to refer to actions that please God as if they were fruit that a person could grow. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we might be able to do things pleasing to God”

we might produce fruit

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

Here, we includes all those whom Paul called brothers earlier in this verse and in 7:1, so we is inclusive of all Jewish Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

Romans 7:5

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in the next two verses explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

we were in the flesh

Quote: ἦμεν ἐν τῇ σαρκί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the flesh as if it were a location that someone could be in. He means his readers used to live according to the desires of their sinful natures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we were living according to our sinful natures” or “we were doing whatever we wanted to do”

the sinful passions that {were} through the law were working

Quote: τὰ παθήματα τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν τὰ διὰ τοῦ νόμου ἐνηργεῖτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of passions, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the desire to sin that was through the law was working”

that {were} through the law were working

Quote: τὰ διὰ τοῦ νόμου ἐνηργεῖτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the context. Paul said something similar about the law causing sin to increase in 5:20. Alternate translation: “that were increased through the law were working” or “that were stimulated by the law were working”

through the law

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

Here, through indicates the means by which the sinful passions increased. Paul means that the law stimulated people’s desire to sin even more. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of the law”

were working in our members

Quote: ἐνηργεῖτο ἐν τοῖς μέλεσιν ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the sinful passions are if they were people who could work within someone’s body parts. He means that people’s sinful desires caused them to sin with their bodies. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “were causing us to use our members to sin”

members

Quote: τοῖς μέλεσιν (1)

See how you translated members in 6:13.

to produce fruit

Quote: εἰς τὸ καρποφορῆσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, to introduces a result clause. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “which resulted in producing fruit” or “so that they would produce fruit”

to produce fruit for death

Quote: εἰς τὸ καρποφορῆσαι τῷ θανάτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses fruit to refer to the result or outcome of someone’s actions. Paul is using fruit differently than how he used it in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “so that the outcome was fruit for death”

for death

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

See how you translated death in 6:16.

for death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16.

Romans 7:6

But now

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

See how you translated this phrase in 6:22.

we have been released from the law, … to that by which we were being held

Quote: κατηργήθημεν ἀπὸ τοῦ νόμου & ἐν ᾧ κατειχόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has released us from the law … to that which was holding us”

we have been released from the law, … to that by which we were being held

Quote: κατηργήθημεν ἀπὸ τοῦ νόμου & ἐν ᾧ κατειχόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a slave-master from which someone must be released and who can hold people captive. Paul means that Christians do not have to obey the laws God gave the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “we no longer have to obey the law … to that which we used to be required to obey” or “we are like slaves who have been released from the law … to that which we used to have to obey like slaves”

to that by which we were being held

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

The phrase that by which we were being held refers to the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the law by which we were being held”

having died to that by which we were being held

Quote: ἀποθανόντες ἐν ᾧ κατειχόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the law as if it were a location where Christians could die. Here, died to the law refers to the idea that Christians no longer have to obey the requirements of the laws God gave the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “no longer being required to obey that by which we were being held”

so that we might serve

Quote: ὥστε δουλεύειν ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, so that indicates that what follows is the result of Christians having died to the law. Use the natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “the result being that we might serve”

we might serve

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

Paul is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “we might serve God”

in newness … not in oldness

Quote: ἐν καινότητι & οὐ παλαιότητι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of newness and oldness, you could express the same ideas in another way. These words indicate different ways in which peopleserve God. Alternate translation: “in the new way … not in the old way”

in newness of the Spirit

Quote: ἐν καινότητι Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul uses the possessive form to describe the newness that is produced by the Spirit. Paul means that the Holy Spirit enables Christians to live in a new way that pleases God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in a new way that comes from the Holy Spirit”

in oldness of the letter

Quote: παλαιότητι γράμματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul uses the possessive form to describe the oldness that is determined by the letter. Paul means that Christians do not live in the old way that the law of Moses requires. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the old way that the letter requires”

of the letter

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

Paul uses the letter to refer to the law which is written down with letters. See how you translated this word in 2:27.

Romans 7:7

What then will we say

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Then indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous verses, especially what he said in 7:5. See how you translated this phrase in 6:1.

What then will we say? {Is} the law sin

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? ὁ νόμος ἁμαρτία? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In these two sentences Paul is not asking for information, but is using questions to address an objection that some people may have to what he said in 7:5 because they misunderstood him. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as statements or exclamations or communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we will say that the law is sin!”

What then will we say? {Is} the law sin

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? ὁ νόμος ἁμαρτία? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these two sentences Paul is speaking as if he were a Jewish Christian who misunderstood what Paul had taught in the previous verses. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

sin? … sin

Quote: ἁμαρτία & τὴν ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sin, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “something sinful … what things are sinful”

May it never be

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

In this sentence Paul begins to respond to the rhetorical questions he wrote earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘May it never be!’”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:4 and 6:2.

But

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

But here indicates that what follows is in contrast to what came before it. Here, But introduces the contrast to the idea that the law is sinful. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Nevertheless,” or “By contrast,”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an example from God’s law that illustrates the importance of the law. See how you translated the same use of For in 7:2.

the covetousness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of covetousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what it means to be covetous”

the law said

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

Here Paul uses said to indicate a quotation from the law that is written in the Old Testament (Exodus 20:17). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “it had been written in the law”

the law said

Quote: ὁ νόμος ἔλεγεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a person who could say something. He means that God said what was written down in the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God said in the law”

Romans 7:8

sin, having taken opportunity through the commandment, produced all covetousness in me

Quote: ἀφορμὴν & λαβοῦσα ἡ ἁμαρτία διὰ τῆς ἐντολῆς, κατειργάσατο ἐν ἐμοὶ πᾶσαν ἐπιθυμίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could take an opportunity and produce covetousness within a person. Paul means that his desire to sin by coveting increased when he learned the commandment that prohibits coveting. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my desire to sin, increasing as a result of the commandment, led me to covet”

the commandment

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

Here, the commandment refers specifically to the command, “You will not covet,” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the command that we should not covet”

the commandment

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of commandment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what God commanded”

covetousness

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

See how you translated covetousness in the previous verse.

apart from law, sin {is} dead

Quote: χωρὶς & νόμου, ἁμαρτία νεκρά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were something which could be dead. Paul means that his desire to sin would not have increased if God had not given his laws. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “if there were no law, my desire to sin would not have been stimulated”

Romans 7:9

without law

Quote: χωρὶς νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks about the law as if it did not exist before he knew about it. Paul means that he was not aware of God’s law at one time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “while unaware of the law” or “without knowledge of the law”

the commandment having come

Quote: ἐλθούσης & τῆς ἐντολῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Paul speaks of the commandment as if it were a person who could come to Paul. He means that he became aware of the commandment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when I became aware of the commandment”

the commandment … sin

Quote: τῆς ἐντολῆς, ἡ ἁμαρτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated commandment and sin in the previous verse.

the commandment

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

Here, the commandment could refer to: (1) all the commandments that make up God’s law. Alternate translation: “God’s commandments” (2) the commandment against coveting, as mentioned in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “the commandment against coveting”

sin came to life again

Quote: ἡ ἁμαρτία ἀνέζησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could come to life. This could mean: (1) Paul’s desire to sin was stimulated, as mentioned in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “my desire to sin was stimulated” (2) Paul realized that he was sinning, as mentioned in 7:7. Alternate translation: “I became aware of my sin”

Romans 7:10

I died

Quote: ἐγὼ & ἀπέθανον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses died here to refer to being spiritually dead, which is the spiritual condition of all non-Christians. Spiritual death results in eternal punishment in hell after a person’s body dies. Paul means here that he realized that he was spiritually dead when he understood God’s law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I died spiritually”

the commandment

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

See how you translated commandment in the previous verse.

life

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

Here, life refers to “eternal life.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of eternal life” or “for living forever”

the commandment that {was} for life

Quote: ἡ ἐντολὴ, ἡ εἰς ζωὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for indicates the purpose for the commandment. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “the commandment that was intended to cause life”

it was found {to be} for death to me

Quote: εὑρέθη μοι & αὕτη εἰς θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, for indicates that what follows is the result of the commandment. Paul means that God’s laws resulted in eternal death for people. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “it was found to result in death for me”

it was found {to be

Quote: εὑρέθη & αὕτη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I found it to be”

it was found {to be

Quote: εὑρέθη & αὕτη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the commandment as if it were an object that could be found. Paul means that he realized that God’s law results in spiritual death for people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I realized it was to be”

death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16.

Romans 7:11

sin, having taken the opportunity through the commandment

Quote: ἡ & ἁμαρτία ἀφορμὴν λαβοῦσα διὰ τῆς ἐντολῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated this clause in 7:8.

deceived me

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

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could deceive people. Paul means that his desire to sin tricked him into thinking that he could become righteous by obeying the commandment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “caused me to deceive myself”

through it

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

The pronoun it refers to the commandment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through the commandment”

killed {me

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

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could kill people. Paul means that his desire to sin caused him to disobey God’s law, which resulted in Paul being spiritually dead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “caused me to die spiritually”

Romans 7:12

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows this phrase explains what came before it. So then here introduces the result of what Paul said in 7:7–11. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “Since this is true”

the commandment

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

See how you translated commandment in 7:9.

Romans 7:13

Therefore

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

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Therefore here indicates that what follows is the result of what Paul said in 7:7–12. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result” or “This is why” or “Because of this”

did what {is} good become death to me

Quote: τὸ & ἀγαθὸν ἐμοὶ ἐγένετο θάνατος? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that the law did not directly cause him to become spiritually dead. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “surely what is good did not become death to me!”

what {is} good … through what {is} good

Quote: τὸ & ἀγαθὸν & διὰ τοῦ ἀγαθοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, what is good refers to the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God’s good laws … through those good laws”

did … become death to me

Quote: ἐμοὶ ἐγένετο θάνατος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it could become death. Paul is referring to the idea that God’s laws directly caused him to become spiritually dead. He rejects this idea in the next sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “did … cause me to die spiritually”

death … death

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

In this verse death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16.

death … sin, … sin … death … through the commandment, sin

Quote: θάνατος & ἡ ἁμαρτία & ἁμαρτία & θάνατον & ἡ ἁμαρτία διὰ τῆς ἐντολῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns sin and commandment in 7:11 and death in 7:10.

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο! (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:4 and 6:2.

But sin, in order that it might be shown {to be} sin through what {is} good, producing death in me

Quote: ἀλλὰ ἡ ἁμαρτία, ἵνα φανῇ ἁμαρτία διὰ τοῦ ἀγαθοῦ μοι κατεργαζομένη θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “But sin produced death in me in order that it might be shown to be sin through what is good”

sin, in order that it might be shown {to be} sin through what {is} good, producing death in me

Quote: ἁμαρτία, ἵνα φανῇ ἁμαρτία διὰ τοῦ ἀγαθοῦ μοι κατεργαζομένη θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, in order that indicates a purpose clause. Paul is stating a purpose for sin producing death. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “sin produced death in me for the purpose of showing itself to be sin through what is good”

it might be shown {to be} sin

Quote: φανῇ ἁμαρτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses shown as if sin were an object that people could see. Paul means that God’s laws enable people to recognize what sin is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it might be recognized to be sin”

through what {is} good

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

Here, through indicates that what is good is the means by which sin is clearly understood to be sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of what is good”

sin, … producing death in me

Quote: ἡ ἁμαρτία & μοι κατεργαζομένη θάνατον; (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could kill someone. Paul means that his desire to sin caused him to disobey God’s law, which resulted in Paul being spiritually dead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “sin … caused me to die spiritually”

producing death in me

Quote: μοι κατεργαζομένη θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of death as if it were an object that could be inside a person. He means that he was spiritually dead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: Alternate translation: “killed me spiritually”

so that through the commandment, sin might become sinful beyond measure

Quote: ἵνα γένηται καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν ἁμαρτωλὸς ἡ ἁμαρτία διὰ τῆς ἐντολῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates a purpose clause. Paul is stating another purpose for sin producing death. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order for sin to become sinful beyond measure through the commandment”

through the commandment

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

Here, through indicates that the commandment is the means by which sin becomes sinful beyond measure. Paul means that God’s laws provide a standard by which people can understand how extremely sinful sin is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of the commandment”

sin might become sinful beyond measure

Quote: γένηται καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν ἁμαρτωλὸς ἡ ἁμαρτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could become more sinful. He means that God’s laws provide a standard by which people can understand how extremely sinful sin is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “sin might be recognized as sinful beyond measure”

beyond measure

Quote: καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, beyond measure is an idiom that means “to a great degree” or “exceedingly.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a similar idiom from your language or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to an extreme degree”

Romans 7:14

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that this verse is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “These things I have just said are true because”

the law is spiritual

Quote: ὁ νόμος πνευματικός ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, spiritual means that the source of the law is God’s Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the law comes from God’s Spirit”

I myself am fleshly

Quote: ἐγὼ & σάρκινός εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word myself to emphasize the contrast between himself and the law. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “I indeed am fleshly”

fleshly

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

Here, fleshly refers to the weakness of sinful human nature, which is the inability to stop sinning without God’s help. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “spiritually frail”

sold into slavery

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “having sold myself into slavery”

sold into slavery under sin

Quote: πεπραμένος ὑπὸ τὴν ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of himself as if he were a slave. Here, sold into slavery could refer to: (1) being influenced by one’s sinful human nature. In this case Paul would be speaking about his situation even after becoming a Christian. Alternate translation: “being under the influence of my sinful nature” (2) being controlled by one’s desire to sin. In this case Paul would be speaking about his situation before he became a Christian. Alternate translation: “being controlled by my desire to sin”

under sin

Quote: ὑπὸ τὴν ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar use of this phrase in 3:9.

Romans 7:15

For

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

For* indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For** here indicates that this verse is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “What I have just said is true because”

what I produce, I do not understand

Quote: ὃ & κατεργάζομαι, οὐ γινώσκω (1)

Alternate translation: “I am not sure why I do some of the things that I do”

For

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of “what I produce,” in the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: οὐ & ὃ θέλω & ὃ μισῶ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “what I do not want to do … what I hate to do”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: οὐ & ὃ θέλω, τοῦτο πράσσω & ὃ μισῶ, τοῦτο ποιῶ. (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The phrases I practice and I do are exaggerations that Paul uses to emphasize that he often does what he does not want to do. It does not mean that Paul always does these things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what I do not want, this I often practice … what I hate, this I often do”

Romans 7:16

if what I do not want

Quote: εἰ & ὃ οὐ θέλω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since what I do not want”

what I do not want, this I do

Quote: ὃ οὐ θέλω, τοῦτο ποιῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

See how you translated the similar phrase in the previous verse.

I agree with the law that {it is} good

Quote: σύνφημι τῷ νόμῳ, ὅτι καλός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “I agree with the law and thus confess that it is good”

Romans 7:17

But now

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

But now indicates that this verse is the logical conclusion based on what Paul said in the previous two verses. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a conclusion. Alternate translation: “So it is”

no longer I myself produce

Quote: οὐκέτι ἐγὼ κατεργάζομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word myself to emphasize the contrast between himself and the sin that causes him to do what he does not want to do. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “it is no longer I who produces”

it

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

The pronoun it here refers to doing the sinful acts that he does not want to do, as mentioned in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those sinful deeds that I do not want to do”

the sin living in me

Quote: ἡ ἐνοικοῦσα ἐν ἐμοὶ ἁμαρτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a person who could live inside of a person. Paul means that his desire to sin causes him to do what he does not want to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my desire to sin deeply influences me”

Romans 7:18

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

I know that there does not live in me, (that is, in my flesh), good

Quote: οἶδα & ὅτι οὐκ οἰκεῖ ἐν ἐμοί, τοῦτ’ ἔστιν ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου, ἀγαθόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “I know that good does not live in me, (that is, in my flesh)”

there does not live in me, (… in my flesh), good

Quote: οὐκ οἰκεῖ ἐν ἐμοί & ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου, ἀγαθόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of good as if it were a person who could live inside someone. He means that his sinful nature is not good at all. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “there is nothing good about me … about my flesh”

my flesh

Quote: τῇ σαρκί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses flesh to refer to his sinful nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my sinful nature”

good. … the good

Quote: ἀγαθόν & τὸ καλὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of good, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “any good thing … what is good”

For

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word relates to what came before it. For here indicates that the following sentence is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “What I have just said is true because”

the wanting is present in me

Quote: τὸ & θέλειν παράκειταί μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the wanting to do good is present in me”

the wanting is present in me

Quote: τὸ & θέλειν παράκειταί μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of wanting as if it were a thing that could exist inside a person. Paul means that he truly wants to do something good. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I truly want” or “I deeply desire”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τὸ & κατεργάζεσθαι τὸ καλὸν οὔ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the ability to produce the good is not in me” or “I am not able to produce the good”

Romans 7:19

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the last sentence of the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

good … evil

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of good and evil, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “good deeds … evil deeds”

the good I want; … the evil I do not want

Quote: ὃ θέλω & ἀγαθόν & ὃ οὐ θέλω κακὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that these clauses would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the good I want to do … the evil I do not want to do”

Romans 7:20

if what I do not want, this I do

Quote: εἰ & ὃ οὐ θέλω, τοῦτο ποιῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

See how you translated this clause in 7:16.

I myself no longer produce it, but the sin living in me

Quote: οὐκέτι ἐγὼ κατεργάζομαι αὐτὸ, ἀλλὰ ἡ οἰκοῦσα ἐν ἐμοὶ ἁμαρτία (1)

See how you translated these clauses in 7:17.

Romans 7:21

I find

Quote: εὑρίσκω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of a law as if it were an object that he could find. Paul means that he became aware of the law that is described in the rest of the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I became aware that there was”

then

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

Here, then introduces a result clause. 7:21–25 describe the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in 7:14–20. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “as a result”

this law

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

Here, law refers to a rule or principle. It does not refer to the laws God gave the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this rule” or “a different kind of law”

in me, the one wanting to do good, that evil is present in me

Quote: τῷ θέλοντι ἐμοὶ ποιεῖν τὸ καλὸν, ὅτι ἐμοὶ τὸ κακὸν παράκειται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “that evil is present in me, in me, the one wanting to do good”

in me, … evil is present in me

Quote: ἐμοὶ & ἐμοὶ τὸ κακὸν παράκειται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of evil as if it were an object that could be inside a person. Paul means that he does evil deeds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in me … I do evil”

the one wanting to do good

Quote: τῷ θέλοντι & ποιεῖν τὸ καλὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, the one wanting to do good is giving further information about me, which refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who is the one wanting to do good”

good, … evil

Quote: τὸ καλὸν & τὸ κακὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated good and evil in 7:19.

Romans 7:22

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse is the reason why the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “What I have just said is true because”

I delight in the law of God

Quote: συνήδομαι & τῷ νόμῳ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the law of God as if it were a location in which a person could delight. He means that God’s laws cause him to delight. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I delight because of the law of God”

in the law of God

Quote: τῷ νόμῳ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the law of God refers to the laws that God gave the Jews, which is usually what Paul means when he says the law. See how you translated the similar expression in 2:12.

the inner man

Quote: τὸν ἔσω ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the inner man refers to a person’s mind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the inner being” or “the mind”

Romans 7:23

I see

Quote: βλέπω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses see to refer to noticing or perceiving something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I perceive”

a different law

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

Here, a different law refers to a rule or principle. It does not refer to the laws God gave the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this rule” or “a different kind of law”

in my members fighting against

Quote: ἐν τοῖς μέλεσίν μου, ἀντιστρατευόμενον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of a different law as if it were a person who could fight within someone’s body parts. He means that his sinful desires caused him to use his body to do sinful things that he did not want to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “were causing me to use my members to sin in opposition to”

members … members

Quote: τοῖς μέλεσίν (-1)

See how you translated members in 6:13.

the law of my mind

Quote: τῷ νόμῳ τοῦ νοός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the law of my mind could refer to: (1) a principle that Paul thinks, which is the delight for God’s laws that he said in the previous verse is in his “inner man.” Alternate translation: “the principle I have thought” or “the principle in my mind” (2) the laws God gave the Jews, which Paul says that he serves with his mind in 7:25. Alternate translation: “God’s law that is in my mind”

taking me captive

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

Here Paul speaks of a different law as if it were a person who could take someone captive. He means that his sinful desires controlled him against his will. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “controlling me”

the law of the sin

Quote: τῷ νόμῳ τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the law of the sin could refer to: (1) the principle that people have a sinful nature. Alternate translation: “the law that is my sinful nature” (2) the laws God gave the Jews, which Paul previously said in 7:5 stimulate people to sin more. Alternate translation: “God’s laws that stimulate sin”

that exists in my members

Quote: τῷ ὄντι ἐν τοῖς μέλεσίν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the law of the sin as if it were something that could be inside someone. He means he has a sinful nature that influences what he does with his body parts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “that influences what I do with my members”

Romans 7:24

I am a miserable man

Quote: ταλαίπωρος ἐγὼ ἄνθρωπος! (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

This sentence is an exclamation that communicates deep despair. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this. Alternate translation: “O, how miserable I am!”

Who will rescue me from the body of this death

Quote: τίς με ῥύσεται ἐκ τοῦ σώματος τοῦ θανάτου τούτου? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize his despair. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely no one will rescue me from the body of this death!”

the body of this death

Quote: τοῦ σώματος τοῦ θανάτου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe how the body relates to this death. This phrase could refer to: (1) the body that results in this death. Alternate translation: “the body that causes this death” (2) the body that is characterized by this death. Alternate translation: “this mortal body”

of this death

Quote: τοῦ θανάτου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, this death could refer to: (1) physical death. Alternate translation: “that dies” (2) spiritual death. Alternate translation: “of this spiritual death”

Romans 7:25

Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord

Quote: χάρις τῷ Θεῷ διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

This sentence is an exclamation that communicates joy. It is the answer to the rhetorical question that Paul asked in the previous verse. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating joy. Alternate translation: “O, how thankful I am to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord

Quote: χάρις τῷ Θεῷ διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “Thanks be to God who did this through Jesus Christ our Lord”

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows this phrase explains what came before it. So then indicates that what follows in this verse summarizes previous ideas. Here Paul used it regarding the ideas of 7:14–24. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a clearer expression. See how you translated this phrase in 5:18.

I myself

Quote: αὐτὸς ἐγὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the phrase I myself to emphasize the contrast between himself and the sin that causes him to do what he does not want to do. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “it is indeed I who”

serve with the mind the law of God, but with the flesh, the law of sin

Quote: τῷ μὲν νοῒ δουλεύω νόμῳ Θεοῦ; τῇ δὲ σαρκὶ, νόμῳ ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law of God and the law of sin as if they were people whom he could serve. He means that he wants to obey the law of God, but often obeys his desire to sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “obey the law of God with the mind, but with the flesh, I obey the law of sin”

with … mind the

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

See how you translated mind in 1:28.

the … law of God

Quote: νόμῳ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated this phrase in 7:22.

but with the flesh, the law of sin

Quote: τῇ δὲ σαρκὶ, νόμῳ ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “but with the flesh, I serve the law of sin”

with the flesh

Quote: τῇ & σαρκὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses flesh to refer to his sinful nature. See how you translated the similar phrase in 7:18.

the law of sin

Quote: νόμῳ ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar phrase in 7:23.

Romans 8

Romans 8 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Becoming like Christ in this life (6:1–8:39)
   • Baptism represents union with Christ’s death (6:1–14)
   • Christians are now slaves of righteousness (6:15–23)
   • Christians have been freed from the law (7:1–6)
   • The law is not sinful (7:7–12)
   • Christians still struggle with indwelling sin (7:13–25)
   • The Holy Spirit dwells in Christians (8:1–27)
   • Christians have confidence in God’s love (8:28–8:39)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 8:36. Paul quotes these words from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Indwelling of the Spirit

In 8:9–17 and 26–27 Paul says that the Holy Spirit dwells inside Christians to help them stop sinning and to intercede for them. The presence of the Holy Spirit within a person indicates that that person is a genuine Christian. (See: save, saved, safe, salvation)

Predestination

Many scholars believe this chapter teaches on a subject known as “predestination.” See the use of the word “predestined” in 8:28–30 and “elect” in 8:33. Some scholars take this to indicate that God has, from before the foundation of the world, chosen some people to save. Christians have different views on what the Bible teaches on this subject, so translators need to take extra care when translating these verses. (See: predestine, predestined)

Important Figure of Speech in this Chapter

Rhetorical questions

In 8:24 and 8:31–35 Paul uses rhetorical questions in order to emphasize that what he is saying is true. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. (See: Rhetorical Question)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Flesh

Paul uses the word “flesh” in a variety of ways throughout this letter. In this chapter he frequently uses it to refer to sinful human nature. However, he uses the word “flesh” to refer to Christ’s physical body in 8:3. Every use of the word “flesh” will be discussed in the notes. (See: INVALID bible/kt/flesh)

Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we”, “us”, and “our” refer inclusively to all believers in Christ. Paul calls these people “brothers” in 8:12. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

Romans 8:1

There is} therefore now no condemnation at all

Quote: οὐδὲν ἄρα νῦν κατάκριμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, therefore now marks the beginning of a new section in the letter. It also introduces a result clause that concludes what Paul discussed in chapters 5–7. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “Since all these things are true, there is no condemnation at all” or “As a result of everything that I have just told you being true, there is no condemnation at all”

condemnation

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

See how you translated condemnation in 5:16.

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 3:24.

Romans 8:2

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word relates to what came before it. For here indicates that this verse gives the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

the law of the Spirit of life

Quote: ὁ & νόμος τοῦ Πνεύματος τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the law that is characterized by the Spirit of life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the law that is characterized by the Spirit of life”

the law

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

Here, the law refers to a rule or principle. It does not refer to the laws God gave the Jews. See how you translated the similar use of law in 7:21.

of the Spirit of life

Quote: τοῦ Πνεύματος τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the Spirit that produces life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of the Spirit that produces life”

of the Spirit

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

Here, the Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the Holy Spirit”

of life … of sin … death

Quote: τῆς ζωῆς & τῆς ἁμαρτίας & τοῦ θανάτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated life in 2:7, sin in 5:20, and death in 5:17.

of life

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

Here, life refers to eternal life. See how you translated this use of life in 5:18.

of life in Christ Jesus set you free

Quote: τῆς ζωῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, ἠλευθέρωσέν σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase in Christ Jesus could refer to: (1) the means by which the Spirit set a person free. Alternate translation: “of life set you free in Christ Jesus” (2) a characteristic of the life. Alternate translation: “of the life that is in Christ Jesus set you free”

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse and in 3:24.

set you free from the law of sin and death

Quote: ἠλευθέρωσέν σε ἀπὸ τοῦ νόμου τῆς ἁμαρτίας καὶ τοῦ θανάτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the law of sin and death as if it were an object or person someone could be set free from. Paul means that the law that resulted in sin and death does not apply to those who are united with Christ Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “has caused the law of sin and death to no longer control you”

the law of sin and death

Quote: τοῦ νόμου τῆς ἁμαρτίας καὶ τοῦ θανάτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could refer to: (1) the principle that people have a sinful nature that results in death, as mentioned in 7:23–25. Alternate translation: “the principle that is my sinful nature that leads to death” (2) the laws God gave the Jews, which Paul previously said in 7:5 stimulate people to sin more. Alternate translation: “God’s laws that stimulate sin and death”

death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16.

Romans 8:3

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces what follows in this verse and the next verse as an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

what the law {was} unable {to do}, in that it was weak through the flesh, God {did

Quote: τὸ & ἀδύνατον τοῦ νόμου, ἐν ᾧ ἠσθένει διὰ τῆς σαρκός, ὁ Θεὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “God did what the law was unable to do, in that it was weak through the flesh”

the law

Quote: τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the law refers to the laws that God gave the Jews, which is usually what Paul means when he says the law. See how you translated this expression in 2:12.

what the law {was} unable {to do}, … God {did

Quote: τὸ & ἀδύνατον τοῦ νόμου & ὁ Θεὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that what the law was unable to do was to make people righteous, which is the main theme of this book. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the law was unable to make people righteous … but God did so”

what the law {was} unable {to do}, in that it was weak through the flesh

Quote: τὸ & ἀδύνατον τοῦ νόμου, ἐν ᾧ ἠσθένει διὰ τῆς σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law as if it were a person who was unable to do something and was weak. Paul means that the laws God gave the Jews could not make people righteous, because people are naturally sinful and unable to obey those laws. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the law could not stop people from sinning, because sinful human nature prevented people from obeying it”

in that it was weak

Quote: ἐν ᾧ ἠσθένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This phrase is the reason why the law was unable to do what it was supposed to do. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a reason. Alternate translation: “since it was weak”

through the flesh

Quote: διὰ τῆς σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This phrase states the reason why the law was weak. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a reason. Alternate translation: “on account of the flesh”

through the flesh

Quote: διὰ τῆς σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here Paul uses flesh figuratively to refer to sinful human nature. See how you translated the similar use of flesh in 7:18.

having sent his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for the sake of sin

Quote: τὸν ἑαυτοῦ Υἱὸν πέμψας, ἐν ὁμοιώματι σαρκὸς ἁμαρτίας, καὶ περὶ ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause indicates how God condemned sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

having sent his own Son

Quote: τὸν ἑαυτοῦ Υἱὸν πέμψας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “having sent his own Son to the earth” or “having sent his own Son to mankind”

Son

Quote: Υἱὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

in the likeness of sinful flesh

Quote: ἐν ὁμοιώματι σαρκὸς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the likeness that is characterized by sinful flesh. He means that Jesus had the same human flesh that sinful people have, although Jesus never sinned. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in the same flesh as that of sinful human beings”

in the likeness of sinful flesh

Quote: ἐν ὁμοιώματι σαρκὸς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of likeness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in flesh like sinful flesh”

of sinful flesh … the flesh

Quote: σαρκὸς ἁμαρτίας & τῇ σαρκί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here Paul uses flesh figuratively to mean “the whole body,” which is made of flesh. See how you translated this use of flesh in 2:28.

for the sake of sin

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

This could mean: (1) Jesus was sent for the sake of doing away with sin. Alternate translation: “in order to do away with sin” (2) Jesus was an offering to pay for sin. Alternate translation: “as an offering for sin”

he condemned sin

Quote: κατέκρινε τὴν ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of sin as if it were a guilty person whom a judge could condemn. Paul means that God removed the power that sin had to control people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he canceled the power of sin” or “he destroyed how sin controls people”

in the flesh

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

Here, the flesh refers specifically to Jesus’ body, which died on the cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in his Son’s body on the cross”

Romans 8:4

so that

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

Here, so that indicates that what follows is the purpose for which God “condemned sin in the flesh” of Jesus. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

the righteous deeds of the law might be fulfilled in us

Quote: τὸ δικαίωμα τοῦ νόμου πληρωθῇ ἐν ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The one doing the action could be: (1) us. Alternate translation: “we might fulfill the righteous deeds of the law” (2) God. Alternate translation: “God might fulfill in us the righteous deeds of the law”

the righteous deeds of the law might be fulfilled in us

Quote: τὸ δικαίωμα τοῦ νόμου πληρωθῇ ἐν ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the righteous deeds of the law as if they were something that could be located inside a person. Paul means that God enables Christians to do those righteous deeds that his law required. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the righteous deeds of the law might be done by us”

the righteous deeds of the law

Quote: τὸ δικαίωμα τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a the righteous deeds that God commanded in the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the righteous deeds that the law requires”

of the law

Quote: τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the law refers to the laws that God gave the Jews, which is usually what Paul means when he says the law. See how you translated this expression in 2:12.

us, those walking not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit

Quote: ἡμῖν, τοῖς μὴ κατὰ σάρκα περιπατοῦσιν, ἀλλὰ κατὰ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about us. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “us, that is, those walking not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit”

those walking not according to the flesh

Quote: τοῖς μὴ κατὰ σάρκα περιπατοῦσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses walking to refer to how people behave or lives their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “those not behaving according to the flesh”

according to the flesh, … according to the Spirit

Quote: κατὰ σάρκα & κατὰ Πνεῦμα (1)

Alternate translation: “determined by the flesh … determined by the Spirit” or “in conformity with the flesh … in conformity with the Spirit”

according to the flesh

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

Here Paul uses flesh figuratively to refer to sinful human nature. See how you translated the similar use of flesh in the previous verse.

Romans 8:5

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that this verse gives the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

the flesh … of the flesh

Quote: σάρκα & τῆς σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the flesh in the previous verse.

set their minds on the things of the flesh

Quote: τὰ τῆς σαρκὸς φρονοῦσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase set their minds on is an idiom that refers to thinking carefully about something or being intent on doing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are intent on doing the things of the flesh”

the things of the flesh

Quote: τὰ τῆς σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe things that are related to the flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “things pertaining to the flesh” or “fleshly things”

but those according to the Spirit

Quote: οἱ δὲ κατὰ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “but those existing according to the Spirit”

on} the things of the Spirit

Quote: τὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a phrase would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation (omitting the comma): “set their minds on the things of the Spirit”

on} the things of the Spirit

Quote: τὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe things that are related to the Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “things pertaining to the Spirit”

Romans 8:6

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

the mindset … the mindset

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of mindset, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the way of thinking … the way of thinking”

the mindset of the flesh

Quote: τὸ & φρόνημα τῆς σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a mindset that is focused on the flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the mindset that is focused on the flesh”

of the flesh

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

See how you translated the flesh in the previous two verses.

is} death

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

Here, is indicates that what follows is the result of the mindset of the flesh. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “results in death”

is} death

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

Here, death refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. See how you translated the same use of death in 6:16.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τὸ & φρόνημα τοῦ Πνεύματος (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a mindset that is focused on the Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the mindset that is focused on the Spirit”

is} life and peace

Quote: ζωὴ καὶ εἰρήνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, is indicates that what follows is the result of the mindset of the flesh. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “results in life and peace”

is} life and peace

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of life and peace, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “is living and being peaceful”

is} life

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

Here, life refers to eternal life. See how you translated this use of life in 5:18.

Romans 8:7

because

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

Here, because indicates that this verse and the next verse give the reasons why what Paul said in 8:5–6 is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating reasons. Alternate translation: “due to the fact that”

the mindset of the flesh

Quote: τὸ φρόνημα τῆς σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

is} hostility

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of hostility, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “is hostile”

for

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “due to the fact that”

it does not subject itself to … it is not able {to do so

Quote: οὐχ ὑποτάσσεται, οὐδὲ & δύναται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to the mindset of the flesh mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this mindset does not subject itself to … this mindset is not able to do so”

it does not subject itself to … for it is not able {to do so

Quote: οὐχ ὑποτάσσεται, οὐδὲ γὰρ δύναται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the mindset of the flesh as if it were a person who could subject himself to something. Paul means that the person who thinks with this mindset is unable to submit to God’s laws. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who thinks this way does not subject himself to … for he is not able to do so”

it does not subject itself to the law of God

Quote: τῷ & νόμῳ τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐχ ὑποτάσσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the law of God as if it were a king or master to whom someone could subject himself. Paul is referring to someone obeying God’s laws. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it does not obey the law of God”

the law of God

Quote: τῷ & νόμῳ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated this phrase in 7:22.

for

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word for indicates how what follows this word relates to what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “due to the fact that”

Romans 8:8

those existing in the flesh

Quote: οἱ & ἐν σαρκὶ ὄντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 7:5.

Romans 8:9

However

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

However here indicates a strong contrast between people who have “the mindset of the flesh” referred to in the previous verse and the believers to whom Paul is writing this letter. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “On the contrary”

However, you yourselves are not

Quote: ὑμεῖς δὲ οὐκ ἐστὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word yourselves to emphasize the contrast between his Christian readers and people who live in the flesh. Use a way that is natural in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “However, you are truly not”

in the flesh

Quote: ἐν σαρκὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

in the Spirit

Quote: ἐν Πνεύματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the Holy Spirit as if he were a location that someone could be in. He could mean: (1) believers are controlled by the Holy Spirit, which is how in is used earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “controlled by the Spirit” (2) believers are united with the Holy Spirit, which is how Paul used in in 8:1. Alternate translation: “united with the Spirit”

the Spirit, … the Spirit of God … the Spirit of Christ

Quote: Πνεύματι & Πνεῦμα Θεοῦ & Πνεῦμα Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These phrases all refer to the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit … the Holy Spirit of God … the Holy Spirit of Christ”

this one

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

Here, this one refers to the person who does not have the Spirit of Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this person without the Spirit”

this one is not of him

Quote: οὗτος οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a person who does not belong to Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “this one does not belong to him”

Romans 8:10

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “because”

Christ {is} in you

Quote: Χριστὸς ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of you as if you were a location that Christ could be in. See how you translated in you in the previous verse.

the body {is} dead because of sin, but the Spirit {is} life because of righteousness

Quote: τὸ μὲν σῶμα νεκρὸν διὰ ἁμαρτίαν, τὸ δὲ Πνεῦμα ζωὴ διὰ δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “the Spirit is life because of righteousness even though the body is dead because of sin”

the body {is} dead

Quote: τὸ & σῶμα νεκρὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of the bodies of believers in general, not of one particular body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “the bodies are dead”

the body {is} dead because of sin

Quote: τὸ μὲν σῶμα νεκρὸν διὰ ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the body as if it were already dead. Paul means that the physical body of a Christian will still die because of sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the body will certainly die because of sin”

but the Spirit {is} life

Quote: τὸ δὲ Πνεῦμα ζωὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Spirit is life could mean: (1) the Holy Spirit gives a person eternal life. In this case Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit and life refers to eternal life. Alternate translation: “but the Holy Spirit grants eternal life” (2) a believer’s spirit is alive. In this case Spirit refers to the spirits of individual believers. Alternate translation: “but the spirit is alive” or “but your spirits are alive”

because of righteousness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because of your righteous status”

Romans 8:11

If

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Because”

the Spirit … his Spirit

Quote: τὸ Πνεῦμα & αὐτοῦ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These phrases refer to the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit … his Holy Spirit”

of the one having raised Jesus from dead ones … the one having raised Christ Jesus from dead ones

Quote: τοῦ ἐγείραντος τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἐκ νεκρῶν & ὁ ἐγείρας ἐκ νεκρῶν Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These phrases refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of God, who raised Jesus from dead ones … God, who raised Christ Jesus from dead ones”

having raised Jesus from dead ones … having raised Christ Jesus from dead ones

Quote: ἐγείραντος τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἐκ νεκρῶν & ἐγείρας ἐκ νεκρῶν Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:24.

will also make alive your mortal bodies

Quote: ζῳοποιήσει καὶ τὰ θνητὰ σώματα ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses make alive to imply that he is referring to the resurrection of Christians after they have died. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will also resurrect your mortal bodies after you have died”

through his Spirit

Quote: διὰ & αὐτοῦ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through indicates the means by which God will make Christians alive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of his Spirit”

his Spirit living in you

Quote: τοῦ ἐνοικοῦντος αὐτοῦ Πνεῦμα ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, who lives in you gives further information about the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “his Spirit, that is, the Spirit who lives in you”

Romans 8:12

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows this phrase explains what came before it. So then here indicates that what follows in 8:12–17 summarizes the ideas of 8:5–11. See how you translated this phrase in 5:18.

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

we are debtors

Quote: ὀφειλέται ἐσμέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of Christians as if they are debtors. He means that Christians are obligated to live according to the Spirit and not according to the flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we have an obligation”

not to the flesh

Quote: οὐ τῇ σαρκὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “we are not debtors to the flesh”

to the flesh … the flesh

Quote: τῇ σαρκὶ & τοῦ & σάρκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses the flesh to refer to sinful human nature. See how you translated the same use of this phrase in 7:18.

to live according to the flesh

Quote: τοῦ κατὰ σάρκα ζῆν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here, to live introduces an explanation of the flesh. Use a word or phrase that introduces a further explanation or elaboration in your language. Alternate translation: “that is, to live according to the flesh”

to live according to the flesh

Quote: τοῦ κατὰ σάρκα ζῆν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar phrase in 8:4.

Romans 8:13

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

you live according to the flesh

Quote: κατὰ σάρκα ζῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar phrase in 8:4 and in the previous verse.

you are going to die

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

Here, die refers to dying spiritually, which means enduring eternal punishment in hell after experiencing physical death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you are going to die spiritually”

you put to death the practices of the body

Quote: τὰς πράξεις τοῦ σώματος θανατοῦτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, put to death means “completely stop doing something.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you stop doing the practices of the body”

the practices of the body

Quote: τὰς πράξεις τοῦ σώματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the practices that are done with the body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “what is done with the body” or “what you do with the body”

the practices of the body

Quote: τὰς πράξεις τοῦ σώματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of practices, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what is practiced with the body”

the practices

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

Here, the practices refers specifically to sinful practices that a person does with his body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the sinful practices of the body”

of the body

Quote: τοῦ σώματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of bodies in general, not of one particular body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “of your bodies”

you will live

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

Here, live refers to living forever with God in heaven after experiencing physical death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will live forever”

Romans 8:14

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that this verse gives the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

as many as … these

Quote: ὅσοι & οὗτοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “as many people as … these people”

as many as are being led by the Spirit of God

Quote: ὅσοι & Πνεύματι Θεοῦ ἄγονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “as many as the Spirit of God leads”

by the Spirit of God

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

See how you translated the Spirit of God in 8:9.

the sons of God

Quote: υἱοί Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here Paul is using the term sons in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “the children of God”

the sons of God

Quote: υἱοί Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of these people as if God were their physical father. He means that these people have a father-son relationship with God because they trust in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the spiritual children of God”

Romans 8:15

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

again

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

Here, again indicates that Paul’s readers had a spirit of slavery before they became Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for a second time”

a spirit

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

Here, spirit could refer to: (1) a person’s attitude or emotional state. Alternate translation: “a mental state” (2) a demonic spirit. Alternate translation: “a demonic spirit”

a spirit of slavery {… the Spirit of adoption

Quote: πνεῦμα δουλείας & Πνεῦμα υἱοθεσίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

In both of these phrases Paul is using the possessive form to describe something that causes something else to happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use different expressions. Alternate translation: “a spirit that causes slavery … the Spirit that causes adoption”

of slavery {… fear, … of adoption

Quote: δουλείας & φόβον & υἱοθεσίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of slavery, fear, and adoption, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of being a slave … you being afraid … of those who have been adopted”

leading} to fear

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

Here, leading to indicates that fear is the result of receiving a spirit of slavery. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “resulting in fear”

the Spirit

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

Here, the Spirit could refer to: (1) the Holy Spirit, as indicated by the use of Spirit in the ULT. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit” (2) a person’s attitude or emotional state, as with the previous use of spirit in this verse. Alternate translation: “a mental state”

Abba, Father

Quote: Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

Here, cry out indicates that what follows is an emotional exclamation. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this. Alternate translation: “O Abba! Father!”

Abba, Father

Quote: Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ (1)

Here Paul writes out the sounds of this Jewish Aramaic word Abba with Greek letters, which means Father. Since John translates the meaning next in the verse, you should write out this word using the most similar sounds in your language.

Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

Romans 8:16

with our spirit

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

Here, spirit refers to a person’s attitude or emotional state. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a mental state”

children of God

Quote: τέκνα Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses children of God to refer to people who have a father-child relationship with God because they trust in Jesus. Here, children does not refer to young people, but only to the relationship that people have with their fathers. If you translate children using a literal term, choose a word that can refer to people of any age in relation to their fathers. Alternate translation: “God’s spiritual offspring” or “spiritual children of God”

Romans 8:17

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “because”

if children, {then} also heirs: both heirs of God

Quote: εἰ & τέκνα, καὶ κληρονόμοι; κληρονόμοι μὲν Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the end of the previous verse. Alternate translation: “if we are children, then we are also heirs: we are both heirs of God”

children

Quote: τέκνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

heirs: both heirs of God

Quote: κληρονόμοι; κληρονόμοι μὲν Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses heirs to refer to Christians as if they will inherit property and wealth from a family member. He means that they will receive everything that God has promised to give Christians. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “those who will receive what God has promised us: both those who receive those things from God”

joint heirs with Christ

Quote: συνκληρονόμοι & Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses joint heirs to refer to Christians as if they, along with Christ, will inherit property and wealth from a family member. He means that God will give to Christians what he gives to Christ. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we will also receive what God has promised us and Christ together”

we suffer together with {him} so that we may also be glorified together with {him

Quote: συνπάσχομεν, ἵνα καὶ συνδοξασθῶμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun him here refers to Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “we suffering together with Christ so that we may also be glorified together with Christ”

so that

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

Paul uses so that here to state the goal for which Christians suffer together with Christ. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

we may also be glorified together with {him

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God may also glorify us together with him”

Romans 8:18

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it indicates that what follows in 8:18–25 gives further information about what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

I consider

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

The pronoun I here refers to Paul (See: 7:1). If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, consider”

I consider that the sufferings of this present time {are} not worthy {to be compared} with

Quote: λογίζομαι & ὅτι οὐκ ἄξια τὰ παθήματα τοῦ νῦν καιροῦ, πρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I cannot compare the sufferings of this present time with”

the sufferings of this present time {… the glory

Quote: τὰ παθήματα τοῦ νῦν καιροῦ & τὴν & δόξαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sufferings and glory, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “the things that make us suffer in this present time … the glorious situation”

that is going to be revealed

Quote: μέλλουσαν & ἀποκαλυφθῆναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that God will make known”

Romans 8:19

For

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

For indicates how what follows this word relates to what came before it. Here, it indicates that this verse gives additional support for what Paul said in 8:17. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

the eager expectation of the creation is eagerly expecting

Quote: ἡ & ἀποκαραδοκία τῆς κτίσεως & ἀπεκδέχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the eager expectation is an idiom Paul uses to emphasize how eagerly the creation is waiting. He does not mean that the eager expectation itself is waiting. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the creation is very eagerly expecting” or “the creation is eagerly expecting with much eagerness”

the eager expectation of the creation is eagerly expecting

Quote: ἡ & ἀποκαραδοκία τῆς κτίσεως & ἀπεκδέχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the creation as if it were a person who eagerly expects something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “it is as if the creation is eagerly expecting with eager expectation”

of the creation … the revelation of the sons of God

Quote: τῆς κτίσεως & τὴν ἀποκάλυψιν τῶν υἱῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of creation and revelation, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of the created things … the sons of God to be revealed”

the revelation of the sons of God

Quote: τὴν ἀποκάλυψιν τῶν υἱῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for the time when God will reveal his sons”

of the sons of God

Quote: τῶν υἱῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 8:14.

Romans 8:20

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in 8:20–22 is the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

to the futility

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of futility, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to the condition of being futile”

the creation

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

See how you translated this in the previous verse.

the creation was subjected

Quote: ἡ κτίσις ὑπετάγη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God subjugated the creation”

the creation was subjected, not willingly

Quote: ἡ κτίσις ὑπετάγη, οὐχ ἑκοῦσα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the creation as if it were a person who could be subjected to someone and could have a will. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “it is as if the creation were subjected against its will”

the one having subjected it

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

This phrase refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, who subjected it”

on the basis of hope

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

Here, hope refers to the creation’s hope, which is why the creation is “eagerly expecting the revelation of the sons of God” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the basis of giving hope”

hope

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

See how you translated hope in 5:4.

Romans 8:21

the creation itself will be freed from the slavery of the decay into the freedom of the glory

Quote: αὐτὴ ἡ κτίσις ἐλευθερωθήσεται ἀπὸ τῆς δουλείας τῆς φθορᾶς, εἰς τὴν ἐλευθερίαν τῆς δόξης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the creation as if it were a person who was enslaved to someone and needed to be freed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the creation itself will no longer decay, but will experience the glory”

the creation itself will be freed

Quote: αὐτὴ ἡ κτίσις ἐλευθερωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will free the creation itself”

the creation

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

See how you translated the creation in the previous two verses.

the slavery of the decay … the freedom of the glory

Quote: τῆς δουλείας τῆς φθορᾶς & τὴν ἐλευθερίαν τῆς δόξης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of slavery, decay, freedom, and glory, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “being enslaved to decay … being free to experience what is glorious”

the slavery of the decay

Quote: τῆς δουλείας τῆς φθορᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe slavery to decay. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “being enslaved to decay”

the slavery of the decay

Quote: τῆς δουλείας τῆς φθορᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of decay as if it could enslave someone. He means that the creation was certain to decay. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “being destined to decay”

into the freedom

Quote: εἰς τὴν ἐλευθερίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of freedom as if it were a location someone could enter into. Paul means that the creation will experience this freedom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to experience the freedom”

the freedom of the glory

Quote: τὴν ἐλευθερίαν τῆς δόξης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the freedom that relates to the glory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the freedom that comes from the glory” or “the freedom pertaining to the glory”

of the glory of the children of God

Quote: τῆς δόξης τῶν τέκνων τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here Paul uses the possessive form the glory of the children of God to refer to the glory that God shares with believers. This was the same glory that God shared with humans when he created them, but which they lost when the first humans sinned, as mentioned in 3:23. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the glory that God gives the children of God”

of the children of God

Quote: τῶν τέκνων τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the 8:16.

Romans 8:22

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it indicates that what follows in this verse gives further support for what Paul said about the miserable condition of the creation in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

all the creation groans and labors in pain together

Quote: πᾶσα ἡ κτίσις συνστενάζει καὶ συνωδίνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the creation as if it were a woman who groans and labors in pain while giving birth to a baby. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all the creation is like a woman groaning and laboring in pain while giving birth” or “all the creation is suffering greatly together”

Romans 8:23

having the firstfruits of the Spirit

Quote: τὴν ἀπαρχὴν τοῦ Πνεύματος ἔχοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause could refer to: (1) Paul and his Christian readers. Alternate translation: “those who have the firstfruits of the Spirit” (2) the reason why Christians groan. Alternate translation: “because we have the firstfruits of the Spirit”

the firstfruits of the Spirit

Quote: τὴν ἀπαρχὴν τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the firstfruits that is the Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the firstfruits, that is, the Spirit”

the firstfruits

Quote: τὴν ἀπαρχὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses firstfruits to refer to the Holy Spirit as if they were the first crop that was harvested during the harvest season. Paul means that the Holy Spirit is the first part of the blessings that God gives Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the first gift”

ourselves

Quote: αὐτοὶ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word ourselves here to emphasize that Christians also share in the suffering of the creation. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “our very selves”

groan within ourselves

Quote: ἐν ἑαυτοῖς στενάζομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses groan to refer to the emotional anguish that Christians experience while they wait to be with God in heaven. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “experience emotional anguish”

our adoption, the redemption

Quote: υἱοθεσίαν & τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated adoption in 8:15 and redemption in 3:24.

eagerly expecting our adoption

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

Here, our adoption refers to when we will become full members of God’s family, as adopted sons. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “waiting for when we are fully members of God’s family”

of our body

Quote: τοῦ σώματος ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of the bodies of believers in general, not of one particular body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “of our bodies”

Romans 8:24

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is the reason why Christians “groan” and are “eagerly expecting” to be fully adopted and redeemed. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “We do this because”

in this hope … hope … hope

Quote: τῇ & ἐλπίδι & ἐλπὶς & ἐλπίς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun hope in 5:4.

in this hope

Quote: τῇ & ἐλπίδι (1)

Here, in could indicate: (1) that hope is associated with being saved. Alternate translation: “in association with this hope” (2) the means by which people are saved. In this case, hope would refer to faith. Alternate translation: “by this hope”

we were saved

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God saved us”

being seen … he sees

Quote: βλεπομένη & βλέπει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses seen and sees here to refer to experiencing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “being experienced … he experiences”

being seen

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that people can see”

For

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true since”

For who hopes for what he sees

Quote: ὃ γὰρ βλέπει τις, ἐλπίζει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the thrust of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “For surely no one hopes for what he sees!”

Romans 8:25

what we do not see

Quote: ὃ οὐ βλέπομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar use of “seen” and “sees” in the previous verse.

what we do not see, … we are eagerly expecting {it

Quote: ὃ οὐ βλέπομεν & ἀπεκδεχόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, what we do not see and it refer to the “adoption” and “redemption” mentioned in 8:23. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the adoption and redemption that we do not see … we are eagerly expecting these things”

with endurance

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of endurance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “while enduring”

Romans 8:26

helps … intercedes

Quote: συναντιλαμβάνεται & ὑπερεντυγχάνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “helps us … intercedes for us”

in our weakness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of weakness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in our weak condition”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true since”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τὸ & τί προσευξώμεθα καθὸ δεῖ, οὐκ οἴδαμεν (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “For we do not know the thing for which we should pray as we ought”

the Spirit himself

Quote: αὐτὸ τὸ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word himself here to emphasize that Holy Spirit helps Christians. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “the very Spirit”

with inexpressible groans

Quote: στεναγμοῖς ἀλαλήτοις (1)

Alternate translation: “with groanings that we cannot express in words”

Romans 8:27

the one searching the hearts

Quote: ὁ & ἐραυνῶν τὰς καρδίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one who searches the hearts refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, who searches the hearts,”

the one searching the hearts

Quote: ὁ & ἐραυνῶν τὰς καρδίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase searches the hearts means “examines thoughts and emotions.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who knows all our thoughts and feelings”

the one searching the hearts

Quote: ὁ & ἐραυνῶν τὰς καρδίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated “heart” in 1:21.

the mindset of the Spirit

Quote: τὸ φρόνημα τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the mindset that belongs to the Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the Spirit’s mindset”

the mindset

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

See how you translated mindset in 8:6.

in accordance with God

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

Here, God implies God’s will. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “according to God’s will”

Romans 8:28

good,… his purpose

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of good and purpose, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is good … what he purposes”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τοῖς & κλητοῖς οὖσιν (2)
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 those whom God called”

Romans 8:29

those whom he foreknew

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

Here, foreknew could mean: (1) God had determined to know them ahead of time, which is how this word is used in 1 Peter 1:20. Alternate translation: “whom he chose beforehand” (2) God knew what they would do ahead of time. Alternate translation: “whom he knew beforehand,”

to be} a similar form to the image of his Son

Quote: συμμόρφους τῆς εἰκόνος τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, image refers to how Christians will one day resemble Jesus. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated image in 1:23. Alternate translation: “to be a similar form that is like his Son”

of his Son

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

so that he might be

Quote: εἰς τὸ εἶναι αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that he might be”

he

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

The pronoun he refers to God’s Son, Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Son”

so that … might be the firstborn

Quote: τὸ & πρωτότοκον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, firstborn could mean: (1) the most important person among God’s children. Alternate translation: “the person ranked first” (2) the first person to be resurrected. Alternate translation: “the first person to be resurrected”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, brothers refers to Christians, whom Paul calls “joint heirs with Christ” in 8:17. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “children of God”

Romans 8:30

he … called. … he called

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

Here, called refers to God choosing people to be his people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “chose to be his people … he chose”

he also glorified

Quote: καὶ ἐδόξασεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Paul uses the past tense in order to refer to something that will certainly happen in the future. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “will also glorify”

Romans 8:31

What then will we say

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous verses. See how you translated this phrase in 6:1.

What then will we say to these things? If God {is} for us, who {is} against us

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν πρὸς ταῦτα? εἰ ὁ Θεὸς ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν, τίς καθ’ ἡμῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form in these two sentences to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we will say to these things: If God is for us, surely no one can be against us!”

If

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Because”

is} for us

Quote: ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν (1)

Alternate translation: “is on our side”

Romans 8:32

He who indeed did not spare his own Son, but gave him up on behalf of us all, how will he not also with him freely give us all things

Quote: ὅς γε τοῦ ἰδίου Υἱοῦ οὐκ ἐφείσατο, ἀλλὰ ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν πάντων παρέδωκεν αὐτόν, πῶς οὐχὶ καὶ σὺν αὐτῷ, τὰ πάντα ἡμῖν χαρίσεται? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “He who indeed did not spare his own Son, but gave him up on behalf of us all will surely also with him freely give us all things!”

He who

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

He who here refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God who”

did not spare

Quote: οὐκ ἐφείσατο (1)

Alternate translation: “did not refrain from giving” or “did not refuse to give up”

his own Son

Quote: τοῦ ἰδίου Υἱοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

gave him up

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

Here, gave him up means that God allowed people to kill Jesus. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “gave him up to be killed” or “allowed him to be killed”

Romans 8:33

Who will bring an accusation against God’s elect

Quote: τίς ἐγκαλέσει κατὰ ἐκλεκτῶν Θεοῦ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely no one can bring an accusation against God’s elect!”

Who will bring an accusation

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

Here, accusation implies an accusation that is based on facts. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a true accusation”

God’s elect

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of elect, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “those who have been chosen by God” or “those whom God has elected”

God {is} the one justifying

Quote: Θεὸς ὁ δικαιῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This sentences states the reason why the idea in the previous sentence is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “No on can accuse them, because God is the one who justifies”

Romans 8:34

Who {is} the one condemning

Quote: τίς ὁ κατακρινῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely no one can condemn!”

the one condemning

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

Paul is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the context. Alternate translation: “the one who condemns us believers”

Christ Jesus {is} the one having died—but more {than that}, having been raised who also is at the right hand of God—the one also interceding on our behalf

Quote: Χριστὸς Ἰησοῦς ὁ ἀποθανών, μᾶλλον δὲ ἐγερθείς ὅς, καί ἐστιν ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὃς καὶ ἐντυγχάνει ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This sentences states the reason why the idea in the previous sentence is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “No one can condemn because Christ Jesus is the one who died—but more than that, he was raised who also is at the right hand of God—who also intercedes on our behalf”

having been raised

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God raised him”

having been raised

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

See how you translated raised in 4:25.

at the right hand of God

Quote: ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective right as a noun in order to indicate the right side. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “at the right side of God”

who also is at the right hand of God

Quote: ὅς, καί ἐστιν ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this culture, the place at the right side of a ruler was a position of honor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the place of honor next to God”

Romans 8:35

Who will separate us from the love of Christ

Quote: τίς ἡμᾶς χωρίσει ἀπὸ τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Χριστοῦ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely no one will separate us from the love of Christ!”

will separate us from the love of Christ

Quote: ἡμᾶς χωρίσει ἀπὸ τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks figuratively of love as if it were an object that someone could be separated from. He means that Christ cannot stop loving those who believe in him. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “will cause Christ to stop loving us”

Tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or hunger, or nakedness, or danger, or sword

Quote: θλῖψις, ἢ στενοχωρία, ἢ διωγμὸς, ἢ λιμὸς, ἢ γυμνότης, ἢ κίνδυνος, ἢ μάχαιρα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely neither tribulation, nor distress, nor persecution, nor hunger, nor nakedness, nor danger, nor sword!”

Tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or hunger, or nakedness, or danger, or sword

Quote: θλῖψις, ἢ στενοχωρία, ἢ διωγμὸς, ἢ λιμὸς, ἢ γυμνότης, ἢ κίνδυνος, ἢ μάχαιρα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or hunger, or nakedness, or danger, or sword separate us from the love of Christ?”

Tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or hunger

Quote: θλῖψις, ἢ στενοχωρία, ἢ διωγμὸς, ἢ λιμὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of Tribulation, distress, persecution, hunger, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “If people trouble us, or hurt us, or distress us, or persecute us, or cause us to be hungry”

Tribulation, or distress

Quote: θλῖψις, ἢ στενοχωρία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Tribulation and distress mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize what he is saying. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Extreme tribulation”

or sword

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

Here, sword refers to being killed violently. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “or being killed violently”

Romans 8:36

Just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

Just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was written by the sons of Korah. Alternate translation: “Just as the sons of Korah wrote”

For your sake we are being put to death the whole day {long}. We were considered as sheep for slaughter

Quote: ὅτι ἕνεκεν σοῦ, θανατούμεθα ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν; ἐλογίσθημεν ὡς πρόβατα σφαγῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these clauses Paul quotes Psalm 44:22. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

For your sake

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

Here, your is singular and refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “For your sake, God,”

we are being put to death … We were considered

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

Here, we refers to the people who wrote this verse, so it would be exclusive. It does not refer to God, who is the one being spoken to. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we are being put to death … We were considered

Quote: θανατούμεθα & ἐλογίσθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “our enemies put us to death … They consider us”

we are being put to death the whole day {long

Quote: θανατούμεθα ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The phrase all day long is an exaggeration that emphasizes how frequently these people were being killed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we are killed regularly”

We were considered as sheep for slaughter

Quote: ἐλογίσθημεν ὡς πρόβατα σφαγῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here Paul compares to sheep those whom people kill because they are loyal to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “We are considered by those who kill us to only be as valuable as the sheep they kill”

for slaughter

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of slaughter, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to be slaughtered”

Romans 8:37

But

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

But here indicates that what follows 8:37–39 is the negative answer to the rhetorical questions in 8:35. If you translated the rhetorical question in 8:35 as a question, then here you could use a natural way in your language for introducing a negative answer to that question. If you changed the rhetorical question in 8:35 to a statement, then here you could use a word that indicates strong contrast. Alternate translation: “No,” or “On the contrary,”

these things

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

Here, these things refers to the list of various types of suffering mentioned in 8:35. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these kinds of suffering”

we are more than conquerors

Quote: ὑπερνικῶμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, more than conquerors refers to those who have complete victory over their enemies. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we have complete victory”

the one having loved us

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

Here, the one who loved us could refer to: (1) Christ, as in 8:35. Alternate translation: “through Christ, who loved us” (2) God, as in 8:39. Alternate translation: “through God, who loved us”

Romans 8:38

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

I am persuaded

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God convinced me”

death, … life, … governments, … powers

Quote: θάνατος & ζωὴ & ἀρχαὶ & δυνάμεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of death, life, governments, or powers, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “being dead … being alive … those who govern … powerful things”

governments

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

Here, governments could refer to: (1) demons, which is usually how Paul uses this word (1 Corinthians 15:24, Ephesians 6:12). Alternate translation: “ruling demons” (2) human kings and rulers. Alternate translation: “human rulers”

powers

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

This could refer to: (1) demons with power, which is how Paul uses this word in 1 Corinthians 15:24 and Ephesians 1:21. Alternate translation: “demonic powers” (2) human beings with power. Alternate translation: “powerful people”

Romans 8:39

height, … depth

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

Here, height refers to everything that exists above a person, and depth refers to everything that exists below a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “everything that is above us … everything that is below us”

any other created thing

Quote: τις κτίσις ἑτέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “any other thing that God has created”

will be able to separate us from the love of God

Quote: δυνήσεται ἡμᾶς χωρίσαι ἀπὸ τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar phrase in 8:35.

which {is} in Christ Jesus

Quote: τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, which marks that Paul is giving further information about the love of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “that is, the love of God in Christ Jesus”

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 6:23.

Romans 9

Romans 9 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. God’s plan for Israel (9:1–11:36)
   • Paul’s sorrow for Israel’s unbelief (9:1–5)
   • God chooses whom he wants to choose (9:6–13)
   • God shows mercy on whom he wants to show mercy (9:14–18)
   • No one can question God’s choice (9:19–33)

Chapter 9 begins a new topic in this letter. In chapters 9–11, Paul focuses on the nation of Israel.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 9:25–29 and 33 of this chapter. Paul quotes all of these words from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Predestination

Many scholars believe that in this chapter Paul teaches extensively on a subject known as “predestination.” Some take this to indicate that God has chosen to save some people from before the world existed. Christians have different views on what the Bible teaches on this subject, so translators need to take extra care when translating this chapter. (See: predestine, predestined and save, saved, safe, salvation)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Stone of stumbling

In 9:30–33 Paul explains that God made some Gentiles righteous because they believed in Jesus, but most Jews rejected Jesus because they were trying to obey the law of Moses to become righteous. Paul quotes Isaiah 8:14 and 28:16 to describe Jesus as if he were a stone that the Jews trip over when walking. See the translations and notes for how Peter uses these same verses from Isaiah in 1 Peter 2:6, 8. (See: Metaphor)

Romans 9:1

I speak truth in Christ. I do not lie

Quote: ἀλήθειαν λέγω ἐν Χριστῷ, οὐ ψεύδομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two expressions mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize that he is telling the truth. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I am telling you the absolute truth in Christ”

in Christ

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar phrase in 3:24.

my conscience bearing witness

Quote: συνμαρτυρούσης μοι τῆς συνειδήσεώς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul uses conscience as if it were a person bearing witness in a courtroom. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2:15.

in the Holy Spirit

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

Here, in the Holy Spirit indicates that the Holy Spirit is the one who guided Paul’s conscience. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by the guidance of the Holy Spirit”

Romans 9:2

for me there is great sorrow and unceasing pain in my heart

Quote: λύπη μοί ἐστιν μεγάλη, καὶ ἀδιάλειπτος ὀδύνη τῇ καρδίᾳ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, unceasing pain in my heart is an idiom that Paul uses to share his emotional distress. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am experiencing great and unceasing sorrow”

great sorrow and unceasing pain

Quote: λύπη & μεγάλη, καὶ ἀδιάλειπτος ὀδύνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two expressions mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how intense his emotions are. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “exceedingly great sorrow”

Romans 9:3

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the previous statement is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true since”

myself to be accursed

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of accursed, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “myself to be cursed” or “myself to be an accursed person”

separated} from Christ

Quote: ἀπὸ τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God separating me from Christ”

separated} from Christ

Quote: ἀπὸ τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, separated from Christ refers to the idea of Paul losing his salvation, which is impossible. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “eternally kept apart from Christ”

for the sake of my brothers

Quote: ὑπὲρ τῶν ἀδελφῶν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, for the sake of implies that Paul is talking about the salvation of his brothers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the sake of the salvation of my brothers”

my brothers

Quote: τῶν ἀδελφῶν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “my brothers and sisters”

my brothers

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

Here, brothers refers to Jews, who are Paul’s kinsmen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “my Jewish kinsmen”

those of my own race according to the flesh

Quote: τῶν συγγενῶν μου, κατὰ σάρκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about my brothers. If it might be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who are those of my own race according to the flesh”

according to the flesh

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

See how you translated according to the flesh in 1:3.

Romans 9:4

who are Israelites

Quote: οἵτινές εἰσιν Ἰσραηλεῖται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about “my brothers," mentioned in the previous verse. If it might be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “those brothers of mine are Israelites”

the adoption, … the glory, … the law-giving, … the service, … the promises

Quote: ἡ υἱοθεσία & ἡ δόξα & ἡ νομοθεσία & ἡ λατρεία & αἱ ἐπαγγελίαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of adoption, glory, law-giving, service, and promises, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “being adopted … glorious things … being given the law … serving … what has been promised”

the adoption

Quote: ἡ υἱοθεσία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, adoption refers to the idea that the Israelites were like God’s children. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the status as God’s children”

the law-giving

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

Here, the law-giving refers to God giving his laws to the Jews. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the giving of God’s laws to them”

the service

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

Here, the service refers to Jewish worship in the temple, which was a way of serving God. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “serving God in his temple”

Romans 9:5

are} the fathers

Quote: οἱ πατέρες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the fathers refers to the first ancestors of the Israelites, who are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob”

according to the flesh

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

See how you translated according to the flesh in 1:3 and 8:3.

the one who {is} over all

Quote: ὁ ὢν ἐπὶ πάντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to the Christ, mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this connection clearer. Alternate translation: “Christ is the one who is over all”

the one who {is} over all

Quote: ὁ ὢν ἐπὶ πάντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase is over all implies ruling as king over all things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who reigns over all”

blessed God

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

Here, blessed God refers to Jesus. It does not refer to Father God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he is the blessed God”

Romans 9:6

it is} not such a thing that the word of God has failed

Quote: οὐχ οἷον & ὅτι ἐκπέπτωκεν ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)

Alternate translation: “it is not as if the word of God has failed” or “the word of God has not failed”

the word of God has failed

Quote: ἐκπέπτωκεν ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks about the word of God as if it were a person who had not failed. He means that what God has said will certainly happen as he said. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the word of God will remain unfulfilled” or “the word of God has proved false”

the word of God

Quote: ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word of God refers to what God promised to do for Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God’s word of promise”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that this sentence gives the reason why what Paul said in the previous sentence is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

not all the ones from Israel, these {are} Israel

Quote: οὐ & πάντες οἱ ἐξ Ἰσραήλ οὗτοι, Ἰσραήλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul uses the word Israel in two different ways. The phrase all the ones from Israel refers to all the physical descendants of Jacob, whom God also called Israel. However, the second occurrence of Israel refers to physical descendants of Jacob who trust in Jesus. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “not all the ones from physical Israel are part of spiritual Israel” or “not every physical Israelite is a true Israelite”

Romans 9:7

Neither that all the children are seed of Abraham

Quote: οὐδ’ ὅτι εἰσὶν σπέρμα Ἀβραάμ πάντες τέκνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Neither is it such a thing that all the children are seed of Abraham” or “Neither is it true that all the children are seed of Abraham”

all the children

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

Here, children refers specifically to “the children of Israel,” which is a name for the Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “all the children of Israel”

all the children

Quote: πάντες τέκνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, children refers to someone’s descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all the descendants”

seed of Abraham. … your seed

Quote: σπέρμα Ἀβραάμ & σοι σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, seed refers to refers to physical descendants of Abraham who trust in Jesus, as did the second occurrence of “Israel” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “true descendants of Abraham … your true seed”

But

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

But ere indicates that what follows in some way contradicts what was said previously. Here, Paul is using a quotation from an Old Testament book (Genesis 21:12). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “But God says in the Scriptures,”

In Isaac your seed will be called

Quote: ἐν Ἰσαὰκ κληθήσεταί σοι σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Genesis 21:12. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

In Isaac your seed will be called

Quote: ἐν Ἰσαὰκ κληθήσεταί σοι σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Here, your refers to Abraham, and so, it is singular. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Abraham, in Isaac your seed will be called”

In Isaac

Quote: ἐν Ἰσαὰκ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, in Isaac means “through the descendants of Isaac.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “through Isaac’s descendants”

your seed will be called

Quote: κληθήσεταί σοι σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context indicates that God is the one who will do the action, and he is speaking in first person. Alternate translation: “I will call your seed”

Romans 9:8

That is

Quote: τοῦτ’ ἔστιν (1)

Alternate translation: “Another way to say this is”

the children of the flesh

Quote: τὰ τέκνα τῆς σαρκὸς, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, children of the flesh refers to the physical descendants of Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Abraham’s physical descendants”

children of God

Quote: τέκνα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the 8:16.

the children of the promise

Quote: τὰ τέκνα τῆς ἐπαγγελίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe children who are the result of the promise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the children who result from the promise”

of the promise

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of promise, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “who had been promised”

of the promise

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

Here, the promise refers to God’s promise to give Abraham descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the promise God made to Abraham”

seed

Quote: σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated seed in the previous verse.

Romans 9:9

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

this {is} the word of promise

Quote: ἐπαγγελίας & ὁ λόγος οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Genesis 18:10, 14). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “this is the word of promise that God spoke in the Scriptures”

the word of promise

Quote: ἐπαγγελίας & ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a word that is a promise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the word that was promised”

the word of promise

Quote: ἐπαγγελίας & ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Paul used the term word to describe what God had said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God’s spoken promise”

At this time I will come, and a son will be to Sarah

Quote: κατὰ τὸν καιρὸν τοῦτον, ἐλεύσομαι, καὶ ἔσται τῇ Σάρρᾳ υἱός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Genesis 18:10, 14. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

I will come

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

The pronoun I here refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, will come”

and

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

Here, and indicates that what follows this word is related to what came before it. Here, and indicates that what follows is the result of what happened in the previous clause. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a result. Alternate translation: “and the result will be that”

a son will be to Sarah

Quote: ἔσται τῇ Σάρρᾳ υἱός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This clause is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “a son will be born to Sarah”

a son will be to Sarah

Quote: ἔσται τῇ Σάρρᾳ υἱός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Sarah will have a son”

Romans 9:10

Now, not only this

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

Here, this refers to what Paul said in the previous verse, which was an example of God’s promises. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Now, this is not the only example” or “Now, what God promised Abraham is not the only example”

but Rebekah also

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

Paul implies that God made a promise to Rebekah and he states that promise in 9:12. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but Rebekah also received a promise from God”

our father

Quote: τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, father refers to Isaac as the ancestor of the Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “our forefather”

Romans 9:11

for

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

The words for indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows gives further information about what Paul says in the previous verse and the next verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in fact,”

for

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

Here Paul is referring to God choosing to bless Jacob instead of Esau, the twin sons of Rebekah and Isaac. However, he does not state this explicitly until 9:13. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for God chose to bless only one of Rebekah’s two sons,”

not yet having been born, nor indeed having done anything good or bad

Quote: μήπω & γεννηθέντων, μηδὲ πραξάντων τι ἀγαθὸν ἢ φαῦλον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some words that these clauses would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “her sons not yet having been born, nor indeed having done anything good or bad”

so that

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

Here, so that indicates that what follows is the purpose for which God chose only one of Rebekah’s sons. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause, as in the UST.

the purpose of God

Quote: ἡ & πρόθεσις τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of purpose, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what God had purposed”

according to election

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of election, you could express the same idea in another way. The context indicates that Paul is referring to God electing people. Alternate translation: “according to electing people” or “in relation to choosing people”

Romans 9:12

not by works, but by the one calling

Quote: οὐκ ἐξ ἔργων, ἀλλ’ ἐκ τοῦ καλοῦντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul is referring to the election of one of Rebekah’s sons, Jacob, as stated in the next verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God did not elect Jacob by works, but by the one who calls”

works

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

Here, works refers to human actions in general. It does not refer to “the works of the law” because God had not yet given his law to Moses when Jacob and Esau lived. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what people do”

the one calling

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

Here, the one who calls refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God who calls”

the one calling

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

Paul is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the context. Alternate translation: “the one who calls people”

it was said to her

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God said to her”

it was said to her

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

This phrase indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Genesis 25:23). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “it was said to her, as recorded in the Scriptures”

to her

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

Here, the pronoun her refers to Rebekah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

The older will be enslaved to the younger

Quote: ὁ μείζων δουλεύσει τῷ ἐλάσσονι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Genesis 25:23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

The older will be enslaved to the younger

Quote: ὁ μείζων δουλεύσει τῷ ἐλάσσονι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrases the older and the younger refer to Rebekah’s older and younger twin sons. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

Romans 9:13

It is} just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

It is} just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was written by the prophet Malachi, and God is the person speaking. Alternate translation: “It is just as God had Malachi write”

Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated

Quote: τὸν Ἰακὼβ ἠγάπησα, τὸν δὲ Ἠσαῦ ἐμίσησα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Malachi 1:2–3. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

I loved, … I hated

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

The pronoun I here refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, loved … I hated”

I hated

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

Paul quotes God using the word hated as an exaggeration to say that he did not love Esau and had completely rejected him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I completely rejected”

Romans 9:14

What then will we say

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in 9:6–13. See how you translated this phrase in 6:1.

What then will we say? {There is} no unrighteousness with God{, is there

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? μὴ ἀδικία παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In these two sentences Paul is not asking for information, but is using questions to address an objection that some people may have to what he said in the previous verses because they misunderstood him. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as statements or exclamations or communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we will say that God is truly unrighteous!”

What then will we say? {There is} no unrighteousness with God{, is there

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? μὴ ἀδικία παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these two sentences Paul is speaking as if he were a person who misunderstood what Paul had taught in the previous verses. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

There is} no unrighteousness with God{, is there

Quote: μὴ ἀδικία παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of unrighteousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “There is no unrighteous character with God, is there”

There is} no unrighteousness with God{, is there

Quote: μὴ ἀδικία παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of unrighteousness as if it were an object that could not be with God. He is referring to the idea of God being unrighteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God is not unrighteous, is he”

May it never be

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

In this sentence Paul begins to respond to the rhetorical questions he wrote in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘May it never be!’”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο! (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:4 and 6:2.

Romans 9:15

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

For he says to Moses

Quote: τῷ Μωϋσεῖ γὰρ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this clause to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Exodus 33:19). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For he says to Moses that which is written in the Scriptures”

he says … I will have mercy {… I will have mercy, … I will have compassion {… I will have compassion

Quote: λέγει & ἐλεήσω & ἐλεῶ & οἰκτειρήσω & οἰκτείρω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronouns he and I here refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God says … ‘I, God, will have mercy … I will have mercy … I, God, will have compassion … I will have compassion’”

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “he said”

I will have mercy {on} whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion {on} whomever I will have compassion

Quote: ἐλεήσω ὃν ἂν ἐλεῶ, καὶ οἰκτειρήσω ὃν ἂν οἰκτείρω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Exodus 33:19. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

I will have mercy {on} whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion {on} whomever I will have compassion

Quote: ἐλεήσω ὃν ἂν ἐλεῶ, καὶ οἰκτειρήσω ὃν ἂν οἰκτείρω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of mercy and compassion, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “I will act mercifully to whomever I will act mercifully, and I will act compassionately to whomever I will act compassionately”

I will have mercy {on} whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion {on} whomever I will have compassion

Quote: ἐλεήσω ὃν ἂν ἐλεῶ, καὶ οἰκτειρήσω ὃν ἂν οἰκτείρω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These statements use parallelism internally and between each other. They emphasize that God does whatever he wants. If it would be helpful in your language, consider using another form that emphasizes that God is graciously kind to exactly those and only those to whom he chooses to show kindness, and he does so without outside influence.

Romans 9:16

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows in this verse summarizes the ideas of 9:11–15. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a clearer expression. See how you translated this phrase in 5:18.

it is} not

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

Here, it refers to God acting mercifully. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God’s mercy is not”

of the one willing, nor of the one running, but of God

Quote: τοῦ θέλοντος, οὐδὲ τοῦ τρέχοντος, ἀλλὰ & Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe what God’s mercy does or does not depend on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “depending on the one who wills, nor depending on the one who runs, but depending on God”

of the one running

Quote: τοῦ τρέχοντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses the one who runs to refer to a person who does good things to try to gain God’s favor as if that person were running a race. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who tries to gain favor” or “the one who works very hard”

the one having mercy

Quote: τοῦ ἐλεῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about God. If it might be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “he being the one who has mercy”

the one having mercy

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

See how you translated mercy in the previous verse.

Romans 9:17

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the another reason why what Paul said in 9:14 is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “What I said previously is also true, due to the fact that”

the scripture says to Pharaoh

Quote: λέγει & ἡ Γραφὴ τῷ Φαραὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul uses the scripture as if it were a person who could speak. He means that the scripture he is about to quote contains information that God said to Pharaoh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God says to Pharaoh in the scripture”

the scripture says to Pharaoh

Quote: λέγει & ἡ Γραφὴ τῷ Φαραὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Exodus 9:16). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “God said to Pharaoh in the Scriptures”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said”

For this very {purpose} I raised you up: so that I might demonstrate my power in you and so that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth

Quote: ὅτι εἰς αὐτὸ τοῦτο ἐξήγειρά σε, ὅπως ἐνδείξωμαι ἐν σοὶ τὴν δύναμίν μου, καὶ ὅπως διαγγελῇ τὸ ὄνομά μου ἐν πάσῃ τῇ γῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Exodus 9:16. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

this very {purpose

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

See how you translated purpose in 9:11.

I raised you up: … I might demonstrate my

Quote: ἐξήγειρά σε & ἐνδείξωμαι & μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the pronouns I and my refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, raised you up … I might demonstrate my”

I raised you up

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

Paul quotes God using the phrase raised you up to refer to causing someone to become king. If it would be helpful in your language, you can use a comparable idiom or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “I caused you to become king”

you … you

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

Both occurrences of you in this verse are singular and refer to Pharaoh.

so that … so that

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

Both occurrences of so that in this verse introduce purpose clauses. Use a natural way in your language for introducing purpose clauses. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that … for the purpose that”

my power

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

See how you translated power in 1:16.

in you

Quote: ἐν σοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes God speaking of his power as if it were an object that could be in Pharaoh. He means that Pharaoh is the means by which God would show his power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by means of you”

so that my name might be proclaimed

Quote: ὅπως διαγγελῇ τὸ ὄνομά μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that people might proclaim my name”

my name

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

Here, my name represents God himself. If it might be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “who I am”

Romans 9:18

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows in this verse summarizes the ideas of 9:14–17. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a clearer expression. See how you translated this phrase in 5:18 and in 9:16.

he has mercy … he wills, … he wills, he hardens

Quote: θέλει, ἐλεεῖ & θέλει, σκληρύνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse he refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God has mercy … he wills … God wills … he hardens”

he has mercy

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

See how you translated mercy in 9:15.

he hardens

Quote: σκληρύνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, he hardens refers to causing someone to become stubborn. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he causes to become stubborn”

Romans 9:19

You will say

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

You here is singular and refers to a hypothetical person who opposes Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could indicate this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You people who oppose me will say”

You will say then to me

Quote: ἐρεῖς μοι οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in 9:14–18. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Then you will respond to what I just said by saying to me”

to me

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

The pronoun me here refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to me, Paul”

Why then does he still find fault? For who has ever withstood his will

Quote: τί οὖν ἔτι μέμφεται? τῷ γὰρ βουλήματι αὐτοῦ, τίς ἀνθέστηκεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using these two questions here to express the objections that someone who opposes him might have to what he said in 9:14–18. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then he should not find fault with us! No one has ever been able to withstand his will!”

Why then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in 9:14–18. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “If these things are true, then why”

does he … find fault? … his

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

In this verse the pronouns he and his refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “does God … find fault … God’s”

does he still find fault

Quote: ἔτι μέμφεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, find fault refers to blaming someone for doing something bad. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “does he blame us for our sins”

Romans 9:20

O man

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

In this verse Paul begins to respond to the rhetorical questions from his hypothetical opponent in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying, ‘O man’”

O man, who indeed are you, the one answering against God? The one molded will not say to the one having molded {it}, “Why did you make me this way?” will it

Quote: ὦ ἄνθρωπε, μενοῦνγε σὺ τίς εἶ, ὁ ἀνταποκρινόμενος τῷ Θεῷ? μὴ ἐρεῖ τὸ πλάσμα, τῷ πλάσαντι, τί με ἐποίησας οὕτως? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this verse Paul is responding to the rhetorical questions from his hypothetical opponent in the previous verse. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

O man

Quote: ὦ ἄνθρωπε, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

O man here is an exclamation word that here communicates indignance. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this. Alternate translation: “How dare you, man!”

man

Quote: ἄνθρωπε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Paul is using the word here to emphasize human weakness. Alternate translation: “human being” or “mere mortal”

who indeed are you, the one answering against God

Quote: μενοῦνγε σὺ τίς εἶ, ὁ ἀνταποκρινόμενος τῷ Θεῷ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, the one answering against God gives further information about who you is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these words clearer. Alternate translation: “who indeed are you who answer against God”

who indeed are you, the one answering against God

Quote: μενοῦνγε σὺ τίς εἶ, ὁ ἀνταποκρινόμενος τῷ Θεῷ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize his outrage at what was said in the previous verse. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you who are answering against God indeed are nothing!”

you

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

Here, you is singular and refers to a hypothetical person who opposes Paul. See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

The one molded will not say to the one having molded {it}, “Why did you make me this way?” will it

Quote: μὴ ἐρεῖ τὸ πλάσμα, τῷ πλάσαντι, τί με ἐποίησας οὕτως? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “The one molded surely must not say to the one having molded it, ‘Why did you make me this way?’”

The one molded will not say to the one having molded {it}, “Why did you make me this way?” will it

Quote: μὴ ἐρεῖ τὸ πλάσμα, τῷ πλάσαντι, τί με ἐποίησας οὕτως? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of a person whom God created as if that person were an object that was molded by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The created person surely must not say to the one having created him, ‘Why did you make me this way?’”

The one molded

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The one whom God molded”

to the one having molded {it

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

Here, the one having molded it refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to God, who molded it”

The one molded will not say to the one having molded {it}, “Why did you make me this way?” will it

Quote: μὴ ἐρεῖ τὸ πλάσμα, τῷ πλάσαντι, τί με ἐποίησας οὕτως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If you translated this verse as a direct quotation, then this sentence would be a direct quotation inside a direct quotation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “The one molded will not ask the one having molded it why he made it this way. Will it?”

Why did you make me this way

Quote: τί με ἐποίησας οὕτως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize what his hypothetical opponent is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not have made me this way!”

Romans 9:21

Or does the potter not have authority over the clay to make from the same lump not only what {is} a vessel for honor, but also what {is} for dishonor

Quote: ἢ οὐκ ἔχει ἐξουσίαν ὁ κεραμεὺς τοῦ πηλοῦ, ἐκ τοῦ αὐτοῦ φυράματος ποιῆσαι ὃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν σκεῦος, ὃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “The potter surely has authority over the clay to make from the same lump not only what is a vessel for honor, but also what is for dishonor!”

Or does the potter not have authority over the clay to make from the same lump not only what {is} a vessel for honor, but also what {is} for dishonor

Quote: ἢ οὐκ ἔχει ἐξουσίαν ὁ κεραμεὺς τοῦ πηλοῦ, ἐκ τοῦ αὐτοῦ φυράματος ποιῆσαι ὃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν σκεῦος, ὃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Paul speaks about God’s authority over people by using the metaphor of a potter and his clay. Paul means that God has the right to do whatever he wants with people, because he made them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “Or does God not have authority over us like a potter has authority over the clay to make from the same lump not only what is a vessel for honor, but also what is for dishonor?”

Or does the potter not have authority over the clay to make from the same lump not only what {is} a vessel for honor, but also what {is} for dishonor

Quote: ἢ οὐκ ἔχει ἐξουσίαν ὁ κεραμεὺς τοῦ πηλοῦ, ἐκ τοῦ αὐτοῦ φυράματος ποιῆσαι ὃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν σκεῦος, ὃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A potter is a person who makes containers out of a type of soil called clay that becomes hard after it is heated. The potter takes a lump of clay and forms it into different kinds of containers that are used for various purposes. If your readers would not be familiar with clay containers, you could use the name of a different type of material that is used in your area to make containers, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “Or does the person who makes something not have authority over his materials to make from those materials not only what is a vessel for honor, but also what is for dishonor?”

a vessel for honor, … for dishonor

Quote: εἰς τιμὴν σκεῦος & εἰς ἀτιμίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of honor and dishonor, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “a vessel for what is honorable … for what is dishonorable”

a vessel for honor, … for dishonor

Quote: εἰς τιμὴν σκεῦος & εἰς ἀτιμίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, honor and dishonor refer to how these vessels will be used. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a vessel for honorable use … for dishonorable use”

Romans 9:22-24

General Information:

9:22–24 are one long sentence. If you divide these verses into multiple sentences, as the UST does, then you may need to repeat some phrases in order to make the meaning clear.

Romans 9:22

what} if

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

Here Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context, especially the idea in 9:20 that no one can speak against God. Alternate translation: “what can you say against God if”

what} if

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

Here, what if indicates the beginning of one long rhetorical question that extends from 9:22 to 9:24. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you cannot possibly say anything against God if”

what} if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Here, if indicates the beginning of a conditional sentence that extends from 9:22 to 9:24. Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “you cannot possibly say anything against God since”

willing to demonstrate his wrath and to make his power known, endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction

Quote: θέλων & ἐνδείξασθαι τὴν ὀργὴν, καὶ γνωρίσαι τὸ δυνατὸν αὐτοῦ, ἤνεγκεν ἐν πολλῇ μακροθυμίᾳ, σκεύη ὀργῆς κατηρτισμένα εἰς ἀπώλειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, willing to demonstrate his wrath and to make his power known”

willing to demonstrate his wrath

Quote: θέλων & ἐνδείξασθαι τὴν ὀργὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause could indicate: (1) the reason why God endured vessels of wrath. Alternate translation: “as a result of being willing to demonstrate his wrath” (2) a contrast between God being willing to demonstrate his wrath and enduring vessels of wrath. Alternate translation: “even though he was willing to demonstrate his wrath”

his wrath and to make his power known, endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction

Quote: τὴν ὀργὴν, καὶ γνωρίσαι τὸ δυνατὸν αὐτοῦ, ἤνεγκεν ἐν πολλῇ μακροθυμίᾳ, σκεύη ὀργῆς κατηρτισμένα εἰς ἀπώλειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wrath, power, patience, and destruction, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how wrathful he is and to make known how powerful he is, being very patient, endured vessels for being wrathful against that were prepared for being destroyed”

to make his power known

Quote: γνωρίσαι τὸ δυνατὸν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to make people know his power”

vessels of wrath

Quote: σκεύη ὀργῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul refers to people as if they were vessels. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “people of wrath”

vessels of wrath

Quote: σκεύη ὀργῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe vessels that deserve wrath. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “vessels that deserve wrath” or “people who deserve wrath”

prepared for destruction

Quote: κατηρτισμένα εἰς ἀπώλειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about the vessels of wrath. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who are the ones prepared for destruction”

prepared for destruction

Quote: κατηρτισμένα εἰς ἀπώλειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The one who does the action could be: (1) God, who is the main subject of this verse. Alternate translation: “God prepared for destruction” (2) the people themselves. Alternate translation: “who prepared themselves for destruction”

prepared for destruction

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

The word for indicates that what follows this word connects to what came before it. Here, for indicates the purpose for which the vessels of wrath were prepared. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “prepared for purpose of being destroyed”

for destruction

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

Here, destruction refers to experiencing punishment forever in hell. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for experiencing eternal destruction”

Romans 9:23

and

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

Here, and indicates that this verse continues the sentence that Paul began in the previous verse. If you divide the sentence into shorter sentences, you will need to repeat some of the information from the previous verse here. Alternate translation: “What if God also endured vessels of wrath so that” or “God also endured vessels of wrath so that”

so that … for

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

Here, so that and for indicate purpose clauses. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that … for the purpose of”

he might make known … his … he prepared beforehand

Quote: γνωρίσῃ & αὐτοῦ & προητοίμασεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse the pronouns he and his refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God might make known … God’s … God prepared beforehand”

he might make known

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he might make people know”

the wealth

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of riches, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the rich character”

of his glory … of mercy, … for glory

Quote: τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ & ἐλέους & εἰς δόξαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of glory and mercy, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of how glorious he is … toward which he acts mercifully … for being glorious”

the wealth of his glory

Quote: τὸν πλοῦτον τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a glory that is characterized by wealth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “his rich glory”

vessels of mercy

Quote: σκεύη ἐλέους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe vessels that will receive God’s mercy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “vessels that will receive mercy”

vessels of mercy

Quote: σκεύη ἐλέους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated vessels in the previous verse.

which he prepared beforehand for glory

Quote: ἃ προητοίμασεν εἰς δόξαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about the vessels of mercy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who are the ones he prepared beforehand for glory”

for glory

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

Here, for indicates the purpose for which the vessels of mercy were prepared. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “prepared for the purpose of being glorified”

for glory

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

Here, glory refers to experiencing glory forever with God in heaven. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for experiencing eternal glory”

Romans 9:24

even us

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

Here, even indicates that this verse continues the sentence that Paul began in 9:22. If you divide the sentence into shorter sentences, you will need to repeat some of the information from the previous verses here. Alternate translation: “What if even we are vessels of mercy” or “Even we are vessels of mercy”

us

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

Here, us refers to Paul and his Christian readers, so us would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

he called

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

Here, he refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God called”

not only from the Jews, but also from the Gentiles

Quote: οὐ μόνον ἐξ Ἰουδαίων, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐξ ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about the people whom God called. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who are those people not only from the Jews, but also from the Gentiles”

Romans 9:25

As he says also in Hosea

Quote: ὡς καὶ ἐν τῷ Ὡσηὲ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse are quotations from an Old Testament book (Hosea 2:23; 1:10). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “As he says also in the scripture written by Hosea”

he says … I will call … my … my

Quote: λέγει & καλέσω & μου & μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he, I, and my refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God says … I, God, will call … my … my”

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “he said”

I will call those {who were} not my people, ‘my people,’ and the one not loved, ‘Beloved

Quote: καλέσω τὸν οὐ λαόν μου, λαόν μου, καὶ τὴν οὐκ ἠγαπημένην, ἠγαπημένην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Hosea 2:23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

the one not loved, ‘Beloved

Quote: τὴν οὐκ ἠγαπημένην, ἠγαπημένην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one whom I did not love, ‘One I love’”

Romans 9:26

And it will be that in the place where it was said to them, ‘You {are} not my people,’ there they will be called ‘sons of the living God

Quote: καὶ ἔσται ἐν τῷ τόπῳ οὗ ἐρρέθη αὐτοῖς, οὐ λαός μου ὑμεῖς, ἐκεῖ κληθήσονται υἱοὶ Θεοῦ ζῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is a quotation from Hosea 1:10. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

it was said

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context indicates that God said this in first person. Alternate translation: “I said”

they will be called

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The one doing the action could be: (1) God. Alternate translation: “I will call them” (2) people in general. Alternate translation: “people will call them”

sons of the living God

Quote: υἱοὶ Θεοῦ ζῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated sons in 8:14.

of the living God

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

Here, the living God could refer to: (1) God being the one who lives. Alternate translation: “the God who is alive” (2) God being the one who makes living things become alive. Alternate translation: “the God who gives life” or “the God who makes alive”

Romans 9:27

But Isaiah cries out concerning Israel

Quote: Ἠσαΐας δὲ κράζει ὑπὲρ τοῦ Ἰσραήλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 10:22–23). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “But, as recorded in the Scriptures, Isaiah cries out concerning Israel”

cries out

Quote: κράζει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb cries out to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “cried out”

Israel

Quote: Ἰσραήλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Israel refers to the Israelites. They are the descendants of Jacob, whom God also called Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Israelites” or “the descendants of Israel”

Though the number of the sons of Israel might be as the sand of the sea, the remnant will be saved

Quote: ἐὰν ᾖ ὁ ἀριθμὸς τῶν υἱῶν Ἰσραὴλ, ὡς ἡ ἄμμος τῆς θαλάσσης, τὸ ὑπόλειμμα σωθήσεται. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is the beginning of a quotation from Isaiah 10:22–23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation.

of the sons of Israel

Quote: τῶν υἱῶν Ἰσραὴλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the word sons means refers to descendants. Paul quotes Isaiah identifying the Israelites as descendants of their ancestor Jacob, who was also known as Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel”

as the sand of the sea

Quote: ὡς ἡ ἄμμος τῆς θαλάσσης, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul quotes Isaiah leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “as the number of the grains of sand of the sea”

as the sand of the sea

Quote: ὡς ἡ ἄμμος τῆς θαλάσσης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here Paul quotes Isaiah comparing the number of Israelites to the number of grains of sand beside the sea in order to emphasize how numerous they are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “too many to count”

the sand of the sea

Quote: ἡ ἄμμος τῆς θαλάσσης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul quotes Isaiah using the possessive form to describe the sand that is next to the sea. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the sand by the sea”

the remnant

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of remnant, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “those who remain”

will be saved

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will save”

Romans 9:28

for

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

Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why the statement in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true since”

his word

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

Here, word refers to God’s promise to both punish the Israelites and save a remnant from among them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his promise to punish and save”

finishing {it

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

Here, finishing refers to successfully completing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “successfully completing it”

cutting {it} short

Quote: συντέμνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, cutting it short refers to finish doing something quickly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “ending it quickly”

finishing {it} and cutting {it} short

Quote: συντελῶν καὶ συντέμνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

The end of this verse is the end of a quotation from Isaiah 10:22–23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation.

Romans 9:29

And just as Isaiah has said beforehand

Quote: καὶ καθὼς προείρηκεν Ἠσαΐας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 1:9). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “And just as Isaiah has said beforehand in the Scriptures”

If the Lord of hosts did not leave us a seed, we would have become like Sodom, and we would have been made like Gomorrah

Quote: εἰ μὴ Κύριος Σαβαὼθ ἐνκατέλιπεν ἡμῖν σπέρμα, ὡς Σόδομα ἂν ἐγενήθημεν, καὶ ὡς Γόμορρα ἂν ὡμοιώθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Isaiah 1:9. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

us … we would have become … we would have been made

Quote: ἡμῖν & ἂν ἐγενήθημεν & ὡμοιώθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

In this verse us and we refer to Isaiah and those to whom he spoke, so us and we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

a seed

Quote: σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, seed is singular but refers to a group of people. See how you translated seed in 4:13.

we would have become like Sodom, and we would have been made like Gomorrah

Quote: ὡς Σόδομα ἂν ἐγενήθημεν, καὶ ὡς Γόμορρα ἂν ὡμοιώθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul’s readers would have known that Sodom and Gomorrah were cities that God completely destroyed because the people who lived in them were very wicked (Genesis 19). If your readers might not be familiar with this story, you could state this explicitly or indicate this in a note. Alternate translation: “we would have been destroyed like the people of Sodom, and we would have been destroyed like the people of Sodom”

we would have become like Sodom, and we would have been made like Gomorrah

Quote: ὡς Σόδομα ἂν ἐγενήθημεν, καὶ ὡς Γόμορρα ἂν ὡμοιώθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean the same thing. Isaiah says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that Israel could have been completely destroyed by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “we would have become just like Sodom and Gomorrah”

we would have been made like Gomorrah

Quote: ὡς Γόμορρα ἂν ὡμοιώθημεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God would have made us like Gomorrah”

Romans 9:30

then

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

The word then indicates that what follows is a response. Here, then is a response to what Paul said in 9:20–29. See how you translated this phrase in 6:1.

What then will we say

Quote: τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form in this sentence to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then we will say this:”

That the Gentiles

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “We will say that the Gentiles”

who are not pursuing righteousness

Quote: τὰ μὴ διώκοντα δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about the Gentiles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who are those people not pursuing righteousness”

righteousness, … righteousness, … righteousness

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

See how you translated this word in 6:13.

by faith

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

See how you translated this phrase in 4:16.

Romans 9:31

Israel

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

See how you translated this name in 9:27.

a law … the law

Quote: νόμον & νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

In this verse law refers to the laws that God gave the Jews by dictating them to Moses. See how you translated this use of law in 2:12.

a law of righteousness

Quote: νόμον δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a law that was for the purpose of righteousness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a law for righteousness”

of righteousness

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

See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

Romans 9:32

Why

Quote: διὰ τί? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Why could they not attain righteousness?”

Why

Quote: διὰ τί? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This is why:”

Because {it was} not by faith

Quote: ὅτι οὐκ ἐκ πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “They did not attain righteousness because it was not by faith”

by faith

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

See how you translated this phrase in 9:30.

by works

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

Paul assumes that his readers would understand that works means “works of the law.” See how you translated the same use of works in 4:2.

They stumbled over

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

They stumbled over introduces a sentence that states the result of what Paul described in the previous sentence. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result, they stumbled over”

They stumbled over the stone of stumbling

Quote: προσέκοψαν τῷ λίθῳ τοῦ προσκόμματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of Christ as if he were a stone that the Jews stumbled over. He means that the Jews were offended by Christ because they tried to become righteous by works. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “They were offended by Jesus, like people who stumbled over a stone of stumbling” or “They were offended by Jesus”

the stone of stumbling

Quote: τῷ λίθῳ τοῦ προσκόμματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a stone that causes stumbling. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the stone that causes stumbling”

Romans 9:33

just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in [1:17].

just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation was written by the prophet Isaiah and God is the person speaking. Alternate translation: “just as Isaiah wrote” or “just as God said through Isaiah”

Behold, I place in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, and the one believing on it will not be ashamed

Quote: ἰδοὺ, τίθημι ἐν Σιὼν λίθον προσκόμματος, καὶ πέτραν σκανδάλου; καὶ ὁ πιστεύων ἐπ’ αὐτῷ, οὐ καταισχυνθήσεται. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is Paul’s paraphrase of parts of Isaiah 8:14 and 28:16. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Behold

Quote: ἰδοὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Isaiah using the term Behold to focus his listeners’ attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation.

I place

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

In this quotation from the Old Testament, I refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, place”

in Zion

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

Here, Zion refers to the city of Jerusalem. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in Jerusalem”

a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, … it

Quote: λίθον προσκόμματος, καὶ πέτραν σκανδάλου & αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, stone of stumbling, rock of offense, and it refer to Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a person who will be like a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense” or “a person who will cause people to stumble and will offend them”

a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense

Quote: λίθον προσκόμματος, καὶ πέτραν σκανδάλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how offensive the Messiah would be to the Jews. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “a stone that causes great offense”

a stone of stumbling

Quote: λίθον προσκόμματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

a rock of offense

Quote: πέτραν σκανδάλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a rock that causes offense. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the rock that causes offense”

of offense

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of offense, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “that offends”

the one believing on it will not be ashamed

Quote: ὁ πιστεύων ἐπ’ αὐτῷ, οὐ καταισχυνθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will not shame the one who believes on it”

Romans 10

Romans 10 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. God’s plan for Israel (9:1–11:36)
   • Paul’s sorrow for Israel’s unbelief (9:1–5)
   • God chooses whom he wants to choose (9:6–13)
   • God shows mercy to whom he wants to show mercy (9:14–18)
   • No one can question God’s choice (9:19–33)
   • Israel’s false righteousness (10:1–4)
   • Salvation is available to everyone (10:5–21)

Some translations set prose quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted words in 10:8.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 10:18–20 of this chapter, which are words from the Old Testament.

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Rhetorical questions

Paul uses many rhetorical questions in this chapter. He does this to convince his readers that God does not save only the Jewish people, so Christians must be ready to go and share the gospel with the whole world. (See: Rhetorical Question and save, saved, safe, salvation)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Different uses of “they,” “them,” and “their”

In 10:1–4, the pronouns “they,” “them,” and “their” always refer to the people of Israel. However, those pronouns refer to various things and people in 10:5–21, which will be addressed in the notes. (See: Pronouns — When to Use Them)

Romans 10:1

Brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

the good pleasure … my prayer … salvation

Quote: ἡ & εὐδοκία & ἡ δέησις & σωτηρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of good pleasure, prayer, and salvation, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “the very pleasing thing … what I pray … them to be saved”

of my heart

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

Here, heart refers to a person’s inner being or mind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of my inner being” or “of my mind”

them

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

The pronoun them in 10:1–4 refers to Jewish people who do not believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish people”

Romans 10:2

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason for what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “I feel this way because”

they have a zeal … not according to full knowledge

Quote: ζῆλον & ἔχουσιν & οὐ κατ’ ἐπίγνωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of zeal and full knowledge, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “they are zealous … not by fully knowing”

they have a zeal of God

Quote: ζῆλον Θεοῦ ἔχουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a zeal that is directed toward God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “they have a zeal for God”

not according to full knowledge

Quote: οὐ κατ’ ἐπίγνωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “they have zeal of God that is not according to full knowledge”

Romans 10:3

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason for what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

the righteousness of God, … to the righteousness of God

Quote: τὴν τοῦ Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην & τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the righteousness of God in 1:17.

their own righteousness

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “being righteous on their own”

they did not submit themselves to the righteousness of God

Quote: τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐχ ὑπετάγησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the righteousness of God as if it were a person to whom someone could submit. He means that they refused to attain righteousness in the way God requires, which is by faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they refuse to receive the righteousness of God attained according to his way”

Romans 10:4

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason why the Jews were wrong to try to make themselves righteous, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “They were wrong to seek to establish their own righteousness because”

is} the completion of the law

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

Here, the completion of the law could mean: (1) the end of the law of Moses. Alternate translation: “is the end of the law” (2) the goal of the law of Moses. Alternate translation: “is the goal of the law”

is} the completion

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of completion, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “is what completes”

of the law

Quote: νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 2:12.

for righteousness

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

Here, for could indicate that: (1) righteousness was the purpose for the completion of the law. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of becoming righteous” (2) righteousness was the result of the completion of the law. Alternate translation: “resulting in righteousness”

righteousness

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

See how you translated righteousness in the previous verse.

for everyone who believes

Quote: παντὶ τῷ πιστεύοντι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

See how you translated everyone who believes in 1:16.

Romans 10:5

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it indicates that this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

Moses writes {about} the righteousness that {is} from the law

Quote: Μωϋσῆς & γράφει τὴν δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐκ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this clause to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Leviticus 18:5). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “Moses writes in the Scriptures about the righteousness that is from the law”

writes

Quote: γράφει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb writes to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “wrote”

about} the righteousness that {is} from the law

Quote: τὴν δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐκ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “about being righteous based on the law”

the law

Quote: νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 2:12 and in the previous verse.

The man having done these things will live by it

Quote: ὁ ποιήσας αὐτὰ ἄνθρωπος, ζήσεται ἐν αὐτῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul quotes Leviticus 18:5. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

man

Quote: ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Paul quotes Moses using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “man or woman”

these things

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

Here, these things refers to everything that God commanded the Jews in the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these things written in the law”

these things

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

Paul quotes Moses implying that the person must do all of these things perfectly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “all these things perfectly” or “every single one of these things”

will live

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

Here, will live could refer to: (1) eternal life. Alternate translation: “will live forever” (2) a mortal life that God blesses. Alternate translation: “will stay alive”

it

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

Here, it refers to the law of Moses, which was called these things earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the law”

Romans 10:6

the righteousness by faith says thus

Quote: ἡ & ἐκ πίστεως δικαιοσύνη οὕτως λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this clause to introduce quotations from an Old Testament book (Deuteronomy 9:4; 30:12–14). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “the righteousness by faith says thus in the Scriptures”

the righteousness by faith says

Quote: ἡ & ἐκ πίστεως δικαιοσύνη & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, righteousness is described as if it were a person who could speak. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the real meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “about the righteousness by faith, Moses says”

righteousness by faith

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

See how you translated righteousness in 6:13 and by faith in 4:16.

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said”

Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven

Quote: μὴ εἴπῃς ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ σου, τίς ἀναβήσεται εἰς τὸν οὐρανόν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul quotes Deuteronomy 9:4 and Deuteronomy 30:12. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

your

Quote: σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Here Paul quotes Moses addressing the people of Israel as if he were speaking to only one person. The pronoun your is singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of your in your translation.

heart

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

See how you translated heart in 10:1.

Who will ascend into heaven

Quote: τίς ἀναβήσεται εἰς τὸν οὐρανόν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul quotes Moses using a question to teach his audience. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely no one can ascend into heaven!”

that is, to bring Christ down

Quote: τοῦτ’ ἔστιν Χριστὸν καταγαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this clause Paul explains the meaning of the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “meaning, to make Christ come down to earth”

to bring Christ down

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

Here, to indicates that this is a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of bringing Christ down”

Romans 10:7

or

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

Paul uses or here to connect a quotation from Deuteronomy 30:12 with a paraphrase of Deuteronomy 30:13. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that shows this explicitly. Alternate translation: “or do not to say”

Who will descend into the abyss

Quote: τίς καταβήσεται εἰς τὴν Ἄβυσσον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul paraphrases Deuteronomy 30:13. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Who will descend into the abyss

Quote: τίς καταβήσεται εἰς τὴν Ἄβυσσον? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul quotes Moses using a question to teach his audience. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely no one can descend into the abyss!”

that is, to bring Christ up from dead ones

Quote: τοῦτ’ ἔστιν Χριστὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν ἀναγαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this clause Paul explains the meaning of the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “That means to make Christ come up from dead ones”

to bring … up from dead ones

Quote: ἐκ νεκρῶν ἀναγαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:24.

Romans 10:8

what does it say

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

Here Paul uses this clause to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Deuteronomy 30:14). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “what does it say in the Scriptures”

what does it say

Quote: τί λέγει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “it surely says,”

what does it say

Quote: τί λέγει? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The word it refers to “the righteousness” referred to in 10:6. Here Paul continues to describe righteousness as if it were a person who could speak. See how you translated “the righteousness by faith says” in 10:6.

does it say

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb say to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “did it say”

The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart

Quote: ἐγγύς σου τὸ ῥῆμά ἐστιν, ἐν τῷ στόματί σου, καὶ ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul quotes Deuteronomy 30:14. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart

Quote: ἐγγύς σου τὸ ῥῆμά ἐστιν, ἐν τῷ στόματί σου, καὶ ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Moses speaking of the word as if it were an object that could be near or in someone. He means that God’s message could be easily known and spoken by Moses’ audience. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “You can easily know and speak the word”

The word

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

Paul quotes Moses using word to describe what God has spoken by using words. This general reference to God’s word would include what God had said about the Messiah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God’s message”

you, … your … your

Quote: σου & σου & σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Here Paul quotes Moses addressing the people of Israel as if he were speaking to only one person. The pronouns you and your are singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of "your" in your translation.

in your mouth

Quote: ἐν τῷ στόματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase in your mouth refers to being able to say something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: "in what you say"

in your heart

Quote: ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated heart in 10:1.

the word of faith

Quote: τὸ ῥῆμα τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a word that is about faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the word about faith”

of faith

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “about believing”

we proclaim

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

Here, we refers to Paul and other Christians who proclaim the gospel, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

Romans 10:9

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it indicates that what follows is an explanation of what “the word of faith” is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “This word we proclaim is that”

your … you confess, “… your … you will be saved

Quote: ὁμολογήσῃς & σου & σου & σωθήσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Paul addresses his readers as if he were speaking to only one person. The pronouns you and your are singular. See how you translated you and your in the previous verse.

with your mouth

Quote: ἐν τῷ στόματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase indicates the means by which a person confesses Jesus is Lord. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by using your mouth you confess, ‘Jesus is Lord’”

in your heart

Quote: ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 10:6 and 10:8.

raised him from dead ones

Quote: αὐτὸν ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:24.

you will be saved

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will save you”

Romans 10:10

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here introduces the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

with the heart one believes

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

See how you translated the similar phrase in the previous verse.

one believes … one confesses

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

The subjects of these phrases are implied from the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “one believes that God raised Jesus from the dead … one confesses that Jesus is Lord”

to righteousness, … to salvation

Quote: εἰς δικαιοσύνην & εἰς σωτηρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Both occurrences of to in this verse indicate that what follows them are results. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation (with a comma preceding both phrases): “resulting in righteousness … resulting in salvation”

righteousness

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

See how you translated this abstract noun in 10:6.

with the mouth one confesses

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

See how you translated the similar phrase in the previous verse.

salvation

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

See how you translated this abstract noun in 10:1.

Romans 10:11

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

the scripture says

Quote: λέγει & ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 28:16). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “God says in the Scriptures”

the scripture says

Quote: λέγει & ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul uses the scripture as if it were a person who could speak. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God says in the scripture”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said”

Everyone who believes on him will not be put to shame

Quote: πᾶς ὁ πιστεύων ἐπ’ αὐτῷ οὐ καταισχυνθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated this sentence in 9:33.

Romans 10:12

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, it introduces another explanation for what Paul said in 10:10. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

there is no distinction

Quote: οὐ & ἐστιν διαστολὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of distinction, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God does not distinguish”

for

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. You may need to start a new sentence, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

Lord {is} of all

Quote: Κύριος πάντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the Lord who rules over all. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Lord is ruling over all”

is} of all, … all

Quote: πάντων & πάντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Paul is using the adjective all as a noun in order to describe a group of people. If your language does not use adjectives in the same way, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “is of all people … all people”

being rich

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

Here, being rich means to bless others generously. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “generously giving blessing”

calling on him

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

Here, call on implies calling out to be saved. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who call upon him to be saved”

Romans 10:13

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

For

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

For here introduces a quotation from an Old Testament book (Joel 2:32). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For Joel wrote in the Scriptures,”

all, whoever calls on the name of the Lord, will be saved

Quote: πᾶς & ὃς ἂν ἐπικαλέσηται τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου, σωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul quotes Joel 2:32. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

all

Quote: πᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated all in the previous verse.

calls on the name of the Lord

Quote: ἐπικαλέσηται τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated “call on” in the previous verse.

the name of the Lord

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

Here, the name of the Lord represents the Lord himself. If it might be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the Lord”

all, whoever calls on the name of the Lord, will be saved

Quote: πᾶς & ὃς ἂν ἐπικαλέσηται τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου, σωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul implies that the Lord refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. However, since this sentence is a quotation from the Old Testament, you will need to state this outside of the quotation. Alternate translation: “all, whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. This Lord is Jesus.”

all, whoever calls on the name of the Lord, will be saved

Quote: πᾶς & ὃς ἂν ἐπικαλέσηται τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου, σωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will save all, whoever calls on the name of the Lord”

Romans 10:14

How then would they call on {him} in whom they have not believed? And how would they believe in {him} whom they have not heard? And how would they hear without someone preaching

Quote: πῶς οὖν ἐπικαλέσωνται εἰς ὃν οὐκ ἐπίστευσαν? πῶς δὲ πιστεύσωσιν οὗ οὐκ ἤκουσαν? πῶς δὲ ἀκούσωσιν χωρὶς κηρύσσοντος? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using three rhetorical questions here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as statements or exclamations and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Then surely they would not call on whom they have not believed! And surely they would not believe in whom they have not heard! And surely they would not hear without someone preaching!”

How then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows in 10:14–15 is the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result, how”

would they call on {him} … they have not believed? … would they believe in {him} … they have not heard? … would they hear

Quote: ἐπικαλέσωνται & οὐκ ἐπίστευσαν & πιστεύσωσιν & οὐκ ἤκουσαν & ἀκούσωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse they refers to all people, both Jews and Gentiles, as stated in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “would all people call … they have not believed … would all people believe in … they have not heard … would all people hear”

would they call on {him} in whom they have not believed

Quote: ἐπικαλέσωνται εἰς ὃν οὐκ ἐπίστευσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated call on in 10:12.

whom they have not believed? … whom they have not heard

Quote: ὃν οὐκ ἐπίστευσαν & οὗ οὐκ ἤκουσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These clauses refer to Jesus, whom Paul called the Lord in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus, whom they have not believed … Jesus, whom they have not heard”

whom they have not heard? … would they hear … someone preaching

Quote: οὗ οὐκ ἤκουσαν & ἀκούσωσιν & κηρύσσοντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that these sentences would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “whom they have not heard about … would they hear about him … someone preaching about him”

Romans 10:15

And how would they preach, unless they would be sent

Quote: πῶς δὲ κηρύξωσιν ἐὰν μὴ ἀποσταλῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “And surely they would not preach unless they would be sent!”

would they preach, … they would be sent

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

In this verse they refers to the people who preach, as mentioned at the end of the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “would those who preach be able to preach … those preachers would be sent”

they would be sent

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone sent them”

Just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

Just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Isaiah wrote this quotation. Alternate translation: “Just as Isaiah wrote”

How beautiful {are} the feet of the ones proclaiming good news {of} good things

Quote: ὡς ὡραῖοι οἱ πόδες τῶν εὐαγγελιζομένων τὰ ἀγαθά! (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation of Isaiah 52:7. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

How beautiful {are} the feet

Quote: ὡς ὡραῖοι οἱ πόδες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, feet refers to the action of going to other people and telling them the good news. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “How beautiful is the going and preaching”

Romans 10:16

But

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

The word But introduces a contrast. Here, But indicates that what follows is in contrast to what Paul said in the previous two verses. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “By contrast,”

not all of them

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

Here, them could refer to (1) the Jews, who are the main topic of chapters 9–11. Alternate translation: “not all of the Jews” (2) all people, as in 10:13–15. Alternate translation: “not everyone”

obeyed the gospel

Quote: ὑπήκουσαν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the gospel as if it were a person who could be obeyed. Paul is referring to obeying the command to repent and believe the gospel, which is part of the gospel message. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “obeyed what God commanded in the gospel” or “believed the gospel”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that this sentence explains what Paul said in the previous sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

Isaiah says

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

Here Paul uses this clause to introduce quotations from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 53:1). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “Isaiah says in the Scriptures”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said”

Lord, who has believed our report

Quote: Κύριε, τίς ἐπίστευσεν τῇ ἀκοῇ ἡμῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is a quotation from Isaiah 53:1. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Lord, who has believed our report

Quote: Κύριε, τίς ἐπίστευσεν τῇ ἀκοῇ ἡμῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Isaiah is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Lord, surely no one has believed our report!”

our report

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

Here, our refers to God and Isaiah, which would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

our report

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of report, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what we report”

Romans 10:17

So

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

Here, So indicates that what follows in this verse summarizes the ideas of 10:14–16. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a clearer expression. Alternate translation: “Finally” or “In summary”

this faith

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what someone believes”

this faith

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

Here, this faith refers to believing in Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “believing in Christ”

is} by hearing

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “is received by hearing”

hearing, … hearing

Quote: ἀκοῆς & ἀκοὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that these sentences would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “hearing about Jesus … hearing about him is”

the word of Christ

Quote: ῥήματος Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the word that is about Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the word about Christ”

the word

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

See how you translated this word in 10:8.

Romans 10:18

But

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

The word But introduces a contrast. Here, But indicates that what follows is in contrast to what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “By contrast”

I say

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

The pronoun I here refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, say”

Did they certainly not hear

Quote: μὴ οὐκ ἤκουσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

Here Paul is quoting himself. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Did they certainly not hear

Quote: μὴ οὐκ ἤκουσαν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “They most surely heard!”

Did they … hear

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

See how you translated they in the previous verse.

certainly not

Quote: μὴ οὐκ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The phrase certainly not translates two negative words in Greek. Paul uses them together to emphasize what he is saying. If your language can use two negatives together for emphasis without them canceling each other to create a positive meaning, it would be appropriate to use that construction here.

Did they certainly not hear

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

See how you translated hear in 10:14.

Their sound went out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world

Quote: εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν; καὶ εἰς τὰ πέρατα τῆς οἰκουμένης, τὰ ῥήματα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This sentence is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 19:4). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “David says in the Scriptures,”

Their sound went out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world

Quote: εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν; καὶ εἰς τὰ πέρατα τῆς οἰκουμένης, τὰ ῥήματα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul quotes Psalm 19:4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Their sound went out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world

Quote: εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν; καὶ εἰς τὰ πέρατα τῆς οἰκουμένης, τὰ ῥήματα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean the same thing. Paul quotes David saying the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “What they said went everywhere in the whole world”

Their sound went out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world

Quote: εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν; καὶ εἰς τὰ πέρατα τῆς οἰκουμένης, τὰ ῥήματα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this sentence, both Their and their refer to the sun, moon, and stars as if they were people who could make a sound or speak words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “The sun, moon, and the stars are proof that went out into all the earth, and they are proof to the ends of the world.”

the ends of the world

Quote: τὰ πέρατα τῆς οἰκουμένης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase the ends of the world is an idiom that refers to every place on the earth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “everywhere on the earth”

Romans 10:19

But

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

Here, But indicates that what follows is in contrast to what Paul said in 10:17, in the same way that the statement in the previous verse contrasted 10:17. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an expression that shows the agreement between this verse and the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Furthermore,”

I say

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

The pronoun I here refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, say”

Did Israel certainly not know?” … I myself will provoke you to jealousy by a non-nation; by means of a senseless nation, I will provoke you to anger

Quote: μὴ Ἰσραὴλ οὐκ ἔγνω & ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς, ἐπ’ οὐκ ἔθνει, ἐπ’ ἔθνει ἀσυνέτῳ, παροργιῶ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these two sentences Paul is quoting himself and then the Old Testament. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Did Israel certainly not know

Quote: μὴ Ἰσραὴλ οὐκ ἔγνω? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Israel most surely knew!”

Israel

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

Here Paul uses the word Israel to refer to the physical descendants of Jacob, whom God also called Israel. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Israelites”

certainly not

Quote: μὴ & οὐκ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The phrase certainly not translates two negative words in Greek. Paul uses them together to emphasize what he is saying. If your language can use two negatives together for emphasis without them canceling each other to create a positive meaning, it would be appropriate to use that construction here.

Moses says

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

Here Paul uses this phrase to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Deuteronomy 32:21). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “Moses says in the Scriptures”

Moses says

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

This phrase means that Moses wrote down what God said. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote down that God said”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said”

I myself will provoke you to jealousy by a non-nation; by means of a senseless nation, I will provoke you to anger

Quote: ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς, ἐπ’ οὐκ ἔθνει, ἐπ’ ἔθνει ἀσυνέτῳ, παροργιῶ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean the same thing. Paul quotes God saying the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “I myself will make you jealous and angry by using a non-nation”

I myself will provoke you to jealousy … I will provoke you to anger

Quote: ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς, & παροργιῶ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this sentence the pronoun I here refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, myself will provoke you to jealousy … I will provoke you to anger”

I myself will provoke you to jealousy

Quote: ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

God uses the word myself to emphasize who is provoking Israel to be jealous. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “I am indeed the one who will provoke you to jealousy”

I myself will provoke you to jealousy … I will provoke you to anger

Quote: ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς & παροργιῶ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse you refers to the Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I myself will provoke you Israelites to jealousy … I will provoke you Israelites to anger.”

I myself will provoke you to jealousy … I will provoke you to anger

Quote: ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς & παροργιῶ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of jealousy and anger, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “I myself will cause you to become jealous … I will cause you to become angry”

by a non-nation

Quote: ἐπ’ οὐκ ἔθνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase a non-nation refers to a group of people with whom God did not previously have a relationship. The meaning of non-nation is similar to “not my people” used in 9:25–26. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by those people who did not belong to me” or “by those people whom I did not consider to be a nation”

a senseless nation

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

Here, senseless means that these people do not know God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by a nation with people who do not know me”

Romans 10:20

Now Isaiah is very bold, and he says

Quote: Ἠσαΐας δὲ ἀποτολμᾷ καὶ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this phrase to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 65:1). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “Isaiah is very bold, and he says in the Scriptures”

is very bold, and he says

Quote: ἀποτολμᾷ καὶ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verbs is and says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “was very bold, and he said”

Isaiah is very bold, and he says

Quote: Ἠσαΐας & ἀποτολμᾷ καὶ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase means that Isaiah wrote down what God said. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Isaiah is very bold, and he wrote down that God said”

I was found by the ones not seeking me; I appeared to the ones not asking for me

Quote: εὑρέθην ἐν τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ζητοῦσιν; ἐμφανὴς ἐγενόμην τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ἐπερωτῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these two sentences Paul is quoting Isaiah 65:1 from the Old Testament. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

I was found … me; I appeared … for me

Quote: εὑρέθην & ἐμὲ & ἐμφανὴς & ἐμὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse the pronoun I refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, was found … me; I, God, appeared … for me”

I was found by the ones not seeking me; I appeared to the ones not asking for me

Quote: εὑρέθην ἐν τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ζητοῦσιν; ἐμφανὴς ἐγενόμην τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ἐπερωτῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean the same thing. Paul quotes God saying the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “I was revealed to those people who did not even want to know me”

I was found … I appeared

Quote: εὑρέθην & ἐμφανὴς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Paul quotes God using the past tense in order to refer to something that will certainly happen in the future. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “I will be found … I will appear”

I was found by the ones not seeking me

Quote: εὑρέθην ἐν τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ζητοῦσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Those who were not seeking me found me”

the ones not seeking me; I appeared to the ones not asking for me

Quote: τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ζητοῦσιν; ἐμφανὴς ἐγενόμην τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ἐπερωτῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These two clauses refer to non-Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the non-Jews, who were not seeking me; I appeared to the non-Jews, who were not asking for me”

Romans 10:21

But

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

The word But introduces a contrast. Here, But indicates that what follows is in contrast to what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an expression that makes this contrast clearer. Alternate translation: “By contrast,”

to Israel he says

Quote: πρὸς & τὸν Ἰσραὴλ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this phrase to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 65:2). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “to Israel God says in the Scriptures”

Israel

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

See how you translated Israel in 10:19.

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “he said”

The whole day I stretched out my hands to a disobedient and contradictory people

Quote: ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν, ἐξεπέτασα τὰς χεῖράς μου πρὸς λαὸν ἀπειθοῦντα καὶ ἀντιλέγοντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these two sentences Paul is quoting Isaiah 65:2 from the Old Testament. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

The whole day

Quote: ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The whole day here refers to doing something constantly or continually. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Continually”

I stretched out my hands to a disobedient and contradictory people

Quote: ἐξεπέτασα τὰς χεῖράς μου πρὸς λαὸν ἀπειθοῦντα καὶ ἀντιλέγοντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The action of stretching out hands toward someone represents welcoming or inviting someone to be a friend. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I welcomed a disobedient and contrary people to be my friends”

a disobedient and contradictory people

Quote: λαὸν ἀπειθοῦντα καὶ ἀντιλέγοντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to Israel, to whom God was speaking in this quotation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you disobedient and contradictory people”

Romans 11

Romans 11 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. God’s plan for Israel (9:1–11:36)
   • Paul’s sorrow for Israel’s unbelief (9:1–5)
   • God chooses whom he wants to choose (9:6–13)
   • God shows mercy on whom he wants to show mercy (9:14–18)
   • No one can question God’s choice (9:19–33)
   • Israel’s false righteousness (10:1–4)
   • Salvation is available to everyone (10:5–21)
   • Israel has a faithful remnant (11:1–10)
   • Israel’s unbelief resulted in non-Jews’ belief (11:11–24)
   • God will save Israel (11:15–32)
   • Praise for God’s wisdom (11:33–11:36)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 11:9–10, 26–27, and 34–35, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Grafting

In 11:17–24 Paul uses the image of “grafting” to refer to the place of the Gentiles and Jews in the plans of God. Permanently attaching a branch from one plant onto another plant is called “grafting.” Paul uses the picture of God grafting the Gentiles into his people as a wild branch is grafted into a cultivated olive tree. But God has not forgotten about the Jews, who are spoken of as a natural part of the tree. God will also save Jews who believe in Jesus and they will rejoin God’s people.

Romans 11:1

I say

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

The pronoun I here refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, say”

I say then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows in this verse is the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in 9:30–10:21. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result, I say”

God did not reject his people, did he

Quote: μὴ ἀπώσατο ὁ Θεὸς τὸν λαὸν αὐτοῦ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as statements or exclamations and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely God did not reject his people!”

his people

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

Here, his people refers to the Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his people, the Jews”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this phrase in 3:4 and 6:2.

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For introduces the reason why what Paul said earlier in the verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

I myself also am

Quote: καὶ & ἐγὼ & εἰμί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word myself to emphasize that he is proof that God has not rejected the Israelites. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “I, indeed, also am”

the seed

Quote: σπέρματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, seed is singular but refers to a group of people. See how you translated seed in 4:13.

Romans 11:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

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

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

whom he foreknew

Quote: ὃν προέγνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about God’s people. If it might be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “the people whom he foreknew”

he foreknew

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

See how you translated this phrase in 8:29.

Or do you not know what the scripture says about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel

Quote: ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ἐν Ἠλείᾳ τί λέγει ἡ Γραφή, ὡς ἐντυγχάνει τῷ Θεῷ κατὰ τοῦ Ἰσραήλ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “And surely you know what the scripture says about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel!”

Or do you not know what the scripture says about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel

Quote: ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ἐν Ἠλείᾳ τί λέγει ἡ Γραφή, ὡς ἐντυγχάνει τῷ Θεῷ κατὰ τοῦ Ἰσραήλ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This sentence indicates that what follows in the next verse is a quotation from an Old Testament book (1 Kings 19:10, 14). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “Or do you not know what the scripture says about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel? He says in the scriptures,”

what the scripture says

Quote: τί λέγει ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated the scripture says in 10:11.

says … he pleads

Quote: λέγει & ἐντυγχάνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verbs says and pleads to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said … he pleaded”

Israel

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

See how you translated Israel in 10:19.

Romans 11:3

they killed your prophets

Quote: τοὺς προφήτας σου ἀπέκτειναν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from 1 Kings 19:10, 14. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

they killed … they tore down … they seek

Quote: ἀπέκτειναν & κατέσκαψαν & ζητοῦσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse they refers to the people of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel killed … they tore down … those people of Israel seek”

and I alone was left behind, … my

Quote: κἀγὼ ὑπελείφθην μόνος & μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse I and my refer to Elijah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and only I, Elijah, was left behind … my life”

and I alone was left behind

Quote: κἀγὼ ὑπελείφθην μόνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and I alone am remaining”

and I alone was left behind

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

Here, left behind means that Elijah thought he remained alive and all the other prophets had been killed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and I alone remained alive”

they seek my life

Quote: ζητοῦσιν τὴν ψυχήν μου (1)

The phrase seek my life refers to people trying to kill Elijah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they want to kill me”

Romans 11:4

But what does the divine response say to him

Quote: ἀλλὰ τί λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ χρηματισμός? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to get his audience to pay attention to what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “But pay attention to what the divine response says to him!”

what does the divine response say to him

Quote: τί λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ χρηματισμός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this question to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 65:1). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “what does the divine response say to him in the Scriptures”

what does the divine response say

Quote: τί λέγει & ὁ χρηματισμός? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul speaks of the divine response as if it were a person who would say something. Paul is referring to God responding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what does God say in response”

does … say

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verbs says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “did … say”

to him

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

Here, him refers to Elijah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

have not bent a knee to Baal

Quote: οὐκ ἔκαμψαν γόνυ τῇ Βάαλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This action was an expression of worship in this culture. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation, or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “have not worshiped Baal”

Romans 11:5

In the same way, then

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

The word then indicates that what follows is a result. Here, then introduces the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated about Elijah in the previous two verses. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result, in the same way”

a remnant … the election of grace

Quote: λῖμμα & ἐκλογὴν χάριτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated remnant in 9:27, election in 9:11, and grace in 4:16.

the election of grace

Quote: ἐκλογὴν χάριτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe election that is characterized by grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the gracious election”

Romans 11:6

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what John is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since”

by grace

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “election is by grace”

by grace, {… works. … grace … grace

Quote: χάριτι & ἔργων & χάρις & χάρις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated grace in 4:16 and works in 9:12.

it is} no longer

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

Here, it refers to “the election of grace” mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the election of grace is no longer”

it is} no longer

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

Here, no longer indicates the logical conclusion of the preceding clause. It does not imply that election used to be by works. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “it is logically not”

Romans 11:7

What then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in 9:30–11:6. If it might help your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “If these things are true, then what”

What then

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “What should we conclude”

What then

Quote: τί οὖν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This is what we should conclude:”

The thing … this

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

The thing and this here refer to righteousness, as indicated in 9:30–31. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The righteousness … this righteousness”

Israel

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

See how you translated this name in 10:19.

it did not obtain, … the rest {of them

Quote: οὐκ ἐπέτυχεν & οἱ & λοιποὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it and them refer to the people of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel did not obtain … the rest of the people of Israel”

the elect … the rest {of them

Quote: ἡ & ἐκλογὴ & οἱ & λοιποὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of elect and rest, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the ones who have been elected … the ones of them who remain”

were hardened

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The next verse indicates that God is the one who did the action. Alternate translation: “God hardened”

were hardened

Quote: ἐπωρώθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hardened refers to being made stubborn. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “were made stubborn”

Romans 11:8

just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the quotation is a paraphrase of Isaiah 29:10 and Deuteronomy 29:4. Alternate translation: “just as God stated”

God gave them a spirit of dullness, eyes not to see, and ears not to hear, until this very day

Quote: ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς πνεῦμα κατανύξεως, ὀφθαλμοὺς τοῦ μὴ βλέπειν, καὶ ὦτα τοῦ μὴ ἀκούειν, ἕως τῆς σήμερον ἡμέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these clauses Paul paraphrases Isaiah 29:10 and Deuteronomy 29:4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

a spirit of dullness

Quote: πνεῦμα κατανύξεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a spirit that is characterized by dullness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a dull spirit”

a spirit of dullness

Quote: πνεῦμα κατανύξεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, spirit refers to a person’s attitude or manner of thinking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “an attitude of dullness”

eyes not to see, and ears not to hear

Quote: ὀφθαλμοὺς τοῦ μὴ βλέπειν, καὶ ὦτα τοῦ μὴ ἀκούειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Moses using eyes not to see and ears not to hear to refer to being unable to understand something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “being unable to perceive and unable to comprehend”

eyes not to see, and ears not to hear

Quote: ὀφθαλμοὺς τοῦ μὴ βλέπειν, καὶ ὦτα τοῦ μὴ ἀκούειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that the people of Israel were completely unable to understand how to become righteous. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “being completely unable to comprehend”

Romans 11:9

David says

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

Here Paul uses this clause to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 69:22–23). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “David says in the Scriptures”

David says

Quote: Δαυεὶδ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “said”

Let their table become

Quote: γενηθήτω ἡ τράπεζα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This phrase begins a quotation of Psalm 69:22–23 that continues into the next verse. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation.

Let their table become for a net and for a trap

Quote: γενηθήτω ἡ τράπεζα αὐτῶν εἰς παγίδα, καὶ εἰς θήραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God, cause their table to become a net and a trap”

Let their table become for a net and for a trap

Quote: γενηθήτω ἡ τράπεζα αὐτῶν εἰς παγίδα, καὶ εἰς θήραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause is an idiom. The word table represents feasting, which is a situation in which a person feels safe, and net and trap represent punishment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let them be punished while they are feeling safe” or “Punish them while they are comfortable”

for a net and for a trap

Quote: εἰς παγίδα, καὶ εἰς θήραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize David’s plea for judgment. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “for thorough punishment”

for a stumbling block

Quote: εἰς σκάνδαλον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, stumbling block refers to something that tempts people to sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for tempting them to sin”

a retribution to them

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of retribution, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “paying them back”

Romans 11:10

Let their eyes be darkened to not see

Quote: σκοτισθήτωσαν οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ αὐτῶν, τοῦ μὴ βλέπειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This clause refers to being unable to understand something. See how you translated “eyes not to see” in 11:8. Alternate translation: “Let them be unable to understand”

Let their eyes be darkened

Quote: σκοτισθήτωσαν οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Blind their eyes”

make their backs bend continually

Quote: τὸν νῶτον αὐτῶν διὰ παντὸς σύνκαμψον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This clause refers to making people suffer like how slaves suffer by carrying heavy burdens on their backs. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “make them suffer continually”

continually

Quote: παντὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

The end of this verse is the end of a quotation from Psalm 69:22–23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation.

Romans 11:11

I say then

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

See how you translated this phrase in 11:1.

They did not stumble … they might fall, did they?” … their … them

Quote: μὴ ἔπταισαν & πέσωσιν & αὐτῶν & αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse the pronouns they, their, and them refer to the Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The Jewish people did not stumble … they might fall, did they … the Jewish people’s … the Jews”

They did not stumble so that they might fall, did they

Quote: μὴ ἔπταισαν ἵνα πέσωσιν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as statements or exclamations and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely they did not stumble so that they might fall!”

They did not stumble … did they

Quote: μὴ ἔπταισαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated “stumbled” in 9:32.

they might fall

Quote: πέσωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, fall refers to being completely rejected by God forever. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they might be eternally rejected”

May it never be

Quote: μὴ γένοιτο! (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

See how you translated this expression in 3:4 and 6:2.

by their transgression, this salvation {… in order to provoke them to jealousy

Quote: τῷ αὐτῶν παραπτώματι, ἡ σωτηρία & τὸ παραζηλῶσαι αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated transgression in 4:15, salvation in 1:16, and jealousy in 10:19.

in order to provoke them to jealousy

Quote: παραζηλῶσαι αὐτούς (1)

See how you translated the similar phrase in 10:19.

Romans 11:12

if their transgression {is} wealth of the world, and their loss {is} wealth of the Gentiles

Quote: εἰ & τὸ παράπτωμα αὐτῶν, πλοῦτος κόσμου, καὶ τὸ ἥττημα αὐτῶν, πλοῦτος ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Both of these clauses mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize what he is saying. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “if their transgression certainly resulted in wealth for the nations”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what John is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since”

their transgression

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

See how you translated transgression in the previous verse.

is} wealth of the world

Quote: πλοῦτος κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe wealth that is for the world. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is wealth for the world”

of the world

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

Here, world refers to the people living in the world, especially the Gentiles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of the people living in the world”

their loss {… their fullness

Quote: τὸ ἥττημα αὐτῶν & τὸ πλήρωμα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of loss and fullness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what they lost … how full they are”

their loss {… their fullness

Quote: τὸ ἥττημα αὐτῶν & τὸ πλήρωμα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, loss refers to Israel’s failure to make themselves righteous, and fullness refers to the complete number of Israelites who will become righteous by trusting in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “their failure … their full number of believers”

is} wealth of the Gentiles

Quote: πλοῦτος ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe wealth that is for the Gentiles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is wealth for the Gentiles”

how much more {will} their fullness {be

Quote: πόσῳ μᾶλλον τὸ πλήρωμα αὐτῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “so much more will be their fullness!”

how much more {will} their fullness {be

Quote: πόσῳ μᾶλλον τὸ πλήρωμα αὐτῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that there will be much more wealth when the full amount of Israelites believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in how much more wealth will their fullness result”

Romans 11:13

to you

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

Here, you is plural and refers to Paul’s non-Jewish Christian readers.

I myself am

Quote: εἰμι ἐγὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word myself to emphasize that he was apostle to the Gentiles. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “I indeed am the one who is”

my ministry

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of ministry, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how I minister”

Romans 11:14

I might provoke to jealousy

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

See how you translated this phrase in 10:19.

my own flesh … them

Quote: μου τὴν σάρκα & αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These phrases refer to Paul’s Jewish kinsmen who do not believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those unbelieving Jews, who are of my own flesh … my fellow Jews”

my own flesh

Quote: μου τὴν σάρκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated flesh in 1:3.

Romans 11:15

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

See how you translated if in 11:12.

their … their} acceptance

Quote: αὐτῶν & ἡ πρόσλημψις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse their refers to Jews who do not believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the unbelieving Jews’ … the Jewish people’s acceptance”

their rejection {… their} acceptance … life

Quote: ἡ ἀποβολὴ αὐτῶν & ἡ πρόσλημψις & ζωὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of rejection, acceptance, and life, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “them rejecting … them being accepted … to become alive”

is} reconciliation of the world

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

Here, is indicates that the phrase that follows is the result of their rejection. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “led to reconciliation of the world”

is} reconciliation

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

See how you translated reconciliation in 5:11.

of the world

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

See how you translated world in 11:12.

what {is their} acceptance if not life from dead ones

Quote: τίς ἡ πρόσλημψις εἰ μὴ ζωὴ ἐκ νεκρῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize how wonderful it will be when God accepts the Jews. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “their acceptance is certainly life from dead ones!”

what {is their} acceptance

Quote: τίς ἡ πρόσλημψις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, is indicates that the phrase that follows is the result of their acceptance. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “what would their acceptance lead to if not life from the dead”

life from dead ones

Quote: ζωὴ ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase could refer to: (1) the final resurrection of all Christians that will take place after the whole Jewish remnant has believed in Jesus. Elsewhere in this letter, Paul uses a similar phrase to refer to Jesus’ resurrection. Alternate translation: “bringing the dead back to life” (2) the Jewish remnant changing from being spiritually dead to being spiritually alive. Alternate translation: “eternally alive from being eternally dead”

from dead ones

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

See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:24.

Romans 11:16

if … if

Quote: εἰ & εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

See how you translated if in 11:12.

the lump {of dough} also. … the branches also

Quote: καὶ τὸ φύραμα & καὶ οἱ κλάδοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In these clauses Paul implies that the lump of dough and the branches are also holy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the lump of dough is also holy … the branches are also holy”

if the firstfruits {is} holy, the lump {of dough} also

Quote: εἰ & ἡ ἀπαρχὴ ἁγία, καὶ τὸ φύραμα; (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul is speaking of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the Israelites’ ancestors, as if they were the firstfruits to be harvested. He is also speaking of the Israelites who descended from those men, as if they were a lump of dough that was made from the firstfruits that had been harvested. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this idea with a simile. Alternate translation: “if Abraham is like the first of what has been offered to God, all of his descendants should also be considered an offering”

if the root {is} holy, the branches also

Quote: εἰ ἡ ῥίζα ἁγία, καὶ οἱ κλάδοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul is speaking of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the Israelites’ ancestors, as if they were the root of a tree. He is also speaking of the Israelites who descended from those men as if they were the branches of that same tree. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this idea with a simile. Alternate translation: “if Abraham is like the root of a tree, all of his descendants should also be considered branches of that tree”

Romans 11:17

if

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

Here, if indicates that this verse and the next verse are one conditional sentence. You may need to adjust the words to divide these verses into separate sentences.

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since”

if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive branch, were grafted into them, and became partakers with them of the richness of the root of the olive tree

Quote: εἰ & τινες τῶν κλάδων ἐξεκλάσθησαν, σὺ δὲ ἀγριέλαιος ὢν ἐνεκεντρίσθης ἐν αὐτοῖς, καὶ συνκοινωνὸς τῆς ῥίζης τῆς πιότητος τῆς ἐλαίας ἐγένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Paul continues using the metaphor of a tree to speak about how God rejected unbelieving Jews and accepted non-Jews to be part of his people instead. The olive tree represents God’s people. The branches that were broken off represent Jews who don’t believe in Jesus. The wild olive branch represents non-Jewish people who believe in Jesus. The richness represents the blessings God gives his people. The root represents either the ancestors of the Israelites (as in the previous verse) or the Jewish people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this metaphor as a simile. See also the discussion of this metaphor in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “if some of the Jews were rejected, like branches are broken off of a tree, and you, being foreigners were joined to God’s people as wild olive branches are grafted onto a tree, and you received the blessings of the first Israelites as part of God’s people, as branches receive the nutrients of the root of the olive tree”

some of the branches were broken off, … were grafted … became partakers with them

Quote: τινες τῶν κλάδων ἐξεκλάσθησαν & ἐνεκεντρίσθης & συνκοινωνὸς & ἐγένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context of chapters 9–11 indicates that God did the action. Alternate translation: “God broke off some of the branches … God grafted … God made to be partakers with them”

you

Quote: σὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is writing to a group of people, non-Jewish Christians, you is singular throughout this verse. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural forms of you in your translation.

them, … partakers with them

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

In this verse them refers to the Jewish people who believe in Jesus. It does not refer to the branches that were broken off. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the believing Jewish people … partakers with those Jews who believe”

Romans 11:18

do not boast over the branches

Quote: μὴ κατακαυχῶ τῶν κλάδων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This is the end of a factual conditional sentence that began in the previous verse. You may need to adjust the words if you make this clause into a separate sentence. Alternate translation: “Since this is true, do not boast over the branches”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: μὴ κατακαυχῶ τῶν κλάδων. εἰ δὲ κατακαυχᾶσαι, οὐ σὺ τὴν ῥίζαν βαστάζεις, ἀλλὰ ἡ ῥίζα σέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Paul continues using the metaphor of a tree from the previous two verses. Here, branches represents those Jews whom God rejected because they did not believe in Jesus. The root represents either the ancestors of the Israelites (like in 11:16) or the Jewish people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this metaphor as a simile. See also the discussion of this metaphor in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “do not boast over the unbelieving Jews whom God rejected, like branches were broken off of a tree. But if you boast, you yourself do not sustain Gods people, like branches cannot sustain the root, but the first Israelites sustain you, like the root sustains the branches”

you boast, you yourself do … support … you

Quote: κατακαυχᾶσαι & σὺ & βαστάζεις & σέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

See how you translated you in the previous verse.

you yourself do not support the root, but the root, you

Quote: οὐ σὺ τὴν ῥίζαν βαστάζεις, ἀλλὰ ἡ ῥίζα σέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that Gentile believers who boast should remember that they are supported by the root of the faith of Abraham and the first Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “remember that you yourself do not support the root, but the root supports you”

Romans 11:19

You will say

Quote: ἐρεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

See how you translated you in the previous two verses.

then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows is a response to what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “as a result” or “in response to this”

Branches were broken off so that I myself might be grafted in

Quote: ἐξεκλάσθησαν κλάδοι, ἵνα ἐγὼ ἐνκεντρισθῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this sentence Paul is speaking as if he were a non-Jewish Christian arguing against Paul. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Branches were broken off … I myself might be grafted in

Quote: ἐξεκλάσθησαν κλάδοι & ἐγὼ ἐνκεντρισθῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

See how you translated branches, broken off, and grafted in in 11:17.

Branches were broken off … I myself might be grafted in

Quote: ἐξεκλάσθησαν κλάδοι & ἐγὼ ἐνκεντρισθῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated similar phrases in 11:17. Alternate translation: “God broke branches off … God might graft me in”

so that

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

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that”

Romans 11:20

That is} true

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

This sentence introduces Paul’s response to the statement in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would respond by saying that what you said is true”

They were broken off in unbelief

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

They and their in this verse refer to the Jewish people who do not believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The unbelieving Jews were broken off in unbelief”

They were broken off

Quote: ἐξεκλάσθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

See how you translated were broken off in 11:17.

in unbelief

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

This phrase indicates the reason why the unbelieving Jews were broken off. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “due to unbelief”

you yourself stand firm

Quote: σὺ & ἕστηκας & (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

See how you translated you in the previous three verses.

you yourself stand firm

Quote: σὺ & ἕστηκας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Gentile believers remaining part of God’s people as if they were standing firm. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you yourself remain among God’s people”

in faith

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

The phrase in faith could indicate: (1) the means by which Gentile believers should stand firm. Alternate translation: “by means of faith” (2) the reason why Gentile believers should stand firm. Alternate translation: “because of faith”

in faith

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

See how you translated faith in 1:5.

arrogant things

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

Here, arrogant things refers to the arrogant thoughts that a Gentile Christian might have against the Jews. Specifically, they might think that they are better than Jews who are not Christian, as indicated by the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “arrogantly against unbelieving Jews”

fear

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

Paul is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the next verse, as in the UST.

Romans 11:21

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For introduces the reason why Paul wants his Gentile Christian readers to “fear,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “You must fear because”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

See how you translated if in 11:12.

of the natural branches

Quote: τῶν κατὰ φύσιν κλάδων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here,natural branches refers to the Jewish people who rejected Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “of the unbelieving Jews”

neither will he spare of you

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

Paul implies that God will not spare anyone who stops trusting in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “neither will he spare you if you do not keep trusting in Jesus”

of you

Quote: σοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

See how you translated you in 11:17–20.

Romans 11:22

See

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses the term See to focus his audiences’ attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation.

then

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

Here, then indicates that what follows in this verse is the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in the 11:17–21. Use a natural way in your language for expressing result. Alternate translation: “as a result”

the kindness … the severity of God: severity … kindness of God … his kindness

Quote: χρηστότητα & ἀποτομίαν Θεοῦ & ἀποτομία & χρηστότης Θεοῦ & τῇ χρηστότητι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of kindness and severity, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “the kind character … the severe character of God … his severe character … the kind character of God … his kind character”

severity on the ones having fallen

Quote: ἐπὶ μὲν τοὺς πεσόντας, ἀποτομία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of God’s severity as if it were an object that could be on someone. He means that God punishes them severely. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he severely punishes those who fell”

the ones having fallen

Quote: τοὺς πεσόντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul refers to the Jews who failed to trust God as if they were people who fell. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “those Jews who failed to trust in God”

but kindness of God on you

Quote: ἐπὶ δὲ σὲ, χρηστότης Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of God’s kindness as if it were an object that could be on someone. He means that God acts kindly toward those who trust in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he is kind to you”

you, … you continue in … you yourself … will be cut off

Quote: σὲ & ἐπιμένῃς & σὺ ἐκκοπήσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

See how you translated you in 11:17–21.

you continue in his kindness

Quote: ἐπιμένῃς τῇ χρηστότητι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of God’s kindness as if it were a place in which someone could continue staying. He means that his readers should continue trusting in God’s kindness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you continue trusting in his kindness”

you yourself also will be cut off

Quote: καὶ σὺ ἐκκοπήσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to his Gentile Christian audience as if they were branches that God could cut off. He means that God would reject them if they do not remain faithful. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “you yourself also will be rejected” or “you yourself also will be rejected like a branch that is cut off”

you yourself also will be cut off

Quote: καὶ σὺ ἐκκοπήσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will cut off you yourself also”

Romans 11:23

those, … they do not continue in their unbelief, … them

Quote: κἀκεῖνοι & μὴ ἐπιμένωσι τῇ ἀπιστίᾳ & αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse those, they, their, and them refer to the Jewish people who do not believe in Jesus at first but become believers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those unbelieving Jewish people … those Jews do not continue in their unbelief … those Jews”

they do not continue in their unbelief

Quote: μὴ ἐπιμένωσι τῇ ἀπιστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated continue in in the previous verse.

if they do not continue in their unbelief

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ ἐπιμένωσι τῇ ἀπιστίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “if they start believing”

their unbelief

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

See how you translated unbelief in 4:20.

will be grafted in. … to graft them in

Quote: ἐνκεντρισθήσονται & ἐνκεντρίσαι αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the Jews becoming part of God’s people as if they were branches that could be grafted in to a tree. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “will be joined to God’s people … to join them to his people” or “will be joined to God’s people, like a branch is grafted into a tree … to join them to his people, like a farmer grafts a branch into a tree”

will be grafted in

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will graft in”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous sentence is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

Romans 11:24

For

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

For here indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is an explanation of what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

See how you translated if in 11:12.

you from what {is} by nature a wild olive tree were cut off, and contrary to nature were grafted into a good olive tree, how much more will these, who {are} according to nature, be grafted back into their own olive tree

Quote: σὺ ἐκ τῆς κατὰ φύσιν ἐξεκόπης ἀγριελαίου, καὶ παρὰ φύσιν ἐνεκεντρίσθης εἰς καλλιέλαιον, πόσῳ μᾶλλον οὗτοι, οἱ κατὰ φύσιν ἐνκεντρισθήσονται τῇ ἰδίᾳ ἐλαίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Paul continues speaking of the Gentile believers and Jews as if they were branches of a tree, as he did in 11:17–22. Here, a wild olive tree represents all non-Jewish people who do not believe in Jesus, cut off represents being separated from unbelieving non-Jewish people, and good olive tree and their own olive tree represents God’s people. See how you translated grafted into in 11:17. Alternate translation: “you were separated from the nations, as a branch is cut off from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and contrary to nature were joined to God’s people, as a branch is grafted into a good olive tree, how much more will these, who are according to nature like olive branches, be joined to their own people, like a branch is grafted back into its own olive tree”

you

Quote: σὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

See how you translated you in 11:17–22.

you from what {is} by nature a wild olive tree were cut off, … were grafted … will these, who {are} according to nature, be grafted back into

Quote: σὺ ἐκ τῆς κατὰ φύσιν ἐξεκόπης ἀγριελαίου & ἐνεκεντρίσθης & οὗτοι, οἱ κατὰ φύσιν ἐνκεντρισθήσονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God cut you off from what is by nature a wild olive tree … God grafted … will God graft these, who are according to nature, back into”

how much more will these, who {are} according to nature, be grafted back into their own olive tree

Quote: πόσῳ μᾶλλον οὗτοι, οἱ κατὰ φύσιν ἐνκεντρισθήσονται τῇ ἰδίᾳ ἐλαίᾳ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “so much more will these, who are according to nature, be grafted back into their own olive tree!”

these, … their own

Quote: οὗτοι & τῇ ἰδίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they and their refer to Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these Jews … the Jews’ own”

who {are} according to nature

Quote: οἱ κατὰ φύσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase gives further information about the Jewish people whom God will rejoin to his people. If it might be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “they who are the people who are according to nature”

Romans 11:25

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what Paul says in 11:25–32 is the reason why he said what he did in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “I am telling you these things because”

I do not want you to be ignorant

Quote: οὐ & θέλω ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “I very much want you to be aware”

I do not want

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

The pronoun I here refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, do not want”

you … you might not be wise in yourselves

Quote: ὑμᾶς & μὴ ἦτε παρ’ ἑαυτοῖς φρόνιμοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Here, you and yourselves are plural and could refer to: (1) non-Jewish Christians, as in verses 11:17–24. Alternate translation: “you non-Jewish believers in Christ … you non-Jews might be wise not in yourselves” (2) all the unbelievers to whom Paul was writing this letter. Alternate translation: “you believers in Jesus … you believers might not be wise in yourselves”

I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, in order that you might not be wise in yourselves, that a partial hardening has occurred in Israel

Quote: οὐ & θέλω ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν, ἀδελφοί, τὸ μυστήριον τοῦτο, ἵνα μὴ ἦτε παρ’ ἑαυτοῖς φρόνιμοι, ὅτι πώρωσις ἀπὸ μέρους τῷ Ἰσραὴλ γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “in order that you, brothers, might not be wise in yourselves, I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, that a partial hardening has occurred in Israel”

of this mystery

Quote: τὸ μυστήριον τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here Paul uses the word mystery to refer to God saving a remnant of Jews after he saves a certain amount of Gentiles. This does not mean that the idea is hard to understand, but rather, God had not yet revealed it to people. If your language would not use mystery to refer to something that was concealed but has now been revealed, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of this concealed message”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Paul could be referring to: (1) non-Jewish Christians, as in verses 11:17–24. Alternate translation: “my fellow non-Jewish believers in Christ” (2) all the believers to whom Paul was writing this letter. Alternate translation: “my fellow believers in Christ”

you might not be wise in yourselves

Quote: μὴ ἦτε παρ’ ἑαυτοῖς φρόνιμοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, wise in yourselves refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is wiser than he really is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you might not arrogantly think that you are wiser than you really are”

a partial hardening

Quote: πώρωσις ἀπὸ μέρους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hardening refers to being stubborn and unwilling to believe in Jesus. This hardening is only partial because some Jews believe in Jesus. See how you translated similar words in 11:7 and 9:18.

in Israel

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

See how you translated Israel in 10:19.

the fullness of the Gentiles

Quote: τὸ πλήρωμα τῶν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, fullness refers to the full amount of non-Jewish people whom God will save. See how you translated fullness in 11:12.

has come in

Quote: εἰσέλθῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses come in to speak about people joining God’s people as if they were entering a place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “has become his people”

Romans 11:26

and thus

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

Here, thus indicates that all Israel will be saved in the same manner as “the fullness of the Gentiles,” as mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and in the same manner”

all Israel will be saved

Quote: πᾶς Ἰσραὴλ σωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will save all Israel”

Israel

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

See how you translated Israel in 10:19.

just as it is written

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

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

just as it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since Paul is referring to something Isaiah wrote (Isaiah 59:20–21 and 27:9), you could indicate Isaiah as the subject. Alternate translation: “just as Isaiah wrote”

From Zion will come the Deliverer. He will turn away ungodly things from Jacob

Quote: ἥξει ἐκ Σιὼν ὁ ῥυόμενος, ἀποστρέψει ἀσεβείας ἀπὸ Ἰακώβ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation of Isaiah 59:20–21. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Zion

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

See how you translated Zion in 9:33.

He will turn away ungodly things

Quote: ἀποστρέψει ἀσεβείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Isaiah speaking of ungodly things as if they were an object that someone could turn away. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “He will cause ungodly activity to stop”

Jacob

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

Here, Jacob refers to the descendants of Jacob, who are also called Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” or “the descendants of Jacob”

Romans 11:27

And this {will be} for them the covenant with me, when I take away their sins

Quote: καὶ αὕτη αὐτοῖς, ἡ παρ’ ἐμοῦ διαθήκη, ὅταν ἀφέλωμαι τὰς ἁμαρτίας αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is a quotation of Isaiah 59:20–21 and 27:9 in which God is speaking. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

for them … with me, … I take away their

Quote: αὐτοῖς & παρ’ ἐμοῦ & ἀφέλωμαι & αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronouns I and me here refer to God, and them and their refer to the people of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the people of Israel … with me, God, … I take away Israel’s”

I take away their sins

Quote: ἀφέλωμαι τὰς ἁμαρτίας αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes God speaking of sins as if they were objects that someone could take away. He means that people are forgiven for the sins they have done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I will remove the guilt of their sins” or “I will forgive them for their sins”

Romans 11:28

according to the gospel

Quote: κατὰ & τὸ εὐαγγέλιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul implies that the Jewish people are rejecting the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “according to the Jews rejecting the gospel”

they are} enemies … your … they are} beloved … their forefathers

Quote: ἐχθροὶ & ὑμᾶς & ἀγαπητοὶ & τοὺς πατέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronouns they and their refer to the people of Israel, and your refers to Gentile Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel are enemies … you non-Jews' … the people of Israel are beloved … their forefathers”

they are} enemies

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

Paul implies that the Jewish people are enemies of God because they rejected the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “they are God’s enemies”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: κατὰ & τὴν ἐκλογὴν (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this phrase in 9:11.

they are} beloved

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God loves them”

for the sake of their forefathers

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

Here, for the sake of their forefathers refers to the promises that God made to their forefathers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because of what he promised to do for their ancestors”

Romans 11:29

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous verse is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “You can be sure this is true because”

the gracious gifts … the calling of God

Quote: τὰ χαρίσματα & ἡ κλῆσις τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of gifts and calling, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is graciously given … what has been called by God”

the calling of God

Quote: ἡ κλῆσις τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the calling of God refers to the fact that God called the Jews to be his people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the fact that God called them”

Romans 11:30

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse explains what Paul said about the Jews in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

you yourselves were formerly disobedient

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

Here, you and yourselves are plural and refer to non-Jewish Christians, as in verses 11:17–24. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you non-Jewish believers in Christ yourselves were formerly disobedient”

were shown mercy

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has shown mercy”

were shown mercy in the disobedience of these

Quote: ἠλεήθητε τῇ τούτων ἀπειθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of mercy and disobedience, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “were shown how merciful God is in how disobedient these were”

in the disobedience of these

Quote: τῇ τούτων ἀπειθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, in indicates that what follows is one reason why God showed mercy to non-Jewish people. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “due to the disobedience of these”

of these

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

Here, these refers to Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of these Jews”

Romans 11:31

these … they

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

Here, these and they refer to Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these Jews … the Jews”

were disobedient in your mercy so that they might also now be shown mercy

Quote: ἠπείθησαν τῷ ὑμετέρῳ ἐλέει, ἵνα καὶ αὐτοὶ νῦν ἐλεηθῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

The phrase in your mercy could be connected to: (1) the verb translated as were disobedient, as in the ULT. (2) the verb translated as be shown mercy. Alternate translation: “were disobedient so that, in your mercy, they might also now be shown mercy”

in your mercy

Quote: τῷ ὑμετέρῳ ἐλέει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, in could indicate that what follows: (1) is one reason for the Jews being disobedient. Alternate translation: “because of your mercy” (2) is one purpose for the Jews being disobedient. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of your mercy”

in your mercy

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

Here, your mercy refers to the mercy that God has shown to non-Jewish people whom he saves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the mercy that God has shown you”

in your mercy

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

Here, your is plural and refers to non-Jewish believers in Jesus. See how you translated you in the previous verse.

in your mercy … they might also now be shown mercy

Quote: τῷ ὑμετέρῳ ἐλέει & καὶ αὐτοὶ νῦν ἐλεηθῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of mercy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in God acting mercifully to you … God might also now act mercifully to them”

so that

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

The phrase so that indicates that what follows is a purpose. Here, so that indicates that what follows is one purpose for the disobedience of the Jews. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that”

they might also now be shown mercy

Quote: καὶ αὐτοὶ νῦν ἐλεηθῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God might also now show them mercy”

Romans 11:32

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows in this verse is the conclusion to what Paul said in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In conclusion,”

God shut up all {people} into disobedience

Quote: συνέκλεισεν & ὁ Θεὸς τοὺς πάντας εἰς ἀπείθειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to people whom God allows to disobey him as if they were prisoners shut up in a prison. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God has allowed all people to be disobedient”

disobedience … he might show mercy on

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of disobedience and mercy, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how disobedient they are … he might show how merciful he is toward”

Romans 11:33

O, the depth of the wealth and the wisdom and the knowledge of God

Quote: ὦ βάθος πλούτου, καὶ σοφίας καὶ γνώσεως Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

Oh is an exclamation word that communicates awe. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this. Alternate translation: “How amazing is the depth of the wealth and the wisdom and the knowledge of God”

the depth of the wealth and the wisdom and the knowledge of God

Quote: βάθος πλούτου, καὶ σοφίας καὶ γνώσεως Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of depth, wealth, wisdom, and knowledge, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how deeply wealthy and wise and knowledgeable is God”

the depth of the wealth and the wisdom and the knowledge of God

Quote: βάθος πλούτου, καὶ σοφίας καὶ γνώσεως Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to God’s wealth, wisdom, and knowledge as if they were like a deep place. He means that God’s wealth, wisdom, and knowledge are truly great. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the greatness of the wealth and the wisdom and the knowledge of God”

How unsearchable {are} his judgments, and his ways beyond discovering

Quote: ὡς ἀνεξεραύνητα τὰ κρίματα αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἀνεξιχνίαστοι αἱ ὁδοὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize what he is saying. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “How completely incomprehensible are the things he does”

How unsearchable {are} his judgments, and his ways beyond discovering

Quote: ὡς ἀνεξεραύνητα τὰ κρίματα αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἀνεξιχνίαστοι αἱ ὁδοὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

How here is used as an exclamation word that communicates awe. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this.

unsearchable {are} his judgments

Quote: ἀνεξεραύνητα τὰ κρίματα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of God’s judgments as if they were objects that people cannot search for. He means that people cannot fully understand God’s judgments. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “incomprehensible are his judgments”

are} his judgments

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgments, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “is how he judges”

his ways beyond discovering

Quote: ἀνεξιχνίαστοι αἱ ὁδοὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of God’s ways as if they were objects that people cannot discover. He means that people cannot fully understand God’s ways. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his ways are incomprehensible”

Romans 11:34

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For introduces a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 40:13). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For it is written in the Scriptures”

Who has known the mind of the Lord or who has become his advisor

Quote: τίς & ἔγνω νοῦν Κυρίου, ἢ τίς σύμβουλος αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Isaiah 40:13. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Who has known the mind of the Lord or who has become his advisor

Quote: τίς & ἔγνω νοῦν Κυρίου, ἢ τίς σύμβουλος αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul quotes Isaiah using this question to emphasize that no one is as wise as the Lord. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “No one has known the mind of the Lord or become his advisor!”

the mind of the Lord

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

Here, mind refers to what a person knows and thinks. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all that the Lord knows” or “what the Lord thinks about”

Romans 11:35

Or

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

The word Or introduces another item. Here, Or indicates that what follows is Paul’s paraphrase of a verse in an Old Testament book (Job 41:11). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “Or, as is written in the Scriptures”

Who gave to him, that he should be repaid by him

Quote: τίς προέδωκεν αὐτῷ, καὶ ἀνταποδοθήσεται αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a paraphrase of part of Job 41:11. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Who gave to him, that he should be repaid by him

Quote: τίς προέδωκεν αὐτῷ, καὶ ἀνταποδοθήσεται αὐτῷ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul quotes Job using this question to emphasize what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “No one has ever given anything to God, that he should be repaid by him!”

Who gave to him

Quote: τίς προέδωκεν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul quotes Job leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “Who gave something to him”

he should be repaid by him

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God should repay him”

Romans 11:36

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what Paul says in this verse is the reason why what he said in 11:34–35 is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “These things are true because”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ἐξ αὐτοῦ, καὶ δι’ αὐτοῦ, καὶ εἰς αὐτὸν, τὰ πάντα. αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse him refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from God and through God and to God are all things. To God”

from him

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

Here, from indicates that all things came from God because he made them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “originating from him”

through him

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

Here, through indicates that God is the means by which all things continue to exist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “continuing to exist through him”

to him

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

Here, to indicates that God is the reason all things exist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for him”

To him {be} the glory

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “May people glorify him”

to the ages

Quote: εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, to the ages is an idiom that means “forever.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to eternity”

Romans 12

Romans 12 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
   • How to act toward God (12:1–2)
   • How to serve the church (12:3–8)
   • How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)
   • How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)
   • How to act toward government (13:1–7)
   • How to act toward other people (13:8–10)
   • Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)
   • Do not judge other Christians (14:1–12)
   • Do not tempt other Christians to sin (14:13–23)
   • Be united with other Christians (15:1–13)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of 12:20, which are from the Old Testament.

Many scholars believe Paul uses the word therefore in Romans 12:1 to refer back to all of Chapters 1–11. After having carefully explained the Christian gospel in chapters 1–11, Paul explains in chapters 12–16 how Christians should live in response to these great truths. In these chapters, Paul gives many different commands that are practical instructions for how Christians should behave. (See: faith)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Body of Christ

The body of Christ is an important metaphor used in the New Testament to refer to the church. Every Christian plays a unique and important function within the people of God. Christians need each other. (See: INVALID bible/kt/body and Metaphor)

Romans 12:1

I urge

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

The pronoun I here and throughout this chapter refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, urge”

you … your … your

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

The pronouns you and your here and throughout most of this chapter are plural and refer to the believers in Rome to whom Paul wrote this letter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you believers … your … your”

I urge you therefore

Quote: παρακαλῶ οὖν ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Here, therefore indicates that what follows in the rest of this letter is what Paul wants his readers to do in response to what he has written in chapters 1–11. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a fuller expression. Alternate translation: “Since everything I have said is true, I urge you”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

the compassions … a living sacrifice, … which {is} your reasonable service

Quote: τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν & θυσίαν ζῶσαν & τὴν λογικὴν λατρείαν ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of compassions, sacrifice, and service, you could express the same ideas in another way. These words indicate different ways in which people serve God. Alternate translation: “the ways that God is compassionate … a living one that is sacrificed … which is how you reasonably serve”

to present your bodies a living sacrifice

Quote: παραστῆσαι τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν θυσίαν ζῶσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to a believer in Christ who obeys God as if that person were one of the animals that the Jews killed and then offered to God as a sacrifice, except that this sacrifice is still living. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “to offer yourselves completely to God while you are alive, as if you were a living sacrifice on the temple altar”

your bodies

Quote: τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, bodies refers to whole people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your whole selves”

Romans 12:2

do not be conformed … be transformed

Quote: μὴ συνσχηματίζεσθε & μεταμορφοῦσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “do not conform yourselves … let God transform you”

do not be conformed

Quote: μὴ συνσχηματίζεσθε (1)

Alternate translation: “do not become alike”

to this age

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

Here, this age refers to the attitudes and actions of the unbelievers who live during this period of time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the way people think and act in this age”

by the renewal of the mind, … the good and well-pleasing and perfect will of God

Quote: τῇ ἀνακαινώσει τοῦ νοός & τὸ θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ, τὸ ἀγαθὸν, καὶ εὐάρεστον, καὶ τέλειον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of renewal and will, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “by renewing the mind … the good and well-pleasing and perfect thing that God wills”

by the renewal of the mind

Quote: τῇ ἀνακαινώσει τοῦ νοός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of changing the way a person thinks as if that person’s mind is being renewed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by the changing of how one thinks”

Romans 12:3

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

through the grace given to me

Quote: διὰ τῆς χάριτος τῆς δοθείσης μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “through the grace God has given to me”

through the grace given to me

Quote: διὰ τῆς χάριτος τῆς δοθείσης μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, grace refers to God graciously choosing Paul to be an apostle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “through the grace that caused me to become an apostle”

to not think more highly of himself than what he ought to think

Quote: μὴ ὑπερφρονεῖν παρ’ ὃ δεῖ φρονεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, think more highly of himself refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than he really is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to not think he is a better person than he really is”

to not think more highly of himself than what he ought to think

Quote: μὴ ὑπερφρονεῖν παρ’ ὃ δεῖ φρονεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although himself and he are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “to not think more highly of oneself than what one ought to think”

to think with sound mind

Quote: φρονεῖν εἰς τὸ σωφρονεῖν (1)

Alternate translation: “you should be wise with regard to how you think about yourselves”

as God has distributed to each one a measure of faith

Quote: ἑκάστῳ ὡς ὁ Θεὸς ἐμέρισεν μέτρον πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, faith could refer to: (1) different degrees of faith in God that God gives believers. Alternate translation: “as God has given each of you an degree of ability to trust in him” (2) the spiritual gifts that result from faith and are given to believers in different degrees. Alternate translation: “as God has given each of you a degree of faith demonstrated in spiritual gifts”

Romans 12:4

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul’s readers should “think with a sound mind,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “You must do this because”

just as

Quote: καθάπερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, just as indicates that what follows in this verse is a simile. Paul uses this simile to compare all believers in Christ to the parts of a human body. Since Paul explains the comparison in the next verse, you do not need to express the meaning plainly here.

members … members

Quote: μέλη & μέλη (1)

See how you translated members in 6:13.

have the same function

Quote: τὴν αὐτὴν ἔχει πρᾶξιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of function, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “function for the same purposes”

Romans 12:5

we, … are

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

Here, we refers to all Christians, so it is inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

in Christ

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar phrase in 6:23.

and the {body} individually {are} members of one other

Quote: τὸ δὲ καθ’ εἷς ἀλλήλων μέλη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the believers as if God had physically joined them together like the parts of the human body are joined. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “and the individual believers are united to one another”

are} members

Quote: μέλη (1)

See how you translated members in the previous verse.

Romans 12:6

we have … to us

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

Here, we and us refer to all Christians, so they are inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we have different gracious gifts

Quote: ἔχοντες & χαρίσματα & διάφορα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the different abilities to serve other believers that God gives believers as being gracious gifts from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we have different spiritual abilities”

according to the grace given to us

Quote: κατὰ τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσαν ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “according to the grace that God has given to us”

the grace … prophecy, according to the proportion

Quote: τὴν χάριν & προφητείαν, κατὰ τὴν ἀναλογίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and prophecy, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is graciously … being able to prophecy, according to what has been proportioned”

if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith

Quote: εἴτε προφητείαν, κατὰ τὴν ἀναλογίαν τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “if God has given someone the gift of prophecy, then that person must use that gift according to the proportion of his faith”

according to the proportion of his faith

Quote: κατὰ τὴν ἀναλογίαν τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul uses faith in the same way he did in 12:3. See how you translated the clause “as God has distributed to each one a measure of faith” in that verse.

Romans 12:7

if service, in the service; if the one teaching, in the teaching

Quote: εἴτε διακονίαν, ἐν τῇ διακονίᾳ; εἴτε ὁ διδάσκων, ἐν τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “if God has given someone the gift of service, then that person must use that gift for serving; if God has given someone the gift to be the one teaching, then that person must use that gift for teaching”

service, … the service; … the teaching

Quote: διακονίαν & τῇ διακονίᾳ & τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of service and teaching, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “serving others … serving others … teaching others”

Romans 12:8

if the one encouraging, in the encouragement; the one giving, in generosity; the one leading, in diligence; the one showing mercy, with cheerfulness

Quote: εἴτε ὁ παρακαλῶν, ἐν τῇ παρακλήσει; ὁ μεταδιδοὺς, ἐν ἁπλότητι; ὁ προϊστάμενος, ἐν σπουδῇ; ὁ ἐλεῶν, ἐν ἱλαρότητι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that clauses would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “if God has given someone the gift of encouraging, then that person must use that gift for encouraging; if God has given someone the gift of giving, then that person must use that gift for generosity; if God has given someone the gift of leading, then that person must use that gift with diligence; if God has given someone the gift of showing mercy, then that person must use that gift with cheerfulness”

in the encouragement; … in generosity; … in diligence; … with cheerfulness

Quote: ἐν τῇ παρακλήσει & ἐν ἁπλότητι & ἐν σπουδῇ & ἐν ἱλαρότητι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of encouragement, generosity, diligence, and cheerfulness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “by encouraging others … generously … diligently … cheerfully”

Romans 12:9

Let} love {be} without hypocrisy, abhorring the wicked, holding on to the good

Quote: ἡ ἀγάπη ἀνυπόκριτος; ἀποστυγοῦντες τὸ πονηρόν, κολλώμενοι τῷ ἀγαθῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “Love without hypocrisy, abhor the wicked, hold on to the good”

without hypocrisy

Quote: ἀνυπόκριτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “sincere”

the wicked, … the good

Quote: τὸ πονηρόν & τῷ ἀγαθῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wicked and good, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “wicked things … good things”

Romans 12:10

in brotherly love, affectionate to one another; in honor, outdoing one another

Quote: τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ εἰς ἀλλήλους φιλόστοργοι; τῇ τιμῇ ἀλλήλους προηγούμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in brotherly love, be affectionate to one another; in honor, outdo one another”

in brotherly love, … in honor

Quote: τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ & τῇ τιμῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of brotherly love and honor, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in loving others as brothers … in honoring others”

in brotherly love

Quote: τῇ φιλαδελφίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the word brotherly is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “in your love for fellow believers”

Romans 12:11

in diligence, not lazy; in the spirit, being eager; serving the Lord

Quote: τῇ σπουδῇ μὴ ὀκνηροί, τῷ πνεύματι ζέοντες, τῷ Κυρίῳ δουλεύοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in diligence, do not be lazy; in the spirit, be eager; serve the Lord”

in diligence

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of diligence, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in being diligent”

in the spirit

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

Here, the spirit could refer to: (1) a person’s spirit, as in 1:9. Alternate translation: “in your spirit” or “wholeheartedly” (2) the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “in the Holy Spirit”

Romans 12:12

in hope, rejoicing; in suffering, being patient; in prayer, persisting

Quote: τῇ ἐλπίδι χαίροντες, τῇ θλίψει ὑπομένοντες, τῇ προσευχῇ προσκαρτεροῦντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in hope, rejoice; in suffering, be patient; in prayer, persist”

in hope

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

Here, in indicates that hope is the reason for rejoicing. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because of hope, rejoicing”

in suffering, being patient

Quote: τῇ θλίψει ὑπομένοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

Here, in indicates the situation in which someone should be patient. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the time of suffering, being patient”

in prayer, persisting

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

Here, in indicates that prayer is what one needs to do persistently. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in regard to prayer, persisting”

Romans 12:13

in the needs of the saints, sharing; pursuing the hospitality

Quote: ταῖς χρείαις τῶν ἁγίων κοινωνοῦντες, τὴν φιλοξενίαν διώκοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “in the needs of the saints, share; pursue hospitality”

in the needs of the saints, … the hospitality

Quote: ταῖς χρείαις τῶν ἁγίων & τὴν φιλοξενίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of needs and hospitality, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in the things the saints need … hospitable actions”

in the needs of the saints, sharing

Quote: ταῖς χρείαις τῶν ἁγίων κοινωνοῦντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Paul implies sharing the things that a person has with those saints who have needs. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “sharing what you have to meet the needs of the saints”

Romans 12:14

bless and do not curse

Quote: εὐλογεῖτε καὶ μὴ καταρᾶσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two commands mean the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize what he is saying. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you must absolutely bless”

Romans 12:15

to rejoice with those rejoicing; to weep with those weeping

Quote: χαίρειν μετὰ χαιρόντων, κλαίειν μετὰ κλαιόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep”

Romans 12:16

thinking the same thing toward one another, not thinking the high things, but accepting the lowly ones

Quote: τὸ αὐτὸ εἰς ἀλλήλους φρονοῦντες, μὴ τὰ ὑψηλὰ φρονοῦντες, ἀλλὰ τοῖς ταπεινοῖς συναπαγόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “think the same thing toward one another; do not think the high things, but accept the lowly ones”

thinking the same thing toward one another

Quote: τὸ αὐτὸ εἰς ἀλλήλους φρονοῦντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause is an idiom that refers to having the same concern for the wellbeing of other people as a person has for himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “caring about others the same way you care about yourselves”

not thinking the high things

Quote: μὴ τὰ ὑψηλὰ φρονοῦντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, thinking the high things refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not thinking that you are better than others”

accepting the lowly ones

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

Here, the lowly ones could refer to: (1) people who are poor or are not respected by society. Alternate translation: “accepting people who do not seem important” (2) doings things that people think are humiliating or unimportant. Alternate translation: “accepting the lowly tasks”

Do not be wise in yourselves

Quote: μὴ γίνεσθε φρόνιμοι παρ’ ἑαυτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 11:25.

Romans 12:17

paying back to no one evil for evil; giving careful thought to good things in the sight of all men

Quote: μηδενὶ κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ ἀποδιδόντες, προνοούμενοι καλὰ ἐνώπιον πάντων ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using statements to give commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “repay no one evil for evil; give careful thought to good things in the sight of all men”

evil for evil; giving careful thought to … in the sight of

Quote: κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ & προνοούμενοι & ἐνώπιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of evil, thought, and sight, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “evil things for evil things; thinking carefully about … as seen by”

paying back to no one evil for evil

Quote: μηδενὶ κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ ἀποδιδόντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses paying back to refer to doing something evil to someone in response to the evil that person has done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “doing something evil to no one for the evil that person has done to you”

good things in the sight of all men

Quote: καλὰ ἐνώπιον πάντων ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses sight to refer to what people mentally perceive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do things that all men perceive to be good”

all men

Quote: πάντων ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “all people”

Romans 12:18

what {is} from you

Quote: τὸ ἐξ ὑμῶν (1)

Alternate translation: “so far as it depends on you” or “as much as it is up to you”

living at peace with all men

Quote: μετὰ πάντων ἀνθρώπων εἰρηνεύοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using a statement to give a command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “live at peace with all men”

all men

Quote: πάντων ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “all people”

Romans 12:19

not avenging yourselves

Quote: μὴ ἑαυτοὺς ἐκδικοῦντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using a statement to give a command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for commands. Alternate translation: “do not avenge yourselves”

give way to {God’s} wrath

Quote: δότε τόπον τῇ ὀργῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, wrath refers to God’s punishment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “give way to God’s punishment”

to {God’s} wrath, … Vengeance {is} for me

Quote: τῇ ὀργῇ & ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wrath and vengeance, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to God being wrathful … I will avenge”

for

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. You may need to start a new sentence, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

it is written

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

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:17.

it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Moses wrote this quotation. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote”

Vengeance {is} for me; I will repay,’ says the Lord

Quote: ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω, λέγει Κύριος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation of Deuteronomy 32:35. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Vengeance {is} for me; I will repay,’ says the Lord

Quote: ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω, λέγει Κύριος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If the direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “The Lord says that vengeance is for him; he will repay.”

Vengeance {is} for me; I will repay

Quote: ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις; ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that God will avenge his people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “I will certainly avenge you”

will repay

Quote: ἀνταποδώσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Moses quotes God using repay to refer to appropriately punishing someone as if the punishment were reciprocal payment for that person’s deeds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will appropriately punish”

will repay

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

Moses quotes God leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “will repay them”

Romans 12:20

But

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

But here indicates that what follows is a quotation from an Old Testament book (Proverbs 25:21–22). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “But, God says in the Scriptures,”

If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink. For doing this, you will heap coals of fire on his head

Quote: ἐὰν πεινᾷ ὁ ἐχθρός σου, ψώμιζε αὐτόν; ἐὰν διψᾷ, πότιζε αὐτόν; τοῦτο γὰρ ποιῶν, ἄνθρακας πυρὸς σωρεύσεις ἐπὶ τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation of Proverbs 25:21–22. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

your enemy … you will heap

Quote: ὁ ἐχθρός σου & σωρεύσεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Here the pronouns your and you are singular and addressed as though to one person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plural forms here.

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, For indicates that what follows is the reason why what was said in the previous sentence is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

you will heap coals of fire on his head

Quote: ἄνθρακας πυρὸς σωρεύσεις ἐπὶ τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause is an idiom. It could refer to: (1) a person feeling shame as a result of being helped by someone whom that person had harmed. Alternate translation: “you will make the person who harmed you feel badly about how he has mistreated you” (2) God very severely punishing the person who is being helped. Alternate translation: “you will give God a reason to judge him more harshly”

Romans 12:21

Do not be overcome by the evil, but overcome the evil with the good

Quote: μὴ νικῶ ὑπὸ τοῦ κακοῦ, ἀλλὰ νίκα ἐν τῷ ἀγαθῷ τὸ κακόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Paul describes evil as if it were a person who could conquer someone or be conquered by someone. He is referring to someone doing evil in response to someone doing evil to that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not let evil cause you to do evil, but use good to prevent evil from influencing you”

the evil, … the evil … the good

Quote: τοῦ κακοῦ & τῷ ἀγαθῷ & τὸ κακόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of evil and good, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “evil things … evil things … good things”

Do not be overcome by the evil

Quote: μὴ νικῶ ὑπὸ τοῦ κακοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Do not let evil overcome you”

Romans 13

Romans 13 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
   • How to act toward God (12:1–2)
   • How to serve the church (12:3–8)
   • How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)
   • How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)
   • How to act toward government (13:1–7)
   • How to act toward other people (13:8–10)
   • Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)

Special Concepts in this chapter

Submission to rulers

In 13:1–7 Paul commands his readers to obey rulers and pay taxes. Some readers will find this difficult to accept, especially if they live in places where wicked rulers persecute the church. It is important to recognize that the Holy Spirit led Paul to write these words while the Roman government was persecuting Christians. Christians must obey their rulers as well as obey God. The only time a Christian should disobey governing authorities is when those rulers do not allow Christians to do something God explicitly commands them to do (for an example of such a situation, see Acts 5:28–29).

“The night advanced, and the day has come near”

In 13:11–14 Paul tells his readers that they should behave like Jesus because Jesus is coming back soon. He calls the current time in which people do what is evil the “night,” and he calls the time when Jesus returns the “day.”

Romans 13:1

Let every soul be subject to governing authorities

Quote: πᾶσα ψυχὴ ἐξουσίαις ὑπερεχούσαις ὑποτασσέσθω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Let every soul subject itself to governing authorities” or “Let everyone subject themselves to governing authorities”

every soul

Quote: πᾶσα ψυχὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses soul here to refer to the whole life of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “every human being”

to governing authorities, … authority … existing {authorities

Quote: ἐξουσίαις & ἐξουσία & οὖσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of authorities and authority, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to those who are authorized to govern … authorized person … existing ones who are authorized”

there is no authority except from God

Quote: οὐ & ἔστιν ἐξουσία, εἰ μὴ ὑπὸ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “all authority comes from God”

and the existing {authorities} are appointed by God

Quote: αἱ δὲ οὖσαι ὑπὸ Θεοῦ τεταγμέναι εἰσίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and God appointed the existing authorities”

Romans 13:2

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows in this verse summarizes ideas that were previously expressed. So then here introduces the result of what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “Since this is true”

that authority … the command of God, … will bring judgment on themselves

Quote: τῇ ἐξουσίᾳ, τῇ τοῦ Θεοῦ διαταγῇ & ἑαυτοῖς κρίμα λήμψονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of authority, command, and judgment, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “those who are authorized … what God has commanded … will cause themselves to be judged”

and the ones who have opposed it

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

Here, it refers to that authority stated earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the ones who have opposed that authority”

will bring judgment on themselves

Quote: ἑαυτοῖς κρίμα λήμψονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will cause God to bring judgment on them”

will bring judgment on themselves

Quote: ἑαυτοῖς κρίμα λήμψονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of judgment as if it were an object that one could bring and put on someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will cause God to judge them”

Romans 13:3

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

a terror … the authority? … the good, … you will have praise

Quote: φόβος & τὴν ἐξουσίαν & τὸ ἀγαθὸν & ἕξεις ἔπαινον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of terror, authority, good, and praise, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “terrifying … whom God has authorized … good things … you will be praised”

to the good deed, … to the evil {deed

Quote: τῷ ἀγαθῷ ἔργῳ, & τῷ κακῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the good deed and the evil deed refer to the people who do those deeds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to those who do the good deed … to those who do the evil deed”

Now do you want to not fear the authority

Quote: θέλεις δὲ μὴ φοβεῖσθαι τὴν ἐξουσίαν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Now this is how you can not fear the authority:”

you will have praise

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the authorities will praise you”

from it

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

Here, from indicates the reason why you will have praise. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “because of it”

Romans 13:4

for

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

The word for indicates that what follows explains what came before this word. Here, for indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “since”

he is … he does not carry … he is

Quote: ἐστιν & οὐ & φορεῖ & ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse the pronoun he refers to a person who rules. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the ruler is … the ruler does not carry … the ruler is”

a servant of God … the good. … the evil, … a servant of God, … wrath … the evil

Quote: Θεοῦ & διάκονός & τὸ ἀγαθόν & τὸ κακὸν & Θεοῦ & διάκονός & ὀργὴν & τὸ κακὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of servant, good, evil, and wrath, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “one who serves God … doing good … evil things … one who serves God … what is wrathful … evil things”

for

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word for indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for introduces the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “since”

he does not carry the sword in vain

Quote: οὐ & εἰκῇ τὴν μάχαιραν φορεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that means the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “he carries the sword for a very good reason”

he does not carry the sword

Quote: οὐ & τὴν μάχαιραν φορεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the sword refers to a ruler’s authority to punish wicked people, which could include killing them with a sword. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he does not have the authority to punish”

for

Quote: γὰρ (3)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word for indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in fact,”

for wrath

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

Here, for indicates that what follows is the purpose of an avenger. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of wrath”

wrath

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

See how you translated wrath in 1:18.

wrath on the one practicing the evil

Quote: ὀργὴν τῷ τὸ κακὸν πράσσοντι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of wrath as if it were an object that could be put on a person. He means that every evil person will experience wrathful punishment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “wrath that will be experienced by the one who practices the evil”

Romans 13:5

Therefore

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

See how you translated this word in 1:24.

to be subjected

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to subject yourselves”

to be subjected

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

Paul implies that his readers should be subjected to the rulers described in 13:1–4. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to be subjected to rulers”

because of the wrath, but also because of the conscience

Quote: διὰ τὴν ὀργὴν, ἀλλὰ καὶ διὰ τὴν συνείδησιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “because of the wrathful deeds they can do to you, but also because your conscience knows that you should do submit to them”

the wrath, … the conscience

Quote: τὴν ὀργὴν & τὴν συνείδησιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wrath and conscience, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is wrathful … what you know is right”

the wrath

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

See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

Romans 13:6

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

because of this

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

Here, this could refer to: (1) “the wrath” and “the conscience” mentioned in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “because of the wrath and your conscience” (2) “the wrath” and “the conscience” mentioned in the previous verse, and the fact that rulers are servants of God. Alternate translation: “because of the wrath and your conscience, and because rulers are servants of God”

for

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. Here, for indicates that what follows is another reason why Christians should pay taxes. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “since”

they are

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

Here, they refers to the rulers described in 13:1–4. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the rulers are”

servants of God

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

See how you translated the similar phrase in 13:4.

persisting in this very thing

Quote: εἰς αὐτὸ τοῦτο προσκαρτεροῦντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives additional information about the rulers, who are called servants of God in the previous clause. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make the connection between these clauses more explicit. Alternate translation: “and these rulers are the ones persisting in this very thing”

this very thing

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

Here, this very thing refers to serving God by ruling over people, as is indicated by Paul calling them servants of God in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this service”

Romans 13:7

your obligations

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of obligations, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what you are obligated to pay”

tax to whom tax, toll to whom toll, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor

Quote: τῷ τὸν φόρον, τὸν φόρον; τῷ τὸ τέλος, τὸ τέλος; τῷ τὸν φόβον, τὸν φόβον; τῷ τὴν τιμὴν, τὴν τιμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “pay tax to whom tax is due, pay toll to whom toll is due, show fear to whom fear is due, show honor to him to whom honor is due”

tax to whom tax, toll to whom toll

Quote: τῷ τὸν φόρον, τὸν φόρον; τῷ τὸ τέλος, τὸ τέλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of taxes and tolls in general, not of one particular tax and toll. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “taxes to whom taxes, tolls to whom tolls”

toll to whom toll

Quote: τῷ τὸ τέλος, τὸ τέλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word toll refers to a specific kind of tax that must be paid in addition to regular taxes. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of tax, you could use a general expression for additional taxes. Alternate translation: “government fees to whom government fees” or “revenues to whom revenues”

fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor

Quote: τῷ τὸν φόβον, τὸν φόβον; τῷ τὴν τιμὴν, τὴν τιμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of fear and honor, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “fear to whomever should be feared, honor to whomever should be honored”

fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor

Quote: τῷ τὸν φόβον, τὸν φόβον; τῷ τὴν τιμὴν, τὴν τιμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to fearing and honoring those who deserve to be feared and honored as if someone is paying them fear and honor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “fear those who should be feared, honor those who should be honored” or “respect those whom you ought to respect, honor those whom you ought to honor”

Romans 13:8

Owe nothing to no one

Quote: μηδενὶ μηδὲν ὀφείλετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “Do not owe anyone anything”

Owe nothing to no one, except to love one another

Quote: μηδενὶ μηδὲν ὀφείλετε, εἰ μὴ τὸ ἀλλήλους ἀγαπᾶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of loving other believers as if it were a debt owed to them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “Owe nothing to anyone, but love one another as if it were a debt that you owed them”

one another

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

Here, one another refers to other Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “other believers”

the law

Quote: νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 2:12.

Romans 13:9

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why loving others fulfills the law, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is true since”

this

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

Here Paul uses this to indicate a quotation from the law that is written in the Old Testament (Exodus 20:13–15, 17). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “God had said in the law”

You shall not commit adultery, you shall not kill, you shall not steal, you shall not covet

Quote: οὐ μοιχεύσεις, οὐ φονεύσεις, οὐ κλέψεις, οὐκ ἐπιθυμήσεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

These clauses are a quotation from Exodus 20:13–15, 17. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

if any other commandment

Quote: εἴ τις ἑτέρα ἐντολή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “if there is any other commandment, and there is”

any other commandment

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

Here, any other commandment refers to any of the commandments that God gave the Israelites other than those that Paul has just mentioned. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “there is any other commandment”

commandment

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of commandment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “thing God has commanded”

it is summed up in this word

Quote: ἐν τῷ λόγῳ τούτῳ, ἀνακεφαλαιοῦται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “this word summed it up”

in this word

Quote: ἐν τῷ λόγῳ τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Paul uses word to refer to a commandment that is made up of words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in this commandment”

in this word

Quote: ἐν τῷ λόγῳ τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Paul uses this word to indicate a quotation from the law that is written in the Old Testament (Leviticus 19:18). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “in this commandment in the law”

You shall love your neighbor as yourself

Quote: ἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Leviticus 19:18. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Romans 13:10

Love for a neighbor does not work evil

Quote: ἡ ἀγάπη τῷ πλησίον κακὸν οὐκ ἐργάζεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of love as if it were a person who could do some kind of work. He means that people who love other people do not do evil things to them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “People who love do not work evil to a neighbor”

Love for a neighbor … evil. … love {is the} fulfillment of the law

Quote: ἡ ἀγάπη τῷ πλησίον & κακὸν & πλήρωμα & νόμου & ἡ ἀγάπη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of love, evil, and fulfillment, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “Loving a neighbor … what is evil … loving others fulfills the law”

of the law

Quote: νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 2:12.

Romans 13:11

And this

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

Paul is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “And do this”

this

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

Here, this refers back to all the commands Paul stated in 12:1–13:10. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these commands that I have given you”

knowing the time

Quote: εἰδότες τὸν καιρόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause indicates one reason for Paul’s readers to obey the commands he gave in 12:1–13:10. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “since you know the time”

the time, that {it is} already the hour

Quote: τὸν καιρόν, ὅτι ὥρα ἤδη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, that indicates that what follows in this clause is a description of the time stated in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the connection between these clauses more explicit. Alternate translation: “that it is already the time”

the hour

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

Here, hour refers to a point in time when something happens. It has the same meaning as time in the previous clause. It does not refer to a 60-minute length of time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the point in time”

for you to awake from sleep

Quote: ὑμᾶς ἐξ ὕπνου ἐγερθῆναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the need for the Roman believers to be spiritually vigilant as if they needed to wake up from being asleep. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for you to be spiritually vigilant”

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates a reason why Paul’s readers should awake from sleep. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “Do this since”

our salvation

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “our being saved”

our salvation

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

Here Paul uses salvation to refer to the future event when Christ returns and Christians receive the full blessings of their salvation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the completion of our salvation”

is} nearer

Quote: ἐγγύτερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of our salvation as if it were an object that could become nearer to a person. He means that our salvation will occur soon. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is going to happen sooner”

when we believed

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

This phrase indicates the time at which Paul’s Christian readers first started believing in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “when we first believed”

we believed

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “we believed in Jesus”

Romans 13:12

The night

Quote: ἡ νὺξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The night here refers the time period when people do evil deeds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “This time when people act sinfully”

advanced

Quote: προέκοψεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, advanced refers to the night being almost over. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will soon be over”

and the day

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

Paul speaks of the time when Jesus will return to earth as the day. This event is referred to as “the day of the Lord” elsewhere in the Bible and is related to Paul’s reference to a future “salvation” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the time when Jesus returns”

has come near

Quote: ἤγγικεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the day as if it were an object that could come near a person. He means that the time when Jesus returns will be soon. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is going to happen soon”

Let us … put off … let us put on

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

In this verse us refers to Paul and his Christian readers, so us would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

Let us therefore put off the works of the darkness

Quote: ἀποθώμεθα οὖν τὰ ἔργα τοῦ σκότους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, put off means to completely stop doing something, and the works of the darkness refers to evil deeds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let us therefore stop doing evil things”

the works of the darkness

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τοῦ σκότους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe works that are characteristic of the darkness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the works that are characteristic of the darkness”

let us put on

Quote: ἐνδυσώμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, put on means to start doing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “let us therefore start using”

the weapons of the light

Quote: τὰ ὅπλα τοῦ φωτός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe weapons that are characteristic of the light. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the weapons that are characteristic of the light”

the weapons of the light

Quote: τὰ ὅπλα τοῦ φωτός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, weapons refers to what Christians do to oppose evil, and the light refers to good deeds, which is in contrast to the darkness in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “the good deeds used for opposing evil” or “the good deeds that are like weapons for fighting evil”

Romans 13:13

Let us walk

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

Here, us refers to Paul and his Christian readers, so us would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

Let us walk decently

Quote: εὐσχημόνως περιπατήσωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses walk to refer to how people behave or lives their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let us behave decently”

as in the day

Quote: ὡς ἐν ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to the unashamed way that Christians are supposed to behave as if they were walking during the day, when people can see what they do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as if everyone can see what we are doing”

not in drunken celebrations or drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and uncontrolled lust, not in strife and jealousy

Quote: μὴ κώμοις καὶ μέθαις, μὴ κοίταις καὶ ἀσελγείαις, μὴ ἔριδι καὶ ζήλῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that clauses would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “not walking in drunken celebrations or drunkenness; not walking in sexual immorality and uncontrolled lust, not walking in strife and jealousy”

in drunken celebrations … drunkenness, … in sexual immorality … uncontrolled lust, … in strife … jealousy

Quote: κώμοις & μέθαις & κοίταις & ἀσελγείαις & ἔριδι & ζήλῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of celebrations, drunkenness, immorality, lust, strife, and jealousy, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in being drunk while celebrating … being drunk … in acting sexually immorally … lusting uncontrollably … in quarreling with others … being jealous”

in sexual immorality and uncontrolled lust

Quote: κοίταις καὶ ἀσελγείαις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize all kinds of sexual sins. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “in every kind of sexually immoral act”

Romans 13:14

But

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

But here indicates that what follows is in strong contrast to what was said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “Instead of doing those things,”

put on the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: ἐνδύσασθε τὸν Κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Christ as if he were clothing that someone could put on. He means that people should behave like Jesus behaves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “act like the Lord Jesus Christ”

make no forethought with regard to desires of the flesh

Quote: τῆς σαρκὸς πρόνοιαν μὴ ποιεῖσθε, εἰς ἐπιθυμίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of forethought or desires, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “do not think ahead with regard to what the flesh desires”

of the flesh

Quote: τῆς σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses flesh figuratively to refer to sinful human nature. See how you translated a similar use of flesh in 7:18.

Romans 14

Romans 14 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
   • How to act toward God (12:1–2)
   • How to serve the church (12:3–8)
   • How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)
   • How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)
   • How to act toward government (13:1–7)
   • How to act toward other people (13:8–10)
   • Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)
   • Do not judge other Christians (14:1–12)
   • Do not tempt other Christians to sin (14:13–23)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 14:11 of this chapter, which Paul quotes from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Weak in faith

Paul teaches that Christians can have real faith, and yet at the same time be “weak in faith” regarding some situations. This describes Christians whose faith is immature and who feel guilty about doing certain things that God did not forbid. (See: faith)

Dietary restrictions

In the law of Moses, God forbade the Jews from eating the meat of some animals which God said were unclean. However, since Christians have been “made dead to the law” (7:4), they are free to eat what they want. The Roman church to which Paul wrote this letter was made up of both Jews and Gentiles. Some of the Jewish believers were offended by the non-Jewish believers eating foods that God had previously forbidden in the law of Moses. The non-Jewish believers were also judging the Jewish believers for not eating those foods. Paul uses this situation to teach that Christians must use their freedom in a way that honors the Lord and shows love to other believers. (See: clean, wash and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we” and “us” refer inclusively to all believers in Christ. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

Romans 14:1

being weak in the faith

Quote: ἀσθενοῦντα τῇ πίστει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, weak in the faith refers to someone who does not have a mature faith, but feels guilty about doing certain things that God did not forbid. The word weak here does not refer to physical weakness. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “whose faith is not mature”

in the faith, … passing judgments

Quote: τῇ πίστει & διακρίσεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of faith and judgments, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in what he believes … judging”

not for passing judgments on opinions

Quote: μὴ εἰς διακρίσεις διαλογισμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “not accepting that one for passing judgments on opinions”

not for passing judgments on opinions

Quote: μὴ εἰς διακρίσεις διαλογισμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for indicates that this clause is a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “not for the purpose of passing judgments on opinions”

Romans 14:2

One person

Quote: ὃς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One person here does not refer to one particular person. It refers to any person who believes he can eat any food without sinning against God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “One type of person”

One person believes to eat anything

Quote: ὃς μὲν πιστεύει φαγεῖν πάντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “One person believes that God has permitted people to eat any type of food”

the one being weak

Quote: ὁ & ἀσθενῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

eats vegetables

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

Here Paul implies that this person eats only vegetables. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

Romans 14:3

Let the one eating not despise the one not eating, and let the one not eating not judge the one eating

Quote: ὁ ἐσθίων, τὸν μὴ ἐσθίοντα μὴ ἐξουθενείτω; ὁ δὲ μὴ ἐσθίων, τὸν ἐσθίοντα μὴ κρινέτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one eating refers to the person mentioned in the previous verse who believes that he can eat any kind of food, and the one not eating refers to the person called “the one being weak” in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Let the one who eats any type of food not despise the one who does not eat every type of food, and let the one who does not eat every type of food not judge the one who eats every type of food”

God has accepted him

Quote: ὁ Θεὸς & αὐτὸν προσελάβετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Although the pronoun him is singular, here it refers to both the one eating and the one not eating. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God has accepted them”

Romans 14:4

Who are you, the one judging a household slave belonging to another

Quote: σὺ τίς εἶ, ὁ κρίνων ἀλλότριον οἰκέτην? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using a question to emphasize that Christians should not judge each other. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You have no right to judge a household slave belonging to another!”

you

Quote: σὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is writing to a group of people, you here is singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of you in your translation.

a household slave belonging to another

Quote: ἀλλότριον οἰκέτην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of any Christian as if he were a household slave who belongs to another. He means that all Christians belong to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “someone who belongs to God”

To his own master

Quote: τῷ ἰδίῳ κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of God as if he were a master who owns slaves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “To God, who is his master,”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τῷ ἰδίῳ κυρίῳ στήκει ἢ πίπτει. σταθήσεται δέ, δυνατεῖ γὰρ ὁ Κύριος στῆσαι αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could mean: (1) stands and stand refer to pleasing God, and falls refers to not pleasing God. Alternate translation: “He pleases or does not please his own master. But he will be made to please God, for the Lord is able to make him be pleasing” (2) stands and stand refer to being accepted by God at the final judgment, and falls refers to being condemned by God at the final judgment. Alternate translation: “He will either be approved or condemned by his own master. But he will be approved by God, for the Lord is able to approve him”

he will be made to stand

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will make him stand”

But he will be made to stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand

Quote: σταθήσεται δέ, δυνατεῖ γὰρ ὁ Κύριος στῆσαι αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “But the Lord will accept him because he is able to make the servant acceptable”

Romans 14:5

judges day from day

Quote: κρίνει ἡμέραν παρ’ ἡμέραν (1)

Alternate translation: “considers one day to be different from another day” or “considers one day to be more important than another day”

judges every day {alike

Quote: κρίνει πᾶσαν ἡμέραν (1)

Alternate translation: “considers all days to be the same” or “considers no day to be more important than another day”

Let each one be fully convinced in his own mind

Quote: ἕκαστος ἐν τῷ ἰδίῳ νοῒ, πληροφορείσθω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that each person should be convinced about what he thinks honors the Lord. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Let each one be fully convinced in his own mind that what he does honors the Lord”

Let each one be fully convinced

Quote: ἕκαστος & πληροφορείσθω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Let each one be completely certain” or “Let each one fully convince himself”

Romans 14:6

The one regarding the day

Quote: ὁ φρονῶν τὴν ἡμέραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The one regarding refers to the person in the previous verse who “judges day from day”. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The one who regards one day as more important than another day”

the one eating

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

Here, the one who eats refers to the person in 14:3 who eats all kinds of food. Paul is leaving out a word that this phrase would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from 14:3. Alternate translation: “the one eating every kind of food”

for the Lord; … for the Lord, … for the Lord

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

In this verse the phrase for the Lord indicates the purpose for which these people act in these ways. They do so in order to benefit or honor the Lord. Use the most natural way in your language to express a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of honoring the Lord … for the purpose of honoring the Lord … for the purpose of honoring the Lord”

he gives thanks to God, … he also gives thanks to God

Quote: εὐχαριστεῖ & τῷ Θεῷ & καὶ εὐχαριστεῖ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of expressing thanks as if words of gratitude were something that could be given to a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he thanks God … he also thanks God”

and the one not eating

Quote: καὶ ὁ μὴ ἐσθίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, the one who not eating refers to the person in 14:3 who only eats vegetables. Paul is leaving out a word that this phrase would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from 14:3. Alternate translation: “the one who eats does not eat every kind of food”

Romans 14:7

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul said in the previous clause is true. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

of us

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

Here, us refers to Paul and his Christian readers, so us would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

for himself, … for himself

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

Here, for himself means to do something only to benefit oneself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the benefit of himself … for the benefit of himself”

none

Quote: οὐδεὶς (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause, as in the UST.

Romans 14:8

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

we live, we live … we die, we die … we live … we die, we are

Quote: ζῶμεν & ζῶμεν & ἀποθνῄσκωμεν & ἀποθνῄσκομεν & ζῶμεν & ἀποθνῄσκωμεν & ἐσμέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

In this verse we refers to Paul and his Christian readers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

for the Lord, … for the Lord

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

Here, for the Lord means to do something only to benefit the Lord. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the benefit of the Lord … for the benefit of the Lord”

Therefore

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

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Therefore here indicates that what follows is the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in 14:14–20. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result”

Romans 14:9

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

Romans 14:10

you, … do you judge your … you … do you despise your

Quote: σὺ & κρίνεις & σου & σὺ & ἐξουθενεῖς & σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is writing to a group of people, you and your here are singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of you in your translation.

why do you judge your brother? And you also, why do you despise your brother

Quote: τί κρίνεις τὸν ἀδελφόν σου? ἢ καὶ σὺ τί ἐξουθενεῖς τὸν ἀδελφόν σου? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is using two questions here to emphasize that Christians should not judge each other. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you have no right to judge your brother! And you also have no right to despise your brother!”

brother? … brother

Quote: τὸν ἀδελφόν (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brother refers to a fellow Christian. See how you translated “brothers” in 1:13.

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why Christians should not judge each other. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “Do not judge others due to the fact that”

we will all present ourselves before the judgment seat of God

Quote: πάντες & παραστησόμεθα τῷ βήματι τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, present ourselves before refers to standing in front of a judge in order to be judged, and the judgment seat of God refers to the place where God judges. Paul means that all believers will be judged by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we will all be judged by God”

Romans 14:11

For

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

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

it is written

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

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:17.

it is written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since Paul is referring to something Isaiah wrote (Isaiah 49:18 and 45:23), you could indicate Isaiah as the subject. Alternate translation: “Isaiah wrote”

As I live,’ says the Lord, ‘to me every knee will bend, and every tongue will confess to God

Quote: ζῶ ἐγώ, λέγει Κύριος, ὅτι ἐμοὶ κάμψει πᾶν γόνυ, καὶ πᾶσα γλῶσσα ἐξομολογήσεται τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence contains quotations from Isaiah 49:18 and 45:23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

As I live,’ … to me

Quote: ζῶ ἐγώ & ἐμοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this sentence I and me refer to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “As I, God, live … to me”

As I live,’ says the Lord

Quote: ζῶ ἐγώ, λέγει Κύριος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “The Lord says, ‘As I live,’”

As I live

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

This phrase is used to start an oath or solemn promise. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate an oath. Alternate translation: “You can be certain that”

every knee will bend, and every tongue will confess to God

Quote: κάμψει πᾶν γόνυ, καὶ πᾶσα γλῶσσα ἐξομολογήσεται τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses the words knee and tongue to refer to the entire person who is doing these acts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “every person will bow down and every person will confess to God”

every knee will bend

Quote: κάμψει πᾶν γόνυ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This action was an expression of worship in this culture. See how you translated a similar expression in 11:4. Alternate translation: “every person will worship”

will confess

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

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “will confess that I am Lord”

to God

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

The Lord uses the word God to refer to himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the first person, as in the UST.

Romans 14:12

So then

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

See how you translated this phrase in 5:18.

will give an account concerning himself to God

Quote: περὶ ἑαυτοῦ, λόγον δώσει τῷ Θεῷ (1)

Alternate translation: “must explain our actions to God”

concerning himself

Quote: περὶ ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term himself is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “concerning oneself”

Romans 14:13

Therefore

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

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Therefore here indicates that what follows in this verse is the result of what Paul said in 14:10–12. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “Because of these things”

to not place a stumbling block for the brother or a trap

Quote: τὸ μὴ τιθέναι πρόσκομμα τῷ ἀδελφῷ ἢ σκάνδαλον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Here, stumbling block and trap mean basically the same thing. They both refer to tempting someone to sin. Paul uses them to emphasize what he is saying. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “not to do or say anything at all that might cause a brother to sin”

to not place a stumbling block

Quote: τὸ μὴ τιθέναι πρόσκομμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated stumbling block in 11:9.

for the brother

Quote: τῷ ἀδελφῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brother refers to a fellow Christian. See how you translated this word in 14:10.

Romans 14:14

I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus

Quote: οἶδα καὶ πέπεισμαι ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Here, know and am persuaded mean very similar things. Paul uses them to emphasize what he is saying. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I am completely certain”

in the Lord Jesus

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

Here, in could indicate: (1) the means by which Paul was persuaded. Alternate translation: “by means of the Lord Jesus” (2) Paul being united with Christ. Alternate translation: “in union with the Lord Jesus”

nothing {is} unclean … unclean, … it is} unclean

Quote: οὐδὲν κοινὸν & κοινὸν & κοινόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The next verse indicates that here Paul is specifically referring to unclean foods, which were foods that Jews were forbidden to eat according to the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “no food is forbidden to be eaten … forbidden … it is forbidden food”

nothing {is} unclean by itself

Quote: οὐδὲν κοινὸν δι’ ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “everything by itself is clean”

by itself

Quote: δι’ ἑαυτοῦ (1)

Alternate translation: “by its nature” or “because of what it is”

Romans 14:15

For if because of food

Quote: εἰ γὰρ διὰ βρῶμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul’s readers should obey the command he gave in 14:13. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: ““Do not place a stumbling block before your brother because, if on account of food,””

because of food

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

This phrase refers to a Christian eating food that another Christians thinks is unclean, as mentioned in the previous verse and 14:2–6. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “over the matter of food” or “because of what you eat”

your … you are … walking … your

Quote: σου & περιπατεῖς & σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is writing to a group of people, your and you here are singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of "you" in your translation.

brother

Quote: ὁ ἀδελφός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brother refers to a fellow Christian. See how you translated this word in 14:10.

is hurt

Quote: λυπεῖται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hurt refers to experiencing emotional or spiritual offense or suffering. It does not refer to being physically injured. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is offended”

you are no longer walking according to love

Quote: οὐκέτι κατὰ ἀγάπην περιπατεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul uses walking to refer to how people behave or live their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See similar uses of “walk” in 6:4, 8:4, and 13:13. Alternate translation: “you are no longer behaving according to love”

Do not destroy with your food that one for whom Christ died

Quote: μὴ τῷ βρώματί σου ἐκεῖνον ἀπόλλυε, ὑπὲρ οὗ Χριστὸς ἀπέθανεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses destroy here to refer to causing someone to stop trusting in Jesus, which will result in that person experiencing punishment forever in hell. See how you translated “destruction” in 9:22. Alternate translation: “Do not cause that one from whom Christ died to stop trusting in Jesus and experience eternal destruction”

with your food

Quote: τῷ βρώματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to a Christian eating food that another Christian thinks is unclean, as mentioned in the previous verse and 14:2–6. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “over the matter of food” or, between commas, “because of what you eat”

Romans 14:16

So

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word So indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. So here indicates that what follows in this verse is the logical conclusion to what Paul has stated in the previous verses. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “As a result,”

your good

Quote: ὑμῶν τὸ ἀγαθόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of good, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what is good for you”

good

Quote: τὸ ἀγαθόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, good could refer to: (1) the good things that God gives Christians. Alternate translation: “good things” (2) the freedom that Christians have to eat any food they want to eat. Alternate translation: “your freedom to eat anything”

do not allow your good to be blasphemed

Quote: μὴ βλασφημείσθω & ὑμῶν τὸ ἀγαθόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “do not allow people to blaspheme your good”

Romans 14:17

For

Quote: γάρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. ddFor here indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul wants his readers to obey what he commanded in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

is not

Quote: οὐ & ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, is not indicates that what follows is what the kingdom of God does not consist of or is not concerned with. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “does not consist of” or “is not concerned with”

but

Quote: ἀλλὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “but is”

righteousness and peace and joy

Quote: δικαιοσύνη, καὶ εἰρήνη, καὶ χαρὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of righteousness, peace, and joy, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is righteous and what is peaceful and what is joyful”

in the Holy Spirit

Quote: ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in the Holy Spirit could refer to: (1) the means by which Christians experience righteousness and peace and joy. Alternate translation: “by the Holy Spirit” (2) Christians being united with the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “in union with the Holy Spirit”

Romans 14:18

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

in this way

Quote: ἐν τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this way refers to the “righteousness and peace and joy” mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in this righteous, peaceful, and joyful way”

approved by men

Quote: δόκιμος τοῖς ἀνθρώποις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “men approve it”

by men

Quote: τοῖς ἀνθρώποις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “by people”

Romans 14:19

So then

Quote: ἄρα οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated this phrase in 5:18.

let us pursue

Quote: διώκωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to the things of peace and the things of the building up as if they were something that people could pursue. He is telling Christians to do these things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “let us commit to doing”

the things of peace and the things of the building up

Quote: τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης & καὶ τὰ τῆς οἰκοδομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe things that result in the peace and the building up of other Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the things that result in peace and the things that result in building up”

the things of the building up for one another

Quote: τὰ τῆς οἰκοδομῆς τῆς εἰς ἀλλήλους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul speaks of helping other Christians become more spiritually mature as if one were building up a building. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the things that help one another grow spiritually mature”

Romans 14:20

Do not tear down the work of God

Quote: μὴ & κατάλυε τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, tear down refers to undoing the work God has done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Do not undo the work of God”

on account of food

Quote: ἕνεκεν βρώματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to a Christian eating food that another Christian thinks is unclean, as mentioned in 14:2–6, 13–17. See how you translated the similar phrase in 14:15.

All things {are} indeed clean

Quote: πάντα μὲν καθαρά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, things refers to food and clean refers to something that God has permitted. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “All foods are indeed permitted by God to be eaten”

it is} evil

Quote: κακὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to the act of eating a food that someone believes God has not permitted. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “eating those things is evil”

for the man who eats with a stumbling block

Quote: τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ τῷ διὰ προσκόμματος ἐσθίοντι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, eats with a stumbling block refers to tempting another believer to sin by eating food that the other believer thinks is sinful to eat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the man to eat what causes another believer to stumble”

a stumbling block

Quote: προσκόμματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated stumbling block in 11:9.

Romans 14:21

nor {anything

Quote: μηδὲ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the context. Alternate translation: “and it is good not”

your

Quote: σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is writing to a group of people, your here is singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of you in your translation.

brother

Quote: ὁ ἀδελφός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brother refers to a fellow Christian. See how you translated this word in 14:10.

stumbles

Quote: προσκόπτει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, stumbles refers to another believer succombing to the temptation to sin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “sins”

or is offended or becomes weak

Quote: ἢ σκανδαλίζεται, ἢ ἀσθενεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

These words are found in some traditional versions of the Bible, but they are not found in the most accurate ancient manuscripts of the Bible. ULT and UST indicate this by putting these words in brackets. If a translation of the Bible already exists in your area, you could consider including this verse if that translation does. If there is not already a Bible translation in your area, we recommend that you indicate in some way that this verse may not be original, such as by putting it in brackets or in a footnote.

is offended or becomes weak

Quote: σκανδαλίζεται, ἢ ἀσθενεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that offends him or makes him weak”

becomes weak

Quote: ἀσθενεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, weak refers to being spiritually immature. See how you translated “weak in the faith” in 14:1.

Romans 14:22

The faith that you yourself have

Quote: σὺ πίστιν ἣν ἔχεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “The things that you yourself believe”

The faith that you yourself have

Quote: σὺ πίστιν ἣν ἔχεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, faith refers to what Christians believe that God permits them to do, as mentioned in 14:1–6. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The beliefs that your yourself have about what God permits you do to”

you yourself have, … yourself

Quote: σὺ & ἔχεις & σεαυτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

Even though Paul is writing to a group of people, you and yourself here are singular. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural form of you in your translation.

keep according to yourself before God

Quote: κατὰ σεαυτὸν ἔχε ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to keeping one’s beliefs between oneself and God, rather than telling other people about them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “keep it between yourself and God” or “keep it between you and God”

before God

Quote: ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of people keeping what they believe before God as if they were standing in front of God. Paul means that people should keep private their beliefs about what God permits them to do, as if God is the only one who knows about those beliefs. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and God”

is} the one not judging himself

Quote: ὁ μὴ κρίνων ἑαυτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, judge refers to feeling guilty or condemning oneself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is the one who does not feel guilty”

himself in what he approves

Quote: ἑαυτὸν ἐν ᾧ δοκιμάζει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms himself and he are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “oneself in what one approves”

in what he approves

Quote: ἐν ᾧ δοκιμάζει (1)

Alternate translation: “with respect to what he approves” or “in regard to what he approves”

Romans 14:23

But

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, the word But introduces a contrast. But here indicates that what follows is in strong contrast to what was said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “On the contrary,”

the one passing judgment is condemned if he eats

Quote: ὁ & διακρινόμενος, ἐὰν φάγῃ, κατακέκριται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The person doing the action could be: (1) God. Alternate translation: “God condemns the one who passes judgment if he eats” (2) the person who eats. Alternate translation: “the one who passes judgment condemns himself if he eats”

the one passing judgment

Quote: ὁ & διακρινόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the one who judges”

the one passing judgment

Quote: ὁ & διακρινόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to a person who has determined that eating certain foods is prohibited by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who judges that it is not right to eat certain foods”

if he eats

Quote: ἐὰν φάγῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that the person eats what that person believes God has forbidden to be eaten. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “if he eats what he thinks God has forbidden him to eat”

it is} not

Quote: οὐκ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to eating food that someone believes God has forbidden to eat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “eating what one thinks is forbidden to eat is not”

from faith. … from faith

Quote: ἐκ πίστεως (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse from refers to what a person bases their actions on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “based on faith … based on faith”

faith. … faith

Quote: πίστεως & πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun faith in the previous verse.

all

Quote: πᾶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, all refers to anything that a person does. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “all that a person does”

sin

Quote: ἁμαρτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun sin in 6:1.

Romans 15

Romans 15 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Instructions for living as Christians (12:1–15:13)
   • How to act toward God (12:1–2)
   • How to serve the church (12:3–8)
   • How to act toward other Christians (12:9–13)
   • How to act toward unbelievers (12:14–21)
   • How to act toward government (13:1–7)
   • How to act toward other people (13:8–10)
   • Act as if the end is near (13:11–14)
   • Do not judge other Christians (14:1–12)
   • Do not tempt other Christians to sin (14:13–23)
   • Be united with other Christians (15:1–13)
2. Conclusion (15:14–16:27)
   • Paul describes his mission (15:14–21)
   • Paul’s travel plans (15:22–33)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with 15:9–11 and 21 of this chapter, which are words from the Old Testament.

Some translations set prose quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the quoted words in 15:12.

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Able and unable

In 15:1–6 Paul concludes his teaching from Chapter 14 about how Christians with different degrees of spiritual maturity should act toward each other. He refers to some Christians as those who are “weak in faith” (14:1) or “unable” (15:1). These phrases describe Christians who have immature faith and feel guilty about doing certain things that God did not forbid. By contrast, he refers to spiritually mature Christians as those who are “able” (15:1). Paul teaches that those who are strong in faith need to help those who are weak in faith and neither should judge the other. (See: faith)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Forms of ‘You’

In this chapter, with three exceptions, the words “you” and “your” are plural and refer to Paul’s Christian readers, whom he calls “brothers” in 15:14 and 15:30. Notes will discuss the use of singular forms of “you” and “your” in 15:3 and 15:9. (See: Forms of ‘You’ — Singular)

Inclusive language

In this chapter the pronouns “we,” “us,” “our,” and “ourselves” refer inclusively to Paul’s Christian readers. Paul calls these people “brothers” in 15:14 and 15:30. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

Romans 15:1

we, … ourselves

Quote: ἡμεῖς & ἑαυτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here and throughout this chapter the pronouns we and ourselves refer inclusively to all believers in Christ. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we, being able

Quote: ἡμεῖς, οἱ δυνατοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, we, being able refers to Paul and other people who have mature faith. See the discussion about this in the General Notes for this chapter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “we, having mature faith” or “we, being spiritually strong”

to bear the weaknesses

Quote: τὰ ἀσθενήματα & βαστάζειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of weaknesses as if they were objects that a person could bear. He means that mature Christians should patiently help spiritually weak Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “help overcome the weaknesses”

the weaknesses

Quote: τὰ ἀσθενήματα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of weaknesses, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the weak qualities”

of the ones being unable

Quote: τῶν ἀδυνάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the ones who are unable refers to Christians who are not spiritually mature. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the ones who have immature faith” or “of the ones who are spiritually weak”

Romans 15:2

his neighbor

Quote: τῷ πλησίον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, neighbor refers to other Christians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his fellow Christians”

for … toward

Quote: εἰς & πρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for and toward indicate that what follows are purposes for pleasing one’s neighbor. Use the most natural way in your language for indicating a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of … and for the purpose of”

his building up

Quote: οἰκοδομήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated building up in 14:19

Romans 15:3

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse is an example of pleasing others, as Paul mentioned in the previous verse. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “For example,” or “As an illustration,”

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since Paul is referring to something David wrote, you could indicate David as the subject. Alternate translation: “just as David wrote”

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In the quotation that follows, Paul quotes Psalm 69:9 in which David records Christ (the Messiah) speaking to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “just as it is written that the Messiah said to God”

The insults of the ones insulting you fell on me

Quote: οἱ ὀνειδισμοὶ τῶν ὀνειδιζόντων σε, ἐπέπεσαν ἐπ’ ἐμέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation of Psalm 69:9. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

The insults

Quote: οἱ ὀνειδισμοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of insults, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “The insulting words”

The insults of the ones insulting you fell on me

Quote: οἱ ὀνειδισμοὶ τῶν ὀνειδιζόντων σε, ἐπέπεσαν ἐπ’ ἐμέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes David referring to insults against God also affecting Christ as if those insults were objects that fell on him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The insults of those who insult you are also insults against me”

Romans 15:4

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows emphasizes the importance of the scriptural quotation in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

whatever was previously written was written

Quote: ὅσα & προεγράφη & ἐγράφη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whatever the prophets wrote previously, they wrote”

whatever was previously written

Quote: ὅσα & προεγράφη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul is referring to what was previously written in the Scriptures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what was previously written in the Scriptures”

for … in order that

Quote: εἰς & ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for and in order that indicate that what follows are purposes for the Scriptures. Use the natural form in your language for indicating purpose clauses. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of … for the purpose that”

for our own instruction

Quote: εἰς τὴν ἡμετέραν διδασκαλίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of instruction, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “for instructing us”

in order that through the patience and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we would have the hope

Quote: ἵνα διὰ τῆς ὑπομονῆς καὶ διὰ τῆς παρακλήσεως τῶν Γραφῶν, τὴν ἐλπίδα ἔχωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “in order that we would have the hope through the patience and through the encouragement of the Scriptures”

the patience … the encouragement … the hope

Quote: τῆς ὑπομονῆς & τῆς παρακλήσεως & τὴν ἐλπίδα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of patience, encouragement, and hope, you could express the same ideas in another way. See how you translated patience in 2:4, encouragement in 12:8, and hope in 5:4.

through the patience and through the encouragement of the Scriptures

Quote: διὰ τῆς ὑπομονῆς καὶ διὰ τῆς παρακλήσεως τῶν Γραφῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks about the Scriptures as if they were a person who could have patience and be encouraging. He means that God uses the Scriptures to show his patience and encouragement. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “through the patience and through the encouragement that God gives in the Scriptures”

Romans 15:5

the God of patience and of encouragement

Quote: ὁ & Θεὸς τῆς ὑπομονῆς καὶ τῆς παρακλήσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe God as being characterized by patience and encouragement. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the God who is characterized by patience and encouragement”

of patience … of encouragement

Quote: τῆς ὑπομονῆς & τῆς παρακλήσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated patience and encouragement in the previous verse.

to think the same with each other

Quote: τὸ αὐτὸ φρονεῖν ἐν ἀλλήλοις (1)

Alternate translation: “to agree with each other”

according to Christ Jesus

Quote: κατὰ Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could refer to: (1) the example of Christ. Alternate translation: “according to the example of Christ Jesus” (2) the will of Christ. Alternate translation: “according to the will of Christ Jesus” (3) both the example and will of Christ. Alternate translation: “according to Christ Jesus’ will and example”

Romans 15:6

so that

Quote: ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for the unity that he prayed for in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “for the purpose that”

with one accord

Quote: ὁμοθυμαδὸν (1)

Alternate translation: “with the same purpose”

you might glorify with one mouth

Quote: ἐν ἑνὶ στόματι, δοξάζητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, glorify with one mouth refers to being united while praising God aloud. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “you might be united while praising God” or “you might praise God together in unity as if only one mouth were speaking”

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

Romans 15:7

Therefore

Quote: διὸ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Therefore here introduces the conclusion of what Paul has said in 14:1–15:6. See how you translated this word in 1:24.

to the glory of God

Quote: εἰς δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Christians should accept each other as Christ accepted Christians. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “for the purpose of glorifying God”

Romans 15:8

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For here indicates that what follows explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

I say that

Quote: λέγω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun I refers to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, say”

a servant … the truth … the promises

Quote: διάκονον & ἀληθείας & τὰς ἐπαγγελίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns servant in 13:4, truth in 2:8, and “promises” in 4:13.

of the circumcision

Quote: περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the circumcision refers to the people who have been circumcised: the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of the Jews”

to confirm

Quote: εἰς τὸ βεβαιῶσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating a purpose for which Christ became a servant of the circumcision. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “for the purpose of confirming”

the promises of the fathers

Quote: τὰς ἐπαγγελίας τῶν πατέρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the promises that God made to the fathers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the promises given to the fathers”

of the fathers

Quote: τῶν πατέρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 9:5.

the promises of the fathers

Quote: τὰς ἐπαγγελίας τῶν πατέρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the promises that God gave to the ancestors of the Jews”

Romans 15:9

and also for the Gentiles

Quote: τὰ δὲ ἔθνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, and indicates that what follows is a second reason why Christ became a “servant of the circumcision.” Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “and also for the purpose of the Gentiles”

his mercy

Quote: ἐλέους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated mercy in 9:23.

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since Paul is referring to something David wrote (Psalm 18:49), you could indicate David as the subject. Alternate translation: “just as David wrote” or “just as God said through David”

For this {reason}, I will confess you among the Gentiles and sing psalms to your name

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο ἐξομολογήσομαί σοι ἐν ἔθνεσι, καὶ τῷ ὀνόματί σου ψαλῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation of Psalm 18:49. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

to your name

Quote: τῷ ὀνόματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, your name refers to God himself. If it might be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to you”

Romans 15:10

And again

Quote: καὶ πάλιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, again indicates that what follows is another quotation from Scripture that expresses the same idea of the quotation in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And also”

it says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows is a quotation of something Moses said in an Old Testament book (Deuteronomy 32:43). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “it says in the Scriptures”

Rejoice, Gentiles, with his people

Quote: εὐφράνθητε, ἔθνη, μετὰ τοῦ λαοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Deuteronomy 32:43. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

with his people

Quote: μετὰ τοῦ λαοῦ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, his refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “with the people of God”

Romans 15:11

And again

Quote: καὶ πάλιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows is another quotation from Scripture (Psalm 117:1). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “And also in the Scriptures”

Praise the Lord, all {you} Gentiles; and let all the peoples extol him

Quote: αἰνεῖτε πάντα τὰ ἔθνη τὸν Κύριον; καὶ ἐπαινεσάτωσαν αὐτὸν πάντες οἱ λαοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 117:1. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Romans 15:12

And again, Isaiah says

Quote: καὶ πάλιν Ἠσαΐας λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase indicates that what follows is a quotation of something Isaiah said in an Old Testament book (Isaiah 11:10). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “And also in the Scriptures, Isaiah says”

Isaiah says

Quote: Ἠσαΐας λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Paul uses the present tense verb says to refer to something that happened in the past. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “Isaiah said”

The root of Jesse … the one rising … him

Quote: ἡ ῥίζα τοῦ Ἰεσσαί & ὁ ἀνιστάμενος & αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These three expressions all refer to the same person, the Messiah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The descendant of Jesse, the Messiah … Messiah is the one who rises … the Messiah”

The root of Jesse

Quote: ἡ ῥίζα τοῦ Ἰεσσαί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Isaiah referring to a descendant of Jesse as if that person were a root or shoot that had grown out of a plant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The descendant of Jesse”

the one rising

Quote: ὁ ἀνιστάμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Paul quotes Isaiah using rising to refer to someone becoming a king. If it would be helpful in your language, you can use a comparable idiom or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who becomes king”

Romans 15:13

the God of hope

Quote: ὁ & Θεὸς τῆς ἐλπίδος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe God as the source of hope. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the God who gives hope”

of hope … with … joy and peace … hope … the power

Quote: τῆς ἐλπίδος & χαρᾶς καὶ εἰρήνης & ἐλπίδι & δυνάμει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns hope in the previous verse, joy and peace in 14:17, and power in 1:16.

may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace

Quote: ὁ & Θεὸς τῆς ἐλπίδος πληρώσαι ὑμᾶς πάσης χαρᾶς καὶ εἰρήνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul refers to people experiencing joy and peace as if they were things that could fill someone. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “may the God of hope allow you to experience all joy and peace”

in believing

Quote: ἐν τῷ πιστεύειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in indicates that believing is the means by which people will experience all joy and peace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of believing”

in believing

Quote: τῷ πιστεύειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “in believing God”

so that you might abound

Quote: εἰς τὸ περισσεύειν ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that what follows is a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that you might abound”

so that you might abound

Quote: εἰς τὸ περισσεύειν ὑμᾶς (1)

Alternative translation: “so that you will have this hope with abundance”

Romans 15:14

I myself am also persuaded

Quote: πέπεισμαι & καὶ αὐτὸς ἐγὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has also persuaded me myself”

I myself … you yourselves are

Quote: αὐτὸς ἐγὼ & αὐτοὶ & ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the words myself and yourselves to emphasize how certain he is that his readers are good and knowledgeable Christians. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “I indeed … you are indeed”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

you yourselves are full of goodness

Quote: αὐτοὶ μεστοί ἐστε ἀγαθωσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul refers to people experiencing goodness as if it were something that could make someone full. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “you yourselves fully experience goodness”

of goodness, … knowledge

Quote: ἀγαθωσύνης & γνώσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of goodness and knowledge, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “of what is good … that is knowable”

filled with all knowledge

Quote: πεπληρωμένοι πάσης γνώσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God having filled you with all knowledge”

filled with all knowledge

Quote: πεπληρωμένοι πάσης γνώσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul refers to people having knowledge as if it were something that someone could befilled with. If it might be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “having all knowledge”

all knowledge

Quote: πάσης γνώσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, all is an exaggeration that Paul uses to emphasize how much knowledge these people have. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows emphasis. Alternate translation: “abundant knowledge”

Romans 15:15

in part

Quote: ἀπὸ μέρους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in part refers to some parts of this letter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in some parts of this letter”

as reminding you

Quote: ὡς ἐπαναμιμνῄσκων ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Paul wrote certain things in this letter. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of reminding you”

the grace given me by God

Quote: τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the grace that God gave me”

the grace

Quote: τὴν χάριν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, grace refers to God graciously choosing Paul to be an apostle. See how you translated the similar phrase in 12:3.

Romans 15:16

in order for me to be

Quote: εἰς τὸ εἶναί με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, in order for indicates that what follows is the purpose for which God graciously gave Paul authority, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that I would be”

a servant

Quote: λειτουργὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated servant in 13:4.

serving as a priest the gospel of God so that the offering of the Gentiles

Quote: ἱερουργοῦντα τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἵνα & ἡ προσφορὰ τῶν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of his preaching the gospel to the Gentiles as if he is a priest who serves the gospel by making an offering to God. He speaks of the Gentiles who become Christians as a result of his preaching as if they were the offering that he makes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “preaching the gospel so that the Gentiles who believe”

so that

Quote: ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that what follows is the purpose for which Paul preaches the gospel to the Gentiles. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose that”

the offering of the Gentiles

Quote: ἡ προσφορὰ τῶν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the offering that consists of the Gentiles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the offering, that is, the Gentiles,”

the offering

Quote: ἡ προσφορὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of offering, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what is offered”

sanctified by the Holy Spirit

Quote: ἡγιασμένη ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom the Holy Spirit sanctified”

Romans 15:17

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Therefore here indicates that what follows in this verse is the result of what Paul said in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “Because of these things” or "As a result of these things"

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 6:23.

I have a boast

Quote: ἔχω & καύχησιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul speaks of a boast as if it were an object someone can have. He means that he is rightfully able to boast. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I can boast”

Romans 15:18

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

I will not dare to speak anything {except} what Christ produced through me

Quote: οὐ & τολμήσω τι λαλεῖν, ὧν οὐ κατειργάσατο Χριστὸς δι’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “I will only dare to speak what Christ produced through me”

for the obedience of the Gentiles

Quote: εἰς ὑπακοὴν ἐθνῶν (1)

Here, for indicates the result of what Christ produced through Paul. Use the natural way in your language to express a result. Alternate translation: “that resulted in the obedience of the Gentiles”

the obedience of the Gentiles—… deed

Quote: ὑπακοὴν ἐθνῶν & ἔργῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of obedience and deed, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how the Gentiles obey … what is done”

the obedience of the Gentiles

Quote: ὑπακοὴν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, obedience refers to the Gentiles obeying the command to repent and believe the gospel, which is part of the gospel message. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Gentiles to obey what God commanded in the gospel”

by word and deed

Quote: λόγῳ καὶ ἔργῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, word and deed could refer to: (1) what Paul had said and done that resulted in the Gentiles trusting in Christ. Alternate translation: “by my words and actions” (2) how the Gentiles displayed their obedience. Alternate translation: “by their words and actions”

by word

Quote: λόγῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Paul uses the term word to describe what he had said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by my words”

Romans 15:19

in the power of signs and wonders

Quote: ἐν δυνάμει σημείων καὶ τεράτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause indicates an additional means by which Christ produced through Paul “the obedience of the Gentiles” that is referred to in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and by means of the power of signs and wonders”

of signs and wonders

Quote: σημείων καὶ τεράτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word wonders describes the character of the miraculous signs that the Spirit enabled Paul to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “of wonderful miraculous signs”

in the power of the Spirit of God

Quote: ἐν δυνάμει Πνεύματος Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause indicates that the Spirit of God empowered Paul’s “word and deed” and signs and wonders to result in non-Jews trusting in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “empowered by the Spirit of God”

Illyricum

Quote: τοῦ Ἰλλυρικοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Illyricum is the name of a Roman province that was close to Italy.

have fulfilled the gospel of Christ

Quote: πεπληρωκέναι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Paul speaks of preaching the gospel throughout an entire area as if he had fulfilled the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I have thoroughly proclaimed the gospel of Christ”

Romans 15:20

counting it honor to proclaim the gospel

Quote: φιλοτιμούμενον εὐαγγελίζεσθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “I am counting it an honor to proclaim the gospel”

counting it honor

Quote: φιλοτιμούμενον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of honor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “counting it honorable”

to proclaim the gospel, not where Christ has been named

Quote: εὐαγγελίζεσθαι, οὐχ ὅπου ὠνομάσθη Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The clause not where Christ has been named indicates the kind of places where Paul would not proclaim the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this more explicit. Alternate translation: “to proclaim the gospel in places other than where Christ has been named”

Christ has been named

Quote: ὠνομάσθη Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people have named Christ”

Christ has been named

Quote: ὠνομάσθη Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, has been named refers to speaking someone’s name. It does not refer to giving someone a name. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Christ’s name has been spoken” or “Christ’s name has been heard”

I might not build upon another man’s foundation

Quote: μὴ ἐπ’ ἀλλότριον θεμέλιον οἰκοδομῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of his work of preaching the gospel and making disciples as if he were building a house on a foundation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “I might not continue doing the work that another man has already begun” or “I might not be like someone who builds upon another man’s foundation”

Romans 15:21

But

Quote: ἀλλὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

The word But introduces a contrast. Here, But indicates that what follows is the opposite of what Paul said in the last clause of the previous verse. Use the best way in your language to indicate a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “On the contrary,”

But just as it is written

Quote: ἀλλὰ καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse Paul quotes Scripture to state that he preaches the gospel to those who have never heard it, which he also stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Instead of doing that, I aspire to preach the gospel where it has not been preached before. Doing so is just as it is written”

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated this phrase in 1:17.

just as it is written

Quote: καθὼς γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since Paul is referring to something Isaiah wrote, you could indicate Isaiah as the subject. Alternate translation: “just as Isaiah wrote”

Those to whom it was not reported concerning him will see, and those who have not heard will understand

Quote: οἷς οὐκ ἀνηγγέλη περὶ αὐτοῦ, ὄψονται, καὶ οἳ οὐκ ἀκηκόασιν, συνήσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Isaiah 52:15. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Those to whom it was not reported concerning him will see, and those who have not heard will understand

Quote: οἷς οὐκ ἀνηγγέλη περὶ αὐτοῦ, ὄψονται, καὶ οἳ οὐκ ἀκηκόασιν, συνήσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean the same thing. Isaiah says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that non-Jewish people will hear about the Messiah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “Those who have not heard about him will certainly understand”

Those to whom it was not reported concerning him

Quote: οἷς οὐκ ἀνηγγέλη περὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Those to whom no one had reported concerning him”

will see, … will understand

Quote: ὄψονται & συνήσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Isaiah implies that the non-Jewish people who never heard about the Messiah will understand who the Messiah is and what he has done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternative translation: “will see who the Messiah is … will understand who he is”

will see

Quote: ὄψονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul quotes Isaiah using see to refer to perceiving something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “will perceive”

Romans 15:22

Therefore

Quote: διὸ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The word Therefore indicates that what follows is a logical conclusion. Here, Therefore indicates that what follows is the result of Paul’s desire to preach the gospel in places where people have never heard it before. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation (without a comma following): “For this reason” or “This is the reason why”

I was also prevented

Quote: καὶ ἐνεκοπτόμην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those things also prevented me”

you

Quote: ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Here, you is plural and refers to the believers in Rome to whom Paul was writing this letter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you believers who are in Rome”

Romans 15:23

no longer having a place in these regions, and having a longing from a considerable {number} of years to come to you

Quote: μηκέτι τόπον ἔχων ἐν τοῖς κλίμασι τούτοις, ἐπιποθείαν δὲ ἔχων τοῦ ἐλθεῖν πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ ἱκανῶν ἐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

These clauses are two reasons why Paul hopes to see the Roman believers, as stated in the next verse. If you keep this verse and the next verse as one sentence in your translation, then you could use the most natural way in your language to indicate reasons. However, if you translate this verse and the next verse as separate sentences, then you could show that these clauses are reasons by indicating result in the next verse, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “because I no longer have a place in these regions, and because I have a longing from a considerable number of years to come to you”

no longer having a place in these regions

Quote: μηκέτι τόπον ἔχων ἐν τοῖς κλίμασι τούτοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul uses this clause to imply that there were no more places in his area where people had not heard about Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “there are no more places in these regions where people have not heard about Christ”

you

Quote: ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

See how you translated you in the previous verse.

Romans 15:24

Spain

Quote: τὴν Σπανίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

At that time, Spain was a Roman province west of Rome.

passing through

Quote: διαπορευόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

This clause indicates something that would happen at the same time as the next clause. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “while passing through”

passing through

Quote: διαπορευόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that he would be passing through Rome on his way to Spain. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “passing through Rome”

to be sent ahead there by you, if I might first be satisfied for a while by you

Quote: ὑφ’ ὑμῶν προπεμφθῆναι ἐκεῖ, ἐὰν ὑμῶν πρῶτον ἀπὸ μέρους ἐμπλησθῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for you to send me ahead to there, if you might first satisfy me for a while”

to be sent ahead there by you

Quote: ὑφ’ ὑμῶν προπεμφθῆναι ἐκεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here, sent ahead refers to receiving supplies needed for a journey. This is a polite way of asking for food or money. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “to be given some provisions for my journey to there by you”

if I might first be satisfied for a while by you

Quote: ἐὰν ὑμῶν πρῶτον ἀπὸ μέρους ἐμπλησθῶ (1)

Alternate translation: “if I might first enjoy being with you for a while”

Romans 15:25

ministering to the saints

Quote: διακονῶν τοῖς ἁγίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

This clause is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for him traveling to Jerusalem. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a purpose clause. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “for the purpose of ministering to the saints”

Romans 15:26

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul is going to minister to the saints in Jerusalem, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation (without a comma following): “I am going to Jerusalem because”

Macedonia and Achaia were well-pleased

Quote: εὐδόκησαν & Μακεδονία καὶ Ἀχαΐα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses Macedonia and Achaia here to refer to the Christians who lived in those areas. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the believers in Macedonia and Achaia were well-pleased”

to make a certain contribution

Quote: κοινωνίαν τινὰ ποιήσασθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of contribution, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to contribute a certain amount”

Romans 15:27

For

Quote: γάρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

they were pleased, … they are obligated to

Quote: εὐδόκησαν & ὀφειλέται εἰσὶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The two occurrences of they in this verse refer to the Christians in Macedonia and Achaia, whom Paul mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the believers in Macedonia and Achaia were pleased … those people are obligated to”

them. … their … to them

Quote: αὐτῶν & αὐτῶν & αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, them and their refer to the Christians in Jerusalem. If it might be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish believers … their … those Jewish believers”

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason the believers in Macedonia and Achaia are obligated to help the believers in Jerusalem. Use the most natural form in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “The reason for this is that”

if

Quote: εἰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul uses if as if the rest of the verse were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “because it is true that”

Romans 15:28

this

Quote: τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, this refers to Paul traveling to Jerusalem. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this trip to Jerusalem”

having sealed this fruit to them

Quote: σφραγισάμενος αὐτοῖς τὸν καρπὸν τοῦτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the money he is taking to Jerusalem as if it werefruit, and he speaks of his delivery of the money as if he were sealing it for the poor believers in Jerusalem. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “having safely delivered this offering to them”

through you

Quote: δι’ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul uses you here to refer to the place where those people lived, which is Rome. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “through the area where you live” or “through where you are in Rome”

Spain

Quote: Σπανίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated Spain in 15:24.

Romans 15:29

I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ

Quote: ἐν πληρώματι εὐλογίας Χριστοῦ, ἐλεύσομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) Paul and the believers in Rome will experience Christ’s blessing. Alternate translation: “I will come and we will experience the fullness of the blessing of Christ” (2) Paul will bring Christ’s blessing to the believers in Rome. Alternate translation: “I will bring the fullness of the blessing of Christ”

in the fullness of the blessing of Christ

Quote: ἐν πληρώματι εὐλογίας Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of fullness and blessing, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “in the full experience of how Christ blesses”

in the fullness of the blessing of Christ

Quote: ἐν πληρώματι εὐλογίας Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of abundantly experiencing the blessing of Christ as if it were something that a person could receive in a full amount. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in the abundant experience of the blessing of Christ”

Romans 15:30

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit

Quote: διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ διὰ τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The two occurrences of by in this verse indicate that what follows each one are the bases for Paul to urge his readers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the basis of our Lord Jesus Christ and on the basis of the love of the Spirit”

the love of the Spirit

Quote: τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This could refer to: (1) the love that the Spirit gives to Christians. Alternate translation: “the love from the Spirit” (2) the love that belongs to the Spirit. Alternate translation: “the Spirit’s love”

the love of the Spirit, … the prayers

Quote: τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Πνεύματος & ταῖς προσευχαῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of love and prayers, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how you love from the Spirit … what you pray”

to strive together with me

Quote: συναγωνίσασθαί μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of praying fervently as if it were a struggle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “to pray intensely together with me” or “to pray intensely with me as if striving together”

Romans 15:31

so that … and {so that

Quote: ἵνα & καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Both occurrences of so that in this verse could indicate: (1) the contents of what they should pray. Alternate translation: “that … and that” (2) the purposes for praying. Alternate translation: “in order that … and in order that”

I might be delivered from the disobedient ones

Quote: ῥυσθῶ ἀπὸ τῶν ἀπειθούντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God might deliver me from the disobedient ones”

the disobedient ones

Quote: τῶν ἀπειθούντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the disobedient ones refers to the Jews in Judea who disobeyed God by refusing to believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the unbelieving Jews” or “those Jews who do not trust in Jesus”

my service

Quote: διακονία μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here, my service refers to the money that Paul was going to bring to the poor believers in Jerusalem from the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. This is a polite way of referring to bringing money. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “the money I bring”

for Jerusalem

Quote: εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, for Jerusalem means “for the poor of the saints in Jerusalem,” as mentioned in 15:26. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the poor saints in Jerusalem”

Romans 15:32

so that

Quote: ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated so that in the previous verse.

in joy

Quote: ἐν χαρᾷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of joy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “while being joyful”

the will of God

Quote: θελήματος Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this phrase in 1:10.

and} might be refreshed together with

Quote: συναναπαύσωμαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and might refresh myself together with”

Romans 15:33

the God of peace

Quote: ὁ & Θεὸς τῆς εἰρήνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe God who gives peace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the God who gives peace”

of peace

Quote: τῆς εἰρήνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated peace in 1:7.

Romans 16

Romans 16 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

1. Conclusion (15:14–16:27)
   • Paul describes his mission (15:14–21)
   • Paul’s travel plans (15:22–33)
   • Paul commends Phoebe (16:1–2)
   • Paul greets Christians in Rome (16:3–16)
   • Paul warns against false teachers (16:17–20)
   • Paul greets more Christians in Rome (16:21–24)
   • Doxology (16:25–27)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Letter writing and sending

In this culture, someone who wanted to send a letter often spoke what they wanted to say, and a scribe would write it down for them. Then, they would send the letter with a messenger, who would read the letter to the person or people to whom it was addressed. In this chapter, Tertius mentions that he is the scribe writing the letter for Paul (16:22). Paul begins this chapter by recommending Phoebe to the believers in Rome who receive this letter. This could indicate that Phoebe was the messenger who delivered the letter to them.

Greetings

In this culture, it was common for those who sent letters to include greetings to and from others in their letters. In this way, many people could greet each other but only send one letter. In 16:3–16 and 21–23 Paul includes greetings to and from people whom he and the Romans knew. Express these greetings in a natural form in your language.

Romans 16:1

I commend

Quote: συνίστημι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun I here and throughout this chapter refers to Paul, except for 16:22. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, commend”

Phoebe

Quote: Φοίβην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Phoebe is the name of a woman.

our

Quote: ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

In this verse and throughout this chapter our refers to Paul and his Christian readers, so our would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

sister

Quote: τὴν ἀδελφὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Phoebe as if she were the physical sister of him and his Christian readers. He means she has a brother-sister relationship with all Christians because she trusts in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “our spiritual sister”

a servant

Quote: διάκονον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun servant in 13:4.

Cenchrea

Quote: Κενχρεαῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Cenchrea was the name of a city in Greece. See how Cenchrea is translated in Acts 18:18.

Romans 16:2

in the Lord

Quote: ἐν Κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in the Lord refers to Phoebe being a fellow believer in the Lord Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as someone who believes in the Lord Jesus”

in a manner worthy of the saints

Quote: ἀξίως τῶν ἁγίων (1)

Alternate translation: “in the way that believers should welcome other believers”

and

Quote: καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, and indicates that what follows is a second purpose for Paul to commend Phoebe to the believers in Rome. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and in order that you”

might stand by her

Quote: παραστῆτε αὐτῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, stand by refers to helping someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “might assist her”

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul wants the Roman believers to help Phoebe. Use the most natural form in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “The reason I want you to do this is that”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: καὶ γὰρ αὐτὴ προστάτις πολλῶν ἐγενήθη καὶ ἐμοῦ αὐτοῦ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of benefactor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “For she has also benefited many, and myself as well”

Romans 16:3-16

General Information:

As was customary in his culture, in 16:3–16 Paul begins to conclude the letter by extending greetings to the people to whom he is writing. Your language may have a particular way of sharing greetings in a letter. If so, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “I enthusiastically ask to be remembered to” or “I send regards to”

Romans 16:3

Greet

Quote: ἀσπάσασθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Greet here and throughout 16:3–16 is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. Alternate translation: “Please give my greetings to”

Prisca and Aquila

Quote: Πρίσκαν καὶ Ἀκύλαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Prisca is the name of a woman who is also called “Priscilla” in Acts 18:2. Aquila is the name of her husband.

my fellow workers

Quote: τοὺς συνεργούς μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, fellow workers refers to people who work together with Paul to tell other people about Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who worked with me to preach the gospel”

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, in Christ Jesus could refer to: (1) the kind of work that Prisca and Aquila did with Paul. Alternate translation: “in the service of Christ Jesus” (2) being united with Christ, as this phrase is used in 3:24; 6:11, 23; 8:1–2, 39; and 15:17. Alternate translation: “who are united to Christ Jesus”

Romans 16:4

who for the sake of my life laid down their own neck, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles

Quote: οἵτινες ὑπὲρ τῆς ψυχῆς μου, τὸν ἑαυτῶν τράχηλον ὑπέθηκαν, οἷς οὐκ ἐγὼ μόνος εὐχαριστῶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ πᾶσαι αἱ ἐκκλησίαι τῶν ἐθνῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This verse interrupts the main part of the sentence in 16:3–5 in order to give further information about Prisca and Aquila. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this verse as its own sentence and repeat the main verb of the previous verse in the next verse, as in the UST.

laid down their own neck

Quote: τὸν ἑαυτῶν τράχηλον ὑπέθηκαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase refers to doing something that would put someone in danger of being executed. Romans often executed people by chopping their heads off at the neck with an axe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “risked having their heads chopped off by the Roman authorities”

I give thanks

Quote: ἐγὼ & εὐχαριστῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of expressing thanks as if they were something that he could give to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am thankful”

Romans 16:5

and the church {based in} their house

Quote: καὶ τὴν κατ’ οἶκον αὐτῶν ἐκκλησίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This clause continues the sentence that Paul began in 16:3 and interrupted in the previous verse. If you made the previous verse into its own sentence, then here you will need to add the main verb from 16:3. Alternate translation: “and greet the church based in their house”

their house

Quote: οἶκον αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun their here refers to Prisca and Aquila. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the house of Prisca and Aquila”

Greet

Quote: ἀσπάσασθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

See how you translated Greet in 16:3.

Epaenetus

Quote: Ἐπαίνετον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Epaenetus is the name of a man.

the firstfruits of Asia for Christ

Quote: ἀπαρχὴ τῆς Ἀσίας εἰς Χριστόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of Epaenetus as if he were fruit that he had harvested. He means that Epaenetus was the first person in Asia who believed in Christ as a result of Paul’s preaching. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the first person in Asia to believe in Jesus”

Romans 16:6

Mary

Quote: Μαρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Mary is the name of a woman. Several women in the Bible are named Mary because it was a common Jewish name.

Romans 16:7

Andronicus

Quote: Ἀνδρόνικον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Andronicus is the name of a man.

Junias

Quote: Ἰουνίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Junias could refer to: (1) a woman named Junia, in which case Andronicus and Junias might be a married couple like Prisca and Aquila. See the UST. (2) the shortened form of Junianus, a man’s name, which is less likely.

my kinsmen

Quote: τοὺς συγγενεῖς μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, kinsmen could refer to: (1) Jewish Christians. Alternate translation: “my Jewish Christian kinsmen” (2) Christian relatives of Paul. Alternate translation: “my Christian relatives”

who are prominent among the apostles

Quote: οἵτινές εἰσιν ἐπίσημοι ἐν τοῖς ἀποστόλοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom the apostles know very well”

who

Quote: οἳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Here, who indicates that what follows is further information about Andronicus and Junias. It is not information about the apostles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation (as a new sentence): “These two people”

in Christ

Quote: ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, in Christ refers to being united with Christ. See how you translated the same use of this phrase in 3:24.

Romans 16:8

Ampliatus

Quote: Ἀμπλιᾶτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Ampliatus is the name of a man.

in the Lord

Quote: ἐν Κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of this phrase in 16:2.

Romans 16:9

Urbanus, … Stachys

Quote: Οὐρβανὸν & Στάχυν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Urbanus and Stachys are names of men.

our fellow worker in Christ

Quote: τὸν συνεργὸν ἡμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar phrase in 16:3.

Romans 16:10

Apelles, … of Aristobulus

Quote: Ἀπελλῆν & Ἀριστοβούλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Apelles and Aristobulus are names of men.

the approved in Christ

Quote: τὸν δόκιμον ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom Christ has approved”

Romans 16:11

Herodion, … of Narcissus

Quote: Ἡρῳδίωνα & Ναρκίσσου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Herodion and Narcissus are names of men.

kinsman

Quote: τὸν συγγενῆ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated “kinsmen” in 16:7.

in the Lord

Quote: ἐν Κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, in the Lord refers to being united to Christ and has the same meaning as “in Christ” in 16:7 and 3:24. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “united to the Lord Jesus”

Romans 16:12

Tryphaena … Tryphosa, … Persis

Quote: Τρύφαιναν & Τρυφῶσαν & Περσίδα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Tryphaena, Tryphosa, and Persis are names of women.

in the Lord. … in the Lord

Quote: ἐν Κυρίῳ (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar use of in the Lord in 16:3.

Romans 16:13

Rufus

Quote: Ῥοῦφον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Rufus is the name of a man. See how this name is translated in Mark 15:21.

the elect in the Lord

Quote: τὸν ἐκλεκτὸν ἐν Κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one whom God has elected”

his mother and mine

Quote: τὴν μητέρα αὐτοῦ καὶ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the mother of Rufus as if she were his own mother. He means that she treated him as if he were her own child. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his mother, whom I also think of as my mother”

Romans 16:14

Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas

Quote: Ἀσύγκριτον, Φλέγοντα, Ἑρμῆν, Πατροβᾶν, Ἑρμᾶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

These are names of five men.

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

the brothers {who are} with them

Quote: τοὺς σὺν αὐτοῖς ἀδελφούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, with them implies that these people meet together as a church. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the brothers who meet with them”

Romans 16:15

Philologus … Nereus … Olympas

Quote: Φιλόλογον & Νηρέα & Ὀλυμπᾶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Philologus, Nereus, and Olympas are names of men.

Julia

Quote: Ἰουλίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Julia is the name of a woman. She was probably the wife of Philologus.

all the saints {who are} with them

Quote: τοὺς σὺν αὐτοῖς πάντας ἁγίους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated with them in the previous verse.

Romans 16:16

Greet

Quote: ἀσπάσασθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

See how you translated Greet in 16:3.

a holy kiss

Quote: φιλήματι ἁγίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here, a holy kiss describes a kiss that believers would give to other believers (that is why it is holy). In Paul’s culture, this was an appropriate way to greet someone with whom one was very close, such as a family member or a good friend. You could use a greeting that is used by close friends or family members and clarify that here it is used in a holy or Christian way. Alternate translation: “with a Christian hug” or “in warm way that is appropriate for fellow believers”

All the churches of Christ greet you

Quote: ἀσπάζονται ὑμᾶς αἱ ἐκκλησίαι πᾶσαι τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

All here could refer to: (1) all the churches that were in the area where Paul was working when he wrote this letter. Alternate translation: “All the churches of Christ in this region” (2) all the churches that Paul had authority over or represented. Alternate translation: “All the churches of Christ that I represent”

Romans 16:17

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this word in 1:13.

divisions … traps, … the teaching

Quote: τὰς διχοστασίας & τὰ σκάνδαλα & τὴν διδαχὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of divisions, obstacles, and teaching, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what divides … what obstructs … what is taught”

the ones causing divisions and traps

Quote: τοὺς τὰς διχοστασίας καὶ τὰ σκάνδαλα & ποιοῦντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to causing believers to argue with each other. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. See the UST.

traps

Quote: τὰ σκάνδαλα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated “trap” in 11:9 and 14:13.

contrary to the teaching that you have learned

Quote: παρὰ τὴν διδαχὴν ἣν ὑμεῖς ἐμάθετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause could refer to: (1) the traps. Alternate translation: “which are contrary to the teaching that you have learned” (2) the means by which these people are causing divisions and traps. Alternate translation: “by doing what is contrary to the teaching that you have learned”

turn away from them

Quote: ἐκκλίνετε ἀπ’ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, turn away refers to avoiding someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “avoid them completely”

Romans 16:18

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that what follows in this verse explains what Paul said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact,”

such as these

Quote: τοιοῦτοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, these refers to “those who are causing division and traps,” who are mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “such as those causing such divisions and traps”

are not enslaved to our Lord Christ

Quote: τῷ Κυρίῳ ἡμῶν Χριστῷ οὐ δουλεύουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, enslaved to our Lord Christ refers to living under the control of our Lord Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “are not living in submission to our Lord Christ”

but to their own stomach

Quote: ἀλλὰ τῇ ἑαυτῶν κοιλίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “but they are enslaved to their own stomach”

to their own stomach

Quote: τῇ ἑαυτῶν κοιλίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, stomach could refer to: (1) physical desires, especially the desires to eat or drink. Alternate translation: “to their own physical desires” (2) pleasing oneself. Alternate translation: “to their own pleasure”

through their smooth speech and flattery

Quote: διὰ τῆς χρηστολογίας καὶ εὐλογίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of speech and flattery, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “through speaking smoothly and flatteringly”

the hearts

Quote: τὰς καρδίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated “heart” in 1:21.

Romans 16:19

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For indicates that what follows this word explains what came before it. For here indicates that was follows is one reason why Paul’s readers should obey the command to “watch out for” and “turn away from” false teachers. Use the most natural form in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “Watch out for and turn away from these people since”

your obedience reaches to everyone

Quote: ἡ & ὑμῶν ὑπακοὴ, εἰς πάντας ἀφίκετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the Roman believers’ obedience as if it were a person who could go to people. He means that many people had heard about their obedience. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your obedience has been heard about by everyone”

your obedience … the good, … the evil

Quote: ἡ & ὑμῶν ὑπακοὴ & τὸ ἀγαθόν & τὸ κακόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated obedience in 5:19 and good and evil in 7:19.

everyone

Quote: πάντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, everyone is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show that many believers had heard about the obedience of the Roman believers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “very many people”

Romans 16:20

the God of peace

Quote: ὁ & Θεὸς τῆς εἰρήνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 15:33.

will crush Satan under your feet

Quote: συντρίψει τὸν Σατανᾶν ὑπὸ τοὺς πόδας ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the Roman believers having victory over Satan as if they would crush him under their feet. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will cause you to have complete victory over Satan”

with haste. … grace of our Lord Jesus Christ {be} with you

Quote: ἐν τάχει. ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μεθ’ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of haste and grace, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “hastily. May the Lord Jesus Christ act graciously toward you”

with haste

Quote: ἐν τάχει (1)

The phrase translated as with haste can also refer to something happening after a short time period. Alternate translation: “in a short time” or “soon”

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ {be} with you

Quote: ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μεθ’ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

As was customary in his culture, Paul closes his letter with a blessing for the Roman believers. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness from our Lord Jesus Christ” or “I pray that you will have grace from our Lord Jesus Christ”

Romans 16:21

my fellow worker

Quote: ὁ συνεργός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar phrase in 16:3.

Lucius … Jason … Sosipater

Quote: Λούκιος & Ἰάσων & Σωσίπατρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater are names of men.

my kinsmen

Quote: οἱ συγγενεῖς μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 16:7.

greet you

Quote: ἀσπάζεται ὑμᾶς (1)

As was customary in this culture, Paul concludes the letter by extending greetings from people who are with him and who know the people to whom he is writing. Your language may have a particular way of sharing greetings in a letter. If so, you can use that form here. Alternate translation: “send you their greetings” or “ask to be remembered to you”

Romans 16:22

I, Tertius, the one having written this epistle

Quote: ἐγὼ, Τέρτιος, ὁ γράψας τὴν ἐπιστολὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause means that Tertius wrote down the words that Paul told him to write in this letter. In ancient times it was common for people to use scribes to physically write dictated letters for them. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “I, Tertius, am the person who wrote down what Paul told me to write in this epistle”

I, Tertius, the one having written this epistle, greet you in the Lord

Quote: ἀσπάζομαι ὑμᾶς ἐγὼ, Τέρτιος, ὁ γράψας τὴν ἐπιστολὴν, ἐν Κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

I here refers to Tertius, who writes this verse. Unlike elsewhere in this letter, it does not refer to Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the third person in this verse. Alternate translation: “Tertius, who wrote this epistle, greets you in the Lord”

Tertius

Quote: Τέρτιος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Tertius is the name of a man.

in the Lord

Quote: ἐν Κυρίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar use of in the Lord in 16:2.

Romans 16:23

Gaius, … Erastus, … Quartus

Quote: Γάϊος & Ἔραστος & Κούαρτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The words Gaius, Erastus, and Quartus are names of men.

the host for me and for the whole church

Quote: ὁ ξένος μου, καὶ ὅλης τῆς ἐκκλησίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase indicates that the home of Gaius was where Paul and his fellow believers gathered to worship. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who hosts me and the whole church in his house”

the steward

Quote: ὁ οἰκονόμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, steward refers to the person who takes care of the money for the city in which Paul is staying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the treasurer” or “the one who administrates the finances”

brother

Quote: ἀδελφός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brother refers to a fellow Christian. See how you translated brother in 14:10.

Romans 16:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Ἡ χάρις τοῦ κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ χριστοῦ μετὰ πάντων ὑμῶν. Ἀμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

This verse is not in the best earliest manuscripts. It seems to be an accidental repetition of the last part of 16:20. It has been included in the ULT, but it is marked off with square brackets (\[ \]) at the beginning and end. If possible, do not include this addition in your translation.

Romans 16:25

16:25–27 are one long sentence. If you divide this sentence into shorter sentences, then you will need to repeat part of 16:27 in 16:25, as the UST does.

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)

Now here marks the closing section of the letter. If you have a way of doing this in your language, you could use it here.

to the one being able to establish you

Quote: τῷ & δυναμένῳ ὑμᾶς στηρίξαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to God, who is able to establish you”

to establish you

Quote: ὑμᾶς στηρίξαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of God strengthening a person’s faith as if God were establishing that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to make your faith strong”

my gospel

Quote: τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the gospel message that he preached. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the gospel that I preach”

the preaching of Jesus Christ

Quote: τὸ κήρυγμα Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the preaching that is about Jesus Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the preaching about Jesus Christ”

the preaching … the revelation of the mystery

Quote: τὸ κήρυγμα & ἀποκάλυψιν μυστηρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of preaching, revelation, and mystery, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is preached … what is revealed of what is mysterious”

according to the revelation of the mystery

Quote: κατὰ ἀποκάλυψιν μυστηρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, according to indicates that what follows is what Paul’s preaching is based on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the basis of the revelation of the mystery”

of the mystery

Quote: μυστηρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here Paul uses the word mystery to refer to God’s plan to save people, which was revealed in the gospel. This does not mean that the idea is hard to understand, but rather, that God had not yet revealed it to people. If your language would not use mystery to refer to something that was concealed but has now been revealed, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of this concealed message”

according to the revelation of the mystery, kept secret for long ages

Quote: κατὰ ἀποκάλυψιν μυστηρίου χρόνοις αἰωνίοις σεσιγημένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “according to the mystery that God has now revealed, yet had kept secret for long ages”

kept secret for long ages

Quote: χρόνοις αἰωνίοις σεσιγημένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about the mystery, which is also the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to make this connection clear. Alternate translation: “which is what was kept secret for long ages”

Romans 16:26

but now having been revealed

Quote: φανερωθέντος δὲ νῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This clause gives further information about “the mystery,” which is also the “gospel” mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to make this connection clear. Alternate translation: “but now that mystery has been revealed”

but now having been revealed

Quote: φανερωθέντος δὲ νῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but now God has revealed”

and through the prophetic writings, according to the command of the eternal God, to the obedience of faith, to all the nations, having been made known

Quote: διά τε Γραφῶν προφητικῶν, κατ’ ἐπιταγὴν τοῦ αἰωνίου Θεοῦ εἰς ὑπακοὴν πίστεως, εἰς πάντα τὰ ἔθνη γνωρισθέντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

The word translated as and here indicates that the following four phrases are connected to the fifth phrase. If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “and having been made known through the prophetic writings, according to the command of the eternal God, to the obedience of faith, to all the nations”

the prophetic writings, … the command of the eternal God, to the obedience of faith

Quote: Γραφῶν προφητικῶν & ἐπιταγὴν τοῦ αἰωνίου Θεοῦ εἰς ὑπακοὴν πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of writings, command, obedience, and faith, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what was written by the prophets … what the eternal God commanded, that we should obey as an act of faith”

to the obedience of faith

Quote: εἰς ὑπακοὴν πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that this is a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of the obedience of faith”

the obedience of faith

Quote: ὑπακοὴν πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:5.

having been made known

Quote: γνωρισθέντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God having made known”

Romans 16:27

to the only wise God

Quote: μόνῳ σοφῷ Θεῷ (1)

Alternate translation: “to God who alone is wise”

to whom {be} the glory

Quote: ᾧ ἡ δόξα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word glory, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “may people glorify him”