Galatians

Galatians front

Introduction to Galatians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the book of Galatians

1. Paul declares his authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ; he says that he is surprised by the false teachings that the Christians in Galatia have accepted from other people (1:1-10).
2. Paul says that people are saved by trusting in Christ alone, not by keeping the law of Moses (1:11-2:21).
3. God puts people right with himself only when they trust in Christ; the example of Abraham; the curse which the law brings (and not a means of salvation); slavery and freedom compared and illustrated by Hagar and Sarah (3:1-4:31).
4. When people are joined to Christ, they become free from having to keep the law of Moses. They are also free to live as the Holy Spirit guides them. They are free to refuse the demands of sin. They are free to bear each other’s burdens (5:1-6:10).
5. Paul warns the Christians not to trust in being circumcised and in keeping the law of Moses. Instead, they must trust in Christ (6:11-18).

Who wrote the book of Galatians?

Paul wrote the book of Galatians. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he came to trust in Jesus Christ, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire, telling people about Jesus and establishing churches.

It is uncertain when Paul wrote this letter and where he was when he wrote it. Some Bible scholars think Paul was in the city of Ephesus and wrote this letter after the second time he traveled to tell people about Jesus and establish churches. Other scholars think Paul was in the city of Antioch in Syria and wrote the letter soon after the first time he traveled.

What is the book of Galatians about?

Paul wrote this letter to both Jewish and non-Jewish Christians in the region of Galatia. He wanted to write against the false teachers who said that Christians need to follow the law of Moses. Paul defended the gospel by explaining that Christians only need to believe in Jesus Christ, and they do not need to practice the law of Moses. In the book of Galatians Paul explains that people are saved as result of believing in Jesus and not as a result of obeying the law of Moses, and he proves this by using various Old Testament passages to illustrate this truth. (See: good news, gospel, save, saved, safe, salvation, faith and law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and INVALID bible/kt/works)

How should the title of this book be translated?

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

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What does it mean to “live like Jews” (2:14)?

To “live like Jews” means to obey the law of Moses, even though one trusts in Christ. The people who taught that it was necessary to follow the law of Moses in addition to believing in Jesus were called “Judaizers.”

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

How did Paul use the terms “law” and “grace” in the book of Galatians?

These terms are used in a unique way in Galatians. There is an important teaching in Galatians about Christian living. Under the law of Moses, righteous or holy living required a person to obey a set of rules and regulations. As Christians, holy living is now motivated by grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This means that Christians have freedom in Christ and are not required to obey a specific set of rules. Instead, Christians are to live a holy life because they are thankful that God has been so kind to them. This is called “the law of Christ.” (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness and holy, holiness, unholy, sacred)

What did Paul mean by the expressions “in Christ” and “in Christ Jesus"?

Paul uses the spatial metaphor “in Christ” or the related phrase “in Christ Jesus” very frequently in this letter. These expressions occur with metaphorical meaning in 1:22; 2:4,17; 3:14, 26, 28; and 5:6. Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union between Christ and the people who believe in him. This metaphor emphasizes that believers are as closely united to Christ as if they were inside him. Paul believes that this is true for all believers. Sometimes he uses “in Christ” simply to identify that what he is speaking about is true for those who believe in Jesus. Other times, he emphasizes union with Christ as the means or the basis for some statement or exhortation. Sometimes when Paul uses the phrase “in Christ,” he intends a different meaning. See, for example, 2:16, where Paul says “we also believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be justified by faith in Christ” and see 2:17 where Paul spoke of Christ being the object of faith when he said “seeking to be justified in Christ.” See the notes on specific verses for help in understanding the contextual meaning of “in Christ” and related phrases. (See: Metaphor)

Please see the introduction to the book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

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

• “Foolish Galatians, whose evil eye has harmed you? Was not Jesus Christ depicted as crucified before your eyes” (3:1)? The ULT, UST, and the other modern versions have this reading. However, older versions of the Bible add, “[so] that ye should not obey the truth.” Translators are advised not to include this expression. However, if in the translators’ region there are older Bible versions that have the passage, 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 Galatians. (See: Textual Variants)

Galatians 1

Galatians 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul started this letter differently than his other letters. He adds that he was an apostle “not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, the one having raised him from the dead.” Paul probably included these words because false teachers were opposing him and trying to undermine his authority.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Heresy

God eternally saves people only through the true, biblical gospel. God condemns any other version of the gospel. Paul asks God to curse those who teach a false gospel. (See: save, saved, safe, salvation, eternity, everlasting, eternal, forever, good news, gospel and condemn, condemned, condemnation and curse, cursed, cursing)

Paul’s qualifications

Some people in the early church were teaching that Gentiles needed to obey the law of Moses. To refute this teaching, in verses 13-16 Paul explains that he was formerly a zealous Jew, but he still needed God to save him through believing in Jesus. As a Jew, and as the apostle to Gentile people, Paul was uniquely qualified to address this issue. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“You are turning so quickly to a different gospel”

The book of Galatians is one of Paul’s earliest letters in Scripture. It shows that heresies troubled even the early church. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Galatians 1:1

Paul

Quote: Παῦλος (1)

Here, Paul is introducing himself as the author of this letter. Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. Use that here. Alternate translation: “This letter is from me, Paul”

Paul

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

Paul is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the first person. Alternate translation: “This letter is from me, Paul” or “I, Paul”

not from men nor through man

Quote: οὐκ ἀπ’ ἀνθρώπων, οὐδὲ δι’ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate this phrase using only one negative word. Alternate translation: “not from men or through man”

not from men

Quote: οὐκ ἀπ’ ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word from indicates source. The phrase not from men means that humans are not the source of Paul’s apostleship and that he was not commissioned or appointed to be an apostle by human beings. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “not sent out by people” or “not because I was appointed and sent by a group of people”

men … man

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

Although the terms men and man are masculine, Paul uses them here in a generic sense to refer to humans in general. Alternate translation: “humans … humans” or “people … a person”

through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father

Quote: δι’ ἀνθρώπου, ἀλλὰ διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς (1)

Both times that the word through is used in this verse it indicates agency or means and refers to the agency or means by which Paul’s was commissioned as an apostle. Choose the best word in your language to indicate the meaning of the word through here. Alternate translation: “through the agency of man, but through the agency of Jesus Christ and God the Father”

but

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

The word but introduces a contrast. Here, the word but introduces a contrast between different potential agents or means of Paul’s commission. The contrast is between Paul’s apostleship being not through man but rather through Jesus Christ and God the Father. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but rather”

God the Father, the one having raised him from the dead

Quote: Θεοῦ Πατρὸς τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

The phrase the one having raised him from the dead gives further information about God the Father. It is not making a distinction between God the Father and the one having raised him from the dead as if they are two separate entities. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “God the Father, who is the same one who made Jesus Christ live again after he died” or “God the Father, who caused Jesus Christ to live again after he had died”

God the Father

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

Here, the phrase the Father could be (1) a general title for God which identifies him as the first person in the Christian Trinity. If you choose this option, then you should not define whose Father God is in your translation but, rather, you should use a general expression like the ULT does. (2) referring to God’s relationship to those who believe in Christ. Alternate translation: “God our Father”

from the dead

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

Paul is using the adjective dead as a noun in order to indicate a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “from among the people who have died”

from the dead

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

Here, the phrase the dead could be a figurative way of referring to a place, in which case it would be referring to “the place of the dead” or “the realm of the dead.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from the place of the dead” or “from the realm of the dead”

Galatians 1:2

brothers

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

Here, although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using it in a generic sense to refer to fellow Christians, both men and women. Paul views all those who believe in Jesus as members of one spiritual family with God as their heavenly Father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could indicate explicitly what it means. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

of Galatia

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

Here, the word Galatia could refer to: (1) the Roman political province called Galatia. Alternate translation: “in the province of Galatia” or (2) the geographical region known as Galatia. Alternate translation: “in the region of Galatia” If it would help your readers, you could state explicitly what the word Galatia refers to here.

of Galatia

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

Paul uses the possessive form here to describe churches that are in Roman political province called Galatia or in the geographical region known as Galatia. If this use of the possessive form is not clear in your language, you could clarify the meaning using a form that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in the province of Galatia” or “in the region of Galatia”

Galatians 1:3

Grace to you and peace

Quote: χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

This is a common blessing that Paul often uses in the beginning of his letters. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace”

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

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of Grace and peace, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns grace and peace with adjectives such as “gracious” and “peaceful.” Alternate translation: “May God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be gracious to you and make you peaceful”

to you

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

Here, the word you is plural and refers to the Galatians. Unless noted otherwise, all instances of “you” and “your” in this letter refer to the Galatians and are plural.

God the Father

Quote: Θεοῦ Πατρὸς (1)

See how you chose to translate the phrase God the Father in 1:1.

our

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

Here, the word our refers to Paul, the believers in Galatia, and all believers in Jesus, and so is inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form. In this book, unless otherwise stated, the word “our” refers to Paul, the believers in Galatia, and all believers, and is inclusive.

Galatians 1:4

the one having given himself for our sins so that he might deliver us from the present evil age

Quote: τοῦ δόντος ἑαυτὸν περὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν, ὅπως ἐξέληται ἡμᾶς ἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

The phrase the one having given himself for our sins so that he might deliver us from the present evil age gives us further information about “our Lord Jesus Christ” mentioned at the end of 1:3. It is not making a distinction. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who is the one having given himself for our sins so that he might deliver us from the present evil age”

for our sins

Quote: περὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, sins figuratively refers to the punishment for sin. The phrase for our sins refers to Christ giving his life as a substitution for the punishment that our sins deserve. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to take the punishment we deserve because of our sins” or “to take the punishment for our sins”

our … our

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

Both uses of our in this verse are inclusive. See the note on our in 1:3.

our sins

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sins, you could express the same idea with an adjective such as "sinful," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Christ gave himself for our sins. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

from the present evil age

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the phrase the present evil age refers not only to a time period but also to the sinful attitudes and actions that characterize the present evil age. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from this present time that is dominated by sinfulness” or “from the evil powers at work in the world today”

of our God and Father

Quote: τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

The phrase and Father gives further information about our God. It is not making a distinction between God and Father as if they are two separate entities. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these words more clear. Alternate translation: “of our God, who is our Father”

Galatians 1:5

the glory

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

The phrase be the glory is an expression of praise. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as "praise," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

Amen

Quote: ἀμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate

Amen is a Hebrew word. Paul spelled it out using Greek letters so his readers would know how it sounded. He assumes that they know that it means “so be it” or “yes indeed.” In your translation, you can spell it the way it sounds in your language. If it would be helpful in your language, you could also explain its meaning. Alternate translation: “Amen, which means, ‘So be it!’”

Galatians 1:6

I am amazed

Quote: θαυμάζω (1)

Alternate translation: “I am surprised” or “I am shocked”

you are turning away so quickly

Quote: οὕτως ταχέως, μετατίθεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase turning away means departing or straying and refers to turning one's heart or mind away from believing and following something. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “you are straying so quickly” or “you are departing so quickly ”

you are turning away

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

The phrase you are turning away is in the present tense and is portraying the action of turning away as being in process, but not yet completed. Make sure that you express this phrase in your language in a way that shows that the Galatians turning away is currently happening, but not complete. (Paul is writing this letter in order to encourage the Galatians not to turn away to a different gospel).

so quickly

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

Here, the phrase so quickly means that the Galatians were turning away from faith in the true gospel shortly after they accepted it. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “from the true gospel so soon after accepting it” or “so rapidly from the true gospel”

from the one having called you

Quote: ἀπὸ τοῦ καλέσαντος ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase the one refers to God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and from God, who is the one who has called you”

having called

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

Here, the phrase called refers to being chosen by God. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having chosen”

in the grace of Christ

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

Here, the word in could: (1) indicate means and be referring to the means by which God called the Galatian believers. Alternate translation: “by the grace of Christ” or “through the grace of Christ” (2) indicate sphere or realm and be referring to the Galatians being called into the sphere or realm of grace. Alternate translation: “into the sphere of the grace of Christ” or “to live in the realm of Christ’s grace” (3) indicate manner and be referring to the manner in which God called the Galatians. Alternate translation: “graciously because of Christ”

the grace

Quote: χάριτι (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 an adjective such as "kindness," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

Galatians 1:7

another

Quote: ἄλλο (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: “another gospel”

except there are certain ones causing you trouble and wanting to pervert the gospel of Christ

Quote: εἰ μή τινές εἰσιν οἱ ταράσσοντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ θέλοντες μεταστρέψαι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If, in your language, the use of the word except makes it appear as though Paul is making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “but certain people are causing you trouble and want to pervert the gospel of Christ”

certain ones

Quote: τινές & οἱ (1)

Alternate translation: “certain people”

causing you trouble

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of trouble, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as "troubling," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “troubling you”

to pervert

Quote: μεταστρέψαι (1)

Alternate translation: “to twist the truth of” or “to change”

the gospel of Christ

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

Paul could be using the possessive form here to: (1) describe the gospel that is about Christ, in which case the possessive form is being used to describe the content of the gospel. Alternate translation: “the gospel about Christ” (2) designate Christ as the one who proclaimed the gospel message to which he is referring, in which case Paul is referring to the gospel message that Christ preached. Alternate translation: “the gospel that Christ proclaimed” or “the gospel that Christ preached”

Galatians 1:8

even if we or an angel from heaven might proclaim to you a gospel other than the one we proclaimed to you, let him be cursed

Quote: καὶ ἐὰν ἡμεῖς ἢ ἄγγελος ἐξ οὐρανοῦ εὐαγγελίζηται ὑμῖν παρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα ὑμῖν, ἀνάθεμα ἔστω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

The word if introduces a hypothetical situation. Paul uses a hypothetical situation to warn the Galatians against any teaching that is contrary to the original gospel message which he taught them. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “if it were to happen that we or an angel from heaven might proclaim to you a gospel other than the one we proclaimed to you, let whoever would do that be cursed” or “suppose it were to happen that we or an angel from heaven might proclaim to you a gospel other than the one we proclaimed to you. Let whoever would do that be cursed”

we … we proclaimed

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

When Paul says we here, he is not including the Galatians, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we

Quote: ἡμεῖς (1)

Alternate translation: “I or my co-laborers in the gospel”

might proclaim to you a gospel

Quote: εὐαγγελίζηται ὑμῖν (1)

Alternate translation: “might proclaim to you a gospel message” or “might proclaim to you a message of good news”

other than the one we proclaimed

Quote: παρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase the one refers to the gospel message that Paul and his co-laborers had proclaimed to the Galatians. IIf it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “different from the gospel we proclaimed” or “different from the message we proclaimed”

let him be cursed

Quote: ἀνάθεμα ἔστω (1)

If your language has a common way of asking God to curse someone or of calling down a curse on someone, and it would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it here.

let him be cursed

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of someone being cursed, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “curse.” Alternate translation: “let God curse him”

let him be cursed

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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” is the one who will do it. Alternate translation: “let God curse him”

let him be cursed

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

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

Galatians 1:9

we have said before

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

When Paul says we, he is not including the Galatians, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

If anyone proclaims to you a gospel

Quote: εἴ τις ὑμᾶς εὐαγγελίζεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

The word If introduces a hypothetical situation. Paul is using a hypothetical situation to warn the Galatians against any teaching that is contrary to the original gospel message that they were taught. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “If it were to happen that someone would proclaim to you a gospel”

other than the one

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

See how you translated the phrase other than the one in 1:8.

let him be cursed

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

See how you translated the phrase let him be cursed in 1:8.

let him be cursed

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

Although the term him is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. See how you translated the phrase let him be cursed in 1:8. Alternate translation: “let that person be cursed”

Galatians 1:10

For

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

Here, the word For is being used to introduce Paul’s argument against an implied assertion that he altered the content of his gospel message in order to make it more acceptable to people. If it would help your readers, you could express the implied assertion explicitly. Alternative translation: "Despite their charges,"

For am I now trying to persuade men, or God? Or am I seeking to please men

Quote: ἄρτι γὰρ ἀνθρώπους πείθω ἢ τὸν Θεόν? ἢ ζητῶ ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

By using these two rhetorical questions, Paul is not asking the Galatians for information, but is using the question form for emphasis and to engage his readers' thinking. 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 I do not seek to persuade men, but instead I only seek the approval of God! I am not seeking to please men!” or “For I do not seek the approval of men, but instead I only seek the approval of God! I am not seeking to please men!”

am I now trying to persuade men, or God? Or am I seeking to please men? If I were still pleasing men

Quote: ἄρτι & ἀνθρώπους πείθω ἢ τὸν Θεόν? ἢ ζητῶ ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκειν? εἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον (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, and refers to “people” in general. Alternate translation: “do I now persuade people, or God? Or do I seek to please people? If I were still pleasing people”

If I were still pleasing men, I would not be a servant of Christ

Quote: εἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον, Χριστοῦ δοῦλος οὐκ ἂν ἤμην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

The word If introduces a hypothetical condition. Paul is using a hypothetical situation to teach the Galatians. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a hypothetical situation, or if it would help your readers, you could state Paul’s meaning in plain language. Alternate translation: “I am not still pleasing men, because I am a servant of Christ” or “If I were still pleasing people, then I would not be serving Christ”

Galatians 1:11

For

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

Here, the word For is used to introduce a supporting statement that further supports and gives reason for Paul’s prior statement. Use a form that would be natural in your language for introducing a statement that supports a prior statement.

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 and refers to those who believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

having been proclaimed by me

Quote: τὸ εὐαγγελισθὲν ὑπ’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that I proclaimed”

is not according to man

Quote: ὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν κατὰ ἄνθρωπον (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, and refers to “humans.” Alternate translation: “did not come from a human” or “is not a human message” or “is not a message that people made up”

Galatians 1:12

For

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

Here, the word For could be being used to introduce: (1) the grounds or basis for Paul’s assertion in 1:11, in which case what follows the word For is being used as support for what Paul said in 1:11. Use a form that would be natural for introducing a statement which gives supporting evidence. Alternate translation: “In support of my claim that the gospel I proclaimed is not according to man, I want you to know that” (2) a statement which explains and builds on Paul’s assertion in 1:11. Use a form that would be natural for introducing a statement which further clarifies and explains a prior statement. Alternate translation: “To explain further, I want you to know” or “That is”

neither I did receive it from man, nor was I taught it

Quote: οὐδὲ & ἐγὼ παρὰ ἀνθρώπου παρέλαβον αὐτό, οὔτε ἐδιδάχθην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The phrase I did not receive it from man and the phrase nor was I taught it mean basically the same thing. If saying the same thing twice might confuse your readers, you could combine the two phrases into one. Alternate translation: “I did not receive the gospel that I proclaim from any person”

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 and refers to humans. See how you translated the word man in 1:11 where it is used with a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “people” or “humans” or “a human source”

was I taught it

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form, or in another way that is natural in your language.

it … was I taught it

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

Here, both occurrences of the word it refer back to the gospel which Paul proclaimed, which he mentioned in 1:11. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the gospel that I proclaimed … did I learn the gospel by the teaching of man”

was I taught it

Quote: ἐδιδάχθην (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: “was I taught it by any person” or “was I taught it by man” or “was I taught it by a human being”

but

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

What follows the word but is in contrast to the phrases receive it from man and taught it. In contrast to Paul receiving the message he proclaimed from a human source or being taught it, Paul received the gospel message from a divine source. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but, rather,” or “but, instead,”

by

Quote: δι’ (1)

Alternate translation: “through a”

revelation of Jesus Christ

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of revelation, you could express the same idea with a verb such as “revealing,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God revealing Jesus Christ”

by revelation of Jesus Christ

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

Paul could be using the possessive form here to mean: (1) that God revealed Jesus Christ to Paul. See the phrase “to reveal his Son in me” in 1:16. Alternate translation: “God revealed Jesus Christ to me” or “God made me know the gospel when he showed Jesus Christ to me” (2) that it was Jesus Christ who made the revelation to Paul. Alternate translation: “by what Jesus Christ revealed to me” (3) that Jesus revealed himself to Paul and taught him the message that he preached. Alternate translation: “Jesus Christ revealed himself to me and taught me the gospel about himself” or “Jesus Christ revealed himself to me and taught me the gospel concerning himself”

but by revelation of Jesus Christ

Quote: ἀλλὰ δι’ ἀποκαλύψεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (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 your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “but I received it by a revelation of Jesus Christ” or “but I was taught it by revelation of Jesus Christ”

Galatians 1:13

my former manner of life

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of manner and life, you could express the same idea with a verbal phrase such as “how I formerly lived,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “how I formerly lived” or “how I formerly conducted myself” or “how I formerly behaved”

in Judaism

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

Here, the phrase in Judaism refers to following the Jewish religious guidelines. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “following the Jewish religion” or “following the Jewish religious guidelines”

beyond measure

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

The phrase beyond measure is an idiom meaning “excessively.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “excessively” or “to an extreme degree” or “intensely”

Galatians 1:14

in Judaism

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

See how you translated the phrase in Judaism in 1:13 where it is used with a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “in the Jewish religion”

race

Quote: τῷ γένει (1)

Alternate translation: “nation”

my race

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

The word race is a singular noun that 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: “my ethnic group, the Jews” or “my people, the Jews” or “the Jewish people”

of my fathers

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

Here, the word fathers means “ancestors.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of my ancestors”

Galatians 1:15

But

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

What follows the word But here is in contrast to what was expected. What would be expected is that Paul would continue thinking and acting according to the way he formerly did, as he described in 1:14. Instead, God called Paul, and as the next verse says, God revealed Jesus to him so that he might teach the Gentiles about Jesus. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “But then”

the one

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

Here, the phrase the one refers to God. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God”

when the one having set me apart from the womb of my mother and having called {me} through his grace was pleased

Quote: ὅτε & εὐδόκησεν ὁ, ἀφορίσας με ἐκ κοιλίας μητρός μου, καὶ καλέσας διὰ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

The statement having set me apart from the womb of my mother and having called {me} through his grace gives us further information about the the one (God). It is not making a distinction. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “when God, who is the one who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me through his grace, was pleased”

from the womb of my mother

Quote: ἐκ κοιλίας μητρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase from the womb of my mother is a Hebrew idiom which means either “from the day of my birth” or “from before birth.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “from the day I was born” or “from before I was birthed”

having called {me

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

Here, the word called means chosen and summoned. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having chosen and summoned me”

his grace

Quote: τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ (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 in another way. Alternate translation: “how gracious he is”

Galatians 1:16

to reveal his Son in me

Quote: ἀποκαλύψαι τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase reveal his Son in me could mean: (1) that God revealed his Son to Paul, revealing to Paul who Jesus was so that Paul had an inward knowledge of who Jesus really was. Alternate translation: “to reveal to me his Son” or “to reveal to me who his Son really is” (2) that God revealed his Son to others through Paul. Alternate translation: “to reveal his Son to others through me” or “to reveal his Son to others by me”

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. After the phrase so that Paul states the purpose for which God revealed his Son to Paul, namely so that he might preach him among the Gentiles. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

I might preach him

Quote: εὐαγγελίζωμαι αὐτὸν (1)

Alternate translation: “I might proclaim the good news about God’s Son”

flesh and blood

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

Paul refers figuratively to human beings by naming a few of the things that a human being is made of, specifically flesh and blood. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. Alternate translation: “any person” or “anyone”

Galatians 1:17

did I go up to Jerusalem

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

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for people to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it. Your language may say ”come” rather than go in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “did I come up to Jerusalem”

Instead

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

What follows the word Instead is in contrast to what was expected. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast.

I went to

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

Your language may say “came” rather than went in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “I came to”

Galatians 1:18

Then

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

The word Then indicates that the events Paul will now relate came after the events just described. Use a natural form in your language for indicating this.

I went up to Jerusalem

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

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for people to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it. Your language may say “came” rather than went in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “I came up to Jerusalem”

Galatians 1:19

I did not see any of the other apostles except James

Quote: ἕτερον & τῶν ἀποστόλων οὐκ εἶδον, εἰ μὴ Ἰάκωβον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “the only other apostle I saw was James”

Galatians 1:20

behold

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

The word behold is an exclamation word which is used to draw attention to the words that follow. Use an exclamation that would be natural, in your language, to use in this context. Alternate translation: “observe”

I am not lying

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

Here, Paul uses a phrase 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 telling you the truth”

before God

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

Here, the phrase before God is an oath. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an oath from your language that would be appropriate in this context, or you could make it clear in your translation that Paul is making an oath. Alternate translation: “I solemnly testify before God” or “in God’s presence I testify” or “I swear with God as my witness” or “I swear before God”

Galatians 1:21

Then I went to

Quote: ἔπειτα ἦλθον εἰς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

The word Then indicates that the events Paul will now relate came after the events Paul has described in 1:18-19. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase or by expressing the meaning in some other way that is natural to your readers. Alternate translation: “After I left Jerusalem I went to” or “After that I went to” or “Afterward I went to”

Galatians 1:22

I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea {that are} in Christ

Quote: ἤμην & ἀγνοούμενος τῷ προσώπῳ ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Ἰουδαίας, ταῖς ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “none of the people in the churches of Judea that are in Christ had ever met me”

I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea {that are} in Christ

Quote: ἤμην & ἀγνοούμενος τῷ προσώπῳ ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Ἰουδαίας, ταῖς ἐν Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses the main feature of his appearance, his face, to refer to seeing his entire person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language.

in Christ

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

Paul uses the spatial metaphor in Christ to describe the union believers have with Christ. Here, this phrase is specifically describing and modifying the churches of Judea. If it would help your readers, you could use a fuller phrase to describe what the phrase “in Christ” means here. See the discussion of this phrase in Part 3: Important Translation Issues in the Introduction to Galatians section. Alternate translation: “in union with Christ”

Galatians 1:23

But

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

Here, the word But is introducing a contrast between what the Judean believers did know about Paul (they were hearing that he was now proclaiming the faith) and what they did not know about Paul (how he looked, 1:22). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather,”

they were only hearing

Quote: μόνον & ἀκούοντες ἦσαν (1)

Alternate translation: “all that the believers in the region of Judea knew about me was that people were saying” or “all that the people belonging to the churches in the region of Judea knew about me was that people were saying”

The one

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

Here, the phrase The one refers to Paul. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly.

the faith

Quote: τὴν πίστιν (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 some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the message about Jesus”

the faith

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

Here, the faith refers to the good news about Jesus, which includes the need to have faith in Jesus to be saved. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the good news about Jesus”

he … was destroying

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

Here, the word destroying refers to trying to stop the spread of the Christian message. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly.

Galatians 1:24

in me

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

Here, the phrase in me means “because of me” and is giving the reason why the Judean believers were praising God, namely because of Paul’s conversion and work of proclaiming the gospel. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “because of me” or "because of what God was doing with me"

Galatians 2

Galatians 2 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Paul continues to defend the true gospel. This defense began in Galatians 1:11.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Freedom and slavery

Throughout this letter, Paul contrasts freedom and slavery. Paul describes trying to follow the law of Moses as a type of slavery. The Christian is free in Christ from being under the authority of the law of Moses and from the condemnation that the law of Moses brings. The Christian, through union with Christ in his death and resurrection, had by believing in Christ, is set free from the penalty and power of sin. The Christian is empowered by the Spirit to live a life of spiritual freedom and obedience to God. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“I do not negate the grace of God”

Paul teaches that if a Christian attempts to follow the law of Moses to obtain righteousness, that person does not understand the grace which God has shown to them through the work of Christ. This is a fundamental error. Paul uses the words “I do not negate the grace of God” as a type of hypothetical situation. The purpose of this statement could be seen as, “If you could be saved by following the law, then it would negate the grace of God.” (See: grace, gracious and Hypothetical Situations)

“the law”

The phrase “the law” contains a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. This phrase occurs in chapters 2-5, and quite frequently in chapters 2 and 3. Every time this phrase occurs in Galatians, it refers to the group of laws that God dictated to Moses at Mount Sinai. You should translate this phrase the same way each time it occurs. (See: Collective Nouns)

Galatians 2:1

Then

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

The word Then indicates that the events Paul will now relate came after the events just described. See how you translated the word Then in 1:18 where it is used with the same meaning.

I went up … to Jerusalem

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

See how you translated the similar phrase “I went up to Jerusalem” in 1:18.

I went up

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

Your language may say “came” rather than went in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “I came up”

Galatians 2:2

Now

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

Here, the word Now introduces background information. Use a natural way in your language for introducing background information.

I went up

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

See how you translated the phrase I went up in 2:1.

according to a revelation

Quote: κατὰ ἀποκάλυψιν (1)

Alternate translation: “because God told me to” or “because God revealed to me that I should” or “in response to a revelation”

according to a revelation

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of revelation, you could express the same idea with a verb such as “revealed,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

set before them

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

Here, the phrase set before means to communicate something to someone for the purpose of receiving their opinion regarding it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “communicated to them” or “related to them”

them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Most Bible scholars think that them here refers to meetings with two different groups of people with whom Paul met while in Jerusalem, one meeting with a large number of Christians from Jerusalem and a smaller meeting with just the apostles. The phrase but privately to the ones seeming to be important is only describing the latter meeting, as it is only this meeting which is relevant to what Paul is trying to communicate here. When translating the word them, make sure that you use a word or phrase that allows for both meetings to be included.

but privately to the ones

Quote: κατ’ ἰδίαν δὲ τοῖς (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: “but privately I set it before the ones”

to the ones seeming to be important

Quote: τοῖς δοκοῦσιν (1)

Alternate translation: “to the men who seemed to be influential” or “to those who were recognized as leaders of the believers in Jerusalem” or “to those who were leaders of the church in Jerusalem”

lest I might run—or had run—in vain

Quote: μή πως εἰς κενὸν τρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον (1)

Alternate translation: “to ensure I was doing profitable work”

lest I might run—or had run—in vain

Quote: μή πως εἰς κενὸν τρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By saying lest I might run—or had run—in vain Paul is not expressing doubt regarding the validity or accuracy of the message about Jesus that he preached. Rather, he is referring to the possibility that if the apostles of Jesus were to publicly disagree with his message, then it would or could cause people to no longer believe it, in which case his work of teaching people the message about Jesus would or could have no lasting results. Translate this phrase in a way that avoids making it appear as if Paul is questioning the content or validity of the message he proclaims. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate more explicitly what this phrase means.

I might run—or had run

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

Here, Paul uses the word run to mean work. Paul specifically means working for the advancement of the gospel. Paul uses the word run to bring to the Galatians’ minds the image of a runner who is running a race in order to win a prize. If this image is familiar to people in your culture, consider using this metaphor. If this image is not familiar to your readers, consider stating this idea in plain language. Alternate translation: “I might work for the advancement of the gospel—or had worked” or “I might work for the spread of the good news—or had worked for it”

in vain

Quote: εἰς κενὸν (1)

Alternate translation: “for no purpose” or “without positive results” or “for nothing”

Galatians 2:3

But

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

Here, the word But is introducing an idea that is in contrast to an idea that was presented in 2:2. Paul is probably presenting the fact that not even Titus … was forced to be circumcised as being in contrast to the idea in 2:2 that he might have “run in vain” (labored in vain). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “On the contrary,” (

not even Titus, the one with me, being a Greek

Quote: οὐδὲ Τίτος ὁ σὺν ἐμοί, Ἕλλην ὤν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

The phrase the one with me and the phrase being a Greek both give further information about Titus. Neither of these phrases is making a distinction between Titus and some other person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “not even Titus, my non-Jewish ministry partner”

not even Titus, the one with me, being a Greek, was forced to be circumcised

Quote: οὐδὲ Τίτος ὁ σὺν ἐμοί, Ἕλλην ὤν, ἠναγκάσθη περιτμηθῆναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

The phrase was forced to be circumcised is passive. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the leaders of the church in Jerusalem did not even require my Greek ministry partner, Titus, to be circumcised”

Galatians 2:4

But it was because of

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

The word But could: (1) be connected to 2:3 and be giving the reason why some people were demanding that Titus be circumcised. Alternate translation: “But this issue occurred because of” (2) be connected to 2:1-2 and be giving the reason why Paul “went up again to Jerusalem” and privately “set before” (communicated to) the church leaders in Jerusalem the gospel that he proclaimed among the Gentiles. Alternate translation: “But I talked to them privately because of” or “But we went to Jerusalem because of”

secretly brought in false brothers, who came in secretly to spy on

Quote: παρεισάκτους ψευδαδέλφους, οἵτινες παρεισῆλθον κατασκοπῆσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Using the phrase false brothers, Paul speaks of these people as if they were spies with bad motives. He means that they pretended to be fellow believers, but their intent was to observe what Paul and the other believers were doing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “people who pretended to be Christians, who came into our midst in order to watch us closely” or “people who said they were Christians but were not, who came into our group to view closely”

secretly brought in

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

In the original language in which Paul wrote this letter, the word which the ULT translates as brought in, could mean: (1) that these false brothers were invited in by someone. Alternate translation: “secretly invited” or (2) that they came into the midst of the believers by their own initiative. Alternate translation: “deceptive coming of”

false brothers

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

Here, the word brothers does not refer to biological brothers but to believers in Jesus. The phrase false brothers refers to those who only pretended to be fellow believers in Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly.

to spy on our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus

Quote: κατασκοπῆσαι τὴν ἐλευθερίαν ἡμῶν, ἣν ἔχομεν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of freedom, you could express the same idea with with a verb such as freed or an adjective such as “free.”

we have

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

When Paul says we, he is speaking of himself, his traveling companions, and the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

so that they will enslave us

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

Paul is speaking about how these people wanted to force the Galatian believers to follow the Jewish rituals that the law commanded. He is speaking about following the law as if it were slavery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to force us to obey the law” or “in order to make us slaves to the law”

Galatians 2:5

we did … yield

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

When Paul says we, he is not including the Galatian believers, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we did not even yield in submission to them

Quote: οἷς οὐδὲ & εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, to not … yield in submission means to not agree with and comply with the demands of the people who said that Titus needed to be circumcised. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “we did not give in to their demands” or “we did not comply with what they wanted us to do”

we did … yield in submission

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of submission, you could express the same idea with a verbal phrase, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

an hour

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

Here, the phrase an hour refers to a short period of time. If you have an equivalent expression in your culture, you could use that, or if it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate Paul’s meaning in plain language. Alternate translation: “a short period of time” or “a short amount of time”

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Paul and his ministry partners did not even yield in submission to those who taught that circumcision was necessary. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

the truth of the gospel

Quote: ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ εὐαγγελίου (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 an adjective such as "true" or "correct," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

the truth of the gospel

Quote: ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ εὐαγγελίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the possessive form is used to describe the truth that belongs to and is contained within the gospel message. It is also being used to contrast the genuine and correct gospel with false gospels such as the one Paul is refuting in this letter. If this is not clear in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers.

Galatians 2:6

But

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

Here, Paul uses the word But to introduce something that is in contrast to what the false brothers in 2:4 wanted to do. The false brothers wanted to enslave the believers by adding the requirement of circumcision to the gospel message. Beginning in this verse and continuing in 2:6-10, Paul explains that, in contrast to the actions of the false brothers, the leaders of the church in Jerusalem did not require that Paul add anything to the content of his gospel message. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather” (

the ones seeming to be something

Quote: τῶν δοκούντων εἶναί τι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase the ones seeming to be something implies the word “important” and is very similar in meaning to the phrase the ones seeming important at the end of this verse. If it would help your readers, you could express the implied word explicitly. Alternate translation: “the ones seeming to be something important”

what sort they were formerly matters nothing to me; God does not accept the face of man

Quote: ὁποῖοί ποτε ἦσαν, οὐδέν μοι διαφέρει, πρόσωπον ὁ Θεὸς ἀνθρώπου οὐ λαμβάνει (1)

The statement what sort they were formerly matters nothing to me; God does not accept the face of man is a parenthetical statement. Use a natural form in your language for introducing and/or expressing a parenthetical statement.

what sort

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

The phrase what sort implies the words “of people.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “what sort of people”

what sort they were formerly matters nothing to me

Quote: ὁποῖοί ποτε ἦσαν, οὐδέν μοι διαφέρει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase what sort they were formerly matters nothing to me does not mean that Paul did not regard these people’s character as important but, rather, it means that he did not let their status or position influence his decision making. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly.

God does not accept the face of man

Quote: πρόσωπον ὁ Θεὸς ἀνθρώπου οὐ λαμβάνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the term face means “external status and position.” The phrase God does not accept the face of man is an idiom which means that God does not base his judgements and decisions on appearances or external factors. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “God does not judge with partiality” or “God does not look at external factors when making decisions” or “God does not show partiality”

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 general sense to mean all people in general, including women. Alternate translation: “of a person”

the ones seeming important

Quote: οἱ δοκοῦντες (1)

See how you translated the similar phrase, “the ones seeming to be important” in 2:2.

added nothing to me

Quote: ἐμοὶ & οὐδὲν προσανέθεντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, me represents what Paul was teaching. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “added nothing to what I teach” or “did not add anything to my message”

Galatians 2:7

But on the contrary

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

Paul uses the phrase But on the contrary to introduce a further contrast to the idea that the leaders in Jerusalem might have added anything to the content of his message. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather”

having seen

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

Here, the phrase having seen means “having understood.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly.

I had been entrusted with

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God had entrusted me with”

to the uncircumcision, just as Peter to the circumcision

Quote: ἀκροβυστίας, καθὼς Πέτρος τῆς περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul is describing non-Jewish people by association with something they would not have had done to them, circumcision, and he is describing Jewish people by association with something they would have had done to them, circumcision. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language.

Galatians 2:8

for the one having worked in Peter for apostleship to the circumcision also worked in me to the Gentiles

Quote: ὁ γὰρ ἐνεργήσας Πέτρῳ εἰς ἀποστολὴν τῆς περιτομῆς, ἐνήργησεν καὶ ἐμοὶ εἰς τὰ ἔθνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This entire verse is a parenthetical statement. In this verse Paul gives the reason why the leaders of the church in Jerusalem determined that Paul was authorized and commissioned by God to bring the gospel to non-Jews. Use a natural form in your language for introducing and/or expressing a parenthetical statement.

the one

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

Here, the one refers to God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God”

to the circumcision

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

See how you translated the phrase the circumcision in 2:7.

also worked in me to the Gentiles

Quote: ἐνήργησεν καὶ ἐμοὶ εἰς τὰ 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: “also worked in me for my apostleship to the Gentiles” or “also worked in me for apostleship to the Gentiles”

Galatians 2:9

having understood the grace having been given to me

Quote: γνόντες τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The abstract noun grace refers to God graciously giving Paul the task of proclaiming the gospel to non-Jews. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace*, you could express the same idea with an adverb such as "graciously" or "kindly," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “having understood the task that God had graciously given to me”

having been given

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

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

the ones seeming to be pillars

Quote: οἱ δοκοῦντες στῦλοι εἶναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, pillars refers to James, Cephas, and John, who were leaders of the believers in Jerusalem. In that culture important leaders of a group were sometimes referred to as pillars because of the support that they provided to the group. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and me, so that we to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcision

Quote: δεξιὰς ἔδωκαν ἐμοὶ καὶ Βαρναβᾷ κοινωνίας, ἵνα ἡμεῖς εἰς τὰ ἔθνη, αὐτοὶ δὲ εἰς τὴν περιτομήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Here, gave the right hand is an action that indicates agreement. Shaking hands indicated that they agreed with each other and were pledging to work together as ministry partners toward the same goal. Essentially, they agreed to be in fellowship, and shaking each other's right hand indicated this. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation. Alternate translation: “affirming that we to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcision”

of fellowship

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fellowship, you could express the same idea in some other way that is natural in your language.

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which James and Cephas and John … gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and Paul. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

we to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcision

Quote: ἡμεῖς εἰς τὰ ἔθνη, αὐτοὶ δὲ εἰς τὴν περιτομήν (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. The words he is leaving out are probably “go” or “proclaim the good news.” If it would help your readers, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “we would go to the Gentiles, and they would go the circumcision” or “we would proclaim the good news to the Gentiles, and they would proclaim the good news to the circumcision”

we

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

When Paul says we here, he is not including the Galatians, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

the circumcision

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

See how you translated the phrase the circumcision in 2:7.

Galatians 2:10

only that we should continue to remember the poor

Quote: μόνον τῶν πτωχῶν ἵνα μνημονεύωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

Here, the word only introduces an exception clause that qualifies Paul’s statement at the end of 2:6 where Paul said that the leaders in Jerusalem added nothing to his message (meaning they did not require him to do or teach anything else). Use an appropriate form in your language so that it does not appear that Paul is making a statement here that contradicts his statement at the end of 2:6.

we should continue to remember

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

When Paul says we here, he is not including the Galatians, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we should continue to remember the poor

Quote: τῶν πτωχῶν & μνημονεύωμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, remember the poor refers to remembering the material needs of the poor. If it would help your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “we should continue to remember to take care of the needs of the poor” or “we should continue to remember to help the poor with their needs”

poor

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

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

Galatians 2:11

But

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

Here, the word But introduces a contrast. The actions that Paul will describe in 2:11-13 are in contrast to the decision that was made in 2:1-10. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast.

when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned

Quote: ὅτε & ἦλθεν Κηφᾶς εἰς Ἀντιόχειαν, κατὰ πρόσωπον αὐτῷ ἀντέστην, ὅτι κατεγνωσμένος ἦν (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 Cephas stood condemned, I opposed him to his face when he came to Antioch”

came

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

Your language may say “went” rather than came in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “went”

I opposed him to his face

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

The phrase opposed him to his face is an idiom which means to confront someone. It could refer specifically to: (1) confronting someone directly, face to face. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I confronted him directly” or “I confronted him face to face” (2) confronting someone in public. (See the phrase “I said to Cephas in front of all of them” in 2:14). Alternate translation: “I confronted him in public”

he stood condemned

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

Here, the phrase he stood condemned means that “he was deserving of blame” or “he was wrong.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “he was deserving of blame” or “he was wrong”

Galatians 2:12

For

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

Here, the word For introduces Paul’s reason for why he opposed Cephas to his face (See: 2:11) and for why Paul claimed in 2:11 that Cephas stood condemned. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a reason. If it would be more natural in your language to state the reason for an action before giving the result, see the note for 2:11 on creating a verse bridge. Alternate translation: “The reason is that” or “The reason that Peter stood condemned is that”

came … they came

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

Your language may say “went” rather than came in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “went … they went”

But

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

Paul uses the word But here to introduce a contrast between how Peter acted before certain ones came from James and how he acted after they came. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast.

was separating himself

Quote: ἀφώριζεν ἑαυτόν (1)

Alternate translation: “was staying away from the Gentile believers”

being afraid of the ones from the circumcision

Quote: φοβούμενος τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

If it would help your readers the reason Peter was afraid can be stated explicitly. See 6:12 where Paul says that those trying to compel the Galatian believers were doing so because they did not want to be persecuted. Alternate translation: “being afraid that the unbelieving Jews might persecute him”

the ones from the circumcision

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

See how you translated the phrase the circumcision in 2:7. Here, the term the circumcision probably refers specifically to Jews who were not believers in Jesus, since it is unlikely that Peter would have feared Jewish Christians or the men whom James sent.

Galatians 2:13

the rest of the Jews

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

Here, the phrase the rest of the Jews refers only to the other Jewish believers who were in Antioch. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly.

so that

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

Here, the phrase so that introduces the result of the hypocritical actions of Cephas (See: 2:12) and the rest of the Jews who joined with him. The result was that Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a result. Alternate translation: “with the result that”

was led astray by their hypocrisy

Quote: συναπήχθη αὐτῶν τῇ ὑποκρίσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase led astray means to influence or convince someone to think and act in a wrong way. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “was influenced by their hypocritical behavior” or “was influenced by their hypocritical behavior so that he also acted hypocritically” or “was influenced by their hypocritical behavior so that he also joined them in acting hypocritically”

even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy

Quote: καὶ Βαρναβᾶς συναπήχθη αὐτῶν τῇ ὑποκρίσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they even led Barnabas astray by their hypocrisy”

by their hypocrisy

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of hypocrisy, you could express the same idea with an adjective such as "hypocritical," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by their hypocritical behavior” or “by their hypocritical actions”

Galatians 2:14

But

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

Here, Paul uses the word But to introduce a contrast between his actions and the wrong actions of Cephas, Barnabas, and the other Jewish believers that he described in 2:12-13. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast.

they were not walking correctly

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

Here, the word walking is a figure of speech which refers to how people act or conduct their lives. In Jewish culture a person’s behavior was spoken of as if that person was walking along a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning using plain language. Alternate translation: “they were not acting correctly” or “they were not conducting their lives correctly”

the truth of the gospel

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in some other way that is natural in your language. See how you translated the phrase the truth of the gospel in 2:5.

If you, being a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews

Quote: εἰ σὺ Ἰουδαῖος, ὑπάρχων ἐθνικῶς καὶ οὐκ Ἰουδαϊκῶς ζῇς, πῶς τὰ ἔθνη ἀναγκάζεις Ἰουδαΐζειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

This is the beginning of a direct quotation in which Paul quotes what he said to Cephas. Some Bible scholars think this quote ends at the end of this verse, while other Bible scholars think that this quotation continues until the end of 2:21. Some Bible scholars think that part of Paul’s words in 2:15-21 could be him summarizing what he said to Peter and the Jews who were present. The ULT uses quotation marks from this point through the end of 2:21. Use a natural way in your language for indicating that Paul’s words from here to the end of 2:21 are a quotation. If you decide that Paul is quoting himself only through the end of this verse, then use a natural way in your language for indicating that Paul’s words from here to the end of this verse are the complete, direct quotation.

If you, being a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews

Quote: εἰ σὺ Ἰουδαῖος, ὑπάρχων ἐθνικῶς καὶ οὐκ Ἰουδαϊκῶς ζῇς, πῶς τὰ ἔθνη ἀναγκάζεις Ἰουδαΐζειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form here to emphatically rebuke Cephas and to help Cephas understand the hypocrisy of his actions. 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 are a Jew, and live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, and so it is very hypocritical for you to force the Gentiles to live like Jews!” or “You are a Jew, and live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, and so it is very wrong for you to force the Gentiles to live like Jews!”

If you, being a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew

Quote: εἰ σὺ Ἰουδαῖος, ὑπάρχων ἐθνικῶς καὶ οὐκ Ἰουδαϊκῶς ζῇς (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 you, being a Jew, live like a Gentile and not a like Jew”

you, … can you force

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

Both occurrences of the word you in this verse refer to Peter and are singular.

Galatians 2:15

We

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

When Paul says We, it could be: (1) inclusive if Paul is still addressing Peter. If you decide that this verse is a continuation of the quotation that began in 2:14, then We is inclusive because Paul is still addressing Peter and would be including Peter and the Jewish Christians in Antioch. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (2) exclusive if you decide that Paul’s quotation of his words to Peter ended at the end 2:14.

We {are} Jews by birth, and not sinners from the Gentiles

Quote: ἡμεῖς φύσει Ἰουδαῖοι καὶ οὐκ ἐξ ἐθνῶν ἁμαρτωλοί (1)

Alternate translation: “We had Jewish parents and are not Gentiles”

sinners from the Gentiles

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

The word sinners was used by Jews as a synonym for non-Jews because non-Jews did not have or adhere to the law of Moses. Paul is not saying that only non-Jewish people are sinners. The rest of this letter will make clear that both Jews and non-Jews are sinners and need God’s forgiveness. If it would help your readers, you could indicate explicitly that the term sinners is what Jews called non-Jews. Alternatively, you could state the meaning in plain language. Alternate translation: “non-Jews who do not have or follow the law of Moses”

Galatians 2:16

but

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

What follows the word but here is in contrast to what would be naturally be expected by a Jewish person in view of 2:15. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “nevertheless”

man

Quote: 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: “person” or “human being”

no man is justified … we might be justified … will be justified

Quote: οὐ δικαιοῦται ἄνθρωπος & δικαιωθῶμεν & δικαιωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God justifies no man … God might justify us … will God justify”

works of the law … works of the law. … works of the law

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

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the types of works to which he is referring. He is specifically referring to works of the Mosaic law. If this is not clear in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers. Alternate translation: “doing the works that are commanded in the law of Moses … doing the things commanded in the law of Moses … doing the things commanded in the law of Moses”

works of the law … works of the law. … works of the law

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of works, you could express the same idea with a verbal form or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: "obeying the law … doing what the law says … obeying the law"

of the law … of the law. … of the law

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

Here, the law is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you could use a different expression. See how you translated the phrase the law in Romans 2:12. Alternate translation: “of God’s laws … of God's laws … of God's laws” or “of the laws God gave Moses … of the laws God gave Moses … of the laws God gave Moses”

except

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “but rather, only”

faith … 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 such as believing or trusts, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

we … we might be justified

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

When Paul says we it could be: (1) inclusive if Paul is still addressing Peter. If you decide that this verse is a continuation of the quotation that began in 2:14, then we is inclusive both times that it occurs in this verse, because Paul is still addressing Peter and would be including Peter and the Jewish Christians in Antioch. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (2) exclusive if you decide that Paul’s quotation of his words to Peter ended at the end 2:14.

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is introducing the purpose for which he and the other Jewish believers believed in Christ Jesus, which is so that they might be justified by faith in Christ. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

For by works of the law not any flesh will be justified

Quote: ὅτι ἐξ ἔργων νόμου, οὐ δικαιωθήσεται πᾶσα σάρξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, the word For re-introduces and re-states the reason why Cephas and the other Jewish believers believed in Christ Jesus. They believed in Jesus Christ because by works of the law no flesh will be justified. The phrase by works of the law no flesh will be justified repeats in slightly different words the earlier phrase in the verse which says no man is justified by works of the law. If it would not be natural in your language to re-introduce the reason after the result, you could re-introduce and re-state the result. Alternate translation: “We believed in Christ Jesus because no flesh will be justified by works of the law”

any flesh

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

The word flesh refers to human beings. Paul uses a part of the human body to refer to the entire human. The phrase any flesh means any person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “any person”

no man … any flesh

Quote: οὐ & ἄνθρωπος & πᾶσα σάρξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Both the words man and flesh refer to people in general and include all people, both Jewish people and Gentile people, and refer to people of all ages and ethnicities. The phrases no man and any flesh exclude all people, both Jewish people and Gentile people. Paul is saying the same thing in two different ways to emphasize that no person, Jew or Gentile, can be justified by obeying the law. Since Paul explains this truth in this passage, you do not need to explain its meaning further here, but make sure to use words or phrases when translating the words “man” and “flesh” which indicate that these words refer to all people of all ages and ethnicities.

Galatians 2:17

But

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

Here Paul uses the word But to introduce new information into his ongoing explanation of why justification is through faith in Christ and not through obeying the law of Moses. Here, Paul is anticipating and answering a possible objection to justification by faith. The word But introduces this. Use a natural form in your language for doing this.

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”

seeking to be justified in Christ

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

The phrase justified in Christ means “made righteous in God’s sight because of being united with Christ by believing in what he has done.” This phrase means the same thing as the phrase justified by faith in Christ in 2:16. See how you translated the phrase “justified by faith in Christ” there and, if it would help your readers, consider stating more fully here what the phrase to be justified in Christ means.

to be justified in Christ

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 will do it. Alternate translation: “for God to justify us through our faith in Christ” or “for God to justify us because of our faith in Christ”

we … were … found

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

Here, we could be: (1) inclusive if Paul is still addressing Peter. If you decide that this verse is a continuation of the quotation that began in 2:14 then we is inclusive because Paul is still addressing Peter and would be including Peter and the Jewish Christians in Antioch. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (2) exclusive if you decide that Paul’s quotation of his words to Peter ended at the end 2:14.

ourselves

Quote: αὐτοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Paul uses the word ourselves for emphasis. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis.

we ourselves were also found {to be} sinners

Quote: εὑρέθημεν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἁμαρτωλοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language.

to be} sinners, {… of sin

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sin or being a sinner, you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

is} Christ then a minister of sin

Quote: ἆρα Χριστὸς ἁμαρτίας διάκονος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The phrase is Christ then a minister of sin is a rhetorical question. Paul is not asking for information, 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 an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way.

May it never be

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

The expression May it never be gives the strongest possible negative answer to the preceding rhetorical question is Christ a minister of sin? Use a natural way in your language for strongly and emphatically negating an idea. Alternate translation: “Of course, that is not true” or “No, never” or “No way”

Galatians 2:18

I again rebuild those things which I destroyed, I prove myself to be a transgressor

Quote: ἃ κατέλυσα, ταῦτα πάλιν οἰκοδομῶ, παραβάτην ἐμαυτὸν συνιστάνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of no longer thinking it is necessary to obey all the laws of Moses as if he were destroying the law of Moses. When he speaks of rebuilding those things, he is referring to going back again to acting like and teaching that it is necessary to keep the laws of Moses. Paul is saying in this verse that he would be sinning if he again tried to go back to living as if it were necessary to obey the laws of Moses after becoming convinced that it was not necessary to obey them in order to please God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly, or you could use a simile.

a transgressor

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of a transgressor, you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “behaving sinfully”

Galatians 2:19

For

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

Here, the word For is introducing the reason that Paul said "May it never be” in 2:17 and is also introducing information which gives support for what he said in 2:18. Use a natural form for introducing a reason for something had been said.

through the law

Quote: διὰ νόμου (1)

Alternate translation: “by means of the law”

through the law, … to the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16. Alternate translation: “through God’s laws … to those laws” or “through the laws God gave Moses … to those laws”

died to the law

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

Here, the phrase, died to the law could: (1) be a metaphor in which died to the law refers to Paul’s new relationship to the law of Moses which he experienced when he realized that trying to obey the law of Moses was not a valid way of earning God’s approval; and as a result he chose to die to the law, by which he means he was released from the power and control of the law of Moses and no longer subjected himself to it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “died to being under the control of the law and am no longer subject to it” or “stopped being subject to the authority of the law of Moses” (2) be a metaphor in which the phrase died to the law means “considered as dead to the requirements of the law of Moses through union with Christ.” The phrase died to the law would then refer to believers’ vicarious death with Christ through their believing in him and their consequent union with him which they have as a result of their faith in him. (See Rom 7:4 and Gal 4:4-5) Alternate translation: “died to the requirements of the law through my union with Christ”

the law, … to the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is introducing the purpose or reason for which he died to the law. The purpose was so that he might live to God. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

I might live to God

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

The phrase live to God means “live for God.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “I might live for God” or “I might live to honor God” or “I might live to please God”

I have been crucified with Christ

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

The phrase I have been crucified with Christ is a metaphor. Paul is not saying that he literally died with Christ. Paul is using this metaphor to express the reality that, as a result of his faith in Christ and the subsequent union with Christ that his faith has brought about, God now views Paul as if he had died with Christ on the cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile.

I have been crucified with Christ

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 the law was the reason Christ had to be put to death. Roman soldiers put Jesus to death, but in context Paul is explaining that it was God’s righteous requirements given in the law that made it necessary for Christ to die so that people could be forgiven.

Galatians 2:20

I no longer live, but Christ lives in me

Quote: ζῶ & οὐκέτι ἐγώ, ζῇ δὲ ἐν ἐμοὶ Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the phrase I no longer live, but Christ lives in me is a metaphor which means that Paul no longer lives for himself and his own self-motivated purposes and desires, but rather, he now lets Christ’s will direct his actions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or you could express the meaning plainly.

that which I now live

Quote: ὃ & νῦν ζῶ (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: “that life which I now live”

that which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith

Quote: ὃ & νῦν ζῶ ἐν σαρκί, ἐν πίστει ζῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, when Paul refers to the life he lives in his earthly body, he is using his life to refer to the actions that he does while living in his body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. Alternate translation: “the actions that I now do while living in my body, I do by faith”

that which I now live in the flesh

Quote: ὃ & νῦν ζῶ ἐν σαρκί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, Paul uses the word flesh, which is one part of his body, to refer to his entire body. The phrase that which I now live in the flesh means that life which I now live in the body and refers to Paul’s present life on earth in his physical body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “that life which I now live in the body” or “that life which I now live in my body”

I live by faith that {is in} the Son of God

Quote: ἐν πίστει ζῶ τῇ τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word by is expressing means and is introducing the means by which Paul now lives, specifically by faith in the Son of God. So when Paul says I live by faith that is in the Son of God he means that he now lives his life by means of having faith in God’s Son. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. See how you translated the similar phrase “through faith in Jesus Christ” in 2:16. Alternate translation: “I live by having faith in God’s Son” or “I live by exercising faith in God’s Son”

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 verbal form such as "trusting," or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

that {is in

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

Here, Paul uses the word that to introduce the specific object of his faith, which is the Son of God and not the law of Moses. Use a natural form to express this use of the word that.

the one having loved me

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

The phrase the one refers to the Son of God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “who is the one having loved me”

having given himself

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

The phrase having given himself means that Jesus voluntarily made himself available as a sacrifice. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having voluntarily given himself as a sacrifice”

Galatians 2:21

I do not set aside

Quote: οὐκ ἀθετῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here, Paul expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative phrase, do not, together with a phrase, set aside 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 strongly affirm” or “I do uphold”

I do not set aside

Quote: οὐκ ἀθετῶ (1)

Alternate translation: “I do not ignore” or “I do not dismiss”

the grace of God

Quote: τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ (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 an adverb or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. See how you translated the similar expression “the grace of Christ” in 1:6. Alternate translation: “what God graciously did”

righteousness {is

Quote: δικαιοσύνη (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 an adjective such as “righteous,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

for if righteousness {is} through the law, then Christ died for nothing

Quote: εἰ γὰρ διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη, ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is not true. Paul stated two times in 2:16 that no person is made righteous before God by obeying the law of Moses. Also, Paul knows that Christ died for a definite purpose. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certainly false, and if your readers might misunderstand this and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as a negative statement. If your language does state things as a hypothetical possibility that the speaker is trying to prove false, then use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “since we know that righteousness is through faith in Christ and not through the law of Moses, or else Christ would have died for nothing” or “for we know that God considers us righteous because we believe in Christ and not because we keep the law of Moses, or else Christ would have died for nothing”

for if righteousness {is} through the law, then Christ died for nothing

Quote: εἰ γὰρ διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη, ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to teach the Galatian believers. Use a natural way in your language for expressing conditional “if … then” constructions.

if righteousness {is} through the law

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

Here, the word through expresses the means by which something happens. The phrase if righteousness is through the law means “if righteousness could be obtained through keeping the law.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “if righteousness could be obtained by keeping the law” or “if a person could be justified by keeping the law”

through the law

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

The phrase through the law is equivalent in meaning to the phrase "by works of the law" in 2:16. See how you translated the phrase “by works of the law” in 2:16 where it occurs twice.

the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

then Christ died for nothing

Quote: ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν (1)

Alternate translation: “then Christ would have accomplished nothing by dying” or “then it was pointless for Christ to die”

Galatians 3

Galatians 3 General Notes

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Equality in Christ

All Christians are equally united to Christ. Ancestry, gender, and status do not matter. All are equal with each other. All are equal in the eyes of God.

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Rhetorical Questions

Paul uses many different rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to convince the Galatians of their wrong thinking. (See: Rhetorical Question)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“Those of faith are children of Abraham”

Bible scholars are divided on what this means. Some believe Christians inherit the promises that God gave to Abraham, so Christians replace the physical descendants of Israel. Others believe Christians spiritually follow Abraham, but they do not inherit all of the promises that God gave to Abraham. In light of Paul’s other teachings and the context here, Paul is probably writing about the Jewish and Gentile Christians sharing the same faith as Abraham did. (See: spirit, wind, breath and Metaphor)

“the law”

The phrase “the law” is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. This phrase occurs in chapters 2-5, and quite frequently in chapters two and three. Every time this phrase occurs in Galatians it refers to the group of laws that God dictated to Moses at Mount Sinai. You should translate this phrase the same way each time it occurs. (See: Collective Nouns)

Galatians 3:1

O

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

O is an exclamation word. Use an exclamation that would be natural to use in this context. Alternate translation: “Oh”

foolish Galatians

Quote: ἀνόητοι Γαλάται (1)

Alternate translation: “you Galatians are without understanding” or “you Galatians who are without understanding”

Who bewitched you

Quote: τίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to rebuke the Galatian believers. 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.

Who bewitched you

Quote: τίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

Paul is using irony to express the fact that the Galatian believers are acting as though someone has put a spell on them. He does not really believe that someone has put a spell on them. In fact, Paul is upset with the Galatians believers for willingly choosing to believe false teachers and letting themselves be deceived. If it would be helpful in your language, consider expressing the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “How can you behave as if someone has put a spell on you”

before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed {as} crucified

Quote: οἷς κατ’ ὀφθαλμοὺς Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς προεγράφη ἐσταυρωμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase publicly portrayed is a metaphor in which Paul is either referring to the practice at that time of someone publicly drawing a picture for people to see or the practice of someone posting a public announcement for people to read. If the first option is what Paul intends then he is referring to his preaching the good news about Jesus as if it were a clear picture that the Galatians had seen with their eyes and if he intends the second option then is referring to his preaching the good news about Jesus as if it were a public announcement which he had posted and which the Galatians had read. Both options have the same general meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you yourselves heard the clear teaching about Jesus being crucified”

was publicly portrayed {as} crucified

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language.

Galatians 3:2

Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing of faith

Quote: ἐξ ἔργων νόμου τὸ Πνεῦμα ἐλάβετε, ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to rebuke the Galatian believers. 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 received the Spirit not by doing what the law says, but by believing what you heard.”

by works of the law

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

See how you translated the phrase by works of the law in 2:16, where it occurs three times.

of the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

by hearing of faith

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

Paul is using the possessive form here to describe the response that the Galatians had when they heard the preaching of the gospel. The Galatians had respond to the preaching of the gospel with faith. If this is not clear in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers. Alternate translation: “by believing what you heard” or “by hearing with faith” or “by trusting in the Messiah when you heard the message about him”

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 verb such as “believing” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: "and believing"

Galatians 3:3

Are you so foolish

Quote: οὕτως ἀνόητοί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to emphatically express his surprise. 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 are very foolish!” or “Don’t be so foolish!” or “Surely you cannot be so foolish!”

Having begun by Spirit, are you now finishing by flesh

Quote: ἐναρξάμενοι Πνεύματι, νῦν σαρκὶ ἐπιτελεῖσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to guide the Galatian believers thinking about what they are doing. 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.

Having begun

Quote: ἐναρξάμενοι (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: “Having begun the Christian life” or “Having begun your new relationship with God”

by flesh

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

Paul is describing the actions people do while in their body by association with their body, which he calls flesh. Here, flesh refers to a reliance on one’s own effort in doing outward deeds and doing these actions with a self-sufficient and self-reliant trust in them instead of trusting in God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “by your own effort”

Galatians 3:4

Have you experienced so many things for nothing

Quote: τοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form in order to try to make the Galatian believers think about the implications of believing and following the false teachers. 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.

Have you experienced so many things for nothing—if indeed it was really for nothing

Quote: τοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ— εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

The original word that Paul used, which is translated as experienced by the ULT, could refer to: (1) experiencing bad things such as suffering. If this is what Paul means here, then he is referring to the suffering that the Galatians believers experienced when they were persecuted. Alternate translation: “Keep in mind that if what God has done for you was because of your obeying the laws that God gave to Moses and not because of trusting in Christ, did you not suffer so many things needlessly? I certainly hope that you did not suffer like that needlessly” (2) the spiritual privileges and blessings that the Galatian believers had experienced such as receiving God’s Spirit and God “working miracles” among them, both of which are mentioned in the next verse. If your language does not allow you to use a neutral term but rather requires a more specific term, you could specify that the things the Galatians experienced were good things. Alternate translation: “Keep in mind that if the good things God has done for you were because you obeyed the laws that God gave to Moses and not because you trusted in Christ, then the good things God has done for you have been wasted. I certainly hope that the good things you have experienced have not been wasted” (3) both good things and bad things and be referring to both the persecution that the Galatians had experienced and the spiritual blessings that they had experienced. Because it is not known for sure the type of things to which Paul is referring, if possible you should try to use a neutral term or expression. You could then translate this rhetorical question as the ULT does or with a similar neutral phrase such as “Did all the things that happened to you not cause you to think about them?”

Have you experienced

Quote: ἐπάθετε (1)

Alternate translation: “Did you experience”

for nothing—if indeed it was really for nothing

Quote: εἰκῇ— εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ (1)

Alternate translation: “uselessly—if indeed it was really useless” or “in vain—if indeed it was really in vain” or “for no purpose—if indeed it was really for no purpose”

if indeed it was really for nothing

Quote: εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

The phrase if indeed it was really for nothing shows contingency regarding his rhetorical question, Have you experienced so many things for nothing, and shows that Paul retains hope for the Galatians. Paul hopes they will not make the many things that they have experienced be for nothing by obeying the false teaching that they must obey the laws of Moses such as the dietary laws and laws about circumcision. Paul is making a hypothetical statement to help his readers recognize the serious implications of following the teachings of these false teachers. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “if indeed it was really for nothing that you experienced so many things, but I hope with you that this is not the case”

if indeed it was really for nothing

Quote: εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The phrase if indeed it was really for nothing is a rhetorical question. Paul is using the question form here to help the Galatians think about what he is saying and demonstrate his continued hope that they will decide against the teachings of the false teachers. 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.

Galatians 3:5

Therefore, the one providing the Spirit to you and working miracles among you, {is it} by works of the law, or by hearing of faith

Quote: ὁ οὖν ἐπιχορηγῶν ὑμῖν τὸ Πνεῦμα καὶ ἐνεργῶν δυνάμεις ἐν ὑμῖν, ἐξ ἔργων νόμου ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This entire verse is a rhetorical question. Paul is using the question form here to teach the Galatians a truth by engaging their reasoning. 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 who gives you his Spirit and does miracles among you does not do these things because you obey the law of Moses. Surely you must know that God gives you these blessings because you believed the good news about the Messiah when you heard it”

the one

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

Here, the phrase the one refers to God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, who is the one”

of the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

by hearing of faith

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

See how you translated the phrase by hearing of faith in 3:02 where it is used with the same meaning.

is it} by works of the law, or by hearing of faith

Quote: ἐξ ἔργων νόμου ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul asks another rhetorical question to remind the Galatians of how they received the Spirit. 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.

is it} by works of the law

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

See how you translated the phrase by works of the law in 2:16 where it occurs three times.

by hearing of faith

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

Your language may require that what the people heard and whom they trusted be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “because you heard the message and had faith in Jesus” or “because you listened to the message and trusted in Jesus”

Galatians 3:6

Just as

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

Here, the phrase Just as indicates that what follows is connected to what preceded it, specifically 3:1-5. The phrase Just as is also introducing new information. The new information that this phrase is introducing is the biblical example of Abraham. Use a form that would be appropriate in this context. Alternate translation: “Even as”

believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness

Quote: ἐπίστευσεν τῷ Θεῷ καὶ ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

Here, Paul quotes Genesis 15:16. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with opening and closing quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning and end of a quotation.

it was credited

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

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

it was credited

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

Here, the word it refers to Abraham’s belief in God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God credited his belief”

righteousness

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

See how you translated the word righteousness in 2:21.

Galatians 3:7

the ones by faith

Quote: οἱ ἐκ 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 verb such as “trust,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those who believe”

the ones by faith

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

Your language may require you to state the object of faith. Here, the phrase by faith is probably a shortened way of saying “who by faith in Christ are trusting God to consider them righteous” or “who are trusting God to consider them righteous because they believe in Christ.” Here, the phrase by faith is equivalent or similar in meaning to the phrase “by faith in Christ” in 2:16, where it occurs in the phrase “we also believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be justified by faith in Christ.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate the meaning explicitly here. Alternate translation: “the ones who by faith in Christ are trusting God to consider them righteous” or “the ones who are trusting God to consider them righteous because they believe in Christ”

sons of Abraham

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

People who have faith in God, as Abraham did, are here spoken of as if they were Abraham’s sons. Paul does not mean that people who have faith in God are Abraham’s biological descendants but, rather, he is saying that they share a spiritual similarity to him because they believe in God. Therefore Paul calls them sons of Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile.

sons

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

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

Galatians 3:8

the Scripture, having foreseen that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham

Quote: προϊδοῦσα & ἡ Γραφὴ, ὅτι ἐκ πίστεως δικαιοῖ τὰ ἔθνη ὁ Θεὸς, προευηγγελίσατο τῷ Ἀβραὰμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, the Scripture is spoken of as though it were a person who could foresee that God would justify the Gentiles by faith and preach the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly.

by faith

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

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate the object of faith explicitly. Alternate translation: “by their faith in God”

by faith

Quote: ἐκ 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 verb such as “believing.” Alternate translation: “by believing in Jesus”

preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham

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

The sentence In you all the nations will be blessed is a quotation from Genesis 12:3. Use a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham where it is written” or “preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham when Moses wrote”

all the nations

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

Here, the term nations refers to the people who make up these nations. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “people from all the nations” or “people from every nation”

In you all the nations will be blessed

Quote: ἐνευλογηθήσονται ἐν σοὶ πάντα τὰ ἔθνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “In you God will bless all the nations”

Galatians 3:9

So then

Quote: ὥστε (1)

Alternate translation: “Therefore” or “Consequently”

the ones by faith

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

See how you translated the phrase the ones by faith in 3:7 where it is used with the same meaning.

the ones by faith are blessed

Quote: οἱ ἐκ πίστεως εὐλογοῦνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will bless the ones by faith” or “God will bless the ones who believe”

Galatians 3:10

For as many as are of works of the law

Quote: ὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου εἰσὶν (1)

Alternate translation: “All people who follow the law” or “All those who seek to be justified through obeying the law”

as many as are of works of the law

Quote: ὅσοι & ἐξ ἔργων νόμου εἰσὶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase as many as are of works of the law is probably a shortened way of saying “as many as are relying on works of the law as the basis for God considering them to be righteous.” Here, the phrase as many as are of works of the law is describing people who rely on the works of the law and is in contrast to the phrase “the ones by faith” in 3:7. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “as many as rely on the works of the law as the basis for being righteous before God” or “as many as are relying on works of the law as the basis for God considering them to be righteous” or “as many as are trusting that God will consider them righteous because they try to obey the law of Moses” or “as many as are seeking for God to consider them righteous on the basis of following what the Mosaic Law commands”

of works of the law

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

With the phrase of works, Paul is using the possessive form to describe the means by which a person seeks to please God, and by using the phrase of the law, Paul is using the possessive form to define the type of works to which he is referring to. If this is not clear in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers. Alternate translation: “trying to earn God’s approval by doing the works prescribed in the law”

of the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

it is written, “… written

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language.

are under a curse

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

Here, under a curse represents being cursed by God and refers to being condemned by God and therefore being doomed to eternal punishment. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “are cursed by God”

are under a curse

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of curse, you could express the same idea with a verb such as “curse,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will curse”

it is written

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

Here, Paul uses the phrase it is written to indicate that what follows is a quotation from the Old Testament. Paul assumes that his readers will understand this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is referring to Scripture. Alternate translation: “it is written in the Scriptures”

of the Law

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

See how you translated the phrase the Law in 2:16. Alternate translation: “of God’s Laws”

Galatians 3:11

no one is justified before God by the law

Quote: ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God justifies no one by the law” or “God justifies no one as a result of them seeking to obey the law of Moses”

is} clear

Quote: δῆλον (1)

Alternate translation: “is evident”

that

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

The word because is introducing the quotation The righteous will live by faith from the Old Testament passage Habakkuk 2:4. Use a natural way of introducing direct quotations from an important or sacred text. Alternate translation: “because it is written in Scripture,”

the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

The righteous will live by faith

Quote: ὁ δίκαιος ἐκ πίστεως ζήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The sentence The righteous will live by faith is a quotation from Habakkuk 2:4. Use a natural way of indicating that something is a quotation.

The righteous will live by faith

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

Paul is citing the prophet Habakkuk, who is using the adjective righteous as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “People who are righteous will live by their faith”

The righteous will live by faith

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

The phrase by faith could be connected to: (1) the phrase will live and be describing the ongoing means by which a righteous person has spiritual life, namely by their faith. Alternate translation: “The righteous person has life through their faith” or “The righteous person lives as a result of their faith” (2) the phrase the righteous and be describing the means by which God considers a sinful person to be righteous, namely by their having faith in him. Alternate translation: “The person who is made right with God as a result of their faith will live” or “Every person will live spiritually whose record of sins God erases because that person trusts God”

by faith

Quote: ἐκ 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 verb such as “believe,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by believing” or “because they believe”

by faith

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

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly that the object of faith here is God. Alternate translation: “by believing in God” or “because they believe in God”

Galatians 3:12

Now

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

The word Now indicates that Paul is introducing new information into his argument and it also indicates that Paul is introducing information that will be in contrast with his statement in 3:11, that the law is not able to justify a person. Use a natural form in your language for indicating these things. Alternate translation: “And”

the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

by faith

Quote: ἐκ 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 verb such as “believing,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

the law is not by faith

Quote: ὁ & νόμος οὐκ ἔστιν ἐκ πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase the law is not by faith means that the law of Moses is not based on faith. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the law of Moses is not founded on faith” or “the law of Moses is not dependent upon faith”

but

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

What follows the word but here is indicating a contrast between law and faith. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast.

but

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

The phrase The one doing these things will live in them is a quotation from Leviticus 18:5. Use a natural way of introducing direct quotations from an important or sacred text. Alternate translation: “but as it is written in Scripture”

these things

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

The phrase **these things” refers to God’s statutes and laws, which are mentioned in the first part of Leviticus 18:5. Here Paul is citing the second half of Leviticus 18:5. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly in your translation to what “these things” refers. Alternate translation: “these laws and statutes of mine” or “my law and statutes”

will live in them

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

Here, the word in means “by” and refers to the means by which a person will live, namely by doing them. The word them refers to “all the things written in the Book of the Law,” mentioned in 3:10. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate these things explicitly. Alternate translation: “will live because they do them” or “will live by obeying them”

Galatians 3:13

redeemed

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

Paul uses the metaphor of a person buying back lost property or buying the freedom of a slave to illustrate the meaning of God sending Jesus to pay for people’s sins by dying on the cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

us … us

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

When Paul says us here, he is including the Galatian believers, so both occurrences of us would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

from the curse of the law, … a curse

Quote: ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου & κατάρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of curse, you could express the same idea with a verb phrase. Alternate translation: “from being cursed by the law … cursed”

of the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

a curse

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

By using the phrase, a curse, Paul is describing a person who is cursed by God by association with the curse itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “one who was cursed by God” or “one whom God cursed”

on behalf of

Quote: ὑπὲρ (1)

Alternate translation: “for”

for it is written

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

The phrase for it is written is introducing a quotation from Deuteronomy 21:23. See how you translated the phrase for it is written in 3:10 where it is also introducing a quotation from Scripture.

Cursed {is} everyone hanging on a tree

Quote: ἐπικατάρατος πᾶς ὁ κρεμάμενος ἐπὶ ξύλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The sentence Cursed is everyone hanging on a tree is a quotation from Deuteronomy 21:23. Use a natural way of indicating that something is a quotation.

a tree

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

In the language in which Paul wrote this letter, the word tree can refer to a post made out of wood. Here, Paul is using the word tree to refer to the wooden cross that Jesus was crucified on. If it would help your readers, use a term which could refer to something made of wood, and not just to a live tree. Alternate translation: “a pole” or “a wooden pole”

Galatians 3:14

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for Christ’s death (which he discussed in the previous verse). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

blessing

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of blessing, you could express the same idea with a verb such as “bless,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

the blessing of Abraham

Quote: ἡ εὐλογία τοῦ Ἀβραὰμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the blessing which Abraham received or which was promised to him. If this is not clear in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers. Alternate translation: “the blessing which Abraham received” or “the blessing which God promised to Abraham”

in Christ Jesus

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

Here, the word in could be used to indicate: (1) by what means the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, namely by means of Christ Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of Christ Jesus” or “through Christ Jesus” or “by Christ Jesus” (2) the sphere in which the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, namely so that the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles who are in the sphere of Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “who are in union with Christ Jesus” (3) the reason the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, namely because of Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “because of what Christ Jesus has done”

so that

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

Here, the phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for the blessing of Abraham coming to the Gentiles, namely so that the promise of the Spirit could be received through faith. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

through

Quote: διὰ (1)

Alternate translation: “by”

through faith

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

Here, the object of faith is Christ. If it would help your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. The phrase through faith also occurs in 2:16, where it has Jesus Christ as the object of the phrase “through faith.” Alternate translation: “through faith in Christ” or “through faith in the Messiah”

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 verb such as “believing”, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “believing”

we might receive

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

When Paul says we he is speaking of himself and the Galatian believers so we would be inclusive here. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

the promise of the Spirit

Quote: τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Πνεύματος (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 verb form such as “promised,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

promise of the Spirit

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

Paul is using the possessive form to explain what the promise is regarding. Paul is using the possessive form to indicate that the promise he is referring to here is the promise regarding the coming Holy Spirit. If this is not clear in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers. Alternate translation: “promise regarding the Spirit”

Galatians 3:15

according to man

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

Here, Paul uses the phrase according to man to mean that he is speaking in accord with the manner of human practice. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “according to human practice” or “with a human analogy from human legal practice” or “using an analogy from standard daily life”

according to man

Quote: κατὰ ἄνθρωπον (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 and refers to humans in general. If your readers would misunderstand this you can indicate this explicitly. Alternate translation: “according to human practice” or “using an analogy from standard human practice”

Nevertheless

Quote: ὅμως (1)

Alternate translation: "Even so"

established by man

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which people have established” or “which men have established”

no one sets aside or adds to a covenant established by man

Quote: ἀνθρώπου κεκυρωμένην διαθήκην, οὐδεὶς ἀθετεῖ ἢ ἐπιδιατάσσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Paul is speaking of people in general, not of one particular person. If your readers would misunderstand this, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “no one sets aside or adds to a covenant which people have established”

by 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 and refers to people in general. If your readers would misunderstand this you can indicate this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by people”

Galatians 3:16

Now

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

Here, the word Now could indicate: (1) that Paul is introducing additional information into his ongoing argument. Alternate translation: “Furthermore” (2) a transition. Alternate translation: “But note that”

to his seed. … to seeds,” … to your seed

Quote: τῷ σπέρματι αὐτοῦ & τοῖς σπέρμασιν & τῷ σπέρματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the term seed means offspring. It is a word picture. 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 use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

to his seed. … to seeds,” … to your seed

Quote: τῷ σπέρματι αὐτοῦ & τοῖς σπέρμασιν & τῷ σπέρματί σου (1)

In order to correctly communicate Paul’s meaning here it is important to translate both occurrences of the word seed with a singular form and to translate the single occurrence of the word seeds with a plural form that indicates more than one.

He does not say

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

Here, the word He could: (1) refer to God speaking to Abraham. By using the phrase and to your seed Paul is referring to multiple passages in the book of Genesis where God made promises to Abraham and his seed. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly that He refers to the God. Alternate translation: “God does not say” (2) be translated as “It” and be referring to the various passages in Genesis which record that God spoke promises to Abraham. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly that It refers to Scripture. Alternate translation: “Scripture does not say”

as to many, but as to one

Quote: ὡς ἐπὶ πολλῶν, ἀλλ’ ὡς ἐφ’ ἑνός (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 your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “as speaking about many, but as speaking about one” or “as referring to many, but as referring to one”

your

Quote: σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The word your is singular and refers to Abraham.

Galatians 3:17

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)

Alternate translation: “And”

The law

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

See how you translated the phrase “the law” in 2:16.

430 years

Quote: τετρακόσια καὶ τριάκοντα ἔτη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

Alternate translation: “four hundred and thirty years”

previously established by God

Quote: προκεκυρωμένην 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 could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which God established previously”

to nullify

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

Here, the word to introduces what the result would have been if the law had set aside the covenant previously established by God. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a result. Alternate translation: “so as to nullify”

Galatians 3:18

if the inheritance {is} from … it is} no longer from

Quote: εἰ & ἐκ & ἡ κληρονομία, οὐκέτι ἐξ (1)

Alternate translation: “if the inheritance is from … then it is no longer from”

the inheritance

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

Paul speaks of God’s blessings to those who believe in him as if they were an inheritance. If your readers would not understand what inheritance means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the blessing” or “God’s blessing”

is} from the law, {it is} no longer from

Quote: ἐκ νόμου & οὐκέτι ἐξ (1)

Alternate translation: “is by the law, it is no longer by” or “is based on the law, it is no longer based on” or “comes from the law, it no longer comes from”

the law

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

See how you translated the phrase the law in 2:16.

But

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

What follows the word But here is in contrast to the idea that the inheritance is from the law. Instead, Paul points out that the inheritance is based on God’s promise. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather”

has graciously given {it

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

Here, the word it refers to the inheritance mentioned earlier in this verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “has graciously given the inheritance”

through

Quote: δι’ (1)

Here, the word through is indicating means and is introducing the means through which God gave the inheritance … to Abraham, namely through a promise. Use a natural form in your language for indicating the means by which something happens.

Galatians 3:19

Why, then, the law

Quote: τί οὖν ὁ νόμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to anticipate a question that the Galatian believers might have regarding the purpose of the law and to introduce his answer to this anticipated question. If it would help your readers, you could translate his words as a statement. Alternate translation: “I will tell you what the purpose of the law is” or “Let me tell you why God added the law to the covenant”

the law

Quote: ὁ νόμος (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 your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “was the law given” or “did God give the law” or “was the law added”

It was added

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

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

It was added because of transgressions

Quote: τῶν παραβάσεων χάριν προσετέθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

The phrase because of transgressions could refer to: (1) the purpose for which the law was added to the covenant with Abraham, namely to show what transgression is. Alternate translation: “It was added to show what transgression is” (2) what caused God to decide that the law should be added to the covenant with Abraham, which was that people were committing transgressions. The phrase because of transgressions would then be stating the cause for the law being added, namely because people were sinning. Alternate translation: “It was added because people were committing transgressions”

transgressions

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of transgressions, you could express the same idea with an adjective such as “sinful”, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people’s sinful behavior”

having been put into effect through angels

Quote: διαταγεὶς δι’ ἀγγέλων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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: “and God used angels to put it into effect” or “and God gave the law through angels”

having been put into effect through angels

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

Translate the phrase through angels in a way that indicates that God, not angels, was the source of the law. The Bible records in Deuteronomy 33:2, Hebrews 2:2, and Acts 7:38, and 53 that God used angels to give Moses his law. This is what Jewish people believed regarding how God delivered his law to Moses. Alternate translation: “and God used angels to put it into effect” or “God gave the law through angels”

until the seed would come

Quote: ἄχρις οὗ ἔλθῃ τὸ σπέρμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When Paul says that the law was administered by the hand of a mediator until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made, Paul is implicitly telling the Galatian believers that the law was temporary and was only needed until Christ, whom he calls the seed, came. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “until the seed, who is Christ, would come”

by the hand of a mediator

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

The phrase by the hand of is an idiom which means “through.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “through a mediator”

of a mediator

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

Moses is the mediatorto whom Paul is referring. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “of Moses, who acted as a mediator”

the promise had been made

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God had made the promise”

Galatians 3:20

Now a mediator is not for one

Quote: ὁ δὲ μεσίτης ἑνὸς οὐκ ἔστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

In this verse Paul is proving to the Galatian believers that God’s promise to Abraham is superior to the law that he gave Moses. What Paul means by saying a mediator is not for one is that a mediator is not needed when one person is speaking with another person directly. Paul is implicitly expressing to the Galatian believers that the promise to Abraham is superior to the law because it was not given through a mediator but, rather, God gave the promise directly to Abraham. If it would help your readers and if you are using footnotes, you could indicate that information in a footnote.

for one

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

The phrase for one leaves the object implied. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly what one is referring to. Alternate translation: “for one party alone” or “needed when there is only one party involved”

but

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

What follows the word but here is in contrast to the opening statement in this verse that a mediator is not for one. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast.

but

Quote: δὲ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word but is introducing the phrase God is one, which is an allusion to a phrase in Deuteronomy 6:4. The Galatians believers would have known that Paul was referencing this scripture. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly that the word but is introducing a reference from Scripture. Alternate translation: “but as Moses wrote in Scripture,”

God is one

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

Here Paul uses a well-known phrase about God to demonstrate that God's promises directly to Abraham were superior to the law that he gave through Moses. You can include some of this information in the text or a footnote if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “Abraham received the promises from God alone”

Galatians 3:21

is} the law against the promises

Quote: ὁ & νόμος κατὰ τῶν ἐπαγγελιῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to anticipate a question that the Galatian believers might have. He introduces his answer to the question which begins with the phrase For if a law was given being able to make alive. If it would help your readers, you could translate his words as a statement. Alternate translation: “you might think that the law is against the promises” or “you might think that the law is opposed to the promises”

against the promises

Quote: κατὰ τῶν ἐπαγγελιῶν (1)

Alternate translation: “opposed to the promises” or “in conflict with the promises”

the promises

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

The phrase the promises refers to the promises that God made to Abraham. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the promises that God made to Abraham” or “God’s promises to Abraham”

May it never be

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

May it never be is an emphatic way of negating a statement. The statement that the phrase May it never be is negating is the proposed question is the law against the promises. Use a natural word or expression for strongly negating an idea. Alternate translation: “Certainly not”

if a law was given being able to make alive, {then} truly

Quote: εἰ & ἐδόθη νόμος ὁ δυνάμενος ζῳοποιῆσαι, ὄντως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to teach the Galatian believers. Alternate translation: “if it was possible that a law was given that was able to make people alive, then truly”

a law was given

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 gave a law”

to make alive

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

Here, it is implied that Paul is referring to making people alive. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “to make people alive”

to make alive

Quote: ζῳοποιῆσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

The phrase to make alive could refer to: (1) both eternal life in the future and to making people spiritually alive in the present. Paul is probably referring to both here since in this letter Paul discusses the important role of the Holy Spirit and the fact that the Holy Spirit is given through faith and not the law. (2) eternal life in the future after a person dies. If it is possible in your language, it would be best to retain a general phrase, as modeled by the ULT, since Paul does not explain the phrase to make alive.

righteousness would have come by the law

Quote: ἐν νόμου ἂν ἦν ἡ δικαιοσύνη (1)

Alternate translation: “we could have become righteous by obeying that law”

Galatians 3:22

But

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

Here Paul uses the word But to indicate a strong contrast between the hypothetical and false possibility that the law could make a person righteous and to introduce his explanation of what the law actually does. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “But rather,”

the Scripture imprisoned all things under sin

Quote: συνέκλεισεν ἡ Γραφὴ τὰ πάντα ὑπὸ ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the Scripture as if it were an authority figure who imprisoned people. He speaks of sin as if it were a jail from which people cannot break free. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

the Scripture

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

Here, the word Scripture could: (1) refer to all Old Testament Scripture. The ULT indicates when the word Scripture refers to the entire Bible or the entire Old Testament by capitalizing the word Scripture. (2) refer to a particular passage of scripture such as Deuteronomy 27:26 or some other specific Old Testament passage. Alternate translation: “the scripture”

the Scripture

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

Paul is describing God doing something by association with his Word, the Scripture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “God”

all things

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

Here, the phrase all things could refer to: (1) all people. If your language requires you to indicate explicitly what all things refers to, you could indicate that it refers to people. Alternate translation: “all humans” (2) the entire creation and the things which make up this present fallen world. See Romans 8:18-22. If you decide that this is what Paul means, you should use a general phrase such as all things.

under sin

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

Here, the phrase under sin refers to being under the power of sin. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “under the power of sin”

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Following the phrase so that, Paul states the purpose for which the Scripture imprisoned all things under sin. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to the ones believing

Quote: ἡ ἐπαγγελία ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ δοθῇ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 might give the promise by faith in Jesus Christ to the ones believing”

the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to the ones believing

Quote: ἡ ἐπαγγελία ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ δοθῇ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν (1)

Alternate translation: “God’s promise to Abraham which is received through faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe”

the promise

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

The phrase the promise refers to the promise given to Abraham. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the promise given to Abraham” or “the promise that God gave to Abraham”

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 verb such as “trust,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

Galatians 3:23

the faith … the faith about to be revealed

Quote: τὴν πίστιν & τὴν μέλλουσαν πίστιν ἀποκαλυφθῆναι (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 verb such as “trust” or “believe,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

before the faith came

Quote: πρὸ τοῦ & ἐλθεῖν τὴν πίστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase before the faith came means before faith in Jesus Christ came. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “before faith in Jesus Christ came”

we were held captive

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

When Paul says we, he is including the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

we were held captive under the law, imprisoned

Quote: ὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul is continuing the metaphor of the law that he began in the previous verse. The power that the law had over humans is spoken of as if the law were a prison guard holding people captive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

under

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

Here, the word under means “under the authority of” or “under the jurisdiction of.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “under the authority of” or “under the jurisdiction of”

we were held captive under the law, imprisoned

Quote: ὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul is continuing his personification of the law that he began in the previous verse. Paul speaks of the law as though it were a jailer who held people captive and kept them imprisoned until the time when the coming faith in Jesus Christ would be revealed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly.

we were held captive under the law

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the law held us captive under its power”

imprisoned

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the first half of the verse states that the law did it. Alternate translation: “and the law imprisoned us”

until the faith about to be revealed

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

Here, the word until could: (1) refer to time and introduce the time at which people being imprisoned under the law would end, namely until the time when God would reveal Jesus Christ as an object of faith. Alternate translation: “until God would reveal the message about trusting in Christ that he was about to reveal” (2) be translated as “to” and be indicating the purpose for people being imprisoned under the law, namely so that people would be ready for the coming faith in Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “in order to lead us to believe in the good news that God was about to reveal” or “in order that we might be ready to believe the good news concerning Christ, the news that God would later reveal”

the faith … the faith

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

The phrase the faith means “the faith in Jesus Christ.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the faith in Jesus Christ … the faith in Jesus Christ came, which was”

until the faith about to be revealed

Quote: εἰς τὴν μέλλουσαν πίστιν ἀποκαλυφθῆναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “until the faith came that God was about to reveal” or “until the faith that God would soon reveal came”

Galatians 3:24

So

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

Here, the phrase So is introducing a result. Use a natural form for introducing a result. Alternate translation: “Thus,” or “Therefore,”

the law became our guardian

Quote: ὁ νόμος, παιδαγωγὸς ἡμῶν γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the law as if it were a guardian. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning by using a simile.

our

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

When Paul says our, he is including the Galatian believers, so our would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

guardian

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

In Paul’s culture a guardian was a slave whose task was to discipline and take care of a child who was not yet an adult. If your readers would not be familiar with this term, you could either explain the meaning of this word in your translation, or you could use the term from your culture that comes the closest to expressing the meaning of this word and then write a footnote explaining this word. Alternate translation: “custodian” or “guide”

guardian

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

Here, Paul speaks of the law as though it were a guardian whose job or role was to watch over people’s actions until Christ came. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “guide”

until

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

See how you translated the word until in 3:23.

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which the law became our guardian until Christ which was for the intended purpose that we might later be justified by faith in Christ. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “with the purpose that”

we might be justified

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God might justify us”

we might be justified

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

When Paul says we, he is including the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

by

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

Here, the word by is indicating the basis or source of God’s act of justifying sinners. The word by is indicating that faith is the basis on which we might be justified. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the basis of” or “by means 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 verb such as “trust,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

faith

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

Here, the context implies (as does also Paul’s use of the similar phrase “by faith in Christ” in 2:16), that the object of faith is Christ. If it would be helpful to your readers to state the object of faith here, you could indicate it explicitly. Alternate translation: “faith in Christ”

Galatians 3:25

But

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

Here, the word But is introducing a contrast. What follows the word But is in contrast to the way things were in the period of time before Christ came. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “But now”

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 with a verb phrase such as “trusting in Christ,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

faith

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

Here, the context implies that the object of faith is Christ. If it would be helpful to your readers to state the object of faith here, you could indicate it explicitly. Alternate translation: “faith in Christ”

we are

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

When Paul says we, he is including the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

under a guardian

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

Here, Paul continues the metaphor he began in 3:24 by continuing to speak of the law as if it were a guardian. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the word guardian in 3:24.

under a guardian

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

Here, Paul is speaking of the law as if it were a person who was a guardian. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly.

under

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

Here, the word under means “under the supervision of.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “under the supervision of”

Galatians 3:26

sons

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

Although the term sons is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women who have faith in Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “sons and daughters” or “children”

sons

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

Paul speaks of the Galatian believers as if God were their biological or 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”

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 with a verb such as “trust,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

in Christ Jesus

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

The phrase in Christ Jesus could mean: (1) that the spiritual position of the Galatian believers was in Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “you are in union with Christ Jesus” (2) that Christ Jesus was the object of Galatian believers faith. Alternate translation: “which is in Christ Jesus” or “towards Christ Jesus”

Galatians 3:27

For

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

Here, the word For indicates that what follows is giving the reason why Paul said “you are all sons of God” in 3:26. Use a natural form in your language for introducing information which proves and/or explains a prior statement. Alternate translation: “Because”

as many as

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

The phrase as many as means “as many of you as.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “as many of you as”

as many as have been baptized

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

The phrase as many as have means “all of you who have.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “all of you who have been baptized” or "each of you who have been baptized"

have been baptized

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 some person did it. Alternate translation: “someone has baptized”

have been baptized into Christ

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

Paul speaks of being baptized into Christ as if Christ were a physical location into which someone could be baptized. Here, into Christ refers to being spiritually united with Christ and coming into close spiritual union with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning of this phrase plainly. Alternative translation: “have been baptized into close spiritual union with Christ”

have been baptized into Christ put on Christ

Quote: εἰς Χριστὸν ἐβαπτίσθητε, Χριστὸν ἐνεδύσασθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

By speaking of baptism, Paul could be describing all of the things which belong to a believer's initial conversion experience. Paul would then be associating all of them with one part of their conversion experience, water baptism, in which case baptism is an abbreviated way of referring to conversion and the things that are part of it such as belief in Christ, baptism, and receiving Holy Spirit. If you decide that this is what Paul means here, and if it would help your readers, you could indicate this explicitly, or you could explain this in a footnote if you are using them. Alternate translation: “God has saved have put on Christ” or “have believed in Christ have put on Christ” or “have experienced God’s salvation have put on Christ”

put on Christ

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

Paul speaks of Christ as if he were clothing that those who believe in him have put on. Here, when Paul says that all believers have put on Christ, he means that all believers have identified with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning of this phrase plainly.

Galatians 3:28

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus

Quote: οὐκ ἔνι Ἰουδαῖος οὐδὲ Ἕλλην, οὐκ ἔνι δοῦλος οὐδὲ ἐλεύθερος, οὐκ ἔνι ἄρσεν καὶ θῆλυ, πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς εἷς ἐστε ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, the word for introduces the reason for why, if someone is a believer in Christ, it is as if there is no longer Jew nor Greek or slave or free or male or female. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase, which follows the word for, gives the reason for the result that the first part of this verse describes. Alternate translation: “Because you are all one in Christ Jesus, there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female”

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus

Quote: οὐκ ἔνι Ἰουδαῖος οὐδὲ Ἕλλην, οὐκ ἔνι δοῦλος οὐδὲ ἐλεύθερος, οὐκ ἔνι ἄρσεν καὶ θῆλυ, πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς εἷς ἐστε ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul says that people who believe in Christ are no longer divided by racial, social, or gender distinctions but, rather, now have one common identity in Christ. Human distinctions now cease to be significant because believers are united in a new spiritual identity, which is being in Christ. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “For you who are united by your faith in Christ Jesus, it is now as if there is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female” or “For you who are united by belief in Christ Jesus, it is now as if there is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female”

Greek

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

Here, the term Greek refers to non-Jewish people. It does not refer only to people from the country of Greece or to people who speak the Greek language. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Gentiles”

free

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

Here, the term free refers to people who are not slaves and thus are free from bondage to a master. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “free person”

for

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

Here, the word for introduces a reason. Use a natural form for introducing the reason for something that was said previously. Alternate translation: “because”

for you are all one in Christ Jesus

Quote: πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς εἷς ἐστε ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)

Alternate translation: “because all of you are together joined to Messiah Jesus”

one

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

Here, Paul uses the word one to indicate that all believers share an equal position because of the new identity they have by being in Christ. (Paul explains his statement from the previous verse that all believers have put on Christ, meaning that they have a new and common identity derived from and centered on Christ). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly what one means here. Alternate translation: “alike” or “of equal standing”

in Christ Jesus

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

Paul speaks of believers being in Christ Jesus as if Christ Jesus were a physical location in which someone could be. Here, in Christ refers to being spiritually united with Christ in close spiritual union with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning of this phrase plainly. Alternative translation: “in close spiritual union with Christ” or “because of your close spiritual union with Christ”

Galatians 3:29

Now

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

Here Paul is using the word Now to introduce new information. Use a natural form for introducing new information. Alternate translation: “And”

if … then

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

Paul is using an if … then statement to express a hypothetical condition and what the result is for those people who meet the requirement of the condition. Paul is telling the Galatians that if they belong to Christ, then they are Abraham's spiritual descendants. Use a natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical condition.

you {are} … you are

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

Here, both occurrences of the word you are plural and refer to the Galatian believers. Your language may require you to mark these forms as plural.

you {are} of Christ

Quote: ὑμεῖς Χριστοῦ (1)

Alternate translation: “you are Christ’s” or “you belong to Christ”

seed

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

Here, the term seed means offspring. It is a word picture. Just as plants produce seeds that can grow into many more plants, so people can have many offspring. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. See how you translated the word seed in 3:16 where it is used with a similar meaning. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “offspring”

heirs

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

Paul speaks of believers, who are the spiritual descendants of Abraham, as if they were heirs who were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

heirs according to promise

Quote: κατ’ ἐπαγγελίαν κληρονόμοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly what the heirs will inherit. Alternate translation: “heirs of what God promised to Abraham and his descendants”

according to

Quote: κατ’ (1)

Alternate translation: “by way of”

Galatians 4

Galatians 4 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

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 verse 27, which is quoted from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Sonship

Sonship is a complex issue. Scholars have many views on Israel’s sonship. Paul uses sonship to teach how being under the law differs from being free in Christ. Not all of Abraham’s physical descendants inherited God’s promises to him. Only his descendants through Isaac and Jacob inherited the promises. And God only adopts into his family those who follow Abraham spiritually through faith. They are children of God with an inheritance. Paul calls them children of promise. (See: inherit, inheritance, heir, promise, promised, spirit, wind, breath and faith and adoption, adopt, adopted)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Abba, Father

“Abba” is an Aramaic word. In ancient Israel, people used it to informally refer to their fathers. Paul transliterates its sounds by writing them with Greek letters. (See: Copy or Borrow Words)

the law

The phrase “the law” is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. This phrase occurs in chapters 2-5. Every time this phrase occurs in Galatians, it refers to the group of laws that God dictated to Moses at Mount Sinai. You should translate this phrase the same way each time it occurs. (See: Collective Nouns)

Galatians 4:1

being master of all

Quote: κύριος πάντων ὤν (1)

Alternate translation: “though being master of all things” or “even though he is master of all things”

Galatians 4:2

But

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

Here, the word But is introducing a contrast and indicating that what follows is in contrast to what came before it. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather,”

he is

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

Here, the word he refers to the heir mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the heir is”

under

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

Here, the word under means “under the authority of.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “under the authority of”

guardians and stewards

Quote: ἐπιτρόπους & καὶ οἰκονόμους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The terms guardians and stewards refer to two different roles, but these terms do not necessarily refer to two different groups of people since one person could have responsibility for filling both roles. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “someone who is his guardian and steward”

guardians

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

A guardian was a person who had the role of being responsible for a child. This person’s job was to supervise and care for the child of whom they were in charge to make sure that the child was instructed in what they should do. Use a natural phrase or term in your language for describing this role. If you do not have this role in your culture you could describe it for your readers. Alternate translation: “people who are in charge of a child” or “people who are responsible for a minor”

stewards

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

Here, the word stewards refers to people who are entrusted with the role of managing property until the heir is old enough to inherit it. Use a natural phrase or term in your language for describing this role. If you do not have this role in your culture, you could describe it for your readers. Alternate translation: “people who manage a child’s possessions”

date appointed by his father

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “date which his father appointed” or “time which his father appointed”

Galatians 4:3

So

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

Here, the word So indicates that what follows is comparable to, and similar in some way to what has just been described in 4:1-2. Use a natural form in your language for introducing something that corresponds to something that was introduced previously. Alternate translation: “In a similar way”

we were

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

The word we here refers to all Christians, including Paul’s readers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

when we were children

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

Paul speaks of people who have not yet trusted in Jesus as if they were children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly, or you could translate this phrase as a simile. Alternate translation: “when we did not yet believe in Jesus” or “when we were like children spiritually”

we were being enslaved under the elemental principles of the world

Quote: ὑπὸ τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου ἤμεθα δεδουλωμένοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who was doing the action, Paul says that the elemental principles of the world were doing it. See the note on personification regarding the elemental principles of this world. Alternate translation: “the elemental principles of the world were enslaving us”

enslaved

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

Paul speaks of being under the control of the elemental principles of the world as if it were slavery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

under

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

Here, the word under means “under the power of” or “under the authority of.” See how you translated the word under in 4:2 where Paul uses it with a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “under the power of” or “under the authority of”

enslaved under the elemental principles of the world

Quote: ὑπὸ τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου & δεδουλωμένοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul speaks of the elemental principles of the world as though they were a person who could enslave other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Paul speaks of the elemental principles of the world as though they have the power to enslave a person, but it is actually humans who do not yet believe in the Messiah, who willing submit to these elemental principles and allow themselves to be enslaved. See 5:1.

the elemental principles of the world

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

Here, the elemental principles of the world could refer to: (1) the religious and/or moral teachings that people, whether they be a Jew or non-Jew, seek to obey in order to please God and think of themselves as praiseworthy and good. Alternate translation: “the elemental rules of this world” or “the rudimentary principles of this world” (2) the things prescribed by the Mosaic law. Alternate translation: “the things prescribed by the law of Moses”

Galatians 4:4

But

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

The word But is introducing a contrast between the time prior to when the fullness of time came, which Paul described before this verse, and the time after the fullness of time came, which Paul describes in this verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: "Instead,"

the fullness of time

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

The phrase the fullness of time means “the right time” or “the time that God appointed.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the right time” or “the designated time” or “the appointed time”

having been born from a woman

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

The phrase born from a woman is an idiom which means that someone is human. Because Jesus existed as God before he was born on earth, the emphasis here is that Jesus became human, in addition to being fully God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “having taken on human nature” or “having been born as a human being”

having been born under the law

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

The phrase having been born under the law means that Jesus, as a Jew, was under the jurisdiction of the law of Moses and therefore it was necessary that he obey it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having been born under the jurisdiction and requirements of the law of Moses” or “having been born subject to the law of Moses”

under the law

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

Here, the word under means “under the authority of” or “under the jurisdiction of.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. See how you translated the phrase under the law in 3:23 where Paul uses the word under with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “under the authority of the law” or “under the jurisdiction of the law”

Galatians 4:5

in order that

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

The phrase in order that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God sent forth his Son. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that” or “with the purpose that”

he might redeem

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

With the word redeem, Paul uses the metaphor of a person buying back lost property or buying the freedom of a slave as a picture of God sending Jesus to pay the price for people’s sins by dying on the cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God redeemed the ones under the law, which was so that God could adopt them as his spiritual sons and daughters. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that” or “with the purpose that”

under

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

See how you translated the word under in 3:23 where it is used with the same meaning.

we might receive the adoption as sons

Quote: τὴν υἱοθεσίαν ἀπολάβωμεν (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 might adopt us as his sons”

we might receive

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

The word we could refer to: (1) all Christians, both Jews and non-Jews, in which case we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (2) Jewish Christians only, in which case we would be exclusive.

we might receive the adoption as sons

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

Paul speaks of God giving people a close personal relationship with himself and giving them special rights and privileges as if it were adoption. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

adoption as sons

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

Paul speaks of those who believe in Jesus as if God were their biological, 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. See how you translated the word sons in 3:26 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “the spiritual children of God”

adoption as sons

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

Although the term sons is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “adoption as children” or “adoption as God’s children”

Galatians 4:6

And

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

Here, Paul is using the word And to introduce new information into his ongoing argument. Use a natural form for introducing new information. Alternate translation: “Now”

because

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

The word because is introducing the reason that God sent the Spirit of his Son into the hearts of believers, namely, because believers are God’s sons. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a reason.

sons

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

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

sons

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

Paul speaks of the Galatian believers as though God were their biological, 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. See how you translated the word sons in 4:5, where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “the spiritual children of God”

into our hearts

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

Here, the word hearts refers to the innermost part of a person. Paul is describing the innermost part of a person by association with their physical heart. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent term from your culture that is used to describe the center of a person’s inner being or you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “to live within each of us”

crying out

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

The phrase crying out means calling out loudly. This phrase does not mean to cry or weep from sorrow. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “calling out loudly”

Abba, Father

Quote: Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate

The word Abba is an Aramaic word meaning Father and which the Jews used to address their fathers. Paul writes it as it sounds in Aramaic (he transliterates it) and then translates its meaning into Greek for his readers. Since the Aramaic word Abba is followed by the Greek word Father, it is best to transliterate Abba and then give its meaning in your language, as Paul does.

Galatians 4:7

So then

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

The phrase So then introduces the result of what Paul explained in 4:6. Use a natural form for introducing a result. Alternate translation: “As a result”

you are

Quote: εἶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here,you is singular. Paul is probably addressing the Galatian believers by using a singular pronoun in order to emphasize that what he is saying applies to each of them individually.

a slave

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

Paul speaks of the Galatian believers being in bondage to the law of Moses as if they were in slavery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in bondage to the law of Moses”

but

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

The word but is introducing a contrast. Paul is contrasting being a son with being a slave. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but, rather,”

a son, … a son

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

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

and if a son, also

Quote: εἰ δὲ υἱός, καὶ (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, 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 each of you is a son, you are also”

an heir

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

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly that Paul is referring to inheriting the promises that God made to Abraham and his descendants. Alternate translation: “an heir of the promises made to Abraham” or “an heir of the promises God made to Abraham”

through God

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

Here, the word through is indicating agency. It is indicating that God is the agent by which the Galatians are to inherit the blessings promised to Abraham and his descendants. Use a natural form for indicating the agency or means by which an action takes place. Alternate translation: “by means of God’s working” or “through God’s working”

Galatians 4:8

But

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

The word But is introducing a contrast. Paul is contrasting the life of the Galatian believers before they believed in Christ with their life after they believed in Christ and as a result became God’s sons (which he explained in 4:1-7). Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast.

having known God

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

Here, the phrase having known God means knowing God in a close personal relationship. It means more than simply having heard about God or knowing some things about God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having been in a close relationship with God”

you were enslaved to the ones by nature not being gods

Quote: ἐδουλεύσατε τοῖς φύσει μὴ οὖσι θεοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the Galatians' former way of life in which they practiced false religions and worshiped false gods as if it were slavery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

the ones by nature not being gods

Quote: τοῖς φύσει μὴ οὖσι θεοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase, the ones by nature not being gods refers to the beings which the Galatians served when they were pagans and which were considered by them to be gods though they were not really gods. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “false gods which were not really gods at all”

Galatians 4:9

But

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

Here, the word But is introducing a contrast. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “So”

having come to know … having come to be known

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

Make sure that you translate the words know and known with the same type of expression as you used to translate the word “known” in 4:8. The phrase “not having known God” in 4:8 and the phrases know God and known by God in this verse are all referring to having intimate personal knowledge that comes from a close relationship.

having come to be known by God

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: "God having come to know you”

how are you turning again to the weak and worthless elemental principles

Quote: πῶς ἐπιστρέφετε πάλιν ἐπὶ τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to rebuke the Galatian believers. 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.

are you turning again

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

Here, turning again means “to return.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “are you returning”

the weak and worthless elemental principles

Quote: τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you decided to translate the phrase elemental principles in Galatians 4:3.

to which once more you want to be enslaved again

Quote: οἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to rebuke the Galatian believers. 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.

to which once more you want to be enslaved again

Quote: οἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, to be enslaved is a metaphor for being obligated to obey certain rules and regulations. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. See how you translated the word enslaved in 4:8 where it is also used with a metaphorical use. Alternate translation: “to which once more you want to act like a slave who must obey his master”

Galatians 4:10

You observe

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

Here, the word observe refers to observing something for religious purposes in order to gain God’s favor and approval. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “For religious purposes you observe”

You observe

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

The word You is plural here and refers to the Galatian believers. Your language may require you to mark such forms.

days and months and seasons and years

Quote: ἡμέρας & καὶ μῆνας, καὶ καιροὺς, καὶ ἐνιαυτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul is describing the different Jewish celebrations and religious observances required in the law of Moses by associating them with the times when they took place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “the Jewish Sabbath days and other days prescribed in the law of Moses. You also observe the monthly Jewish celebrations and annual Jewish festivals as well the Jewish sacred years”

Galatians 4:11

I am afraid

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

Here, the phrase I am afraid means ”I am concerned about.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly.

for you … you

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

Both occurrences of the word you in this verse are plural and refer to the Galatian believers. Your language may require you to mark such forms.

I have labored

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

Here, the word labored refers to Paul’s work of teaching the Galatians the truths of the Christian faith. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “I have labored in teaching and preaching” or “I have taught the truths of the Christian faith”

for nothing

Quote: εἰκῇ (1)

Alternate translation: “without results” or “to no avail”

Galatians 4:12

brothers

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

See how you translated the word brothers in 1:2 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

become as I am, because I also {became} as you {are

Quote: γίνεσθε ὡς ἐγώ, ὅτι κἀγὼ ὡς ὑμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul is asking the Galatian believers to become like himself and not act as if the law of Moses has authority over their lives. He says that formerly, when they did not obey the law of Moses, he had become like them and not obeyed all the rules prescribed it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “act like I act by not living your life as if you need to obey the law of Moses, because when I was with you did not obey all the rules and ceremonial laws prescribed in the law of Moses” or “become as I am by not acting as if you have to obey the law of Moses, because formerly I became as you were before you were deceived into thinking that you needed to obey the law of Moses”

become as I am, because I also {became} as you {are

Quote: γίνεσθε ὡς ἐγώ, ὅτι κἀγὼ ὡς ὑμεῖς (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 I became as you, you also should become as I am”

I also {became} as you {are

Quote: κἀγὼ ὡς ὑμεῖς (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. Here, the implied words are became and are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context.

You did me no harm

Quote: οὐδέν με ἠδικήσατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here Paul 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: “You treated me well”

Galatians 4:13

Now

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

Paul is using the word Now to introduce background information. Use a natural way in your language for introducing background information. Alternate translation: “And”

you know … to you

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

In this verse both occurrences of the word you are plural and refer to the Galatian believers. Your language may require you to mark such forms.

because of a weakness of the flesh I proclaimed the gospel to you

Quote: δι’ ἀσθένειαν τῆς σαρκὸς, εὐηγγελισάμην ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here, Paul states that it was a physical illness that previously caused him to proclaim the gospel to Galatians. This could mean that: (1) Paul was already in Galatia when illness caused him to remain there to recover, which gave him time and opportunity to proclaim the gospel to the Galatians. (2) because of a physical illness, Paul went to Galatia to recover from his sickness. While there, he proclaimed the gospel to the Galatians. Because Paul does not explicitly state what provided the opportunity for him to preach the gospel, you should not further explain what Paul says here about his sickness but, rather, you should use a general expression.

because of

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

Here, Paul is using the phrase because to introduce the reason that he proclaimed the gospel to the Galatians previously, which was because he had to stay in Galatia due to illness. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a reason-result clause. Here, the reason is a weakness of the flesh and the result is that Paul proclaimed the gospel to the Galatians. Alternate translation: “on account of”

a weakness of the flesh

Quote: ἀσθένειαν τῆς σαρκὸς (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 with an adjective such as “weak,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

of the flesh

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

Here, Paul uses the word flesh, which is one part of his body, to refer to his entire body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. See how you translated the phrase the flesh in 2:20 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “of the body” or “of my body”

Galatians 4:14

your trial in my flesh

Quote: τὸν πειρασμὸν ὑμῶν ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

The phrase your trial in my flesh means that Paul had some physical problem or malady that either itself caused difficulty (a trial) for the Galatians or caused difficulty (a trial) for them because they had to care for or help him as a result of his physical problem. Because Paul does not reveal specifically how his physical malady created a trial for the Galatians, it is best to translate this phrase with a general phrase which leaves room for either possibility.

you did not despise

Quote: οὐκ ἐξουθενήσατε (1)

Alternate translation: “you did not scorn” or “you did not hate”

trial

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of trial, you could express the same idea some other way that would be natural in your language.

flesh

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

Here, Paul uses the word flesh, one part of his body, to refer to his entire body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. See how you translated the phrase the flesh in 2:20 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “body”

as an angel of God

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

The phrase as an angel of God means ”as if I were an angel of God.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “as if I were an angel of God”

as Christ Jesus

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

The phrase as Christ Jesus means “as you would welcome Christ Jesus.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “as you would welcome Christ Jesus”

Galatians 4:15

Where, then, {is} your blessing

Quote: ποῦ οὖν ὁ μακαρισμὸς ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form in order to express his disappointment to the Galatian believers and to cause them to think about 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 .

is} … blessing

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of blessing, you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

For

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

Here, the word For introduces information which proves how the Galatians had previously felt about Paul. Use a natural form in your language for introducing this material.

if possible, having torn out your eyes, you would have given {them} to me

Quote: εἰ δυνατὸν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ὑμῶν ἐξορύξαντες, ἐδώκατέ μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers remember the way that they formerly felt and thought about Paul. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “if it were possible that you could have torn out your eyes and then given them to me, you would have done so”

if possible

Quote: εἰ δυνατὸν (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: “if it were possible for you to do so”

if possible, having torn out your eyes, you would have given {them} to me

Quote: εἰ δυνατὸν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ὑμῶν ἐξορύξαντες, ἐδώκατέ μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase having torn out your eyes, you would have given them to me could: (1) be an idiom indicating the great love and devotion which the Galatians formerly had for Paul. In Paul’s time the eyes were considered a person’s most precious possession, so if it were possible for a person to take out their eyes and give them to another person, this would indicate great love. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “you formerly loved me very much and would have given me your most valued possession to show me your love” (2) indicate that Paul had some type of eye disease.

Galatians 4:16

So then

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

Paul is using the phrase So then to introduce a reason-result clause in which speaking truth to the Galatians is the reason, and them acting as if Paul was their enemy is the result. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a reason-result clause. Alternate translation: “Therefore” or “Therefore, as a result of” or “So then, as a result of”

speaking truth to you, have I become your enemy

Quote: ἐχθρὸς ὑμῶν γέγονα, ἀληθεύων ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The phrase speaking truth to you, have I become your enemy is a rhetorical question in which Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to show the Galatian believers his disappointment with them and cause them to think about 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: “as a result of my speaking the truth to you, you are acting as if I have become your enemy.”

speaking truth to you

Quote: ἀληθεύων ὑμῖν (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 an adjective such as “true,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by telling you things that are true” or “because I have told you what is true”

Galatians 4:17

They are zealous … they desire

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

In this verse, the pronouns They and they both refer to the false teachers who were Judaizers and were teaching the Galatians false things. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “The false teachers are zealous … these false teachers desire”

not rightly

Quote: οὐ καλῶς (1)

Alternate translation: “not in a good way” or “not in a way that is right”

but

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

Here, the word but is introducing a contrast. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but instead,”

to separate you

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

Here, the the phrase to separate you refers to separating the Galatian believers from Paul and probably also from his ministry partners, because they all taught a gospel message that was different from what the false teachers were teaching the Galatian believers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly from whom Paul is saying that the false teachers are trying to separate the Galatian believers. Alternate translation: “to separate you from us” or “to make you stop being loyal to us”

so that

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

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is introducing the purpose for which the false teachers desired to separate the Galatian believers from Paul and his ministry partners. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that”

you would be zealous for them

Quote: αὐτοὺς ζηλοῦτε (1)

Alternate translation: “you would be devoted to them” or “you would be attached to them”

Galatians 4:18

But

Quote: δὲ (1)

Alternate translation: “Now”

good

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

Here, the word good refers to good things. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “good things”

Galatians 4:19

My children

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

Paul speaks of the Galatian believers as if they were his children and he was their parent. The Galatian believers experienced their spiritual birth as a result of Paul’s work of proclaiming the gospel to them, so he was their spiritual parent and they were his spiritual children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning in plain language. Alternate translation: “You who believed the message about Jesus that I proclaimed to you” or “My spiritual children”

I am in labor again

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

Paul speaks of his work of seeking to help the Galatians grow in spiritual maturity and the mental and physical suffering he endured as a result of this work as if it were the labor that a mother endures when giving birth to a child. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “I am again in anguish as though I am giving birth” or “it is as if I am in labor again”

Christ would be formed in you

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

In the phrase Christ would be formed in you the word Christ refers Christ’s character and likeness. Christ being formed in them refers to them becoming mature in their spiritual thinking and acting in a way that resembles Jesus’ actions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “Christ’s nature becomes fully developed in you” or “you become a mature follower of Christ”

Christ would be formed in you

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 will do it. Alternate translation: “God forms Christ in you” or “God would form Christ in you”

Galatians 4:20

but

Quote: δὲ (1)

Alternate translation: “and”

I am desiring to be present with you now and to change my tone, because I am perplexed about you

Quote: ἤθελον & παρεῖναι πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἄρτι, καὶ ἀλλάξαι τὴν φωνήν μου, ὅτι ἀποροῦμαι ἐν ὑμῖν (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 I am perplexed about you, I am desiring to be present with you now and to change my tone”

to change my tone

Quote: ἀλλάξαι τὴν φωνήν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase change my tone refers to Paul changing the manner of his communication towards the Galatians from sternly rebuking to being more affectionate. Paul loved the Galatian believers. However, because of the serious nature of the false teaching which the Galatians were being tempted to accept, combined with Paul’s physical distance from the Galatians, he felt that he needed to write to them and firmly and sternly correct their false thinking with the hope that they would not believe or follow false teaching. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly what the phrase change my tone means here. Alternate translation: “to speak in a different manner”

Galatians 4:21

Tell me

Quote: λέγετέ μοι (1)

Alternate translation: “Say to me” or “Answer me”

you

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

Here, the word you is plural. Your language may require you to mark such forms.

desiring

Quote: θέλοντες (1)

Alternate translation: "wanting"

under

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

See how you translated the word under in 3:23 where it is used with the same meaning.

Tell me, you desiring to be under the law, do you not listen to the law

Quote: λέγετέ μοι, οἱ ὑπὸ νόμον θέλοντες εἶναι, τὸν νόμον οὐκ ἀκούετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form in order to cause the Galatian believers to think about and reflect on what he is going to say next. 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: “Each of you who desire to be under the law. You should listen to what the law actually says” or “Those of you who desire to be under the law. You pay closer attention to what the law really teaches”

do you not listen to the law

Quote: τὸν νόμον οὐκ ἀκούετε (1)

Alternate translation: “do you not comprehend what the law is teaching” or “do you not understand what the law is actually teaching”

Galatians 4:22

it is written

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

Here, Paul uses it is written to mean that it is written in the Old Testament Scriptures. Paul assumes that his readers will understand this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is referring to an important text. Alternate translation: “it has been written in the Scriptures”

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 could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Moses did it. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote” or “Moses wrote in the Scriptures”

Abraham had two sons, one by the slave girl and one by the free woman

Quote: Ἀβραὰμ δύο υἱοὺς ἔσχεν; ἕνα ἐκ τῆς παιδίσκης, καὶ ἕνα ἐκ τῆς ἐλευθέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In this verse and in all of 4:23 Paul is summarizing a story from the book of Genesis and is not directly quoting scripture, so you should not use quotation marks or anything else that might cause your readers to think that Paul is directly quoting scripture here.

one by the slave girl and one by the free woman

Quote: ἕνα ἐκ τῆς παιδίσκης, καὶ ἕνα ἐκ τῆς ἐλευθέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

In both instances in the phrases one by the slave girl and one by the free woman, Paul is using the adjective "one" as a noun in order to indicate a specific kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could add the word “son” to show Paul's meaning. Alternate translation: “one son by the slave girl and one son by the free woman”

Galatians 4:23

And

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

Here, Paul is using the word And to introduce additional information regarding the two sons mentioned in 4:22. In the remainder of this verse, Paul contrasts the way in which the two sons were born. Alternate translation: “Now”

slave girl … free woman

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

See how you translated slave girl and free woman in 4:22.

according to flesh

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

Here, the phrase according to the flesh means that Ishmael was born in the natural way by which all children are born, without God intervening and performing a miracle. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the natural way”

but

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

Here, the word but is introducing a contrast. It is introducing a contrast between Ishmael, the one who was born from the slave girl according to the flesh and Isaac, who was born from the free woman, through promise. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast.

through promise

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

Here, the phrase through promise means “through God’s promise to Abraham” and refers to God supernaturally intervening and enabling Abraham’s wife Sarah (the free woman) to become pregnant in order to fulfill his promise to Abraham. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “through God’s promise to Abraham” or “was conceived supernaturally as a result of what God had promised to Abraham”

Galatians 4:24

These things

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

These things refers to the things Paul has just described in 4:22-23 regarding Abraham, his two sons, and Hagar and Sarah. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “These events I have just described to you” or “These things I have just told to you”

These things are being spoken as an allegory

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could 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 he is doing it. Alternate translation: “I am speaking these things as an allegory”

These things are being spoken as an allegory

Quote: ἅτινά ἐστιν ἀλληγορούμενα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

An allegory is a story in which things within the story are interpreted as representing something else. Here, the things in the story are meant to be interpreted as representing spiritual truths and realities. In this allegory, the two women referred to in 4:22 represent two different covenants. If your language has a word or phrase for allegory, you could use that here. Alternately, if it would help your readers, you could describe what an allegory is in your translation. Alternate translation: “I am speaking of these things in order to teach you a spiritual truth” or “I am speaking of these things in order to use them as an analogy by which to teach you an important truth”

they

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

Here, the word they refers to Sarah and Hagar. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “these women”

One

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

The word One here could refer to: (1) the covenant which God made at Mount Sinai, which resulted in spiritual slavery to the law. Alternate translation: “One covenant” (2) Hagar, in which case Paul means that she corresponds to Mount Sinai (See 4:25) and gave birth to children destined for slavery. Alternate translation: “One woman”

Mount Sinai

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

Paul uses Mount Sinai to refer to the covenant with the laws that Moses gave to the Israelites there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language to express this. Alternate translation: “Mount Sinai, where Moses received the law and gave it to the Israelites”

giving birth to slavery

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

Paul speaks of the law of Moses producing or resulting in something as if the process of producing was like giving birth. Paul speaks of the spiritual bondage of being under the authority of the law of Moses as if it were slavery. Paul is saying that the law of Moses produces spiritual slavery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use equivalent metaphors from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and produces spiritual slavery” or “and results in spiritual slavery”

slavery

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of slavery, you could express the same idea with a concrete noun such as “slave,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

Galatians 4:25

Hagar is Mount Sinai

Quote: τὸ & Ἁγὰρ Σινά Ὄρος ἐστὶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Hagar is Mount Sinai means that Hagar symbolizes Mount Sinai. Here, Paul begins to explain the meaning of the allegory which he began in 4:22. If it would help your readers, you could indicate explicitly what the phrase Hagar is Mount Sinai means. Alternate translation: “Hagar represents Mount Sinai”

Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia

Quote: τὸ & Ἁγὰρ Σινά Ὄρος ἐστὶν ἐν τῇ Ἀραβίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Paul uses Mount Sinai in Arabia to refer to the covenant and the accompanying laws that Moses gave to the Israelites there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language to express this. Alternate translation: “Hagar resembles Mount Sinai in Arabia, where Moses received the law and gave it to the Israelites”

corresponds

Quote: συνστοιχεῖ (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. The words that Paul leaves out could be: (1) Hagar. Alternate translation: “Hagar corresponds” (2) Mount Sinai. Alternate translation: “Mount Sinai corresponds”

present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery

Quote: νῦν Ἰερουσαλήμ, δουλεύει γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul is describing the religion of Judaism (which emphasized obeying the law of Moses) by association with the city of Jerusalem, which was the center of this religion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “religion of Judaism, for all who follow this religion are in slavery”

for she is in slavery with her children

Quote: δουλεύει γὰρ μετὰ τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the religion of Judaism, with its emphasis on obeying the law of Moses, as being in slavery. Here, Paul uses the word slavery to refer to the spiritual bondage that seeking to obey the religious system based on the law of Moses creates. Here, slavery refers to spiritual bondage, and children refers to those people who seek to obey the law of Moses as a means of meriting God’s approval. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use equivalent metaphors from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for Jerusalem represents the religious system of Judaism, which results in spiritual bondage for all those who practice it” or “for Jerusalem represents the religious system based on the laws of Moses, which results in spiritual bondage for all those who seek to be righteous before God by practicing it”

she is in slavery with her children

Quote: δουλεύει & μετὰ τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul refers to the city of Jerusalem as though it were a woman (she and her) who could be in slavery and have children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem represents the religious system of Judaism, which results in spiritual bondage for all those who practice it”

she is in slavery

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

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of slavery, you could express the same idea with a concrete noun such as “slave,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language.

Galatians 4:26

But

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

Here, the word But is introducing a contrast between the present Jerusalem mentioned in 4:25 and the Jerusalem above in this verse. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “On the other hand,”

the Jerusalem above

Quote: ἡ & ἄνω Ἰερουσαλὴμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase the Jerusalem above refers to the heavenly city of God, which is comprised of all those who trust Jesus to save them from their sins. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the heavenly Jerusalem” or “God’s Jerusalem” or “God’s Jerusalem, which is made up of those who trust in Jesus,”

above

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

Paul is describing what is heavenly (what belongs to or comes from heaven) by association with the word above, which his readers would have understood to mean “heavenly.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use plain language.

free

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

Here, the word free refers to spiritual freedom which consists of freedom from the law of Moses and freedom from the power and condemnation of sin which results in being able to freely worship God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “spiritually free”

which is our mother

Quote: ἥτις ἐστὶν μήτηρ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses the word mother to refer to belonging to a place as a citizen of that place and possessing the rights and privileges which belong to a citizen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “which is the Jerusalem to which we belong” or “which is the place to which we belong”

our mother

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

Paul speaks of the Jerusalem above as if it was were a mother. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly.

our

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

When Paul says our, he is speaking of all believers in Jesus, which would include himself and the Galatian believers, so our would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

Galatians 4:27

For

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

Here, Paul uses the word For to indicate that he is introducing material which supports what he said in 4:26. Use a natural form in your language for introducing information which supports a prior claim.

it is written

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

Here, Paul uses the phrase it is written to indicate that what follows is a quotation from the Old Testament Scriptures. Paul assumes that his readers will understand this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is referring to an important text. Alternate translation: “it is written in the Scriptures”

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 could 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 the prophet Isaiah did it. Alternate translation: “Isaiah wrote”

Rejoice, you barren woman, the one not giving birth; break forth and shout, you {who are} not suffering the pains of childbirth; because the children of the desolate one {are} many more than of the one having a husband

Quote: εὐφράνθητι, στεῖρα, ἡ οὐ τίκτουσα, ῥῆξον καὶ βόησον, ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα, ὅτι πολλὰ τὰ τέκνα τῆς ἐρήμου μᾶλλον, ἢ τῆς ἐχούσης τὸν ἄνδρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This is a quotation from Isaiah 54:1. Use a natural way of indicating that something is a quotation.

Rejoice, you barren woman, the one not giving birth; break forth and shout, you {who are} not suffering the pains of childbirth

Quote: εὐφράνθητι, στεῖρα, ἡ οὐ τίκτουσα, ῥῆξον καὶ βόησον, ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean the same thing. Isaiah uses a common Hebrew poetic device and says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “Rejoice, you who are barren” or “Rejoice, you who have been unable to have children”

you barren woman, … you {who are} not suffering the pains of childbirth

Quote: στεῖρα & ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

If your language requires you to state the person who is the object of a command, it is implied that a woman is being addressed. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “you barren woman … you woman not suffering the pains of childbirth”

Rejoice, you barren woman, the one not giving birth; break forth and shout, you {who are} not suffering the pains of childbirth; because the children of the desolate one {are} many more than of the one having a husband

Quote: εὐφράνθητι, στεῖρα, ἡ οὐ τίκτουσα, ῥῆξον καὶ βόησον, ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα, ὅτι πολλὰ τὰ τέκνα τῆς ἐρήμου μᾶλλον, ἢ τῆς ἐχούσης τὸν ἄνδρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul is quoting the prophet Isaiah, who is speaking of the city of Jerusalem as if it were a barren woman who is unable to give birth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly.

because

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

The word because is introducing the reason to Rejoice. Use a natural form for introducing a reason to do something.

the children of the desolate one {are} many more than of the one having a husband

Quote: πολλὰ τὰ τέκνα τῆς ἐρήμου μᾶλλον, ἢ τῆς ἐχούσης τὸν ἄνδρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The prophet Isaiah wrote this scripture passage during the time in which Jerusalem and its people had been conquered by the Babylonian army and the people taken away to Babylon. Isaiah is speaking of the city of Jerusalem as it was at the time of his writing, when it was without most of its original inhabitants. He compares the empty city to a desolate woman, a woman whose husband has left her, and he speaks of the inhabitants of Jerusalem as if they were children. In this passage from Isaiah 54:1, Isaiah is picturing Israel as a wife who is abandoned by her husband, which is God. Having children in this context refers to having inhabitants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use equivalent metaphors from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: "the woman who was abandoned by her husband has more children than does the woman living with her husband"

than

Quote: ἢ (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: “than the children”

Galatians 4:28

Now

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

Here, Paul uses the word Now to indicate that what he writes next is connected to what he wrote immediately before this and that he is continuing his line of thought. Use a natural form in your language to indicate that what follows is in continuity with what precedes it. Alternate translation: “And”

you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise

Quote: ὑμεῖς & ἀδελφοί, κατὰ Ἰσαὰκ, ἐπαγγελίας τέκνα ἐστέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that the Galatian believers (who are referred to as brothers) are like Isaac because both Isaac and the Galatians are children of promise, meaning that they both owe their birth to God’s supernatural working. Isaac’s physical birth came about as a result of God’s supernatural intervention, and the Galatian believers spiritual birth came about as a result of God’s supernatural intervention. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my fellow believers, you are similar to Isaac in that God miraculously intervened for both you and him in order to fulfill his promise to Abraham”

you

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

Here, the pronoun you is plural. Your language may require you to mark such forms.

brothers

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

See how you translated the word brothers in 1:2 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

children of promise

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

Here, children could be a metaphor which means that the Galatian believers are: (1) God’s spiritual descendants. If it would help your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God’s spiritual descendants” or “God’s children” (2) Abraham’s spiritual descendants. If it would help your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Abraham’s spiritual descendants” or “Abraham’s children”

children of promise

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

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the source of these children. He means that the children are the children or descendants which God promised to supernaturally give to Abraham, and therefore they are children whose source derives from God fulfillment of his promise to Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify the relationship for your readers. Alternate translation: “children of God’s promise” or “children of God’s promise to Abraham”

Galatians 4:29

But

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

Here, the word But could be: (1) introducing a contrast. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast. (2) indicating a transition. Alternate translation: “And”

just as

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

Here, the word just as introduces a comparison. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a comparison.

the one

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

Here, the phrase the one refers to Abraham’s son Ishmael. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: "Ishmael, the one"

the one

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

Here, the phrase the one refers to Abraham’s son Isaac. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Isaac, the one”

according to Spirit

Quote: κατὰ Πνεῦμα (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: “having been born according to Spirit”

according to Spirit

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

Here, according to Spirit means that Isaac’s birth came about because the Holy Spirit worked in a supernatural way in order to make it happen. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having been born because of the supernatural working of the Spirit” or “having been born by the miraculous working of the Spirit”

so {it} also {is

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

The phrase so it also is introduces a comparison. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a comparison. Alternate translation: “so it is also the same”

Galatians 4:30

what does the scripture say

Quote: τί λέγει ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information, but is using the question form to get the Galatian believers to think about the scripture verse he cites next. 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 says,"

does the scripture say

Quote: λέγει ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul speaks of the specific scripture passage he is quoting from Genesis as though it were a person who is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “does Moses say in the scripture” or “does Moses write in the scripture”

Cast out the slave girl and her son. For the son of the slave girl will certainly not inherit with the son of the free woman

Quote: ἔκβαλε τὴν παιδίσκην καὶ τὸν υἱὸν αὐτῆς; οὐ γὰρ μὴ κληρονομήσει ὁ υἱὸς τῆς παιδίσκης, μετὰ τοῦ υἱοῦ τῆς ἐλευθέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This is a quotation from Genesis. Use a natural way in your language to indicate that this is a quotation.

Cast out

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

Here, Cast out means to send away. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: "Banish" or "Remove from here"

certainly not

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

The phrase certainly not translates two negative words in Greek. In the author’s culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. If your language can use two negatives as the author’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one strong negative. Alternate translation: “by no means”

Galatians 4:31

Therefore

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

The word Therefore is introducing Paul’s conclusion to what he explained immediately prior to this verse. Use a natural form for introducing a concluding statement. Alternate translation: “So then”

brothers

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

See how you translated the word brothers in 1:2 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

we are

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

When Paul says we, he is including the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

children

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

Paul speaks of spiritual descendants as if they were children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the word children in 4:28 where it is also used to mean “spiritual descendants.”

of a slave girl, but of the free woman

Quote: παιδίσκης & ἀλλὰ τῆς ἐλευθέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul is using the phrase slave girl to refer to Hagar, who symbolizes the law of Moses (which brings spiritual bondage), and he is using Sarah, the free woman, to symbolize God’s promise that he made to Abraham. If your readers would not understand this you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “of the law of Moses, but of the promises that God made to Abraham”

but

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

Here, the word but is introducing a contrast. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation (as a new sentence): "Instead, we are children"

Galatians 5

Galatians 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul continues writing about the law of Moses as something that traps or enslaves a person. In this chapter Paul declares repeatedly that Christ has freed believers from being obligated to obey the law of Moses. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Fruit of the Spirit

The phrase “the fruit of the Spirit” is not plural, even though it begins a list of several things. The word “fruit” is singular and refers to the nine qualities listed in 5:22–23 to show that they are a united cluster of qualities that are manifested in each believer. Translators should keep the singular form for “fruit” if possible. (See: fruit, fruitful, unfruitful)

the law

The phrase “the law” is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. This phrase occurs in chapters 2-5. Every time this phrase occurs in Galatians it refers to the group of laws that God dictated to Moses at Mount Sinai. You should translate this phrase the same way each time it occurs. (See: Collective Nouns)

Galatians 5:1

For freedom Christ set us free

Quote: τῇ ἐλευθερίᾳ, ἡμᾶς Χριστὸς ἠλευθέρωσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For freedom Christ set us free implies that Christ set believers free from being required to obey the laws God gave the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Christ has set us free from the law”

For freedom

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

For here indicates that what follows is the purpose for which Christ freed believers. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose. Alternate translation: “For the purpose of freedom”

For freedom … of slavery

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

See how you translated freedom in 2:4 and slavery in 4:24.

us

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

When Paul says us here, he is speaking of himself, his traveling companions, and the Galatian believers, so us would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

Stand firm

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

Stand firm here refers to one remaining steadfast in what one believes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Be unmoved” or “Remain strong in your faith”

do not again be subjected to

Quote: μὴ πάλιν & ἐνέχεσθε (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 again subject yourselves to”

do not again be subjected to a yoke of slavery

Quote: μὴ πάλιν ζυγῷ δουλείας ἐνέχεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of someone being obligated to obey the laws God gave the Jews as if that person were subjected to a yoke of slavery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “do not go back to being obligated to obey the law” or “do not be subjected to the law like one who is under a yoke of slavery”

a yoke of slavery

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

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a yoke that is slavery. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a yoke, that is, slavery”

Galatians 5:2

Behold

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

Paul uses the term Behold to focus his audience’s attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: "Understand this!"

if you would be circumcised

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if someone circumcises you” or “if you receive circumcision”

Christ will benefit you nothing

Quote: Χριστὸς ὑμᾶς οὐδὲν ὠφελήσει. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this clause Paul means that if a person is circumcised in order to complete their salvation, then what Christ has done to provide salvation for them will not help them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what Christ has done will not benefit you at all”

Galatians 5:3

being circumcised

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “who has someone circumcise him”

to do the whole law

Quote: ὅλον τὸν νόμον ποιῆσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul implies that a circumcised man must obey the whole law in order to be righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to do the whole law to become righteous”

the whole law

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

Here, law is a singular noun that refers to a group of laws that God gave Israel by dictating them to Moses. See how law is translated in 2:16 and Romans 2:12. Alternate translation: “all of God’s laws”

Galatians 5:4

You were cut off from Christ, whoever is being justified by law

Quote: κατηργήθητε ἀπὸ Χριστοῦ, οἵτινες ἐν νόμῳ δικαιοῦσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

You here refers to whoever is being justified by the law. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this more explicit. Alternate translation: “You who are being justified by the law were cut off from Christ”

You were cut off … is being justified

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You cut yourselves off … is justifying oneself”

You were cut off from Christ

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

Here, cut off refers to being separated from Christ. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “You have ended your relationship with Christ” or “You are separated from Christ”

whoever is being justified by law

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

Paul implies that these people were trying to be justified by obeying the law, which is impossible. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “whoever attempts to be justified by obeying the law”

law

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

See how you translated law in the previous verse.

you fell from grace

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

Here Paul speaks of grace as if it were something that a person could fall away from. He means that people who are trying to save themselves by obeying the law do not receive God’s grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you have rejected the grace of God” or “God will no longer be gracious to you”

Galatians 5:5

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why what Paul stated 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”

through the Spirit

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

Here and throughout this chapter, the Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit. See how you translated the same use of Spirit in 3:2.

by faith, … the hope of righteousness

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of faith, hope, and righteousness, you could express the same ideas in another way. See how you translated faith in 2:16 and righteousness in 2:21. Alternate translation: “by trusting … what is hopeful of what it righteous”

we

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

Here, we refers to Paul and those who trust in Christ instead of the law, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness

Quote: ἡμεῖς & ἐκ πίστεως ἐλπίδα δικαιοσύνης ἀπεκδεχόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This could mean: (1) we eagerly wait by faith. Alternate translation: “we eagerly wait by faith for the hope of righteousness” (2) righteousness is by faith. Alternate translation: “we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith”

the hope of righteousness

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

This could mean: (1) people hope for righteousness. Alternate translation: “the hope for righteousness” (2) the hope is righteousness. Alternate translation: “the hope, that is, righteousness”

Galatians 5:6

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is a 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”

in Christ Jesus

Quote: ἐν & Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 3:26.

circumcision … uncircumcision … faith … love

Quote: περιτομή & ἀκροβυστία & πίστις & ἀγάπης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of circumcision, uncircumcision, faith, and love, you could express the same ideas in another way. See how you translated faith in 2:16. Alternate translation: “being circumcised … not being circumcised … trusting … loving”

neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is capable of anything

Quote: οὔτε περιτομή τι ἰσχύει, οὔτε ἀκροβυστία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, anything refers to being important to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is capable of being important to God” or “neither circumcision nor uncircumcision matters”

faith working through love

Quote: πίστις δι’ ἀγάπης ἐνεργουμένη (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: “faith working through love is capable of something” or “faith working through love matters”

Galatians 5:7

You were running well

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

Here Paul refers to becoming more spiritually mature as if someone were running a race. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “You were making excellent progress in your faith” or “You were doing so well”

Who hindered you, not to be persuaded by truth

Quote: τίς ὑμᾶς ἐνέκοψεν, ἀληθείᾳ μὴ πείθεσθαι? (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 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 should not have let someone hinder you, not to be persuaded by truth!”

not to be persuaded by truth

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

This clause provides the expected result of what Paul said in the previous clause. Use a natural form for indicating a result. Alternate translation: “which is resulting in you not being persuaded by truth”

not to be persuaded by truth

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you couldstate this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the truth is not persuading you”

not to be persuaded by truth

Quote: ἀληθείᾳ μὴ πείθεσθαι (1)

Alternate translation: “not to obey the truth”

by truth

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

See how you translated truth in 2:5.

Galatians 5:8

This persuasion

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

Here, persuasion refers to some Galatians being persuaded to obey the laws God gave the Jews instead of trusting solely in Jesus to save them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You being persuaded to stop trusting in the Messiah”

the one calling you

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

Here, the one calling you refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, who is calling you”

Galatians 5:9

A little leaven leavens the whole lump

Quote: μικρὰ ζύμη ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs

Here Paul quotes or creates a proverb, which is a short saying about something that is generally true in life. This proverb gives a comparison: Just as a small amount of leaven leavens a whole lump of dough, so a small amount of false teaching can deceive many people in a church. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate the proverb in a way that will be recognized as a proverb and be meaningful in your language and culture. Alternate translation: “It has been said that a little leaven causes a whole lump of dough to be leavened”

A little leaven leavens the whole lump

Quote: μικρὰ ζύμη ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word leaven refers to a substance that causes fermentation and expansion within a batch of dough or batter. Here, leavens refers to the fermentation process and lump refers to the batch of dough. If your readers would not be familiar with leaven, you could use the name of a substance that they would be familiar with, or you could use a general term. Alternate translation: “A little yeast causes all of the batch of dough to swell up”

Galatians 5:10

in the Lord

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

Here, in the Lord indicates the basis or cause for which Paul was confident in the Galatian believers, and the Lord refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar expression “in Christ” in 1:22. Alternate translation: “on the basis of us being in union with the Lord Jesus”

you will think nothing otherwise

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

Here, nothing otherwise refers to nothing other than what Paul has told his readers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will think nothing other than what I am telling you”

the one troubling you … whoever he may be

Quote: ὁ & ταράσσων ὑμᾶς & ὅστις ἐὰν ᾖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of several people who were troubling the Galatian believers, not just one particular man. Paul states in 1:7 that there were several false teachers causing trouble. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more general expression. Alternate translation: “those troubling you … whoever they may be”

will bear the judgment

Quote: βαστάσει τὸ κρίμα (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: “will be judged”

Galatians 5:11

brothers

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

See how you translated the same use of brothers in 1:2. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

if I still proclaim circumcision, why am I still being persecuted

Quote: ἐγὼ & εἰ περιτομὴν ἔτι κηρύσσω, τί ἔτι διώκομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to help emphasize that he does not proclaim circumcision. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: "suppose I still do proclaim circumcision. Then why am I still being persecuted"

proclaim circumcision

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

Here, proclaim circumcision refers to telling people that they must be circumcised in order to be saved. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “proclaim the need to be circumcised” or “proclaim that everyone must be circumcised”

circumcision

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

See how you translated circumcision in 5:6.

why am I still being persecuted

Quote: τί ἔτι διώκομαι (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 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: “I should not still be persecuted!”

why am I still being persecuted? … the stumbling block of the cross has been removed

Quote: τί ἔτι διώκομαι & κατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “why are people still persecuting me … I would have removed the stumbling block of the cross”

In that case the stumbling block of the cross has been removed

Quote: ἄρα κατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This sentence gives both the result of proclaiming circumcision and the reason why someone who proclaimed circumcision would not be persecuted. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would not be persecuted because proclaiming circumcision would remove the stumbling block of the cross”

the stumbling block of the cross

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

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

the stumbling block

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

Here, stumbling block refers to something that offends people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the offense”

of the cross

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

Here, the cross refers to Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross, which was a very offensive way to die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of what Jesus did when he died on the cross”

Galatians 5:12

will even castrate themselves

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

This could mean: (1) Paul wished that the false teachers who wanted to circumcise the Galatian believers would cut off their male organs, as stated literally in the ULT. (2) Paul wished that the false teachers would leave the Christian community. Alternate translation: “will even remove themselves from among you”

Galatians 5:13

For

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

For here could indicate: (1) Paul is transitioning back to the topic he introduced in 5:1. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (2) the reason for the harsh words Paul said in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I wish they would do so because”

you have been called to freedom

Quote: ὑμεῖς & ἐπ’ ἐλευθερίᾳ ἐκλήθητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has called you to freedom”

freedom, … the freedom

Quote: ἐλευθερίᾳ & τὴν ἐλευθερίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, freedom implies that Christ sets believers free from being required to obey the laws God gave the Jews. See how you translated the similar expression in 5:1. Alternate translation: “freedom from the law … that freedom from the law”

freedom, … freedom

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

See how you translated freedom in 2:4.

brothers

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

See how you translated the same use of brothers in 1:2. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

an opportunity for the flesh

Quote: ἀφορμὴν τῇ σαρκί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the flesh as if it were a person who could take advantage of an opportunity. He is referring to believers thinking they can sin because they 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. Alternate translation: “an opportunity to sin”

for the flesh

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

Here Paul uses flesh to refer to sinful human nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for your sinful nature”

rather, through love serve one another

Quote: ἀλλὰ διὰ τῆς ἀγάπης δουλεύετε ἀλλήλοις (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: “rather than using your freedom as an excuse to sin, through love serve one another”

through love

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

Here, through indicates the means by which believers should serve one another. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of love”

love

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

See how you translated love in 5:6.

Galatians 5:14

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul’s readers should obey the command he gave in the previous verse. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a reason. Alternate translation: “You must do this for one another because”

all the law has been fulfilled in one command

Quote: ὁ & πᾶς νόμος ἐν ἑνὶ λόγῳ πεπλήρωται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could mean: (1) this one command sums up all the law. Alternate translation: “all the law is summed up in just one command” (2) someone who obeys this one command obeys all the law. Alternate translation: “by obeying one commandment, you obey the whole law”

all the law has been fulfilled in one command

Quote: ὁ & πᾶς νόμος ἐν ἑνὶ λόγῳ πεπλήρωται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “one command has fulfilled all the law”

the law

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

See how you translated law in the 2:16.

You will love your neighbor as yourself

Quote: ἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd

The words you, your, and yourself are singular here because, even though Moses said this to the Israelites as a group, each individual person was supposed to obey this command. So in your translation, use the singular forms of you, your, and yourself in this verse, if your language marks that distinction.

You will love

Quote: ἀγαπήσεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

You will love is a statement that Moses uses to give a command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You must love”

Galatians 5:15

if you are biting and devouring one another, watch out that you might not be consumed by one another

Quote: εἰ & ἀλλήλους δάκνετε καὶ κατεσθίετε, βλέπετε μὴ ὑπ’ ἀλλήλων ἀναλωθῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Paul is using a hypothetical situation to teach the Galatians what the results will be if they fight with each other. The result of consuming each other will happen if they fulfill the condition of biting and devouring one another. The word “then” is implied before the phrase watch out. If it would help your readers, you could supply this word in your translation. Alternate translation: “if you are biting and devouring one another, then watch out that you might not be consumed by one another”

if you are biting and devouring one another

Quote: εἰ & ἀλλήλους δάκνετε καὶ κατεσθίετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the Galatian believers fighting each other as if they were wild animals that attack each other. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “if you are mistreating and hurting one another” or “if you are acting like wild animals that bite and devour one another”

you might not be consumed by one another

Quote: μὴ ὑπ’ ἀλλήλων ἀναλωθῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the Galatian believers fighting each other as if they were wild animals that eat each other. Here consumed could mean: (1) the believers themselves would be destroyed. Alternate translation: “you might not be destroyed by one another” (2) the fellowship of Galatian believers would be destroyed. Alternate translation: “your group of believers might not be destroyed by one another”

you might not be consumed by one another

Quote: μὴ ὑπ’ ἀλλήλων ἀναλωθῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you might not consume one another”

Galatians 5:16

walk by the Spirit

Quote: Πνεύματι περιπατεῖτε (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 plainly. Alternate translation: “act by the Spirit”

by the Spirit

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

The phrase by the Spirit implies being directed or controlled by the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by the direction of the Holy Spirit” or “according to how the Holy Spirit leads”

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 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.

you would certainly not fulfill desires of the flesh

Quote: ἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς οὐ μὴ τελέσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase you would certainly not fulfill desires refers to not doing what someone sinfully wants to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you would certainly not do what the flesh desires”

desires of the flesh

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

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

desires of the flesh

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

Here Paul speaks of the flesh as if it were a person who has desires. He is referring to what a person wants to do as a result of having a sinful human nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how this phrase is translated in Romans 13:14. Alternate translation: “what you want to do because of your sinful nature” or “the things you want to do that are sinful”

of the flesh

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

Here, Paul uses the word flesh to refer to sinful human nature. See how you translated the phrase the flesh in 5:13.

Galatians 5:17

For

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

Here, the word For indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul commanded his readers to walk by the Spirit in the previous verse. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a reason. Alternate translation: “I say this to you because”

the flesh … the flesh

Quote: ἡ & σὰρξ & τῆς σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the phrase the flesh in 5:13 and in the previous verse.

the flesh desires against the Spirit

Quote: ἡ & σὰρξ ἐπιθυμεῖ κατὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase desires against implies desiring to do what is against the Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the flesh desires to do things that are against the Spirit”

the flesh desires

Quote: ἡ & σὰρξ ἐπιθυμεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Paul speaks of the flesh as if it were a person who desires. He is referring to what a person desires to do as a result of having a sinful human nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what you want to do because of your sinful nature is” or “the things you want to do because you are sinful are”

the Spirit against the flesh

Quote: τὸ & Πνεῦμα κατὰ τῆς σαρκός (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 if would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “the Spirit desires against the flesh”

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the desires of the flesh and the Spirit are against each other. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a reason. Alternate translation: “This is for the reason that”

these

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

The pronoun these refers to the flesh and the Spirit. If if would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the flesh and the Spirit”

so that

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

Here, so that indicates that what follows is the result of what Paul said in the previous clause. Use a natural way in your language for indicating result. Alternate translation: “and as a result,”

these things that you would desire

Quote: ἃ & θέλητε ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to the good things that Christians want to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those good things that you would desire to do as Christians”

Galatians 5:18

you are led by the Spirit

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Spirit leads you”

you are not under the law

Quote: οὐκ ἐστὲ ὑπὸ νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Paul speaks of the law as if it were a ruler under whose authority people had to live. He means that Christians are not controlled by the requirements of the law or under its authority. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how under the law is translated in Galatians 3:23 and Romans 6:14. Alternative translation: “the law does not control you” or “you are not under the authority of the law”

the law

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

See how you translated the law in 2:16.

Galatians 5:19

the works of the flesh … sexual immorality, impurity, licentiousness

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός & πορνεία, ἀκαθαρσία, ἀσέλγεια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of impurity you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “behaves impurely”

the works of the flesh

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the flesh as if it were a person who has works. He is referring to what a person does as a result of having a sinful human nature. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the things people do because of their sinful natures” or “the things people do because they are sinful”

of the flesh

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

See how you translated flesh in 5:13 and 5:16.

Galatians 5:20

idolatry, sorcery, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, divisions, factions

Quote: εἰδωλολατρία, φαρμακεία, ἔχθραι, ἔρις, ζῆλοι, θυμοί, ἐριθεῖαι, διχοστασίαι, αἱρέσεις (1)

Alternate translation: “worshiping idols, practicing witchcraft, being hostile, striving with others, being jealous, angrily bursting out, causing people to divide, making factious groups”

Galatians 5:21

envy, drunkenness, drunken celebrations

Quote: φθόνοι, μέθαι, κῶμοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of envy, drunkenness, and drunken celebrations, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “being envious, being drunk, being drunk while celebrating”

will not inherit

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

Here Paul speaks of the kingdom of God as if it were property that a child could inherit from a parent when that parent dies. Paul uses the word inherit here to refer to being able to dwell in the kingdom of God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this figure of speech with a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “will not dwell in”

Galatians 5:22

the fruit of the Spirit

Quote: ὁ & καρπὸς τοῦ Πνεύματός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe the fruit that the Spirit gives to believers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the fruit that the Spirit gives”

the fruit

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

Here, fruit refers to a result or outcome. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the product” or “the result”

love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness

Quote: ἀγάπη, χαρά, εἰρήνη, μακροθυμία, χρηστότης, ἀγαθωσύνη, πίστις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “acting lovingly, joyfully, peacefully, patiently, kindly, in a good manner, faithfully”

peace

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

Here, peace could mean: (1) a peaceful feeling. Alternate translation: “feeling peaceful” (2) a peaceful relationship with other people. Alternate translation: “peace with others”

Galatians 5:23

gentleness, {and} self-control

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

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of gentleness, and self-control, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “acting gently, and controlling oneself”

Galatians 5:24

have crucified the flesh

Quote: τὴν σάρκα ἐσταύρωσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Paul speaks of the flesh as if it were a person that believers have crucified. He means that Christians refuse to live according to their sinful natures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “refuse to live according to their sinful natures”

the flesh

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

See how you translated the same use of the flesh in 5:13.

the passions and the desires

Quote: τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These phrases specifically refer to the passions and desires of the flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “its passion and desires”

the passions and the desires

Quote: τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of passions, and desires, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what it is passionate about and what it desires”

Galatians 5:25

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 could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Because”

we live by the Spirit

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Spirit causes us to be alive”

we live

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

Here, live refers to a Christian’s spirit being alive, which will result in that person living forever with God in heaven. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “we live spiritually”

let us also walk by the Spirit

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

See how you translated walk by the Spirit in 5:16.

Galatians 6

Galatians 6 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This chapter concludes Paul’s letter. His final words address some additional issues that concerned him about the Galatian believers.

Brothers

Paul writes the words in this chapter to Christians. He calls them brothers in verses 1 and [18[(../06/18.md).

Special Concepts in this Chapter

New Creation

Someone who becomes Christian is a new creation that is united with Christ (6:15; 2 Corinthians 5:17). Christians have been given a new way of living that will result in eternal life. This is more significant than a person’s ancestry or attempts to obey the laws God gave the Jews. (See: born again, born of God, new birth)

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 flesh to refer to sinful human nature. He contrasts flesh with the Spirit in verse 8. However, he also uses flesh to refer to a person’s physical body or outward appearance in verses 12–13. (See: INVALID bible/kt/flesh and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and spirit, wind, breath)

Galatians 6:1

Brothers

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

See how you translated the same use of Brothers in 1:2. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

a man

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

Here, a man does not refer to a particular man, but to any believer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “anyone among you” or “one of you”

a man is caught in any trespass

Quote: προλημφθῇ ἄνθρωπος ἔν τινι παραπτώματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could refer to: (1) a believer discovering that another believer is committing a sin. Alternate translation: “a man is discovered while committing any trespass” (2) a person who is overcome by temptation and sins. Alternate translation: “a man is overwhelmed by temptation and commits any trespass”

in any trespass

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

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

the spiritual ones

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

Here, the spiritual ones refers to spiritually mature believers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the spiritually mature ones”

a spirit of gentleness

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

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

a spirit

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

Here, spirit refers to a person’s attitude or emotional state. It does not refer to the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a mental state”

considering

Quote: σκοπῶν (1)

Alternate translation: “paying careful attention to” or “looking out for”

yourself

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

Paul uses the singular pronoun yourself here to refer to all his Christian readers. 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 yourself in your translation. Alternate translation: “yourselves”

lest you also be tempted

Quote: μὴ καὶ σὺ πειρασθῇς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “lest something also tempts you” or “lest the same thing that tempted that person also tempt you”

Galatians 6:2

Carry the burdens of one another

Quote: ἀλλήλων τὰ βάρη βαστάζετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul speaks of the spiritual struggles of immature believers as if they were burdens that a person could carry. 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 one another overcome spiritual weakness”

the burdens of one another

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

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

you will fulfill

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

Here, fulfill refers to obeying completely. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you will completely obey”

the law of Christ

Quote: τὸν νόμον τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the law of Christ most likely refers to Christ’s command to love one another in John 13:34, which Paul also refers to in 5:14. It does not refer to a set of rules or the laws that God gave the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “what Christ commands”

Galatians 6:3

For

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

For 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: “Do this because”

thinks {himself} … he deceives himself

Quote: δοκεῖ & φρεναπατᾷ ἑαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the words himself and he are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression.

to be something

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

Here, to be something refers to someone arrogantly thinking that he is better than other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to be better than others”

being nothing

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

Here, being nothing refers to someone not being better than other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not being better than others”

Galatians 6:4

let each one examine his own work, and then he will have reason to boast in himself alone and not in someone else

Quote: τὸ & ἔργον ἑαυτοῦ δοκιμαζέτω ἕκαστος, καὶ τότε εἰς ἑαυτὸν μόνον τὸ καύχημα ἕξει, καὶ οὐκ εἰς τὸν ἕτερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

In this verse Paul is addressing his readers in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the second person instead. Alternate translation: “let each one of you examine your own work, and then you will have reason to boast in yourself and not in someone else”

his … he will have … himself

Quote: τὸ & ἑαυτὸν & ἕξει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the words his, he, and himself are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression.

his own work, … he will have reason to boast

Quote: τὸ & ἔργον ἑαυτοῦ & τὸ καύχημα ἕξει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of work and reason, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “the things he does himself … he can reasonably boast”

in himself … in someone else

Quote: εἰς ἑαυτὸν & εἰς τὸν ἕτερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul uses himself and someone else as if they were something that a person could boast inside of. He means that people boast about themselves or others. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “about himself … about someone else”

Galatians 6:5

For

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

For 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: “Do this because”

will carry his own burden

Quote: τὸ ἴδιον φορτίον βαστάσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase carry his own burden could mean: (1) people have their own responsibilities and tasks. Alternate translation: “each person must do the work that God has given him” or “each person is responsible for his own work” (2) people are responsible for their own weaknesses and sins. Alternate translation: “each person is responsible for their own sins”

his own burden

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

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

Galatians 6:6

let the one being taught the word share in all good things with the one teaching

Quote: κοινωνείτω & ὁ κατηχούμενος τὸν λόγον, τῷ κατηχοῦντι, ἐν πᾶσιν ἀγαθοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

In this verse Paul is addressing his readers in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the second person instead. Alternate translation: “let you who are being taught the word share in all good things with the one teaching you”

the one being taught

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one whom someone is teaching”

the word

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

Here, the word refers to 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 words”

in all good things

Quote: ἐν πᾶσιν ἀγαθοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here, all good things is a polite way of referring to material possessions, including money. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to these things or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in all that one possesses” or “in all possessions”

Galatians 6:7

Do not be deceived. God is not mocked

Quote: μὴ πλανᾶσθε, Θεὸς οὐ μυκτηρίζεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Do not deceive yourselves. No one can mock God”

for

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

Here, for indicates that what follows is a reason why God is not mocked. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “due to the fact that”

a man … that he will also reap

Quote: ἄνθρωπος, τοῦτο καὶ θερίσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although man and he are masculine, Paul is using the words here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “a person … that thing the person will also reap”

whatever a man may sow, that he will also reap

Quote: ὃ & ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος, τοῦτο καὶ θερίσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, sow refers to doing things that will have consequences, and reap represents experiencing those consequences. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “just as a farmer gathers in the fruit of the plants he grew from seed, so everyone experiences the results of whatever they do” or “everyone receives the results of whatever they have done”

Galatians 6:8

sowing to his own flesh, … sowing to the Spirit

Quote: σπείρων εἰς τὴν σάρκα ἑαυτοῦ & σπείρων εἰς τὸ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Paul continues the metaphor from the previous verse of a farmer sowing seeds and harvesting crops. The word sowing refers to doing deeds, which will have consequences. Here, sowing to his own flesh refers to a person doing sinful actions in order to satisfy his sinful nature, and sowing to the Spirit refers to a person doing good actions in order to please the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “doings things to satisfy his sinful nature … doing things to please the Holy Spirit”

flesh, … flesh

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

See how you translated the same use of flesh in 5:13.

will reap … will reap

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

In this verse reap represents experiencing the consequences of doing something. See how you translated the same use of reap in the previous verse.

destruction

Quote: φθοράν (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: “eternal destruction”

will reap destruction

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

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

Galatians 6:9

we should not become discouraged … we will reap

Quote: μὴ ἐνκακῶμεν & θερίσομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Paul says we, he is speaking of himself and the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive here. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

good

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

See how you translated good in 4:18.

in due time

Quote: καιρῷ & ἰδίῳ (1)

Alternate translation: “at the proper time”

not becoming weary

Quote: μὴ ἐκλυόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Paul is using a statement to give a condition. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural form for a condition. Alternate translation: “if not becoming weary”

we will reap

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

See how you translated reap in 6:7.

Galatians 6:10

So then

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

So then indicates that what follows in this verse is the concluding result of what Paul has said in 6:1–9. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Because all these things are true”

we have … we should do

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

When Paul says we he is speaking of himself and the Galatian believers, so we would be inclusive here. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

good

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

See how you translated good in 4:18.

all

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

Paul is using the adjective all as a noun in order to indicate all people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all people”

the ones of the household of the faith

Quote: τοὺς οἰκείους τῆς πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul refers to Christians as if they were a household of the faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “those who are Christians”

of the faith

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

Here, the faith refers to believing in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “which has faith in Jesus” or “which believes in Jesus”

Galatians 6:11

See

Quote: ἴδετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

See here is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please observe”

with my own hand

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

This could mean: (1) Paul had someone write most of this letter as Paul told him what to write, but Paul himself wrote this last part of the letter. Alternate translation: “with my own hand in the last part of this letter” (2) Paul wrote the whole letter himself. Alternate translation: “with my own hand in this letter”

Galatians 6:12

to make a good impression

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

Paul’s readers would have understood that he was referring to making a good impression on legalistic Jews who did not believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to make a good impression on the Jews”

in the flesh

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

Here, the flesh refers to someone’s outward physical appearance, specifically the appearance of someone who has been circumcised in order to impress the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with regard to physical appearance”

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”

they might not be persecuted

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

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context indicates that the Jews might do the action. Alternate translation: “the Jews might not persecute them”

for the cross of Christ Jesus

Quote: τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the cross refers to believing in Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for believing in what Christ Jesus did when he died on the cross”

Galatians 6:13

For

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

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”

the ones circumcised … you to be circumcised

Quote: οἱ περιτετμημένοι & ὑμᾶς περιτέμνεσθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the ones who have had a person circumcise them … a person to circumcise you”

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”

in your flesh

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

See how you translated the same use of flesh in the previous verse.

Galatians 6:14

may it never be to me to boast

Quote: ἐμοὶ & μὴ γένοιτο καυχᾶσθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

The phrase may it never be is an exclamation that communicates a strong desire against doing something. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this meaning. Alternate translation: “may I absolutely never boast” or “may I certainly never boast”

may it never be to me to boast except

Quote: ἐμοὶ & μὴ γένοιτο καυχᾶσθαι, εἰ μὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “may I only ever boast”

in the cross

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

Here, Paul speaks of the cross as if it were a location someone could boast in. He means that he boasts with reference to the cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when referring to the cross”

the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the cross refers to Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross. Paul uses the cross here in a slightly different way than he did in 6:12. See how you translated the same use of the cross in 5:11. Alternate translation: “what our Lord Jesus Christ did when he died on the cross”

the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world

Quote: ἐμοὶ κόσμος ἐσταύρωται, κἀγὼ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God crucified the world to me, and me to the world”

the world … to the world

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

Here, the world could refer to: (1) the entire world system, which is hostile to God. This world operates according to the elementary principles (4:3) that exist during this present evil age (1:4). Alternate translation: “this world system that opposes God … to this world system that opposes God” (2) the system of values that people share who do not honor God, which is how John uses the world in 1 John 2:15. Alternate translation: “what people value in the world … to what people value in the world”

the world has been crucified to me

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

Here, Paul speaks of the world no longer influencing him as if the world were a dead man who had been crucified. Just as a dead person cannot directly influence anyone, so the world could not influence Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “the world does not influence me” or “it is as if the world were dead to me”

and I to the world

Quote: κἀγὼ κόσμῳ (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: “and I have been crucified to the world”

and I to the world

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

This could mean: (1) the same as the previous clause, but stated in reverse order for emphasis. Alternate translation: “and I am not influenced by the world” (2) the opposite of the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and I do not influence the world”

Galatians 6:15

For

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

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why Paul only boasts “in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,” as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for indicating a reason. Alternate translation: “I may boast in the cross because”

neither circumcision is anything, nor uncircumcision

Quote: οὔτε & περιτομή τὶ ἐστιν, οὔτε ἀκροβυστία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, anything refers to being important to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “neither circumcision is important to God, nor uncircumcision”

but a new creation

Quote: ἀλλὰ καινὴ κτίσις (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: “but a new creation is something important”

a new creation

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

Here, a new creation refers to the whole process when someone trusts in Jesus and the Holy Spirit gives that person a new life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how new creation is translated in 2 Corinthians 5:17. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit giving someone a new life”

Galatians 6:16

will walk

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

See how you translated the similar use of walk in 5:16.

in this standard

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

Here, this standard refers to what Paul said in the previous verse, specifically the importance of someone being a new creation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as new creations” or “as those to whom the Holy Spirit has given new lives”

peace and mercy upon them and upon the Israel of God

Quote: εἰρήνη ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς, καὶ ἔλεος, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

Paul adds a blessing here. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “may they and the Israel of God experience peace and mercy”

peace and mercy upon them and upon the Israel of God

Quote: εἰρήνη ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς, καὶ ἔλεος, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of peace and mercy, you could express the ideas in a different way. See how you translated peace in 1:3. Alternate translation: “may God make them feel peaceful and may he be merciful to them and to the Israel of God”

and upon the Israel of God

Quote: καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could refer to: (1) Jews who believe in Jesus, in which case and functions as it usually does to connect two things. Alternate translation: “and upon the Jewish believers of God” (2) everyone who believes in Jesus, in which case and indicates that them refers to the same group of people as the Israel of God. Alternate translation: “that is, upon God’s people”

Galatians 6:17

From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I carry in my body the marks of Jesus

Quote: τοῦ λοιποῦ, κόπους μοι μηδεὶς παρεχέτω; ἐγὼ γὰρ τὰ στίγματα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Because I carry in my body the marks of Jesus, from now on let no one cause me trouble”

let no one cause me trouble

Quote: κόπους μοι μηδεὶς παρεχέτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, trouble refers to the distress that some of the Galatian Christians caused for Paul because of the problems that he wrote about in this letter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “let no one trouble me with regard to these issues”

let no one cause me trouble

Quote: κόπους μοι μηδεὶς παρεχέτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of trouble, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “let no one trouble me”

I carry in my body the marks of Jesus

Quote: ἐγὼ & τὰ στίγματα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Paul speaks about the marks on his body as if they were objects that he carried around. He means that the marks remained on his body everywhere he went. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the marks of Jesus are always on my body”

the marks of Jesus

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

Here, the marks of Jesus refers to the scars on Paul’s body that were made by people beating him because he taught about Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the scars I received because I taught the truth about Jesus”

Galatians 6:18

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ {be} with your spirit

Quote: ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματος 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 Galatian believers. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May your spirit experience kindness from our Lord Jesus Christ” or “I pray that your spirit will have grace from our Lord Jesus Christ”

The grace

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

See how you translated grace in 1:3.

your spirit

Quote: τοῦ πνεύματος ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of the spirits of his readers in general, not of one particular spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “your spirits”

your spirit

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

Here, spirit could refer to: (1) the whole person. Alternative translation: “you” (2) the inner person, which is what a person thinks and feels. Alternative translation: “your inner being”

brothers

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

See how you translated the same use of brothers in 1:2. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”