Genesis
Genesis front
Introduction to Genesis
Part 1: General Introduction
In the book of Genesis, God communicates to all people the early history of the universe. He begins with how he created everything from nothing, including the earth and all the heavenly bodies (sun, moon, stars), all the plants and animals, and especially how he created human beings in his image to be in a relationship with him. This book also explains how sin and death came into the world and what God’s plan is to save people from that. In fact, all the important teachings in the Bible begin in Genesis. That makes this book foundational and important for everyone so that they can know and understand the truth about God and his plan for their lives.
Beginning with verse 1, the book of Genesis is a narrative that tells the history of events that actually happened. This is confirmed by the fact that the conjunctions and the forms of the verbs that are used in the Hebrew text reflect the Hebrew narrative style, which is used to narrate historical accounts. In the same way, those who translate the book of Genesis should also use grammatical structures in their languages that are used for true, historical narratives. God uses narrative, which is one of the most interesting styles of communication, to not only tell people about the events in the early history of the world, but also to teach them about himself and about the way he interacts with people as their loving Creator.
Genesis provides the vital context for the rest of God’s Word, especially the gospel message about Jesus, and so it helps people to understand their need for him to be their Savior. In fact, without Genesis, it would not be clear why everyone needs to trust in Jesus as the only one who can save them from sin and its consequences, so that they can associate with God and be part of his eternal family.
In light of all that, Genesis should be one of the first books of the Bible that is translated into every language that needs a translation. May God guide and bless you and your translation team as you undertake this important task together by his power.
Author and date of writing
Moses was the human author of the first five books of the Bible, including the book of Genesis (Exodus 24:3-4; Deuteronomy 31:9, 24; John 1:45). The Holy Spirit is the one who inspired what Moses wrote in those books (2 Peter 1:21), so ultimately God is the author, and these books are part of his Message to mankind. Those five books are sometimes referred to as the Torah (a Hebrew word that means “teaching,” “instruction,” or “law”) or the Pentateuch (a Greek word that means “five books”). In the New Testament this set of books is also referred to as “the Law” (John 1:45) or “the Law of Moses” (Acts 28:23), and Jesus himself affirmed that Moses wrote them (John 5:46-47; 7:23).
Moses was born in the country of Egypt around 1526 B.C. (Exodus 2:1-10). According to the genealogies in Genesis, his birth was about 1,000 years after the Flood (which was about 1,650 years after creation). Moses may have written much of the Pentateuch during the forty years that he led the people of Israel as they wandered in the wilderness (around 1446 B.C.—1406 B.C.).
The very first verse in Genesis assumes that God (the author guiding the human author) has always existed and that he has no beginning and no end (also see Genesis 21:33; Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 90:2). He uses his personal name “Yahweh” for the first time in Genesis 2:4. The name “Yahweh” means “he is” and indicates that God is eternal. His name also means that he is unchanging and that he is always present.
Book outline
In all, Genesis covers a span of about 2200 years of history. After the world’s early history, the rest of Genesis tells about the ancestors of God’s people, with special focus on Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph (and their families). Genealogies are an important part of what ties the book together from beginning to end.
The following outline shows these two main divisions in the book of Genesis: (1) Early World History, and (2) The History about the Ancestors of God’s Chosen People. Those two divisions each have roughly four main subdivisions, which are based on four key events (in the first division) and four key ancestors (in the second division). Some scholars prefer to divide the book up into ten divisions that are introduced by the Hebrew phrase that means “these are the generations of...” In the outline below, asterisks mark the sections that contain that phrase. The phrase is found in Genesis 2:4 (heavens and earth), 5:1 (Adam), 6:9 (Noah), 10:1, 32 (sons of Noah), 11:10 (Shem), 11:27 (Terah), 25:12 (Ishmael), 25:19 (Isaac), 36:1, 9 (Esau), and 37:2 (Jacob).
Bolded words in the outline show which sections contain promises and covenants from God and also mark who the main ancestors were in the various sub-divisions.
Division 1: Early World History
Creation - God creates the universe and everything in it (1:1-2:3) - Adam and Eve and the Garden of Eden (2:4-25)\*
The Fall - The first sin and God’s judgment; prophecy of Christ (3:1-24) - promise - Cain and Abel: the first murder; Cain’s descendants (4:1-26) - The descendants of Adam to Noah (5:1-32)\*
The Flood - God destroys the world with a flood, puts rainbow in the sky - covenant (6:1-9:17)\ - Noah curses his son Ham and his grandson Canaan, blesses other sons (9:18-27) - The descendants of Noah’s sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth (10:1-32)\\*
Tower of Babel - Mankind rebels against God at Babel, so God creates many different languages and scatters the people over the earth (11:1-9)
Division 2: The History about the Ancestors of God’s Chosen People
The history about Abraham [Genesis 11:10-25:11] - The descendants of Shem to Abram (11:10-26)\ - Terah and his three sons’ families in Haran; Terah dies (11:27-32)\ - Abram travels to Canaan with Sarai and his nephew Lot (12:1-9) - promise - Abram lies about Sarai to Pharaoh, king of Egypt (12:10-20) - Back in the Negev Desert, Abram and Lot part ways (13:1-18) - promise - War of the kings; Abram rescues Lot and the other citizens of Sodom (14:1-17) - Melchizedek blesses Abram; Abram refuses bounty from king of Sodom (14:18-24) - God’s covenant with Abram (15:1-21) - promise - Hagar and Ishmael (16:1-16) - New names: Abraham and Sarah; covenant of circumcision (17:1-27) - promise - Three men visit Abram, Yahweh renews promise, Sarah laughs (18:1-15) - promise - Abram pleads with Yahweh to spare Sodom (18:16-33) - Lot and two daughters escape destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (19:1-29) - Lot’s grandsons: the ancestors of the Moabites and Ammonites (19:30-38) - Abraham lies about Sarah to Abimelech, king of the Philistines (20:1-18) - Isaac is born to Sarah; Ishmael grows up in the desert (21:1-21) - Abraham makes a treaty with King Abimelech at Beersheba (21:22-34) - God tests Abraham by commanding him to sacrifice Isaac (22:1-19) - promise - Sarah dies and Abraham buys burial property in the land of Canaan (23:1-20) - God provides Rebekah as a wife for Isaac (24:1-67) - Abraham’s descendants by second wife Keturah (25:1-6) - Abraham dies and is buried by Isaac and Ishmael (25:7-11)
The history about Ishmael and Isaac [Genesis 25:12-35:29] - Ishmael’s descendants and his death (25:12-18)\ - Isaac’s sons Esau and Jacob; Esau sells his birthright (25:19-34)\ - Isaac lies about Rebekah to Abimelech, king of the Philistines (26:1-22) - promise - God’s covenant with Isaac in Beersheba; treaty with Abimelech (26:23-33)
The history about Esau and Jacob [Genesis 26:34-36:43] - Jacob steals Esau’s blessing; Esau plans revenge (26:34-27:46) - Jacob flees and heads to Haran; stairway to heaven at Bethel (28:1-22) - promise - Jacob works for Laban to marry his wives Leah and Rachel (29:1-30) - Jacob’s wives have his first eleven sons (29:31-30:24) - Jacob becomes wealthy while working for Laban (30:25-43) - Jacob and his family flee from Laban; Jacob’s treaty with Laban (31:1-55) - Jacob wrestles with God, who names him Israel (32:1-32) - Jacob and Esau reconcile, and Jacob settles in the city of Shechem (33:1-20) - Shechem rapes Dinah, and Jacob’s sons take revenge (34:1-31) - God blesses Jacob at Bethel (35:1-15) - promise - Rachel dies giving birth to Benjamin (35:16-20) - List of Jacob’s twelve sons; Isaac dies and is buried by Esau and Jacob (35:16-29) - Esau’s descendants, the Edomites (36:1-43)\\
The history about Jacob and Joseph [Genesis 37-50] - Jacob’s family; Joseph’s dreams anger his brothers (37:1-11)\ - Joseph sold as a slave and taken to the country of Egypt (37:12-36) - Judah* and his daughter-in-law Tamar have children (38:1-30) - Potiphar’s wife falsely accuses Joseph, and he is imprisoned (39:1-23) - In the prison, Joseph interprets dreams for Pharaoh’s officials (40:1-23) - Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams about famine (41:1-40) - As governor over Egypt, Joseph stores up grain; he has two sons (41:41-57) - Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt to buy grain, then return to Jacob (42:1-38) - All Joseph’s brothers return to Egypt and have a meal with him (43:1-34) - Joseph tests his brothers with his silver cup (44:1-17) - Judah pleads with Joseph for Benjamin’s freedom (44:18-34) - Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers; they give the news to Jacob (45:1-28) - Jacob and his family move to Egypt; list of his descendants (46:1-27) - Joseph settles Jacob and his family in the land of Goshen (47:1-12) - Joseph sells grain to all the people of Egypt (37:13-31) - Jacob blesses Joseph’s sons Ephraim and Manasseh (48:1-22) - Jacob blesses each of his 12 sons (49:1-28) - Jacob’s death (49:29-33) - Joseph has his father Jacob embalmed and buries him in Canaan (50:1-14) - Joseph reassures his brothers that he has forgiven them (50:15-21) - Joseph’s death (Gen 50:22-26)
Special formatting
The book of Genesis sometimes uses poetic language to emphasize what is being said. Many translations use a special format to identify these passages as poetry by indenting each clause on a new line. Many other translations do not do this, but rather use regular paragraph formatting everywhere, including for poetry. It may be helpful to look at a translation in the national language of your country that uses poetry formatting, to help you decide whether or not you want to do something similar in your translation. Some translations put some of the following passages in poetry format since these verses have certain features of poetry such as parallelisms and metaphors: Genesis 1:27; 2:23; 3:14-16, 17b-19; 4:23-24; 8:22; 9:6, 25-27; 12:2-3; 14:19-20; 15:1; 16:11-12; 24:60; 25:23; 27:27-29, 39-40; 48:15-16, 20; 49:1-27. You may not want to put all these passages in poetry format since some of them have parallelisms that are not necessarily poetry but may just be emphasizing certain events in the narrative or certain points in a prophecy.
Genesis 1
Possible titles for this book:
- “Genesis”
- “The Book of Genesis”
- “Genesis: The First Book By Moses”
- “Genesis: The Book About Beginnings”
- “The First Book That God's Prophet/Spokesman Moses Wrote: Genesis”
The English title “Genesis” is a transliteration of a Greek word that means “origin” or “beginning” or “birth”; the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew scriptures (the Septuagint) uses this word for the first time in Genesis 2:4. The Hebrew title of this book בְּרֵאשִׁית (pronounced “bereshith”) is the first Hebrew word in verse 1 and literally means “In the beginning.” The Latin translation of the Bible (the Latin Vulgate) was the first translation to use the title “The Book of Genesis.” Since that time, many other translations include “Genesis” in the book title because people are familiar with that name. Sometimes as part of the title, translators also include the fact that Moses was the author and that he was inspired by God. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 1:1
In the beginning
Quote: בְּרֵאשִׁ֖ית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“At the beginning {of time/everything}” or “{This is how everything} began:” The first chapter of Genesis is a true historical narrative (which is indicated by the Hebrew language structures that are used throughout the chapter), and verse 1 records the first event in that history. This is confirmed by the wider context of the Scriptures, which teach us that God created everything out of nothing at the very beginning of the world (Psalm 33:6, 9; Hebrews 11:3). Some languages must use a verb (“began”) in verse 1 rather than an abstract noun (“beginning”). Do what is best in your language.
God
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
Translate the title “God” in a way that refers to the Supreme Being who created everything, who has complete power, who knows everything and is present everywhere. He is the only true God and has always existed.
created
Quote: בָּרָ֣א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“made”. In the Hebrew Bible, the verb “create” refers to an activity that only God does, and it often implies (as it does here) that he made something out of nothing. Also, the forms of the verbs in the Hebrew text (and the conjunctions) show that chapter 1 is a narrative that tells about true history and events in the order that things actually happened. Make sure that your translation does the same thing.
the heavens
Quote: אֵ֥ת הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“the sky”. This phrase refers here to the region where all the stars and planets would later exist. Keep that in mind as you translate this term.
and the earth
Quote: וְאֵ֥ת הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
This phrase refers to the planet earth.
Genesis 1:2
Now the earth
Quote: וְהָאָ֗רֶץ (1)“Now {at first after that,} the earth” or “{At first after that,} the earth”. The author pauses here to describe what the earth and the heavens were like after God first created them (verse 1). Some languages use a conjunction like “Now” to introduce that information; other languages do not use a conjunction here. Do what is natural in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translated “the earth” in verse 1.
was formless and empty
Quote: הָיְתָ֥ה תֹ֨הוּ֙ וָבֹ֔הוּ (1)It is not clear what the earth looked like at that time, but it did not have its present shape and order. Also, the Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “was formless/shapeless and empty/desolate,” or “did not have {its present} form, and there was nothing {living} on it {yet},” or (2) “completely empty/desolate,” which treats the text as a hendiadys. However, it is best to keep both terms separate in your translation (as they are in the Hebrew text).
and darkness {was} over the surface of the deep {waters
Quote: וְחֹ֖שֶׁךְ עַל פְּנֵ֣י תְה֑וֹם (1)“It was {totally/completely} dark, there was deep {water} {everywhere},” or “There was deep {water} {everywhere} {that was covered/surrounded} in/by {complete/total} darkness,” For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
and the Spirit of God was hovering
Quote: וְר֣וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֔ים מְרַחֶ֖פֶת (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and God’s Spirit was hovering/moving” or (2) “and a wind from God was blowing” or (3) “and a powerful wind was blowing”. The first interpretation is most likely, since the Hebrew verb “hovering” does not describe what wind does.
over the surface of the waters
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י הַמָּֽיִם (1)“over the surface of the water.” or “above the waters/water.” Throughout this chapter, the word “waters” is in the plural in the Hebrew text. For some languages it is more natural to use the singular “water”. Do what is best in your language in each context.
Genesis 1:3
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God commanded,” What God says in verse 3 is a command. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to make that explicit in this quote margin.
Let there be light
Quote: יְהִ֣י א֑וֹר (1)“Let light exist.” or “I command there to be light.” or “I command light to start shining!” This is a command, not a permission or a suggestion. It is a direct quote of what God actually said, and it is usually put between quotation marks in a translation. If you use an exclamation point with this command in your translation, make sure it does not mean or imply that God was angry. Also, the way you translate “light” should refer to what shines from a source of light; it does not refer here to the source itself.
And there was light
Quote: וַֽיְהִי אֽוֹר (1)“And/So {immediately} there was light.” or “And {so/immediately} light started shining.” Light began to shine immediately as a result of God’s command.
Genesis 1:4
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֧רְא אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“And he saw/observed” or “God/He saw/observed”. Notice that Hebrew frequently uses a conjunction such as “And” or “Then” at the beginning of a sentence. Some languages do not use conjunctions as frequently as Hebrew uses conjunctions. Do what is accurate and natural in your language in each context.
the light, that {it was} good
Quote: אֶת הָא֖וֹר כִּי ט֑וֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“that the light {was} good/excellent.” In the Bible, “good” is an important theme. Throughout chapter 1, it especially means that what God created was high quality, complete, and had no defects; in other words, it had all the characteristics and functions that God intended it to have. It also includes the idea that what God created was untainted by sin and reflected his good character (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20). The focus here is not on how pleased or satisfied God was.
Then God separated
Quote: וַיַּבְדֵּ֣ל אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
In order to produce an accurate and natural translation, it is important in each context to make sure that nouns (such as “God”) and pronouns (such as “he”) are used properly in your language. In the Hebrew text, “God” is repeated frequently in chapter 1 to emphasize him and show that he is in focus. For some languages it is more natural to say “God” only once at the beginning of each paragraph or section, and then use pronouns to refer to him the rest of the time (or most of the time). Throughout chapter 1, do what is best in your language each time that you refer to God.
Then God separated between the light and the darkness
Quote: וַיַּבְדֵּ֣ל אֱלֹהִ֔ים בֵּ֥ין הָא֖וֹר וּבֵ֥ין הַחֹֽשֶׁךְ (1)“Then God/he separated/divided the light from the darkness {so that each had its own time}.” or “Then God/he caused the light to have its own time and the darkness to have its own time.” or “Then God/he separated the light from the darkness {so that it would be light for a number of hours, and then dark for a number of hours}.”
Genesis 1:5
And God called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Then God/he called/named” or “God/He called/named”. Some languages omit the connecting word “And” or “Then” here. Consider what is the best way in your language to connect this sentence with the previous one.
the light Day
Quote: לָאוֹר֙ י֔וֹם (1)“the light Daytime,” Notice that in this context the word “Day” refers only to the time when the sun is shining, not to the 24-hour time period that makes up a complete day. Make sure that this is clear in your translation. Throughout chapter 1, some translations use quote marks around the names that God gives the different things he created. Do what is best in your language.
and the darkness he called Night
Quote: וְלַחֹ֖שֶׁךְ קָ֣רָא לָ֑יְלָה (1)“and the darkness he called/named Nighttime.” or “and he called/named the darkness Nighttime.” In the Hebrew text, “the darkness” is first in this clause to emphasize the contrast between the light and the darkness. Consider what is the best way to translate this clause in your language.
Then there was evening, and there was morning
Quote: וַֽיְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽיְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential
“Then evening came, and {then/later} morning came,” The evening and the morning are the parts of a 24-hour day that separate the hours of daytime (light) from the hours of nighttime (darkness): Evening came at the end of each daytime after God finished his work of creating. Then after about 12 hours of nighttime, morning came, which began the next 12 hours of daytime when God did more work. Make sure your translation does not sound like morning came immediately after evening. Some languages have a one-word conjunction that means “and then” or “and later” and would fit well here.
one day
Quote: י֥וֹם אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“{and that was} day one.” or “{and that was} {the end of} the first day.” Here “day” refers to a full 24-hour day. Also, the Hebrew text uses a cardinal number (“one”) here, but then uses ordinal numbers (“second,” “third,” and so on) for the rest of the days of the creation week. Some languages need to use an ordinal number (“first”) here too. Other languages use cardinal numbers throughout (“day one,” “day two,” and so on). Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 1:6
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God commanded,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
Let there be an expanse
Quote: יְהִ֥י רָקִ֖יעַ (1)“Let there be a large/vast space” or “I command there to be a {large/vast} expanse/space” or “I command a large/vast space to form/exist”. The Hebrew word for “expanse” here describes a large space that is “spread out.” It was not solid, but rather it was open and empty and could be seen through and flown through (verse 20). It was probably also curved, following the spherical shape of the earth. See how you translated “Let there be” in verse 3.
in the middle of the waters
Quote: בְּת֣וֹךְ הַמָּ֑יִם (1)“in the middle of the water,” See how you translated “waters” in verse 2.
and let it separate the waters from the waters
Quote: וִיהִ֣י מַבְדִּ֔יל בֵּ֥ין מַ֖יִם לָמָֽיִם (1)“and let it separate/divide the water {above it} from the water {below it}.” or “so that it separates/divides the waters/water into two separate/different places.”
Genesis 1:7
So God made
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַשׂ אֱלֹהִים֮ (1)“In that way God/he made/created” or “That is how God/he made/created”. Verse 7 explains what God’s command in verse 6 caused to happen, and it repeats some of the same words and phrases. Make sure that your translation of these verses does not sound like God created the expanse twice.
the expanse
Quote: אֶת הָרָקִיעַ֒ (1)“a large/vast space”
and separated
Quote: וַיַּבְדֵּ֗ל (1)“and divided” or “and used it to separate/divide”
between the waters that {were} under the expanse and the waters that {were} above the expanse
Quote: בֵּ֤ין הַמַּ֨יִם֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ מִתַּ֣חַת לָרָקִ֔יעַ וּבֵ֣ין הַמַּ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֖ר מֵעַ֣ל לָרָקִ֑יעַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“the water that {was} below the expanse/space from the water that {was} above it.” or “the water that {was} under/below it from the water that {was} above it.” For some languages it is more natural to use a pronoun (“it”) here to refer to the expanse, since it was just mentioned earlier in the verse. Each language has its own system of when to use nouns or pronouns to refer to people, places, and things. In each context, do what is clear and natural in your language.
And it was so
Quote: וַֽיְהִי כֵֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“That is the way it happened.” or “Everything was/happened {exactly} as he commanded {it to be/happen}.”
Genesis 1:8
And God called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“God/He called/named” or “and God/he called/named”. Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here (with or without a conjunction) or to continue the sentence that began at the end of verse 7. Also see how you translated this phrase in verse 5.
the expanse
Quote: לָֽרָקִ֖יעַ (1)“the large/vast space”. See how you translated this phrase in verses 6 and 7.
Heavens
Quote: שָׁמָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Sky.” This word probably refers here to the atmosphere above the earth’s surface where clouds are and where birds fly, as well as the space where the sun, moon, and stars are now. Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 1.
Then there was evening, and there was morning
Quote: וַֽיְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽיְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)“Then evening came, and {then/later} morning came,” See how you translated this sentence in verse 5, and see the note about that there.
the second day
Quote: י֥וֹם שֵׁנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“{and that was} {the end of} the second day.” or “{and} the second day ended.” or “{and that was} {the end of} day two.” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use an ordinal number (“second”) here or a cardinal number (“two”).
Genesis 1:9
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God commanded,” See how you translated this phrase in verses 3 and 6.
Let the waters under the heavens be gathered
Quote: יִקָּו֨וּ הַמַּ֜יִם מִתַּ֤חַת הַשָּׁמַ֨יִם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Let the water {that is} under the heavens/sky gather/come together” or “I command the water {that is} below the heavens/sky to gather/come together”. Consider whether it is better here in your language to use a passive form of the verb (“be gathered”) or an active form (“gather” or “come”).
to one place
Quote: אֶל מָק֣וֹם אֶחָ֔ד (1)“in one place/area” or “into one area”
and let the dry ground appear
Quote: וְתֵרָאֶ֖ה הַיַּבָּשָׁ֑ה (1)“so that there is dry ground/land.” or “so that dry ground/land can be seen.” or “so that land is uncovered and dries off.” The water had been covering the land, so when the water receded from it, the land became exposed and dried off. Make sure that the way you translate “dry ground” does not sound like the land was dry while it was under the water.
And it was so
Quote: וַֽיְהִי כֵֽן (1)“And that is {exactly} what happened.” or “And it was/happened {exactly} as God commanded {it to be/happen}.” See how you translated this sentence in verse 7. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 1:10
And God called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים (1)“Then God/he called/named”
the dry ground
Quote: לַיַּבָּשָׁה֙ (1)“the dry land” or “the ground/land that had dried off”
Land
Quote: אֶ֔רֶץ (1)“Ground,” This is the same Hebrew word that is translated as “earth” in verse 1, but here it refers to the dry land or ground (in contrast to the water), and not to the entire planet.
and the gathered waters he called
Quote: וּלְמִקְוֵ֥ה הַמַּ֖יִם קָרָ֣א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and the waters/water that he had gathered together he called/named” or “and he called/named the gathered waters” or “and he called/named the waters/water that had gathered/come together”. See how you translated a sentence in verse 5 that is similar in structure to this sentence.
Seas
Quote: יַמִּ֑ים (1)“Oceans.” or “Sea/Ocean.” At that time there was probably just one very large body of water and one very large land mass on the earth (as verse 9 indicates). So a singular noun that refers to the largest body of water, such as “Ocean” or “Sea”, could be used here in your translation.
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“And he saw/observed” or “God/He saw/observed”. Decide whether it is more natural in your language to use a noun (“God”) or a pronoun (“he”) in this context. See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
that {it was} good
Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)“that {what he had made was} good/excellent.” or “that {the land and the seas/ocean were} good/excellent.” Some languages cannot use a pronoun (“it”) here, but have to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated the word “good” in verse 4, and see the note about that there.
Genesis 1:11
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God commanded,”
Let the land sprout vegetation
Quote: תַּֽדְשֵׁ֤א הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ דֶּ֔שֶׁא (1)“I command the land/ground to grow/produce {green} plants,” or “The land/ground must now be covered with {green} plants,” The Hebrew word for “vegetation” refers generally here to any kind of green plant and includes the plants and trees that are mentioned next in this verse. Also, see how you translated “Land” in verse 10.
every} plant yielding seed
Quote: עֵ֚שֶׂב מַזְרִ֣יעַ זֶ֔רַע (1)“{including} {every kind/type of} plant that produces/has seeds” or “{including} {all kinds/types of} plants that produce/have seeds”. This phrase refers to many different kinds of plants, not just one plant or one seed. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Also, these kinds of plants have soft stems and include vegetable plants, herbs and other plants that produce edible seeds, such as rice, corn, and wheat.
every} fruit tree bearing fruit according to its kind
Quote: עֵ֣ץ פְּרִ֞י עֹ֤שֶׂה פְּרִי֙ לְמִינ֔וֹ (1)“{and} fruit trees that bear/produce fruit, {each} according to its {own} kind/type,” or “{and} {every kind/type of} fruit tree that bears/produces/has its own kind/type of fruit” or “{and} {all kinds/types of} fruit trees that bear/produce/have their own kind/type of fruit”. The phrase “according to its kind” emphasizes that each different kind of tree produces its own kind of fruit and seeds, which grow and become only that kind of tree. For example, apple trees always produce apples with apple seeds, never peaches or cherries, or any other kind of fruit or seeds.
that {has} its seed inside it
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר זַרְעוֹ ב֖וֹ (1)“that {has} seeds inside,” or “with seeds inside,” or “with its {own kind/type of} seeds inside it,”
on the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“throughout the earth.” or “all over the earth.” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “Let the land sprout vegetation on/throughout the earth …” Do what is best in your language.
And it was so
Quote: וַֽיְהִי כֵֽן (1)“And that is {exactly} what happened:” or “And it/everything happened {exactly} as God commanded {it to happen}:” Either a period or a colon can be used here, but a colon more clearly shows that verse 12 gives the details of what happened. This is different from verse 7, where the details of what happened come before “And it was so”, and from verse 9, where no additional details are given.
Genesis 1:12
So the land brought out vegetation
Quote: וַתּוֹצֵ֨א הָאָ֜רֶץ דֶּ֠שֶׁא (1)“The land sprouted/produced vegetation/plants,” or “The land started growing/producing {green} plants,” Verse 12 explains what God’s command in verse 11 caused to happen, and it repeats some of the same words and phrases. Make sure that your translation of these verses does not sound like God created the plants twice.
every} plant yielding seed according to its kind
Quote: עֵ֣שֶׂב מַזְרִ֤יעַ זֶ֨רַע֙ לְמִינֵ֔הוּ (1)“{including} plants that produce/have seeds, {each} according to its {own} kind/type,” or “{including} {every kind/type of} plant that produces/has seeds that grow into the same kind/type of plant,” or “{including} {all kinds/types of} plants that produce/have their own kind/type of seeds,”
and {every} tree bearing fruit that {has} its seed inside it, according to its kind
Quote: וְעֵ֧ץ עֹֽשֶׂה פְּרִ֛י אֲשֶׁ֥ר זַרְעוֹ ב֖וֹ לְמִינֵ֑הוּ (1)“and trees that bear/produce fruit with seeds inside, {each} according to its {own} kind.” or “and {every kind/type of} tree that produces/has fruit with seeds that grow into the same kind/type of tree.” or “and {all kinds/types of} trees that {produce/have} their own kind/type of seed-bearing fruit.”
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“And he saw/observed” or “God/He saw/observed”. Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin this sentence with a conjunction.
that {it was} good
Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that {what he had made/created was} good/excellent.” or “that {all the plants and trees were} good/excellent.” See how you translated this clause in verse 10. Some languages have to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 1:13
Then there was evening, and there was morning
Quote: וַֽיְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽיְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)“Then evening came, and {then/later} morning came,” See how you translated this sentence in verses 5 and 8.
the third day
Quote: י֥וֹם שְׁלִישִֽׁי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“{and that was} {the end of} the third day.” or “{and} the third day {ended}.” or “{and that was} {the end of} day three.”
Genesis 1:14
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God commanded,”
Let there be lights
Quote: יְהִ֤י מְאֹרֹת֙ (1)“Let lights/lamps appear/exist” or “I command there to be sources of light” or “Let there be things/objects that give/shine light”. These lights refer to the sun, moon and stars that give off light. But it is important to keep this general in your translation (like the Hebrew text does) and not specify the names of these lights.
in the expanse of the heavens
Quote: בִּרְקִ֣יעַ הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“in the expanse/space of/called the heavens/sky” or “in the open space of the heavens/sky” or “in the heavens/sky”. The expanse is the same thing as the heavens (verse 8), so some translations leave “the expanse of” implied here. Do what is best in your language.
to separate
Quote: לְהַבְדִּ֕יל (1)“to divide/distinguish” or “that separate/divide”
between the day and the night
Quote: בֵּ֥ין הַיּ֖וֹם וּבֵ֣ין הַלָּ֑יְלָה (1)“the day{time} from the night{time}.” See how you translated “Day{time}” and “Night{time}” in verse 5.
And let them be for signs
Quote: וְהָי֤וּ לְאֹתֹת֙ (1)“Let those lights/lamps also be” or “They must/will also serve/function as” or “I also command those lights/lamps to serve/function as”
And let them be for signs
Quote: וְהָי֤וּ לְאֹתֹת֙ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “signs/markers {of special/important events}, and {they must/will} mark” or “They must/will also mark/indicate when important things happen, and {they must/will} mark/show” or (2) “signs/markers that mark/indicate/show”. The word “signs” means that the lights are to mark certain times of the year. Following the first interpretation, the lights are to also mark special events (such as the star that signaled Jesus’ birth and the darkened sun at Jesus’ death).
and for seasons, and for days and years
Quote: וּלְמ֣וֹעֲדִ֔ים וּלְיָמִ֖ים וְשָׁנִֽים (1)“seasons, days and years.” or “when seasons, days and years begin {and end}.” The sun and moon show the passing of time. For example, the 30-day month is determined by the phases of the moon, and the 365-day year is determined by the time it takes for the earth to travel around the sun. Seasons are regular times of the year, such as seed-planting and harvesting times, and the seasons of spring, summer, fall and winter (Genesis 8:22), as well as the special festivals which God appointed for his people to meet with him. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
Genesis 1:15
And let them be as lights
Quote: וְהָי֤וּ לִמְאוֹרֹת֙ (1)“And they must/will be sources of light” or “They must/will serve/function as lights” or “Their purpose is to serve/function as sources of light”
in the expanse of the heavens
Quote: בִּרְקִ֣יעַ הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“in the expanse/space called the heavens/sky” or “in the open space of the heavens/sky” or “in the heavens/sky”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 14.
to shine on the earth
Quote: לְהָאִ֖יר עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“to/that shine {light} on the earth.” or “so that they provide/give light to/for the earth.” See how you translated “the earth” in verses 1-2.
And it was so
Quote: וַֽיְהִי כֵֽן (1)“And that is {exactly} what happened.” or “And it was/happened {exactly} as he commanded {it to be/happen}.”
Genesis 1:16
So God made
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַשׂ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“In that way God/he made/created” or “That is how God/he made/created”. Verses 16-18 explain what God’s commands in verses 14-15 caused to happen. Make sure your translation of these verses does not sound like he created the lights twice. See how you translated “So God made” in verse 7.
the two great lights
Quote: אֶת שְׁנֵ֥י הַמְּאֹרֹ֖ת הַגְּדֹלִ֑ים (1)“the two bright/big lights,” This phrase refers to the sun and the moon, which are the two brightest objects in the earth’s sky. However, the author intentionally does not use their names, so you should not include their names in your translation either.
the greater light
Quote: אֶת הַמָּא֤וֹר הַגָּדֹל֙ (1)“the stronger/brighter light”. The focus is on the relative brightness or strength of the lights, not on their size.
to rule the day
Quote: לְמֶמְשֶׁ֣לֶת הַיּ֔וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“to dominate/govern the day,” or “to shine during the day,” The word “rule” is a figure of speech that means each light has the greatest effect during a particular time period because it is the brightest light that is shining then. For some languages, nonliving objects like the sun and the moon cannot “rule” because only people can do that. Do what is accurate and natural in your language.
and the lesser light
Quote: וְאֶת הַמָּא֤וֹר הַקָּטֹן֙ (1)“and the weaker/dimmer light”
to rule the night
Quote: לְמֶמְשֶׁ֣לֶת הַלַּ֔יְלָה (1)“to dominate/govern the night,” or “to shine during the night,” Be consistent here with how you translated “rule” previously in this verse.
and the stars
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת הַכּוֹכָבִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“and {he also made/created} the stars.” or “{That is} also {when he made/created} the stars.” The verb “made” that is used earlier in the verse is implied here. Translate this in a way that is clear and natural in your language.
Genesis 1:17
And God set them
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֛ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“God/He placed/put them” or “God/He placed/put the lights”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to God and the lights at this point in the paragraph.
in the expanse of the heavens
Quote: בִּרְקִ֣יעַ הַשָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)“in the expanse/space called the heavens/sky” or “in the open space of the heavens/sky” or “in the heavens/sky”. See how you translated this phrase in verses 14 and 15.
to shine on the earth
Quote: לְהָאִ֖יר עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“to shine light on the earth,” or “to provide/give light to/for the earth,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 15.
Genesis 1:18
and to rule over the day and over the night
Quote: וְלִמְשֹׁל֙ בַּיּ֣וֹם וּבַלַּ֔יְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“and to govern/dominate the day{time} and/or the night{time},” or “and to shine during the day{time} and/or during the night{time},” Make sure that your translation of the word “day” refers here to the daytime hours, not an entire 24-hour day. Also see how you translated “rule” in 1:16.
and to separate between the light and the darkness
Quote: וּֽלֲהַבְדִּ֔יל בֵּ֥ין הָא֖וֹר וּבֵ֣ין הַחֹ֑שֶׁךְ (1)“and to divide/distinguish the light from the darkness.” or “and to separate/distinguish the time of light from the time of darkness.” Consider again how you translated “separate” in verses 4, 6-7, 14 and 18.
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“And he saw/observed” or “God/He saw/observed”
that {it was} good
Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that {what he had made/created was} good/excellent.” or “that {the lights in the heavens/sky were} good/excellent.” Some languages need to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 1:19
Then there was evening, and there was morning
Quote: וַֽיְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽיְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)“Then evening came, and {then/later} morning came,”
the fourth day
Quote: י֥וֹם רְבִיעִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“{and that was} {the end of} the fourth day.” or “and the fourth day ended.” or “{and that was} {the end of} day four.”
Genesis 1:20
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God commanded,”
Let the waters swarm {with} swarm{s} of living creature{s
Quote: יִשְׁרְצ֣וּ הַמַּ֔יִם שֶׁ֖רֶץ נֶ֣פֶשׁ חַיָּ֑ה (1)“I command the water to be full of large numbers/groups of living creatures,” or “I command there to be large numbers/groups of {water} animals that live everywhere in the water,”
and let bird{s} fly
Quote: וְעוֹף֙ יְעוֹפֵ֣ף (1)“and let there be birds that fly” or “I also command there to be birds that fly” or “Also let there be winged creatures that fly”. The Hebrew word for “birds” can also be more general and refer to “winged/flying creatures,” which includes birds, bats, flying insects and even flying reptiles that are now extinct. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
above the earth across the face of the expanse of the sky
Quote: עַל הָאָ֔רֶץ עַל פְּנֵ֖י רְקִ֥יעַ הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)“above the earth, through the sky/air.” or “across/in/through the sky above the earth.”
Genesis 1:21
So God created
Quote: וַיִּבְרָ֣א אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“That is how God/he created/made” or “In that way God/he created/made”. See how you translated “created” in verse 1.
the great sea creatures
Quote: אֶת הַתַּנִּינִ֖ם הַגְּדֹלִ֑ים (1)“the huge/gigantic sea/ocean animals”. These include whales, sharks, giant squid, crocodiles, and leviathans (Psalm 74:13-14, Isaiah 27:1), which were probably swimming reptiles that are now extinct.
and every living creature that moves
Quote: וְאֵ֣ת כָּל נֶ֣פֶשׁ הַֽחַיָּ֣ה הָֽרֹמֶ֡שֶׂת (1)“and every {kind/type of fish and every other} creature/animal that moves/lives” or “and all the {fish and other} {kinds/types of} creatures/animals that move/live”
which the waters swarm with
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ שָׁרְצ֨וּ הַמַּ֜יִם (1)“throughout the water/ocean in large numbers/groups,” or “in the water and fills it,” or “all over the place in the water/ocean,”
according to their kind
Quote: לְמִֽינֵהֶ֗ם (1)“{each} according to its {own} kind/type,” or “{each} that produces/has its own kind/type {of offspring/young},” This phrase emphasizes that each different kind of creature has its own distinct kind of offspring/young. For example, whales always give birth to whales, and never give birth to cats or cows or any other kind of creature.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וְאֵ֣ת (2)“and {how he created/made}” or “{That is} also {how he created/made}”. For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here, so that the previous sentence is not too long. Do what is best in your language.
every winged bird
Quote: כָּל ע֤וֹף כָּנָף֙ (1)“every {kind/type of} bird” or “all {the different kinds/types of} birds” or “every {kind/type of} winged creature”. See how you translated “birds” in verse 20.
according to its kind
Quote: לְמִינֵ֔הוּ (1)“{each} according to its {own} kind/type.” or “{each} that produces/has its own kind/type {of young}.” See how you translated this phrase earlier in this verse.
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“And He saw/observed” or “God/He saw/observed”
that {it was} good
Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that {what he had created/made was} good/excellent.” or “that {the water animals and the birds were} good/excellent.” Some languages need to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 1:22
Then God blessed them
Quote: וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ אֹתָ֛ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then God caused them {all} to prosper/flourish” or “Then God blessed the water creatures/animals and the birds”. For some languages it is necessary to specify what “them” refers to. Do what is best in your language.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“by saying {to them},” or “and said {first to the water animals},” God blesses the water animals first. If that is not clear, you could make that explicit here in the quote margin or at the beginning of what God says.
Be fruitful
Quote: פְּר֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“Reproduce” or “You water animals must/will produce/have many babies/young”. God speaks directly to the water animals using the second person (“you”), then later in the verse speaks about the birds in the third person (“the birds”). For some languages it is necessary to use either second person for both or third person for both, to prevent confusion. Do what is natural and clear in your language.
and multiply
Quote: וּרְב֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
“so that you {and your offspring/descendants} {will} multiply/increase {greatly} {in number}” or “so that you {and your offspring/descendants} {will} become {very} numerous/many”
and fill
Quote: וּמִלְא֤וּ (1)“and live all over the place in” or “and live throughout”
the waters in the seas
Quote: אֶת הַמַּ֨יִם֙ בַּיַּמִּ֔ים (1)“the water in/of the sea/ocean” or “the ocean/water”. For some languages, “water in the seas” is too repetitive, so it is more natural here to just say “seas/sea” or “ocean” or “water”. Do what is best in your language.
and let the bird{s} multiply
Quote: וְהָע֖וֹף יִ֥רֶב (1)“And the birds must/will {also} increase {greatly} in number” or “{You} birds must/will {also} become {very} numerous/many”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “multiply” earlier in this verse.
on the earth
Quote: בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)“throughout the earth.” or “{and live} all over the earth.”
Genesis 1:23
Then there was evening, and there was morning
Quote: וַֽיְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽיְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)“Then evening came, and {then/later} morning came,”
the fifth day
Quote: י֥וֹם חֲמִישִֽׁי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“{and that was} {the end of} the fifth day.” or “and the fifth day ended.” or “{and that was} {the end of} day five.”
Genesis 1:24
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)“Then God commanded,”
Let the land bring forth
Quote: תּוֹצֵ֨א הָאָ֜רֶץ (1)“I command the land/ground to produce/yield” or “The land/ground must now produce/yield”. See how you translated a similar command to the land in verse 11.
every} living creature
Quote: נֶ֤פֶשׁ חַיָּה֙ (1)“{every kind/type of} living creature/animal” or “{all kinds/types of} creatures/animals,” This is a general term that refers to all the different kinds of creatures/animals that breathe, including the three large categories of animals mentioned below in this verse.
according to its kind
Quote: לְמִינָ֔הּ (1)“{each} that bears/has its own kind/type of offspring/young,” or “{each} bearing/having its own kind/type of offspring/young,” This phrase means that every kind of animal that God created always produces young that are the same kind of animal as their parents. See how you translated this phrase in verse 21, and see the note about that there.
livestock
Quote: בְּהֵמָ֥ה (1)“{including} domestic/farm/tame animals,” This term probably includes animals such as horses, camels, cattle, sheep, and goats that people raise for food or use for farming or other work. This is in contrast to animals that normally live in the wild.
and {every} crawling creature
Quote: וָרֶ֛מֶשׂ (1)“{every} {kind/type of} creature/animal that crawls” or “{all kinds/types of} creatures/animals that crawl”
and {every} living thing of the earth
Quote: וְחַֽיְתוֹ אֶ֖רֶץ (1)“and {every} {other} {kind/type of} {wild/untamed} creature/animal {that lives} on the earth/land,” or “and {all} the {other} {kinds/types of} {wild/untamed} animals {that live} on the earth/land,” This phrase refers in general to animals that are normally not raised by people but live in the wild.
each} according to its kind
Quote: לְמִינָ֑הּ (1)“{each} that bears/has its own kind/type of offspring/young.” or “{each} having its own kind/type of offspring/young.” See how you translated this phrase earlier in this verse.
And it was so
Quote: וַֽיְהִי כֵֽן (1)“And that is {exactly} what happened.” or “It/Everything happened {exactly} as he commanded {it to happen}.”
Genesis 1:25
So God made
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַשׂ אֱלֹהִים֩ (1)“That is how God made/created” or “In that way God made/created”
every} creature of the earth
Quote: אֶת חַיַּ֨ת הָאָ֜רֶץ (1)“{every kind/type of} wild/untamed creature/animal,” or “{all the different kinds/types of} wild/untamed creatures/animals,” See how you translated “{every} creature of the earth” in verse 24.
according to its kind
Quote: לְמִינָ֗הּ (1)“{each} that bears/has its own kind/type of offspring/young,” or “{each} having its own kind/type of offspring/young,”
and the livestock
Quote: וְאֶת הַבְּהֵמָה֙ (1)“and {every kind/type of} domestic/farm/tame animal,” or “and {all} the domestic/farm/tame animals,” See how you translated “livestock” in verse 24.
according to its kind
Quote: לְמִינָ֔הּ (1)“{each} that bears/has its {own} kind/type of offspring/young,” or “{each} having its {own} kind/type of offspring/young,”
and every crawling creature of the ground
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת כָּל רֶ֥מֶשׂ הָֽאֲדָמָ֖ה (1)“and every {kind/type of} creature/animal that crawls on/along the ground,” or “and all {different kinds/types of} creatures/animals that crawl on/along the ground,” See how you translated “crawling creature” in verse 24.
according to its kind
Quote: לְמִינָ֗הּ (1)“{each} that bears/has its own kind/type of offspring/young.” or “{each} having its {own} kind/type of offspring/young,” Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 11, 12, 21, 24 and 25. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“And he saw/observed” or “God/He saw/observed”
that {it was} good
Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that {what he had made/created was} good/excellent.” or “that {all the creatures/animals that he had made/created were} good/excellent.” Some languages need to specify what was good. Consider again how you translated “And God saw that … good” in verses 10, 12, 18, 21, 25.
Genesis 1:26
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God said {to himself},” Here God is not commanding anything to happen, but is getting ready to personally create mankind himself (the details are given in Gen 2:7, 21-22). Some languages have to specify who is being spoken to. Do what is best in your language.
Let us make
Quote: נַֽעֲשֶׂ֥ה (1)“{Now} we should/will make/create”. Most Bible scholars think that the plural pronouns (“us” and “our”) in this verse refer to God and reflect the fact that he is three Persons in one God. So it is best to keep these pronouns plural in your translation. Also, many translations capitalize the first letter of all pronouns that refer to God in order to show him honor and respect. Your translation team needs to decide whether or not you will do that too. Be consistent with your decision as you translate the Bible.
man
Quote: אָדָ֛ם (1)“mankind/humankind” or “human beings”. The Hebrew word for “man” is used here (and in verse 27) as a collective noun that refers to human beings in general, including both male and female.
in our image, according to our likeness
Quote: בְּצַלְמֵ֖נוּ כִּדְמוּתֵ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
“to be like us and act like us,” or “to be like us, so that they are similar to us in many ways,” These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that God made mankind to be like himself in many ways.
and let them rule
Quote: וְיִרְדּוּ֩ (1)“and let us put them in charge/control of” or “We will give them authority to rule/oversee/manage”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
over the fish of the sea
Quote: בִדְגַ֨ת הַיָּ֜ם (1)“the fish of/in the sea/ocean,”
and over the bird{s} of the sky
Quote: וּבְע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֗יִם (1)“the birds {that fly} in the sky/air,” Some translations leave out the phrase “of the sky” because it is strongly implied and may not sound natural in their languages. However, if it is natural in your language, it is best to include this phrase, because the author repeatedly contrasts three large categories of animals in this section: creatures that live on the ground, creatures that swim in the water, and creatures that fly in the sky.
and over the livestock
Quote: וּבַבְּהֵמָה֙ (1)“the domestic/farm/tame animals,” Consider again how you translated “livestock” in verses 24-26.
and over all the earth
Quote: וּבְכָל הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“and the entire earth,” This refers to the planet earth and everything on it, including water, soil, metals, minerals, and other resources, as well as all the plants and animals.
and over every moving creature moving on the earth
Quote: וּבְכָל הָרֶ֖מֶשׂ הָֽרֹמֵ֥שׂ עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“including every creature/animal that moves/lives on the earth.” or “and/including all the creatures/animals that move/live on the earth.” For some languages it is not natural to repeat “and” or “over” with each item in this list. Consider what is the best way to translate a list like this in your language.
Genesis 1:27
Then God created
Quote: וַיִּבְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“So God created/made”. In this verse God does what he said he was going to do (verse 26). Make sure your translation does not sound like God created mankind twice. Also see how you translated “created” in verses 1 and 21.
man
Quote: אֶת הָֽאָדָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“mankind/humankind” or “human beings”. Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 26.
in his image
Quote: בְּצַלְמ֔וֹ (1)“in his own image.” or “to be like himself.” or “to be similar to himself {in many ways}.” God made mankind to be like himself in some ways (not all ways) and to represent him in the world and show people what he is like. For example, God gave human beings an eternal spirit and the ability to have a relationship with him. He also gave us emotions, an understanding of right and wrong, and the ability to reason and make choices, to create new things and to have authority over the rest of creation. You could include some of that information in a footnote.
In the image of God he created him
Quote: בְּצֶ֥לֶם אֱלֹהִ֖ים בָּרָ֣א אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“{Yes/Indeed,} he created/made them in his image” or “{Indeed} God/he created/made them to be like himself” or “{Yes,} God/he created/made them to be similar to himself {in many ways}”. The pronoun “him” refers to the collective noun “man”, which in this case refers to human beings in general, not just one person. Also, this clause is the second half of a chiasm (an inverted parallelism) that repeats the first part of verse 27 in reverse order, to emphasize that it was in God’s image that human beings were created. Do what is best in your language.
male and female he created them
Quote: זָכָ֥ר וּנְקֵבָ֖ה בָּרָ֥א אֹתָֽם (1)“He {also} created/made them {to be} male or female.” The phrase “male and female” comes first in the Hebrew text in order to emphasize it. Do what is accurate and natural in your language. Also make sure your translation of this verse does not sound like God is both male and female.
Genesis 1:28
Then God blessed them
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֹתָם֮ אֱלֹהִים֒ (1)“Then God showed his favor to them” or “Then God caused them to prosper/flourish”. See how you translated “blessed” in verse 22.
and God said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר לָהֶ֜ם אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said,” or “by saying to them,” or “by saying,” or “He said,” Make sure it is clear in your translation of this quote margin that what God says next is the way that he blessed mankind, not something he said separately from that.
Be fruitful
Quote: פְּר֥וּ (1)“Bear/Have many children” or “You will bear/have many children”. See how you translated “Be fruitful and multiply” in verse 22. It may be necessary to translate the phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
and multiply
Quote: וּרְב֛וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
“so that you {and your descendants} {will} multiply/increase {greatly} {in number}” or “so that you {and your descendants} {will} become {very} numerous/many”
and fill the earth
Quote: וּמִלְא֥וּ אֶת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“and live all over the earth” or “and inhabit the whole earth” or “Fill the earth”. For some languages, it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
and subdue it
Quote: וְכִבְשֻׁ֑הָ (1)“and take control/care of it.” or “and bring it under your control.”
And rule
Quote: וּרְד֞וּ (1)“You must rule over” or “You are in charge of” or “I am giving you authority to rule/oversee/manage”. See how you translated “rule” in verse 26.
over the fish of the sea and over the bird{s} of the sky
Quote: בִּדְגַ֤ת הַיָּם֙ וּבְע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“the fish in the ocean, the birds {that fly} in the sky/air,” See how you translated these phrases in verse 26.
and over every living thing that moves on the earth
Quote: וּבְכָל חַיָּ֖ה הָֽרֹמֶ֥שֶׂת עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“and every creature/animal that moves/lives on the earth/land.” or “and all the creatures/animals that move/live on the earth/land.” This phrase refers generally here to every kind of creature that lives on land.
Genesis 1:29
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God/he {also} said {to them},” or “Then God/he continued/added,” God is still speaking to the human beings, so it may be necessary to add “also” to this quote margin. Some languages need to specify who is being spoken to. Other languages may leave this quote margin implied, since the same subject (God) is talking to the same people. However, the repeated quote margin in the Hebrew text could show that God paused before continuing or that he is changing the topic, or to emphasize what he says next. So if it is natural to keep the quote margin here in your language, that is best.
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּה֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Look,” or “Listen {to this},” or “I want you to know that”. This word means that what God says next is important and should be given special attention. Consider what is the best way to translate this term in your language.
I have given to you
Quote: נָתַ֨תִּי לָכֶ֜ם (1)“I am {now} giving to you {as/for food}” or “I have provided {as food} for you” or “I am {now} providing {as food} for you”
every plant {that} yields seed that {is
Quote: אֶת כָּל עֵ֣שֶׂב זֹרֵ֣עַ זֶ֗רַע אֲשֶׁר֙ (1)“every {kind/type of} seed-bearing plant that grows” or “every {kind/type of} plant with seeds that grows” or “all the {different kinds/types of} plants that yield/produce seeds and grow”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 11 and 12.
on the surface of the whole earth
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֣י כָל הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“anywhere on/throughout the earth,”
and every tree that {has
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־הָעֵ֛ץ אֲשֶׁר (1)“as well as every {kind/type of} tree that {bears/produces}” or “and all the {different kinds/types of} trees that {bear/produce}”
tree fruit {that} yields seed inside it
Quote: בּ֥וֹ פְרִי עֵ֖ץ זֹרֵ֣עַ זָ֑רַע (1)“fruit with seeds inside it.” or “seed-bearing fruit.” See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 11 and 12.
They will be yours for food
Quote: לָכֶ֥ם יִֽהְיֶ֖ה לְאָכְלָֽה (1)“{All of} them are yours to eat from.” or “You may eat from {any/all of} those plants.”
Genesis 1:30
And to every living thing of the earth
Quote: וּֽלְכָל חַיַּ֣ת הָ֠אָרֶץ (1)“In the same way, to every {kind/type of} {wild/untamed} creature/animal {that lives} on the earth/land,” or “Similarly/Likewise, to all the {wild/untamed} creatures/animals {that live} on the earth/land,” or “In the same way, to all the wild animals,” See how you translated similar phrases in verses 24 and 25.
and to every bird of the sky
Quote: וּלְכָל ע֨וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֜יִם (1)“and every {kind/type of} bird {that flies} in the sky,” or “and all the birds {that fly} in the sky,”
and to every{thing} moving on the earth that {has} living breath in it
Quote: וּלְכֹ֣ל רוֹמֵ֣שׂ עַל הָאָ֗רֶץ אֲשֶׁר בּוֹ֙ נֶ֣פֶשׁ חַיָּ֔ה (1)“and every {other} {kind/type of} {creature/animal} that moves/lives on the earth/land and has the breath of life,” or “and all the {other} creatures/animals that move/live on the earth/land and breathe {air} to live,” See how you translated “that moves on the earth” in verse 28.
I have given} every green plant for food
Quote: אֶת כָּל יֶ֥רֶק עֵ֖שֶׂב לְאָכְלָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{I give} every {kind/type of} green plant for/as food.” or “{I have given/provided} all the green plants for/as food.” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase near the beginning of this verse and say, “In the same way, {I give} every {type of} green plant for food to all the {wild} animals {that live} on the earth, and all the birds {that fly} in the sky, and all the {other} animals {that live} on the land and breathe {air}.” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “plant” in verses 11, 12, 29.
And it was so
Quote: וַֽיְהִי כֵֽן (1)“And that is how it was.” or “And it/everything was {exactly} as he/God said {it should/would be}.” Consider again how you translated this sentence in verses 7, 9, 11, 15, 24 and 30. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context. For example, here in verse 30 this phrase follows a statement God made, which is different from the other contexts where it follows a command.
Genesis 1:31
Then God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“Then God observed/considered” or “Then God looked at”. See how you translated “God saw …” in verse 4.
all that he had made
Quote: אֶת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֔ה (1)“everything that he had made/created,” This phrase refers to everything that God made during the entire week of Creation, not just on the sixth day. Consider again how you translated “made” (or “make”) in verses 7, 16, 25, 26 and 31. Compare that to how you translated a word that has a similar meaning (“created”) in verses 1, 21 and 27.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה (1)“and indeed” or “and he saw/observed that”. This word calls attention to what God is looking at and helps emphasize that what he saw was very good.
it was} very good
Quote: ט֖וֹב מְאֹ֑ד (1)“{it was} {all} very good/excellent.” Consider again how you translated “good/excellent” in verses 4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, and 31.
Then there was evening, and there was morning
Quote: וַֽיְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽיְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)“Then evening came, and {then/later} morning came,” Consider again how you translated these phrases in verses 5, 8, 13, 19, 23, and 31, and see the note about that at verse 5.
the sixth day
Quote: י֥וֹם הַשִּׁשִּֽׁי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“{and that was} {the end of} the sixth day.” or “and the sixth day ended.” or “{and that was} {the end of} day six.”
Genesis 2
Genesis 2:1
So the heavens and the earth were completed
Quote: וַיְכֻלּ֛וּ הַשָּׁמַ֥יִם וְהָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“So {it was that} the heavens and the earth were completed/finished {by God},” or “That is how {God} finished {creating/making} the heavens and the earth,” Verse 1 is a summary statement that looks back at what God did in chapter 1. Make sure that is clear in your language. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or passive clause here, and see how you translated “heavens and earth” in Gen 1:1.
and all their hosts
Quote: וְכָל צְבָאָֽם (1)“including all the many things that are in them.” or “along with everything in them.” This phrase refers to everything in the heavens and on the earth that God had created, as described in chapter 1.
Genesis 2:2
by the seventh day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁבִיעִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“By the seventh day” or “By day seven”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that God had completed his work by the seventh day and did not work on that day. Also consider again how you translated ordinal numbers in Gen 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31; 2:2.
And … God had completed
Quote: וַיְכַ֤ל אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“God/he had completed/finished” or “God/he was finished with”. Decide whether it is better in your language to refer to God with a title (“God”) or a pronoun (“he”) in this context.
his work that he had done
Quote: מְלַאכְתּ֖וֹ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑ה (1)“his/the work he had been doing,”
so he rested on the seventh day from all
Quote: וַיִּשְׁבֹּת֙ בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁבִיעִ֔י מִכָּל (1)“so he rested/ceased on that day from all” or “so on the seventh day he no longer did”. God “rested” in the sense that he stopped his work and did not work on that day. It does not mean he was tired or had lost his strength. Rest is an important theme in the Bible, so you should try to be consistent in how you translate this term here and in other passages such as Exodus 23:12, 31:17 and Hebrews 4:4, 10. Part of this theme includes the Hebrew word for “Sabbath” which has the same root word as the verb for “rest” and is often translated “resting day.”
his work that he had done
Quote: מְלַאכְתּ֖וֹ אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָֽׂה (1)“the work that he had been doing.” or “that work.”
Genesis 2:3
And God blessed the seventh day
Quote: וַיְבָ֤רֶךְ אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶת י֣וֹם הַשְּׁבִיעִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Then God/he established/designated the seventh day {as a day} to bless {people}” or “God/He honored the seventh day”. For some languages it is more natural to begin verse 3 without a conjunction. Other languages use a conjunction here like Hebrew does. Do what is natural in your language.
and sanctified it
Quote: וַיְקַדֵּ֖שׁ אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“and made it a holy/sacred day,” or “and set it apart as a day especially devoted/dedicated to him,” or “by setting it apart as a special day/time {for people/them} {to rest and worship him},”
because on it
Quote: כִּ֣י ב֤וֹ (1)“because on/during that day” or “{He did that} because on/during that day”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
he rested from all his work
Quote: שָׁבַת֙ מִכָּל מְלַאכְתּ֔וֹ (1)“he ceased from all his/the work” or “he did not do any more work” or “he no longer did the work”. See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2.
of creating that God had done
Quote: אֲשֶׁר בָּרָ֥א אֱלֹהִ֖ים לַעֲשֽׂוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“of creating that he had been doing.” or “that he had been doing, creating {everything}.”
Genesis 2:4
These {are
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה (1)“These {are more details about}” or “This {is more about}” or “What follows {gives/tells more details about}”. This phrase refers forward to Gen 2:5-24 and begins a new section. Chapter one of Genesis gives an overview of what God did each day of creation week, including that he created human beings on day six. Chapter two gives more details about how God created Adam and Eve, who were his most important creations. Each chapter emphasizes different parts of the same history; they are not two different histories. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created
Quote: תוֹלְד֧וֹת הַשָּׁמַ֛יִם וְהָאָ֖רֶץ בְּהִבָּֽרְאָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“the history of the heavens and the earth when they were created {by God},” or “what happened when {God} created the heavens and the earth.” or “the history of what {God} did when he created the heavens and the earth:” The Hebrew text uses a passive construction here to emphasize the heavens and the earth. Decide the best way to do that in your language.
in the day {when
Quote: בְּי֗וֹם (1)“during the days/time {when}” or “During the days/time {when}”. Consider whether or not it is clearer or more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 5.
Yahweh God
Quote: יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Yahweh {who is} God” or “God {whose name is} Yahweh”. This phrase is a combination of God’s personal name “Yahweh” with his title “God.” Both are used together when he is especially in focus. This pattern of using a personal name and a title together is also used for people in the Old Testament when they are being emphasized, for example, “Ahab king of Israel” and “Ruth the Moabitess.” Many translations have “LORD God” in place of “Yahweh God” throughout the Old Testament. This follows the Jewish custom of substituting the Hebrew title “Adonai” (which means “my Lord”) for “Yahweh” (which means “he is”) when they read the Scriptures aloud. More recently, translation teams are putting “Yahweh” back in the Bible text (especially in the Old Testament, but also in the New Testament), and they include a footnote to explain the term. (Some translation teams consider using “Jehovah” instead of “Yahweh.” However that is not a name from the Bible, but is formed by taking the consonants from “Yahweh” and combining them with the vowels from “Adonai.”)
made the earth and the heavens
Quote: עֲשׂ֛וֹת & אֶ֥רֶץ וְשָׁמָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-chiasm
“made/created the earth and the heavens”. This clause forms a chiasm with “the heavens and the earth … created” in the first part of this verse. Try to keep the same phrase order in your translation. See how you translated “the heavens” and “the earth” in Gen 1:1 and 2:1.
Genesis 2:5
and every shrub of the field had not yet appeared on the earth
Quote: וְכֹ֣ל ׀ שִׂ֣יחַ הַשָּׂדֶ֗ה טֶ֚רֶם יִֽהְיֶ֣ה בָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“And/Now {for a while,} there were not yet any shrubs/bushes in the fields} on the earth,” or “{For a while,} no wild shrubs/bushes had started growing on the earth yet,” Consider whether or not it is better in your translation to begin a new sentence here. Verses 5-6 give background information about what things were like before God created mankind (verse 7). Some languages use a conjunction like “Now” to introduce background information, while other languages do not use a conjunction here. Do what is best in your language.
and every plant of the field had not yet sprung up
Quote: וְכָל עֵ֥שֶׂב הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה טֶ֣רֶם יִצְמָ֑ח (1)“nor had any {other} plants started growing yet,” or “and there were not any {other} plants that had sprouted yet,” See how you translated “plants” in Gen 1:11-12, 29-30.
because Yahweh God
Quote: כִּי֩ & יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“because Yahweh/he” or “{That was} because God”. The Hebrew text repeats “Yahweh God” frequently in chapter 2 (starting in verse 4) to emphasize God. For some languages, it is not natural to repeat “Yahweh God” so often in the same paragraph, and it could even give the wrong meaning that there was more than one Yahweh God. For languages like that, it may be best to use “Yahweh God” only once at the beginning of a section or paragraph, then use “Yahweh”, “God”, or “he” in the rest of the section, depending on the context. Consider what is the most accurate and natural way to refer to Yahweh God at each point in your translation.
had not caused it to rain on the earth
Quote: לֹ֨א הִמְטִ֜יר & עַל הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“had not {yet} caused it to rain on the earth,” or “had not {yet} sent/caused rain to water the earth,” See how you translated “earth” in Gen 1:1 and 2:1.
and there was no man
Quote: וְאָדָ֣ם אַ֔יִן (1)“and there were no human beings {yet}” or “and mankind/humans did not exist {yet}”
to work the ground
Quote: לַֽעֲבֹ֖ד אֶת הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)“to cultivate/farm the land/soil.” Working the ground includes tasks such as clearing the ground, preparing the soil, planting seeds, and watering the plants. See how you translated “ground” in Gen 1:25. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 2:6
But mist
Quote: וְאֵ֖ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“But {during/at that time} mist/water/groundwater” or “{During/At that time} mist/springs”. The Hebrew word for “mist” refers to water in some form, such as water vapor, springs, or streams of water. Also, some translations begin verse 6 without “But”. Do what is best in your language.
came up
Quote: יַֽעֲלֶ֣ה (1)“seeped up” or “kept coming/seeping up” or “would come/seep up”. This verb describes a repeated or continuous action.
from the earth
Quote: מִן הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“from the ground” or “from underground”
and watered
Quote: וְהִשְׁקָ֖ה (1)“and irrigated” or “and spread over” or “supplied water to”
all of the surface of the ground
Quote: אֶֽת כָּל פְּנֵֽי הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)“the entire/whole surface of the land/earth.” or “the ground everywhere.”
Genesis 2:7
Then Yahweh God formed
Quote: וַיִּיצֶר֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים (1)“Then Yahweh {who is} God shaped/crafted”. The word “formed” describes what an expert craftsmen would do, and implies artistic skills and design. See how you translated “Yahweh God” in Gen 2:4-5.
the man
Quote: אֶת הָֽאָדָ֗ם (1)“a man” or “the {first} man”. The definite article “the” is used here because this refers to a specific man, the first male human. For many languages it is more natural to use an indefinite article (“a”) to introduce him here, or to not use an article at all. Do what is best in your language.
out of} dust
Quote: עָפָר֙ (1)“{out of} dirt/mud/clay”. The word used here in the Hebrew text is usually translated “dust” (as in Gen 13:16, 28:14), but it can also be translated “dirt” (as in Gen 26:15) or “mortar/mud/clay” (as in Leviticus 14:42). The dirt would have been damp enough to be formed or shaped.
from the ground
Quote: מִן הָ֣אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)“from the earth,” For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in the first half of this verse and say, “Then Yahweh {who is} God {took} {some} dirt/clay from the ground/earth {and} formed/shaped a man {out of it},” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “ground” in Gen 1:25 and 2:5-6. You may need to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and he breathed
Quote: וַיִּפַּ֥ח (1)“and he/Yahweh blew/exhaled” or “Then he/Yahweh blew/exhaled”. For some languages, it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
into his nostrils the breath of life
Quote: בְּאַפָּ֖יו נִשְׁמַ֣ת חַיִּ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“into the man’s nostrils/nose the/his breath that would make him live,” or “his breath into the man’s nostrils/nose to make him live,” This refers to God’s breath. As you translate the pronouns “he” and “his” in this verse, make sure it is clear in your language who is being referred to.
and the man became a living being
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֥י הָֽאָדָ֖ם לְנֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“so that he became a living person.” or “and then the man became alive” or “and he came to life.” or “so that he started to live.” Consider what is the most natural way in your language to refer to the man throughout verse 7.
Genesis 2:8
Now Yahweh God had planted
Quote: וַיִּטַּ֞ע יְהוָ֧ה אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “Now Yahweh God had {previously/already} planted” or “{Before that,} Yahweh God had planted”. This interpretation fits the context of chapter one, which says that God had made all the trees and plants on day three (Gen 1:11-12), three days before he created man (Gen 1:26-27; 2:7). Following this view, verses 8-14 give background information for what happens in verses 15-24. (2) “Then Yahweh God planted”. According to this interpretation, God made the Garden of Eden on day six after he created man.
a garden
Quote: גַּן (1)“a {large} garden” or “a {large} farm/park”. The man lived in this garden, and there were animals and many trees and other plants in it too, so it was fairly large. Make sure your translation of this term does not refer to something that is too small.
in Eden, in the east
Quote: בְעֵ֖דֶן מִקֶּ֑דֶם (1)“in {the land/region of/called} Eden, {which was} in/to the east,” or “in the eastern part of {the land/region of/called} Eden,” In this context, the phrase “in the east” could refer to: (1) the eastern part of the region of Eden; or (2) a region east of where Moses lived when he wrote this. It is best, if possible, to keep your translation of this phrase general here (like the Hebrew text).
and there he put the man
Quote: וַיָּ֣שֶׂם שָׁ֔ם אֶת הָֽאָדָ֖ם (1)“and that is where he put the man” or “and in that garden he put the man” or “That is where he put the man”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
whom he had formed
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָצָֽר (1)“whom he had shaped/crafted.” or “whom he had created/made.” See how you translated “formed” in verse 7.
Genesis 2:9
And Yahweh God had made to grow from the ground every tree {that} is pleasant
Quote: וַיַּצְמַ֞ח יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהִים֙ מִן־הָ֣אֲדָמָ֔ה כָּל־עֵ֛ץ נֶחְמָ֥ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{There} Yahweh/he had made/caused to grow from the ground every {kind/type of} tree that is pleasant/beautiful/delightful” or “Yahweh/He had made/caused all {kinds/types of} trees to grow from the ground that are pleasant/beautiful”. See how you translated “Yahweh God” in verse 5, and how you translated “every tree” in Gen 1:29.
to the sight
Quote: לְמַרְאֶ֖ה (1)“to the eyes” or “to look at” or “in appearance”
and good
Quote: וְט֣וֹב (1)“and {that produce/have/grow fruit that is} good” or “and {whose fruit is} good”
for food
Quote: לְמַאֲכָ֑ל (1)“for eating,” or “to eat,”
and the tree of life in the middle of the garden
Quote: וְעֵ֤ץ הַֽחַיִּים֙ בְּת֣וֹךְ הַגָּ֔ן (1)“including the tree whose fruit gives people {eternal} life, {which was} in the middle of the garden,” or “In the middle of the garden was the tree whose fruit makes people live {forever},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil
Quote: וְעֵ֕ץ הַדַּ֖עַת ט֥וֹב וָרָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“as well as the tree whose fruit enables people to know/discern {what is} good/right and {what is} evil/wrong.” The word “good” refers here to all that is morally right and pleasing to God, and “evil” refers to what is morally wrong and against his will. Keep that in mind as you translate these terms.
Genesis 2:10
And a river was going out
Quote: וְנָהָרּ֙ יֹצֵ֣א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Now a river was flowing” or “A river was flowing” or “There was a river flowing”. Verse 10 gives more background information that began in verse 8. Many translations omit the conjunction “And” or “Now” here. Do what is best in your language.
from Eden
Quote: מֵעֵ֔דֶן (1)“from/through {the land/region of} Eden”. The garden was inside the land of Eden, so as the river flowed through Eden, it watered the garden.
to water
Quote: לְהַשְׁק֖וֹת (1)“to irrigate” or “to provide water for” or “that watered/irrigated” or “that provided water for”. See how you translated “watered” in verse 6.
the garden
Quote: אֶת הַגָּ֑ן (1)“the farm/park,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 8.
and from there
Quote: וּמִשָּׁם֙ (1)“and from the garden” or “From there/Eden”. For some languages it is better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
it divided and became four head{water}s
Quote: יִפָּרֵ֔ד וְהָיָ֖ה לְאַרְבָּעָ֥ה רָאשִֽׁים (1)Verse 10 is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It could mean: (1) “the/that river divided into four {smaller} waters/rivers.” This interpretation means that the river in Eden was the source river that watered the garden and then divided downstream into the four smaller rivers. (2) “there were four {smaller} source rivers that joined together and formed the larger river.” This interpretation means that the four rivers were source headwaters that flowed downstream and joined to form the larger river in Eden. If possible, leave your translation ambiguous here (like the Hebrew text does), so that either interpretation is possible.
Genesis 2:11
The name of the first {is
Quote: שֵׁ֥ם הָֽאֶחָ֖ד (1)“The name of the first {river} {is/was}” or “The first {river} is/was named/called” or “The first {river} is/was”. Most translations use past tense in verse 10, but then use present tense throughout verses 11-14. It may be best to use past tense throughout verses 10-14, especially since the rivers and places that are named in these verses no longer existed when Genesis was written, because the Flood completely changed the entire surface of the earth; after the Flood, the names of some of those rivers and places were given to new rivers and places.
Pishon
Quote: פִּישׁ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the Pishon {River}.” Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to use the article (“the”) with the name of a river.
It winds through
Quote: ה֣וּא הַסֹּבֵ֗ב (1)“It meanders/meandered through” or “which flows/flowed around through”. The word “winds” or “meanders” means that the river changed direction from time to time. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence.
all of the land of Havilah
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל אֶ֣רֶץ הַֽחֲוִילָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the entire/whole region of/called Havilah,” Be consistent in how you translate “land of” throughout this section.
where gold {is
Quote: אֲשֶׁר שָׁ֖ם הַזָּהָֽב (1)“{a place} where {there is/was} {much} gold.” or “which has/had {a lot of} gold.”
Genesis 2:12
And the gold of that land
Quote: וּֽזֲהַ֛ב הָאָ֥רֶץ הַהִ֖וא (1)“In fact, the gold from that land/region” or “Indeed, the gold {that is found} in that land/region”. This sentence emphasizes the previous statement about the gold and gives more information about it.
is} good
Quote: ט֑וֹב (1)“{is/was} {very} pure.” or “{is/was} {very} high quality.”
Bdellium
Quote: הַבְּדֹ֖לַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“{A kind/type of fragrant/sweet-smelling resin called} bdellium” or “A {kind/type of} fragrant/sweet-smelling resin/perfume”. The meaning of this Hebrew word is not certain. In many translations it is transliterated, that is, spelled the way the Hebrew word is pronounced. It may refer to: (1) a fragrant/sweet-smelling tree resin that was used to make perfume; or (2) a type of stone or crystal, or possibly pearl.
and onyx stone
Quote: וְאֶ֥בֶן הַשֹּֽׁהַם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“and {valuable} onyx gemstones” or “and {valuable} stones/gemstones called onyx” or “and {valuable} gemstones”. It is not certain what kind of stone this was, but most Bible scholars think it was onyx, which is a kind of quartz that is often black, but also occurs in many other colors, and can have stripes or bands of white (or other colors) running through it.
are} there
Quote: שָׁ֥ם (1)“{are/were} {also} {found} there.” or “{are/were} {also} in that land/region.” Make sure the verb tense you choose here fits with the way you translated verse 11.
Genesis 2:13
And the name of the second river {is
Quote: וְשֵֽׁם הַנָּהָ֥ר הַשֵּׁנִ֖י (1)“The name of the second river {is/was}” or “The second river is/was named/called” or “The second river is/was”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 11.
Gihon
Quote: גִּיח֑וֹן (1)“the Gihon {River}.”
It winds through
Quote: ה֣וּא הַסּוֹבֵ֔ב (1)“It meanders/meandered through” or “which flows/flowed around through”. Consider whether it is better here in your language to begin a new sentence or to continue the previous sentence. See how you translated this phrase in verse 11.
all of the land of Cush
Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל אֶ֥רֶץ כּֽוּשׁ (1)“the entire/whole region of/called Cush.” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 11.
Genesis 2:14
And the name of the third river {is
Quote: וְשֵׁ֨ם הַנָּהָ֤ר הַשְּׁלִישִׁי֙ (1)“The name of the third river {is/was}” or “The third river is/was named/called” or “The third river is/was”
Tigris
Quote: חִדֶּ֔קֶל (1)“the Tigris {River}.”
It goes east of
Quote: ה֥וּא הַֽהֹלֵ֖ךְ קִדְמַ֣ת (1)“It flows/flowed {in an area} east of” or “which flows/flowed {in an area} east of” or “which was located east of”. The word “east” refers to where the river was located, not the direction it was flowing.
Asshur
Quote: אַשּׁ֑וּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{the land/region of/called} Asshur/Assyria.” This Hebrew name is pronounced “ash-shur” and is spelled “Asshur,” “Ashur,” or “Assyria” in English, depending on the context. This was a region of land, because at that time there were no cities. Most translations have “Assyria” here. Consider again how you translated “the land of” in verses 11 and 13.
And the fourth river {is
Quote: וְהַנָּהָ֥ר הָֽרְבִיעִ֖י (1)“{The name of} the fourth river {is/was}” or “The fourth river {is/was named/called}” or “and the fourth river {is/was}”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 11, 13-14. Also consider again whether it is best in your language to use present tense or past tense in verses 10-14.
Euphrates
Quote: פְרָֽת (1)“the Euphrates {River}.” Consider again how you translated the names of rivers in verses 11, 13-14.
Genesis 2:15
And Yahweh God took the man and put him
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֛ח יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת הָֽאָדָ֑ם וַיַּנִּחֵ֣הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Now Yahweh God had {already} put the man” or “After Yahweh God put the man”. In verse 8 it says that God had already put the man in the garden, so the way you translate verse 15 should not sound like he did it again. This information is repeated here to continue the story from verse 8.
in the Garden of Eden
Quote: בְגַן עֵ֔דֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“in the garden in {the land/region of/called} Eden” or “in Eden Garden”. Notice that “Garden” is capitalized when it is part of a name.
to work it
Quote: לְעָבְדָ֖הּ (1)“to cultivate/farm it” or “so that he would cultivate/farm it”. See how you translated “work” in verse 5.
and tend it
Quote: וּלְשָׁמְרָֽהּ (1)“and maintain it.” or “and take care of it.”
Genesis 2:16
Then Yahweh God commanded the man, saying
Quote: וַיְצַו֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֔ים עַל־הָֽאָדָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Yahweh/he commanded the man,” or “he commanded him,” The way you begin verse 16 depends on how you began verse 15. Consider what is the best way to refer to “Yahweh God” and “the man” here.
From every tree of the garden you may freely eat
Quote: מִכֹּ֥ל עֵֽץ הַגָּ֖ן אָכֹ֥ל תֹּאכֵֽל (1)“You may eat as much {fruit} as you want {to eat} from every/any tree in the garden,” or “You are permitted to eat whatever fruit that you want {to eat} from every/any tree in the garden,”
Genesis 2:17
but you must not eat from the tree of
Quote: וּמֵעֵ֗ץ & לֹ֥א תֹאכַ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“except you must/may not eat {any fruit} from the tree” or “except for one: you must/may not eat {the fruit that grows} on the tree” or “except I forbid you to eat {any fruit} from the tree”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is not contradicting himself here, but rather he is giving an exception to what he said in verse 16. To make that clear, you could say (starting with the beginning of God’s words in verse 16), “Out of all the trees in the garden, there is only one tree that you must/may not eat from: the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat fruit from that tree, on that {same} day you will certainly/definitely die.”
the knowledge of good and evil
Quote: הַדַּ֨עַת֙ ט֣וֹב וָרָ֔ע (1)“whose fruit enables people to know/discern {what is} good/right and {what is} evil/wrong,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 9.
because on the day you eat from it
Quote: כִּ֗י בְּי֛וֹם אֲכָלְךָ֥ מִמֶּ֖נּוּ (1)“because on the {same} day you eat {fruit} from that tree” or “If you eat {any fruit} from that tree, on that {same} day” or “because as soon as you eat {fruit} from that tree”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
you will surely die
Quote: מ֥וֹת תָּמֽוּת (1)“you will certainly/definitely die.”
Genesis 2:18
Then Yahweh God said, “{It is} not good {for
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֔ים לֹא ט֛וֹב (1)“Then/Next Yahweh {who is} God declared, {It is} not good”
the man to be alone
Quote: הֱי֥וֹת הָֽאָדָ֖ם לְבַדּ֑וֹ (1)“that the man is alone.” or “{for} the man to live by himself.”
I will make
Quote: אֶֽעֱשֶׂהּ (1)“{So} I will make/create”
a suitable helper for him
Quote: לּ֥וֹ עֵ֖זֶר כְּנֶגְדּֽוֹ (1)“a helper/companion who is {just/exactly} right for him.” or “someone who is suitable/right for him and will help him.” or “a suitable companion to help him.”
Genesis 2:19
Now Yahweh God had formed from the ground
Quote: וַיִּצֶר֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים מִן הָֽאֲדָמָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Now {before that,} Yahweh God had formed/shaped from {the dust/dirt on} the ground” or “Now {previously,} Yahweh/he had used {dust/dirt} from the ground to form/shape”. The first sentence of verse 19 is a flashback of what happened before the events in verses 15-18 (which were first recorded in Gen 1:20-21, 24-25). Translate this phrase in a way that makes it clear that this is background information that has already happened. Also see how you translated “formed” in verses 7-8 and “dust from the ground” in verse 7.
every living thing of the field
Quote: כָּל חַיַּ֤ת הַשָּׂדֶה֙ (1)“every {kind/type of} creature/animal that lives in the fields/wild” or “all {the different kinds/types of} animals that live in the fields” or “all {the different kinds/types of} wild animals”. Consider how you translated a similar phrase (“every living creature of the earth”) in Gen 1:24, 30.
and every bird of the sky
Quote: וְאֵת֙ כָּל ע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“and every {kind/type of} bird {that flies} in the sky.” or “and all {the different kinds/types of} birds {that fly} in the sky.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 1:30.
So he brought {them
Quote: וַיָּבֵא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“So/Then he brought/took them {all}”. This sentence continues the storyline. Consider how your language continues a story after giving background information. Also consider whether “brought” or “took” fits best here in your language.
to the man
Quote: אֶל הָ֣אָדָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“to Adam”. Every translation team needs to decide when to use Adam’s name for the first time in the book of Genesis. The Hebrew word “adam” means “man” and is also Adam’s name; the choice that is not followed here in your translation could be put in a footnote. Some translations first use Adam’s name here in verse 19, when he is naming the animals. Many other translations start using his name at the end of verse 20. Still other translations wait until 3:20 when he names Eve, and a few other translations begin in 3:9, 17, or 21.
to see
Quote: לִרְא֖וֹת (1)“to watch/hear” or “to find out”
what he would call them
Quote: מַה יִּקְרָא ל֑וֹ (1)“what he would name each one,” or “what names he would give/assign to them,” These names were labels for what kind of animals they were, such as “dog” or “horse”, not personal names like “David” or “Mary”.
and whatever the man called
Quote: וְכֹל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִקְרָא ל֧וֹ הָֽאָדָ֛ם (1)“and whatever Adam called/named” or “Whatever name the man gave/assigned to”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
a living creature
Quote: נֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּ֖ה (1)“each {kind/type of} living creature,” or “each {kind/type of} animal,”
that {was} its name
Quote: ה֥וּא שְׁמֽוֹ (1)“that {became} its name.” or “that {became} the name of/for that kind/type of animal.”
Genesis 2:20
And the man gave names to all the livestock
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א הָֽאָדָ֜ם שֵׁמ֗וֹת לְכָל־הַבְּהֵמָה֙ (1)“The man gave/assigned names to all the {different kinds/types of} livestock” or “Adam named all the {different kinds/types of} domestic/tame animals”. For a note about when to first use Adam’s name, see verse 19. Also, see how you translated “livestock” in Gen 1:24-26.
and to the bird{s} of the sky
Quote: וּלְע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“and to {all} the {different kinds/types of} birds {that fly} in the sky”
and to every living thing of the field
Quote: וּלְכֹ֖ל חַיַּ֣ת הַשָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)“and to all the {other} {different kinds/types of} creatures/animals that live in the fields/wild,” or “and to all the wild animals,” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 19.
but for the man a suitable helper was not found
Quote: וּלְאָדָ֕ם לֹֽא מָצָ֥א עֵ֖זֶר כְּנֶגְדּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“but he did/could not find a suitable helper for himself {among them}.” or “but none of them was a helper/companion who was {just/exactly} right for him.” or “but none of them was a suitable companion to help him.” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use an active or passive construction here. Also see how you translated “a suitable helper” in verse 18.
Genesis 2:21
So Yahweh God caused a deep sleep to fall on the man
Quote: וַיַּפֵּל֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֧ים תַּרְדֵּמָ֛ה עַל הָאָדָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“So/Then Yahweh God caused the man to fall/go into a deep/sound sleep.” or “So/Then Yahweh God caused the man to sleep {very} deeply/soundly.” Many languages have a similar idiom for “caused a deep sleep to fall on” that works well here. Consider what is best in your language.
And {while} he was sleeping
Quote: וַיִּישָׁ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then {while} the man was sleeping/asleep,” Consider whether it is best in your language to use a pronoun or a noun here to refer to the man.
then he took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֗ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“he/God took {out}”. Consider whether to use a pronoun or noun here to refer to God. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to at each point in this verse.
one of his ribs
Quote: אַחַת֙ מִצַּלְעֹתָ֔יו (1)This phrase is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It could mean: (1) “one of the man’s ribs {from his body/side}” or “a rib {from the man’s body/side}” or (2) “part of the man’s side {from his body}”
and closed up its place {with} flesh
Quote: וַיִּסְגֹּ֥ר בָּשָׂ֖ר תַּחְתֶּֽנָּה (1)“and filled in the place/hole where it had been with flesh {and healed it}.” or “and replaced it with flesh {and healed him}.” In this context, the term “flesh” probably includes muscles and skin.
Genesis 2:22
Then Yahweh God built
Quote: וַיִּבֶן֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֧ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Next Yahweh God” or “Next he” or “After that, Yahweh/he”. For many languages it is more natural here to use a pronoun to refer to Yahweh God. Do what is best in your language. After you finish translating a chapter or section, it is a good practice to read that section aloud and listen for what is the best way to refer to God and others at each place in the text.
Then … built the rib which he had taken from the man into a woman
Quote: וַיִּבֶן֩ & אֶֽת הַצֵּלָ֛ע אֲשֶׁר לָקַ֥ח מִן הָֽאָדָ֖ם לְאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)“made/constructed a woman from the rib which he had taken out of the man{’s body},” or “used the rib which he taken from the man to make/construct a woman from it,” See how you translated “rib” in verse 21 and see the note about that there.
and he brought her to the man
Quote: וַיְבִאֶ֖הָ אֶל הָֽאָדָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“and he took her to the man.” or “Then he brought/took her to the man.” See how you translated “brought” in verse 19.
Genesis 2:23
And the man said
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֮ הָֽאָדָם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then the man said/exclaimed,” or “{When the man saw her,} he said/exclaimed,” or “{When the man woke up and saw the woman,} he said/exclaimed,” Remember to only make implied information explicit in your translation if it helps people understand the text better or if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning or bad grammar in your language.
This {one} now
Quote: זֹ֣את הַפַּ֗עַם (1)“Now there is a person who” or “At last here is a person {like me} who” or “Finally/Ahh! Here is someone {like me} who”
is} bone from my bones and flesh from my flesh
Quote: עֶ֚צֶם מֵֽעֲצָמַ֔י וּבָשָׂ֖ר מִבְּשָׂרִ֑י (1)“{has} bones and flesh from me!” or “was made out of my own bones and flesh!”
She will be called ‘woman
Quote: לְזֹאת֙ יִקָּרֵ֣א אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)“I will call her ‘woman,’ ” There is a play-on-words here because the Hebrew word for woman (“ishsha”) is similar to the Hebrew word for man (“ish”). You could put that information in a footnote.
because {it was} from a man {that} she was taken
Quote: כִּ֥י מֵאִ֖ישׁ לֻֽקֳחָה זֹּֽאת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“because she was taken {by God} from {the body of} a man.” or “because {it was} from {the body of} a man {that} {God} took her.” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 2:24
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּן֙ (1)“Because of that,” or “That is why” or “Since the woman was created from the man’s body,”
a man will leave
Quote: יַֽעֲזָב אִ֔ישׁ (1)“a/every man {who marries} will/must leave” or “{when a man gets married,} he must move away from”
his father and his mother
Quote: אֶת אָבִ֖יו וְאֶת אִמּ֑וֹ (1)“{the home of} his father and mother,”
and he will cling to his wife
Quote: וְדָבַ֣ק בְּאִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he must unite/join with his wife,” or “and he must live in close relationship with his wife,” This idiom means that the man is committed to his wife and has a close physical relationship with her too. Consider what is the best way to translate this in your language.
and they will become
Quote: וְהָי֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“so that they become”. Some languages have a special dual pronoun for “they” that fits well here.
one flesh
Quote: לְבָשָׂ֥ר אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“completely one/united.” or “united in body {and spirit}.” or “united like one person.” The phrase “one flesh” is an idiom that emphasizes the close physical and spiritual unity between a husband and wife. Other languages may have a similar idiom. Consider how to best communicate this in your language.
Genesis 2:25
And the man and his wife were both naked
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֤וּ שְׁנֵיהֶם֙ עֲרוּמִּ֔ים הָֽאָדָ֖ם וְאִשְׁתּ֑וֹ (1)“Now {at/during that time} both the man and his wife were naked,” or “{At/During that time} the man and his wife did not wear any clothes,”
but they were not ashamed
Quote: וְלֹ֖א יִתְבֹּשָֽׁשׁוּ (1)“but {yet} they were not ashamed/embarrassed {about it}.” or “but {yet} they did not feel ashamed/embarrassed {about being naked}.” Some languages have an idiom for this clause that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 3
Genesis 3:1
Now the serpent
Quote: וְהַנָּחָשׁ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now the snake”. The conjunction “Now” introduces background information about the serpent. See how you translated this conjunction in Gen 2:5, 8, 19.
was more crafty than every living thing of the field
Quote: הָיָ֣ה עָר֔וּם מִכֹּל֙ חַיַּ֣ת הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)“was more {deceptive and} clever/cunning than any of the {other} creatures/animals that live in the fields/wild” or “was the craftiest of all the animals”. Make sure that your translation of “crafty” means that the snake had evil intent and was clever in a way that was not good. See how you translated “living thing of the field” in Gen 2:19-20.
that Yahweh God had made
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָׂ֖ה יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“that Yahweh {who is} God had made/created.” or “that God {whose name is} Yahweh had made/created.” Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to the animals that God had made, not the fields. Also see how you translated “Yahweh God” in chapter 2, beginning in verse 4.
And he said to the woman
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־הָ֣אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{One day} he asked the woman,” or “{One day} the serpent/snake {came/went to} the woman {and} asked {her},” If you use a pronoun (“he”) here in your translation, make sure it refers to the serpent, not God. Also, since the snake asked a question, some languages have to be more specific and say “asked” in the quote margin. Do what is best in your language.
Did God really say, ‘You must not eat
Quote: אַ֚ף כִּֽי אָמַ֣ר אֱלֹהִ֔ים לֹ֣א תֹֽאכְל֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Did God really/actually command you to not eat” or “Is it true that God commanded you not to eat”. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
from any tree of the garden
Quote: מִכֹּ֖ל עֵ֥ץ הַגָּֽן (1)“{fruit} from any of the trees {that is/are} in the garden?” or “{any fruit} from the trees in the garden?” See how you translated “garden” in Genesis 2, beginning in verse 8.
Genesis 3:2
Then the woman said to the serpent
Quote: וַתֹּ֥אמֶר הָֽאִשָּׁ֖ה אֶל הַנָּחָ֑שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“The woman answered the serpent/snake,” or “The woman responded to him,” or “The woman replied,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
We may eat
Quote: נֹאכֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“{No,} we have permission {from God/him} to eat” or “{No,} God/he has given us permission to eat”. The woman is not including the snake when she says “we” here.
from the fruit of
Quote: מִפְּרִ֥י (1)“the fruit of/from” or “fruit from”. See how you translated “fruit” in Gen 1:11-12, 29.
the tree{s} of the garden
Quote: עֵֽץ הַגָּ֖ן (1)“{any/all of} the tree{s} {that are} in the garden,” or “{any} tree in the garden,”
Genesis 3:3
except from the fruit of the tree that {is} in the middle of the garden
Quote: וּמִפְּרִ֣י הָעֵץ֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּתוֹךְ הַגָּן֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
“except fruit from the tree that is in the middle/center of the garden.” or “except there is one tree that we must/may not eat fruit from, which is in the middle/center of the garden.” For some languages it is necessary to put the exception clause first and say, “{No,} it is only the tree in the middle of the garden that {God said} we must/may not eat any fruit from, but the fruit of/from {all the rest of} the trees in the garden we may eat.” Notice that if you follow this example, you must combine verses 2 and 3 and put the verse numbers “2-3” in front of the combination.
God said, ‘You must not eat from it
Quote: אָמַ֣ר אֱלֹהִ֗ים לֹ֤א תֹֽאכְלוּ֙ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“God/he told/commanded {us}, ‘Do not eat fruit from that tree,” or “God/He told/commanded {us} to not eat {any of} that fruit,” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
and you must not touch it
Quote: וְלֹ֥א תִגְּע֖וּ בּ֑וֹ (1)“and do not even touch it,” or “or even touch it,”
or else you will die
Quote: פֶּן תְּמֻתֽוּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“because if you do {eat it or touch it}, you will die!” or “because if we do {eat it or touch it}, we will die!” Make sure the way you translate this clause fits with whether you translated the first part of the sentence as a direct (“you”) or indirect (“we”) quote.
Genesis 3:4
But the serpent said to the woman
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר הַנָּחָ֖שׁ אֶל־הָֽאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But the snake said/replied to her,” or “But the snake replied,” See how you translated “serpent” in verses 1-2.
You will not surely die
Quote: לֹֽא מ֖וֹת תְּמֻתֽוּן (1)“{That is not true.} You will not die.” or “It’s not true that you will die.”
Genesis 3:5
For God knows
Quote: כִּ֚י יֹדֵ֣עַ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“Actually, God/he knows” or “The reason God said that is because he knows”. The connecting word “For” introduces an explanation here. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
that on the day
Quote: כִּ֗י בְּיוֹם֙ (1)“that as soon as” or “that when/if”
you eat from it
Quote: אֲכָלְכֶ֣ם מִמֶּ֔נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual
“you eat {fruit} from that tree,” or “you eat some/any of that fruit,” The pronouns “you” and “your” are plural in this verse and refer to the man and the woman. Some languages have a special dual pronoun for this. Consider again how you translated “you” and “your” in verses 1-5.
then your eyes will be opened
Quote: וְנִפְקְח֖וּ עֵֽינֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“your mind/understanding will be opened/expanded,” or “you will gain/have new understanding,” or “you will understand/know new things,” Consider whether your language has an idiom like “your eyes will be opened” that would fit well here.
and you will be like God in knowing good and evil
Quote: וִהְיִיתֶם֙ כֵּֽאלֹהִ֔ים יֹדְעֵ֖י ט֥וֹב וָרָֽע (1)“and {as a result} you will be like God/him because you will know {what is} good/right and {what is} evil/wrong.” or “so that you will know {what is} good/right and {what is} evil/wrong just like God does.” The Hebrew word “Elohim” is ambiguous in this context. It could mean: (1) “God”, which is what it means everywhere else in the first 30 chapters of Genesis; or (2) “gods” or “divine beings” or (3) “angels”. See how you translated “good and evil” in Gen 2:9, 17.
Genesis 3:6
And the woman saw that
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶא הָֽאִשָּׁ֡ה כִּ֣י (1)“The woman saw/observed that”
the tree
Quote: הָעֵ֨ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“the tree {produced fruit that}” or “{the fruit of} that tree” or “the tree{’s fruit}”. The word “tree” refers here to the fruit that is produced by that tree. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
was} good for food
Quote: טוֹב֩ & לְמַאֲכָ֜ל (1)“{was/looked} good/delicious to eat”
and that it {was} pleasant to the eyes
Quote: וְכִ֧י תַֽאֲוָה ה֣וּא לָעֵינַ֗יִם (1)“and that the tree {itself} was/looked {very} beautiful,”
and {that} the tree was desirable for gaining wisdom
Quote: וְנֶחְמָ֤ד הָעֵץ֙ לְהַשְׂכִּ֔יל (1)“and {she thought/believed} that {the fruit from} the tree would make her wise/wiser.” or “She {also} desired/wanted {to eat} the fruit so that it would make her wise/wiser.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
So she took some of its fruit and ate {it
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֥ח מִפִּרְי֖וֹ וַתֹּאכַ֑ל (1)“So/Then she took/picked some of the fruit {from/off the tree} and ate {it}.”
Then she also gave {some
Quote: וַתִּתֵּ֧ן גַּם (1)“She also gave {some of the fruit}”
to her husband with her
Quote: לְאִישָׁ֛הּ עִמָּ֖הּ (1)“to her husband, {who was} {there} with her,”
and he ate {it
Quote: וַיֹּאכַֽל (1)“and he ate {it/some} {too}.” or “and he {also} ate {it/some}.”
Genesis 3:7
Then the eyes of them both were opened
Quote: וַתִּפָּקַ֨חְנָה֙ עֵינֵ֣י שְׁנֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Immediately/Suddenly it was as if their eyes/minds were opened/enlightened,” or “Immediately/Suddenly they both gained/had new understanding,” or “Immediately/Suddenly they both understood new things,” An immediate result of their sin was that they realized they were naked, which they had not been aware of before. See how you translated the idiom “eyes … opened” in verse 5.
and they knew
Quote: וַיֵּ֣דְע֔וּ (1)“so that they realized” or “so that they became aware”
that they {were} naked
Quote: כִּ֥י עֵֽירֻמִּ֖ם הֵ֑ם (1)“that their bodies {were} naked/uncovered/bare {and they felt ashamed/embarrassed}.”
So they sewed … together
Quote: וַֽיִּתְפְּרוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“So they fastened/joined {together}”. The word for “sewed” implies here that some type of needle and thread were used. For example, they may have used a thin, sharpened stick for the needle, and plant fibers for the thread. If necessary, you could use a more general term such as “fastened/joined together” or “connected”. Also, some languages have dual pronouns that can be used in verses 7-8 for “they” and “themselves”. Do what is best in your language.
fig leaves
Quote: עֲלֵ֣ה תְאֵנָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“{some} fig {tree} leaves” or “{some} {large} leaves from a fig tree”. Historical facts should not be changed in a translation, including the historical fact that Adam and Eve used fig tree leaves to make aprons. If fig trees are not known in your language area, you could say “{large} leaves from a tree called a fig {tree}”.
and made aprons for themselves
Quote: וַיַּעֲשׂ֥וּ לָהֶ֖ם חֲגֹרֹֽת (1)“and used/wore them like/as aprons/skirts/loincloths {to cover their nakedness/bodies}.” or “and wore them around their waists {to cover their nakedness/bodies}.” or “and used them to make clothes for themselves.” These aprons/skirts probably covered them from the waist down to somewhere around the knees.
Genesis 3:8
Then they heard
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁמְע֞וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then/Later the man and his wife heard”. For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to put the noun phrase “the man and his wife” here and then use a pronoun (“they”) later in this sentence. Do what is best in your language.
the sound of Yahweh God walking
Quote: אֶת ק֨וֹל יְהוָ֧ה אֱלֹהִ֛ים מִתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ (1)“the sound of Yahweh God{’s footsteps} as he walked” or “Yahweh God’s voice as he walked”. This phrase can refer to the sound of God’s footsteps or to the sound of his voice. Either meaning fits the context well and is followed by many translations.
in the garden
Quote: בַּגָּ֖ן (1)“{around} in the garden” or “through the garden”
in the breeze of the day
Quote: לְר֣וּחַ הַיּ֑וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{late in the afternoon} in/during the breezy/cool {time} of the day,” or “{late that afternoon/day} when there was a cool breeze blowing,” This idiom refers to the late afternoon or early evening when there is a breeze blowing and it is cooler. For some languages it is more natural to put this time phrase at the beginning of the sentence. Do what is best in your language.
but the man and his wife hid
Quote: וַיִּתְחַבֵּ֨א הָֽאָדָ֜ם וְאִשְׁתּ֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“but/so they hid {themselves}” or “but/so they {tried to} hide {themselves}”. If you use “the man and his wife” earlier in this verse in your translation, consider whether or not a pronoun should be used here.
from the presence of Yahweh God
Quote: מִפְּנֵי֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“from Yahweh God” or “from his presence/sight” or “from him”. Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh at this point in the paragraph in your language.
among the tree{s} of the garden
Quote: בְּת֖וֹךְ עֵ֥ץ הַגָּֽן (1)“in the midst of the tree{s} in the garden.” or “behind some tree{s} there.” Since the garden is already mentioned earlier in verse 8, for some languages it may be more natural to be general here and say “there”. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 3:9
So Yahweh God called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“Then/But Yahweh God called {out}”. See how you translated this name for God in verses 1 and 8.
to the man and said to him
Quote: אֶל הָֽאָדָ֑ם וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“to the man and asked him,” or “to Adam,” See the note at Gen 2:19 about when to start using Adam’s name. Also consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
Where {are} you
Quote: אַיֶּֽכָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“{Adam,} where are you?” Notice that the word “you” is singular here because God is only addressing the man.
Genesis 3:10
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“He/Adam answered {him},” or “The man replied,”
I heard your sound
Quote: אֶת קֹלְךָ֥ שָׁמַ֖עְתִּי (1)“I heard the sound of you {walking}” or “I heard your voice” or “I heard the sound of your footsteps/voice {as you walked}”. See how you translated “sound” in verse 8.
in the garden
Quote: בַּגָּ֑ן (1)“through the garden,”
but I was afraid because I {was} naked, so I hid
Quote: וָאִירָ֛א כִּֽי עֵירֹ֥ם אָנֹ֖כִי וָאֵחָבֵֽא (1)“but I was naked, so I was/felt afraid and I hid {from you}.” or “but I was naked and afraid {that you would see me}, so I hid.”
Genesis 3:11
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So Yahweh God asked {him},” Make sure your translation of “he” refers to Yahweh here, not the man.
Who told you that you {were} naked
Quote: מִ֚י הִגִּ֣יד לְךָ֔ כִּ֥י עֵירֹ֖ם אָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“What made you realize/know that you were naked?” or “How did you find out that you were naked?” The pronoun “you” is still singular here.
Did you eat from the tree
Quote: הֲמִן הָעֵ֗ץ & אָכָֽלְתָּ (1)“Did you {disobey me and} eat {fruit} from the tree”
that I commanded you not to eat from
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֧ר צִוִּיתִ֛יךָ לְבִלְתִּ֥י אֲכָל מִמֶּ֖נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“that I commanded you, ‘Do not eat from it’?” For some languages it is more natural to use a direct quote here for Yahweh’s words. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 3:12
Then the man said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר הָֽאָדָ֑ם (1)“But the man said/replied {to him},” or “The man answered {him},”
The woman whom you gave {to be} with me, she
Quote: הָֽאִשָּׁה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר נָתַ֣תָּה עִמָּדִ֔י הִ֛וא (1)“The woman whom you put here {to be/live} with me, she {is the one who}” or “It was the woman you gave to me who”. The pronoun “she” is emphatic in the Hebrew text. That, along with the position of “The woman” at the beginning of the sentence, shows that the man is strongly emphasizing his blame of the woman. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language.
gave me {fruit} from the tree
Quote: נָֽתְנָה לִּ֥י מִן הָעֵ֖ץ (1)“gave me {some fruit} from that tree,” or “gave me some of the/that fruit,” See how you translated “fruit” in verses 1-6.
and I ate {it
Quote: וָאֹכֵֽל (1)“so I ate {it}.” or “That is why I ate {it/some}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 3:13
Then Yahweh God said to the woman
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֧ה אֱלֹהִ֛ים לָאִשָּׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Yahweh God asked the woman,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
What {is} this you have done
Quote: מַה זֹּ֣את עָשִׂ֑ית (1)“What have you done?” or “What did you do?” or “Tell me what you have done.” God already knew the answer to this question, but he is giving the woman a chance to confess and explain what she did. God’s question probably also implies that he is displeased with what has happened.
And the woman said
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ הָֽאִשָּׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But the woman said/replied {to him},” or “The woman said/replied,” or “She replied,”
The serpent
Quote: הַנָּחָ֥שׁ (1)“The snake” or “It was the serpent/snake that”. This phrase is emphasized in the Hebrew text.
deceived me
Quote: הִשִּׁיאַ֖נִי (1)“tricked me,” or “lied to me,”
so I ate {it
Quote: וָאֹכֵֽל (1)“so I ate {some of the/that fruit}.” or “That is why I ate {it/some}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 3:14
Then Yahweh God said to the serpent
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֩ יְהֹוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֥ים אֶֽל הַנָּחָשׁ֮ (1)“So Yahweh God said to the snake,”
Because you have done this
Quote: כִּ֣י עָשִׂ֣יתָ זֹּאת֒ (1)“Because/Since you did that,” or “Because/Since you deceived/tricked the woman,”
you are cursed
Quote: אָר֤וּר אַתָּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“you are cursed {by me}” or “I am cursing you” or “I will cause you to suffer” or “I will punish you”. In this context, “cursed” involves God punishing the serpent and its descendants, causing them to suffer by crawling along the ground on their bellies and having a hostile relationship with human beings. Make sure that the way you translate this term does not imply the use of magic.
above all the livestock
Quote: מִכָּל־הַבְּהֵמָ֔ה (1)“more {severely/harshly} than all the domestic/tame animals”. When Adam and Eve sinned and God judged them, the curse and punishment of death and decay also affected everything that was under their authority, including the animals. Here in Gen 3:14, God puts a more severe curse on the serpent (and his descendants) than he put on the rest of the animals. See how you translated “livestock” in Gen 1:24-26; 2:20.
and above every living thing of the field
Quote: וּמִכֹּ֖ל חַיַּ֣ת הַשָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)“and more {severely/harshly} than all the creatures/animals of/in the fields/wild.” or “and more {severely/harshly} than all the wild animals.” See how you translated “every living thing of the field” in verse 1.
You will move on your belly
Quote: עַל גְּחֹנְךָ֣ תֵלֵ֔ךְ (1)“{As a result,} you will/must move/crawl {on/along the ground} on your belly/stomach,”
and you will eat dust
Quote: וְעָפָ֥ר תֹּאכַ֖ל (1)“and you will/must eat dust/dirt {with your food}”. Make sure your translation of this clause does not imply that dust or dirt is all the snake will eat. Rather it could mean that dirt will get into his mouth when he eats his food, or it could be an idiom that refers to the fact that as he slithers along, his mouth will always be close to the dirt on the ground (a position of humility). Also see how you translated “dust” in Gen 2:7.
all the days of your life
Quote: כָּל יְמֵ֥י חַיֶּֽיךָ (1)“your entire life.” or “for as long as you live.”
Genesis 3:15
I will also put hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring
Quote: וְאֵיבָ֣ה אָשִׁ֗ית בֵּֽינְךָ֙ וּבֵ֣ין הָֽאִשָּׁ֔ה וּבֵ֥ין זַרְעֲךָ֖ וּבֵ֣ין זַרְעָ֑הּ (1)“I will also cause you and the woman to be enemies {with each other}, and your offspring/descendants and her offspring/descendants to also be enemies.” or “ Besides that, I will cause you and your descendants to be enemies with the woman and her descendants.”
He
Quote: ה֚וּא (1)“{In fact,} her offspring/descendant” or “{In fact,} one of her descendants”. The pronoun “He” is ambiguous here. It could refer to: (1) the woman’s descendant (Jesus) who would one day come to earth as the Messiah/Christ; or (2) the woman’s descendants who will constantly be enemies of the snake’s descendants. If you follow the first interpretation, this would be the first prophecy in the Bible about the Messiah/Christ (“the Anointed One” or “the Promised Savior King”) who would come to earth and destroy Satan’s power (Hebrews 2:14). You could include that information in a footnote.
will strike you {on} the head, and you will strike him {on} the heel
Quote: יְשׁוּפְךָ֣ רֹ֔אשׁ וְאַתָּ֖ה תְּשׁוּפֶ֥נּוּ עָקֵֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“will strike/crush your head, and you will strike/bite/bruise his heel.” This is figurative language that Satan will harm the Messiah, but the Messiah will destroy him. For some languages it is better to switch the order of these clauses and say, “{In fact,} you will strike/bite/bruise the heel of one of her descendants, but he will strike/crush your head.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 3:16
To the woman he said
Quote: אֶֽל הָאִשָּׁ֣ה אָמַ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{Then} he/God said to the woman,” or “{Then} Yahweh God {turned} to the woman and said {to her},” In the Hebrew text, “to the woman” comes first in this sentence, to emphasize her. Do what is natural in your language. Also consider what is the best way to refer to God here in your language.
I will greatly multiply your pain
Quote: הַרְבָּ֤ה אַרְבֶּה֙ עִצְּבוֹנֵ֣ךְ (1)“I will greatly increase how much you suffer” or “I will cause you to have/experience much/severe pain” or “I will cause it to be very painful”
and your childbearing
Quote: וְהֵֽרֹנֵ֔ךְ (1)“when you bear children;” or “when you give birth;”
in pain you will bear children
Quote: בְּעֶ֖צֶב תֵּֽלְדִ֣י בָנִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“{yes/indeed,} you will suffer much pain when you give birth.” or “{yes/indeed,} bearing children will be very painful for you.” This clause is the second part of a parallelism, which emphasizes the pain and suffering that women will experience when they bear children. If possible, it is best to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation.
Yet your desire {will be} for your husband
Quote: וְאֶל אִישֵׁךְ֙ תְּשׁ֣וּקָתֵ֔ךְ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here, because the conjunctions and the idiom “your desire will be for your husband” are all ambiguous in this context. The text could mean: (1) “Yet/But you will {still} desire/long {to be with} your husband, and he …”, which is similar to what “desire” means in Song of Songs 7:10; or (2) “Besides that, you will desire/want {to control} your husband, but he …”, which is similar to what “desire” means in Gen 4:7. The interpretation that is not followed in your translation could be put in a footnote.
and he will rule over you
Quote: וְה֖וּא יִמְשָׁל בָּֽךְ (1)“and he will control/dominate you.” or “and he will lord it over you.” See how you translated “rule over” in Gen 1:18. It may be necessary to translate this term differently here because of the negative context of the curse and the consequences of sin.
Genesis 3:17
Then to the man he said
Quote: וּלְאָדָ֣ם אָמַ֗ר (1)“Then/Next he/God said to the man,” or “Then/Next Yahweh God {turned} to Adam and said {to him},” In the Hebrew text, the phrase “to the man” is emphasized. See how you translated a similar case (“to the woman”) in verse 16. For a note about when to start using Adam’s name in your translation, see Gen 2:19.
Since you listened to the voice of your wife
Quote: כִּֽי־שָׁמַעְתָּ֮ לְק֣וֹל אִשְׁתֶּךָ֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Since/Because you {disobeyed me and} did what your wife said/suggested” or “Since/Because you did/followed what your wife told you to do”. This phrase means that Adam heard what his wife said to him and then did what she said. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
and ate from the tree
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אכַל֙ מִן הָעֵ֔ץ (1)“and ate {fruit} from the tree”
that I commanded you, saying, ‘You must not eat from it
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר צִוִּיתִ֨יךָ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר לֹ֥א תֹאכַ֖ל מִמֶּ֑נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“that I commanded/told you, ‘Do not eat {any fruit} from it,’ ” or “that I commanded you to not eat {any fruit} from.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated this command in verse 3.
the ground is cursed because of you
Quote: אֲרוּרָ֤ה הָֽאֲדָמָה֙ בַּֽעֲבוּרֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“the ground is cursed {by me} because of what you did.” or “I have cursed the ground because you sinned.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to break up this long sentence and say, “You did what your wife said and ate {fruit} from the tree that I commanded you not to eat {any fruit} from. Because of what you did, I have cursed the ground.” Also see how you translated “cursed” in verse 14.
By painful toil you will eat {from} it
Quote: בְּעִצָּבוֹן֙ תֹּֽאכֲלֶ֔נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“{As a result,} {only} by painful toil will you eat {any food} from it” or “{As a result,} you will have to work {very} hard and suffer {to grow/get enough food} to eat”
all the days of your life
Quote: כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֥י חַיֶּֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“every day of your life.” or “for your entire life.” or “for as long as you live.” For some languages it is better to put this phrase before the previous clause and say, “{As a result,} for as long as you live, you will have to work {very} hard and suffer {to grow/get enough food} to eat.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 3:18
And it will produce thorn{s} and thistle{s
Quote: וְק֥וֹץ וְדַרְדַּ֖ר תַּצְמִ֣יחַֽ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“In fact, the ground will produce/grow thorn {plants} and thistle {plants} {and other weeds}” or “In fact, thorn bushes and thistle plants {and other weeds} will grow from the ground”. The thorn and thistle plants represent all types of weeds, which are useless and possibly harmful plants.
for you, and you will eat the plant{s} of the field{s
Quote: לָ֑ךְ וְאָכַלְתָּ֖ אֶת עֵ֥שֶׂב הַשָּׂדֶֽה (1)The Hebrew text here could mean: (1) “{and make it difficult} for you to grow {enough} crops in the/your fields for food.” or “so that you will have to work very hard in your fields to grow/produce {enough} crops/food to eat.” or (2) “so that {your crops will not grow well and} you will {have to} eat {wild} plants that grow in the {open} fields {to survive}.” That difference of interpretation comes from the fact that the Hebrew word “fields” can refer to land that people cultivate or to uncultivated land where wild plants grow.
Genesis 3:19
By the sweat of your nose you will eat bread
Quote: בְּזֵעַ֤ת אַפֶּ֨יךָ֙ תֹּ֣אכַל לֶ֔חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{Only} by the sweat of your face/brow/forehead will you be able to {grow/produce/have} {enough} food to eat,” or “You will have to {work hard and} sweat a lot in order to {grow/produce/have} {enough} food to eat,” The phrase “by the sweat of your nose/brow” is an idiom that refers to hard physical labor. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also, bread was one of the main food staples for that time and culture, so the Hebrew word for “bread” is used here as an idiom that refers to all food, not just bread. Consider whether your language does something similar, using one type of food (such as bread, rice or potatoes) to refer to all food in general. Or you could use a general term like “food,” especially if bread is rare or expensive in your language area.
until you return to the ground
Quote: עַ֤ד שֽׁוּבְךָ֙ אֶל הָ֣אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)“until you {die and} again become dust/dirt,”
since from it you were taken
Quote: כִּ֥י מִמֶּ֖נָּה לֻקָּ֑חְתָּ (1)“which you were taken/made from {by me}.” or “which I took/created you from.” or “which I made/created you out of.”
For
Quote: כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Yes/Indeed,” or “That’s right,” This sentence rephrases and emphasizes what God just said.
you {are} dust
Quote: עָפָ֣ר אַ֔תָּה (1)“your bodies {were created/made} {by me} from dust/dirt” or “{I created/made} you out of dust/dirt”
and to dust you will return
Quote: וְאֶל עָפָ֖ר תָּשֽׁוּב (1)“so dust/dirt is what you will become again {after you die}.”
Genesis 3:20
Then the man called the name of his wife
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א הָֽאָדָ֛ם שֵׁ֥ם אִשְׁתּ֖וֹ (1)“Then Adam called/named his wife” or “Then the man gave his wife the name”. Some translations use Adam’s name here because he is naming Eve. See what you did in verse 17.
Eve
Quote: חַוָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Eve, {which means “living/live,”}” If you include the meaning of Eve’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it is similar to the word in the following clause that has the same meaning (“living”), so that it is clear why Eve was given that name. The meaning of names is important in the Hebrew language, and this translation issue occurs frequently in the book of Genesis.
because
Quote: כִּ֛י (1)“{He did that} because”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
she was the mother of
Quote: הִ֥וא הָֽיְתָ֖ה אֵ֥ם (1)“she would be the mother/ancestor of”
all the living
Quote: כָּל חָֽי (1)“all the people who would ever live.” or “everyone who would ever live.”
Genesis 3:21
Then Yahweh God made garments of {animal} skins
Quote: וַיַּעַשׂ֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים & כָּתְנ֥וֹת ע֖וֹר (1)“Then Yahweh God made {some} garments/clothes out of animal skins/hides” or “Then Yahweh God used {some} animal skins/hides to make {some} garments/clothes”
for Adam and his wife
Quote: לְאָדָ֧ם וּלְאִשְׁתּ֛וֹ (1)“for Adam and his wife {Eve},” or “for the man and his wife,”
and he clothed them
Quote: וַיַּלְבִּשֵֽׁם (1)“and he dressed them.” or “and he put the garments/clothes on them.”
Genesis 3:22
Then Yahweh God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he said/thought,” or “Then Yahweh/he said/thought {to himself},” Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh God in your language at this point in the paragraph. Also, see how you translated a similar quote margin in Gen 1:26, where “said” has the same meaning.
Behold
Quote: הֵ֤ן (1)“Look/Listen,” This word expresses emotion and calls attention to what God says next. See how you translated this term in Gen 1:29.
the man
Quote: הָֽאָדָם֙ (1)“the man {and his wife}” or “man{kind}” or “human beings”. Throughout verses 22-24 “the man” represents mankind, which included both the man and the woman at this point. Make sure your translation communicates that clearly in those verses and does not just refer to Adam.
has become like one of us
Quote: הָיָה֙ כְּאַחַ֣ד מִמֶּ֔נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“have become like one of us” or “have become like us”. The pronoun “us” is inclusive because God is talking to himself.
in knowing good and evil
Quote: לָדַ֖עַת ט֣וֹב וָרָ֑ע (1)“so that they know {what is} good and {what is} evil.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 5 and a similar phrase in Gen 2:9.
And now he must not reach out his hand and also take
Quote: וְעַתָּ֣ה פֶּן יִשְׁלַ֣ח יָד֗וֹ וְלָקַח֙ גַּ֚ם (1)“So now, they must not be allowed/permitted {by us} to also take/pick” or “So we must not allow/permit them to also take/pick” or “So now we must do something so that they do/can not also take/pick”. See how you translated “took/picked … fruit” in verse 6.
fruit} from the tree of life and eat it
Quote: מֵעֵ֣ץ הַֽחַיִּ֔ים וְאָכַ֖ל (1)“{fruit} from the tree of {eternal} life and eat {some of} it,” or “and eat {fruit} from the tree that gives people {eternal} life,” See how you translated “the tree of life” in Gen 2:9.
and live forever
Quote: וָחַ֥י לְעֹלָֽם (1)“and {then/so} live forever!” or “which will/would make them live forever!”
Genesis 3:23
So Yahweh God sent him
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּחֵ֛הוּ יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“Then Yahweh God expelled/banished the man {and his wife}” or “So {then} Yahweh God forced them to leave”. Notice that in verses 22-24, “the man”, “him”, and “he” refer to mankind, that is, the man and the woman. Make sure it is clear in your translation here that both of them were sent out of the garden, not just the man. Consider again how you translated “Yahweh God” in Genesis 2 and 3, and see the note about this at Gen 2:4. Some languages have dual pronouns that are used for “they” and “them” in verses 22-24.
out of the Garden of Eden
Quote: מִגַּן עֵ֑דֶן (1)“the garden in {the land/region of/called} Eden” or “Eden Garden”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 2:15.
to work the ground
Quote: לַֽעֲבֹד֙ אֶת הָ֣אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)“to work/farm/cultivate the ground/land/soil”. See how you translated “work the ground” in Gen 2:5 and “work it” in 2:15.
which he had been taken from
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֻקַּ֖ח מִשָּֽׁם (1)“which they had been taken/created from {by him/God}.” or “which God/he had taken/made them from.” It does not refer to the exact ground that he was made from. See how you translated “taken from” in verse 19.
Genesis 3:24
And after he drove the man out
Quote: וַיְגָ֖רֶשׁ אֶת הָֽאָדָ֑ם (1)“Then after he/Yahweh/God drove/forced the man {and his wife} out {of the garden},” or “After he/Yahweh/God expelled/banished them {from the garden},”
then he placed
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּן֩ (1)“then he stationed” or “he placed/stationed”
on the east side of the Garden of Eden
Quote: מִקֶּ֨דֶם לְגַן עֵ֜דֶן (1)“on/to the east {side} of the garden {at its entrance}” or “{at the entrance} of/to the garden, {which was} on its east side”. It is implied that the entrance to the garden is where the cherubim were placed to keep everyone from ever entering the garden again. Consider again how you translated “garden” in Gen 2:8-10, 15-16; 3:1-3, 8, 10, 23-24.
cherubim {angels
Quote: אֶת הַכְּרֻבִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“{some} {powerful} cherubim {angels}” or “{some} {powerful beings called} cherubim {angels}”. Most translations transliterate or borrow this term from Hebrew throughout the Bible. Cherubim are a special category of very powerful angels. Each one has four faces: a human face, a lion’s face, a bull’s face and an eagle’s face (Ezekiel 1:10; 10:14). Each of them also has multiple wings. You could include some of that information in a footnote.
and a flaming sword
Quote: וְאֵ֨ת לַ֤הַט הַחֶ֨רֶב֙ (1)“and a blazing/fiery/burning sword” or “and a sword made of flames/fire”. A sword is a weapon that has a very long, sharp (often two-sided) blade that is longer than a knife, machete, or dagger and is attached to a hilt or handle. This sword may have had flames coming from it, or this may have been fire in the shape of a sword.
that was turning in every direction
Quote: הַמִּתְהַפֶּ֔כֶת (1)“that was turning/swinging around in all directions” or “that was swinging/flashing back and forth”. It seems that the sword was swinging by itself since there is no mention of anyone holding it.
to guard the way of
Quote: לִשְׁמֹ֕ר אֶת דֶּ֖רֶךְ (1)“to keep everyone away from the way/path {that leads/goes} to” or “so that no one could get/go near”
the tree of life
Quote: עֵ֥ץ הַֽחַיִּֽים (1)“the tree of {eternal} life.” or “the tree whose fruit gives people {eternal} life.” or “the tree whose fruit makes people live {forever}.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 2:9 and 3:22.
Genesis 4
Genesis 4:1
Then the man
Quote: וְהָ֣אָדָ֔ם (1)“Then Adam” or “Then the man {Adam}”. For a note about when to begin referring to the man as Adam, see Gen 2:19.
knew Eve his wife
Quote: יָדַ֖ע אֶת חַוָּ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“had {marital} relations with his wife Eve,” or “slept with his wife Eve,” or “was intimate with his wife Eve,” This phrase is a Hebrew idiom that means Adam had marital/sexual relations with Eve. Many languages have a similar idiom. Make sure you translate this in a way that is polite and will not offend or embarrass people, especially when read aloud.
and she conceived and bore
Quote: וַתַּ֨הַר֙ וַתֵּ֣לֶד (1)“so that she became pregnant and {later} gave birth to”. Translate this clause in a way that will not embarrass people, especially when read aloud.
Cain
Quote: אֶת קַ֔יִן (1)“{a son they named} Cain, {which means “obtained/acquired.”}” You could include the meaning of Cain’s name in your translation or in a footnote. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 3:20.
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“because she said/exclaimed,” or “{They named him that} because she/Eve had said/exclaimed,” This sentence explains how Cain got his name. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
I have obtained
Quote: קָנִ֥יתִי (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “I have obtained/acquired” or (2) “I have produced/created”. If you include the meaning of Cain’s name earlier in this verse in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches your choice here so that it is clear why he was given that name.
a man
Quote: אִ֖ישׁ (1)“a male child” or “a boy/son” or “a baby boy”. For some languages it is confusing to refer to a newborn baby as a man. Do what is clear and natural in your language.
with Yahweh
Quote: אֶת יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“with {help from} Yahweh!” or “with Yahweh{’s help}!” For some languages it is more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “With Yahweh’s help I have obtained/acquired a son!” or “Yahweh has enabled/helped me to obtain/get a son!” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 4:2
Then she continued on to bear
Quote: וַתֹּ֣סֶף לָלֶ֔דֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then she/Eve also gave birth to” or “After that, she/Eve gave birth to”. The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. Cain and Abel may have been twins, or Abel may have been born sometime later after Eve became pregnant again. If possible, translate verse 2 in a way that allows for either interpretation. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to use a pronoun or a noun to refer to Eve here.
his brother
Quote: אֶת אָחִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“his/Cain’s brother” or “another baby boy, {who was} his/Cain’s brother”. Some languages have a specific term for “younger brother” that can be used here. Do what is best in your language.
Abel
Quote: אֶת הָ֑בֶל (1)“{whom they named} Abel.” or “{whose name was} Abel.”
Now Abel became
Quote: וַֽיְהִי הֶ֨בֶל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now {when the boys had grown up,} Abel” or “{When they grew up,} Abel”. This sentence introduces background information for what happens next. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language. Also, It is implied here that the boys had grown up to be adults. If necessary, you could make that explicit in your translation.
a keeper of flock{s
Quote: רֹ֣עֵה צֹ֔אן (1)“became/was a keeper/herder of flocks/sheep,” or “became/was a shepherd,” or “raised sheep {and goats},” A flock can be a large group of sheep or goats, or a mixture of both.
and Cain
Quote: וְקַ֕יִן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“whereas/but Cain”. Consider what is the best way in your language to contrast Cain and his work with Abel and his work.
became a worker of the ground
Quote: הָיָ֖ה עֹבֵ֥ד אֲדָמָֽה (1)“became/was a worker/tiller/farmer of the ground/soil.” or “became/was a {crop} farmer.” or “grew {food} crops.” Cain raised crops, not animals. See how you translated a similar phrase (“work the ground”) in Gen 2:5.
Genesis 4:3
And it happened in the course of days
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֖י מִקֵּ֣ץ יָמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Then one day it happened that” or “As time went on/by, one day”. These phrases introduce an important new event. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
that Cain brought
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֨א קַ֜יִן (1)“Cain offered/gave”
some of the fruit of the ground
Quote: מִפְּרִ֧י הָֽאֲדָמָ֛ה (1)“some of the crops {that he had raised/grown} in his fields” or “some of the edible plants {that he had harvested} from his farmland/fields”. The word “fruit” is general here and refers to any edible plant or crop that grows as the result of being cultivated. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
as} an offering to Yahweh
Quote: מִנְחָ֖ה לַֽיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“to Yahweh as an offering/gift/sacrifice {to honor/worship him}.” The term “offering” refers to something that is given.
Genesis 4:4
And Abel also brought
Quote: וְהֶ֨בֶל הֵבִ֥יא גַם (1)“Abel also brought/offered/gave {an offering/gift/sacrifice} {to Yahweh}, {but what he offered/gave was}” or “But Abel offered/gave {to Yahweh}”. There is a contrast between Abel and Cain and between their offerings.
some of the firstborn of his flock{s
Quote: מִבְּכֹר֥וֹת צֹאנ֖וֹ (1)“some of the firstborn {animals} from his flock{s}/sheep”. See how you translated “flocks” in verse 2.
and some of their fat
Quote: וּמֵֽחֶלְבֵהֶ֑ן (1)“and/including some of the fat portions of the meat.” or “and/including some of their best parts.” or “and/including the fattest/best parts of the animals/meat.” In that culture, fat was considered one of the best parts of an animal to eat. If that is different from how fat is viewed in your language area, that information could be put in a footnote.
And Yahweh looked {favorably} on
Quote: וַיִּ֣שַׁע יְהוָ֔ה אֶל (1)“Yahweh was pleased/happy with” or “Yahweh accepted”
Abel and his offering
Quote: הֶ֖בֶל וְאֶל מִנְחָתֽוֹ (1)“Abel and his gift/sacrifice.” or “Abel and what he offered/gave {to him}.”
Genesis 4:5
But he did not look {favorably} on Cain
Quote: וְאֶל קַ֥יִן & לֹ֣א שָׁעָ֑ה (1)“But he/Yahweh was not pleased/happy with Cain” or “However, he/Yahweh did not accept Cain”. See how you translated “looked {favorably} on” in verse 4.
and his offering
Quote: וְאֶל מִנְחָת֖וֹ (1)“and/or his gift/sacrifice.” or “and/or what he offered/gave {to him}.”
So Cain burned with intense anger
Quote: וַיִּ֤חַר לְקַ֨יִן֙ מְאֹ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“So Cain was/became/felt extremely angry,” Many languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
and his face fell
Quote: וַֽיִּפְּל֖וּ פָּנָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and his face showed that he was angry/upset.” or “and he frowned/scowled.” or “and his face showed it.”
Genesis 4:6
Then Yahweh said to Cain
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל קָ֑יִן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Yahweh asked Cain/him,” The way you translate this quote margin should fit with the way that you translated the following three rhetorical questions.
Why are you burning with anger? And why is your face fallen
Quote: לָ֚מָּה חָ֣רָה לָ֔ךְ וְלָ֖מָּה נָפְל֥וּ פָנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why are you so angry? And why are you frowning/scowling?” or “There is no need/reason for you to be angry and frowning/scowling.” God is using these rhetorical questions to correct Cain. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Also see how you translated the idioms “burned with … anger” and “face fell” in verse 5.
Genesis 4:7
If you do right
Quote: אִם תֵּיטִיב֙ (1)“If you do {what is} right,”
will {you} not {be} accepted
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא & שְׂאֵ֔ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{you know that} you will be accepted {by me}.” or “{you know that} I will be pleased with you {and your offering/gift} {too}.” or “I will accept you {and your offering/gift} {too}.” God uses this rhetorical question here to remind Cain of something that he already knew. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
But if you do not do right
Quote: וְאִם֙ לֹ֣א תֵיטִ֔יב (1)“But if you don’t do {what is} right,” or “But if you do what is wrong,”
sin is crouching
Quote: חַטָּ֣את רֹבֵ֑ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“{then} sin {is like a fierce/dangerous animal that} is crouching/waiting” or “{then} sin will be crouching/waiting {like a fierce/wild animal}”. In verse 7 sin is personified, that is, it is treated as if it were alive, like a lion or some other fierce animal that wants to attack Cain. Some languages can do the same thing. Other languages cannot do that and must say something like: “then you are in great danger of being tempted to sin, but you must resist and not give in.”
at the door
Quote: לַפֶּ֖תַח (1)“outside your door {to attack you},” or “outside the door {of your heart} {to attack/tempt you},”
and its desire {is} for you
Quote: וְאֵלֶ֨יךָ֙ תְּשׁ֣וּקָת֔וֹ (1)“It/Sin desires/wants {to control/destroy} you,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
but you must rule over it
Quote: וְאַתָּ֖ה תִּמְשָׁל בּֽוֹ (1)“but you must master/control it {so that you do not sin}.” or “but you must keep/prevent it {from controlling/destroying you}.” or “but you must keep/prevent it {from doing that}.”
Genesis 4:8
Then Cain spoke
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר קַ֖יִן (1)“But {after that,} Cain said” or “Later Cain spoke/talked”. After God spoke to Cain, we do not know how long Cain waited before he spoke to Abel; it may have been a few hours or a few days.
to Abel his brother
Quote: אֶל הֶ֣בֶל אָחִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
“to/with his brother Abel.” This sentence is what the Hebrew text has. Instead of that text, some ancient manuscripts and translations (including the Samaritan Pentateuch, Septuagint, Latin Vulgate, and Syriac) and many modern translations have: “Then Cain said to Abel his brother, “Let’s go out to the field {and work} {together}.” ” or “Then Cain invited/asked his brother Abel to go out to the field with him {to work}.” Some translation teams follow the way this verse is translated in a well-known translation, such as in the national language or in a neighboring language. Decide what to do in your translation. The textual variant that you do not use in your translation could be put in a footnote.
And it happened while they were in the field
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ בִּהְיוֹתָ֣ם בַּשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then/So {they went out} to the field {to work} {together}, and/but while they were there,” For some languages it is necessary to make explicit that Cain and Abel actually went to the field. Do what is best in your language.
then Cain rose up against
Quote: וַיָּ֥קָם קַ֛יִן אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Cain attacked”
Abel his brother
Quote: הֶ֣בֶל אָחִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“his {own} brother Abel” or “his {own} brother” or “him”. The Hebrew text keeps repeating the phrase “Abel his brother” to emphasize the seriousness of Cain’s crime. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. See how you translated “brother” in verse 2.
and killed him
Quote: וַיַּהַרְגֵֽהוּ (1)“and murdered him.”
Genesis 4:9
Then Yahweh said to Cain
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל קַ֔יִן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/Later Yahweh asked Cain,”
Where {is} Abel your brother
Quote: אֵ֖י הֶ֣בֶל אָחִ֑יךָ (1)“Where {is} your brother Abel?” See how you translated “Abel … brother” in verse 8.
And he replied
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then He/Cain said/replied {to him},” or “He/Cain answered {him},” or “He/Cain responded/retorted,” Cain is answering Yahweh rudely. Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language, including whether or not to use a conjunction here.
I do not know
Quote: לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְתִּי (1)“I don’t know {where he is}.” or “How should I know {that}?”
Am I my brother’s keeper
Quote: הֲשֹׁמֵ֥ר אָחִ֖י אָנֹֽכִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Am I my brother’s guardian/caretaker?” or “Am I in charge of my brother?” or “Is it my job/responsibility to take care of my brother?” or “It’s not my job/responsibility to keep track of my brother!” Cain uses this rhetorical question to support the lie that he just told. His response to God is rude and disrespectful. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question communicates that here in your language.
Genesis 4:10
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Yahweh asked/exclaimed,” Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Yahweh, not Cain.
What have you done
Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֑יתָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“What you have done is very horrible/terrible!” or “You have done a horrible/terrible thing!” God uses this rhetorical question to condemn what Cain had done. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question works well here in your language.
The voice of your brother’s blood is crying out to me from the ground
Quote: ק֚וֹל דְּמֵ֣י אָחִ֔יךָ צֹעֲקִ֥ים אֵלַ֖י מִן הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“Your brother’s blood is calling out to me from the ground {to avenge him}!” or “Your brother’s blood on the ground is like a voice/person calling out to me {for justice/revenge}!” or “I see your brother’s blood on the ground, and/so I must judge/punish you {for killing/murdering him}!” In the Hebrew text, blood is personified, as if it had a voice or could cry out like a person does. If it is not possible to do that in your language, you could say that his brother’s blood is “like a voice …” or you could translate this sentence without personification.
Genesis 4:11
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֖ה (1)“So/Therefore from now on” or “Because of what you did,”
you are cursed
Quote: אָר֣וּר אָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“you are cursed {by me}” or “I am cursing you”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also see how you translated this in Gen 3:14.
from the ground
Quote: מִן הָֽאֲדָמָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{so that you will not be able to grow food} from the ground/soil,” or “{so that you are banned/banished} from {working/farming} the ground/soil,”
which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר פָּצְתָ֣ה אֶת פִּ֔יהָ לָקַ֛חַת אֶת דְּמֵ֥י אָחִ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“which is covered/soaked with blood from your brother” or “which is where your brother’s blood spilled/poured out”. In the Hebrew text, “the ground” is personified as if it had a mouth to open. If that is not possible in your language, you could follow one of the alternates above.
from your hand
Quote: מִיָּדֶֽךָ (1)“when/after you killed/murdered him.”
Genesis 4:12
When
Quote: כִּ֤י (1)“Whenever” or “{As a result,} whenever”
you work the ground
Quote: תַֽעֲבֹד֙ אֶת הָ֣אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)“you {try to} cultivate/farm the ground/soil,” See how you translated “work the ground” in Gen 2:5 and 3:23; also see similar phrases in 4:2, 11.
it will not continue to yield its strength for you
Quote: לֹֽא תֹסֵ֥ף תֵּת כֹּחָ֖הּ לָ֑ךְ (1)“it will no longer produce/grow good crops for you.” or “it will not produce/grow enough food/harvest for you anymore.”
You will be
Quote: תִּֽהְיֶ֥ה (1)“{From now on,} you will” or “and you will {also}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
You will be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth
Quote: נָ֥ע וָנָ֖ד תִּֽהְיֶ֥ה בָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
“be a fugitive/outcast who wanders around on the earth {without a permanent home}.” or “be a wandering/homeless fugitive/outcast on the earth.” or “{be rejected/shunned by people so that you} have no permanent home and have to move from place to place.” The phrase “a fugitive and a wanderer” forms a hendiadys. Consider what is the best way to translate that phrase in your language.
Genesis 4:13
Then Cain said to Yahweh
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר קַ֖יִן אֶל יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Cain replied to Yahweh/him,” or “Cain said/replied,”
My punishment {is} greater
Quote: גָּד֥וֹל עֲוֺנִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“Your punishment of me will cause me more suffering” or “You are punishing me more {severely/harshly}”
than I can bear
Quote: מִנְּשֹֽׂא (1)“than I can endure.” or “than I am able to live/cope with.”
Genesis 4:14
Behold
Quote: הֵן֩ (1)“Look/Listen,” This term emphasizes what Cain says next. See how you translated this term in Gen 1:29 and 3:22. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context.
today you are driving me
Quote: גֵּרַ֨שְׁתָּ אֹתִ֜י הַיּ֗וֹם (1)“today you are forcing me away” or “you have now banished/prevented me”. See how you translated “drove/expelled” in Gen 3:24.
from the surface of the ground
Quote: מֵעַל֙ פְּנֵ֣י הָֽאֲדָמָ֔ה (1)“from {farming/working/cultivating} the ground/land/soil,”
and I will be hidden from your presence
Quote: וּמִפָּנֶ֖יךָ אֶסָּתֵ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and I will be separated from you.” or “and I will be far away from you.” or “and you will no longer bless me.” This clause is probably an idiom that means Cain will be cursed and no longer blessed by God.
And I will be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth
Quote: וְהָיִ֜יתִי נָ֤ע וָנָד֙ בָּאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
“I will be a fugitive/outcast who wanders around on the earth {without a permanent home},” or “I will be a wandering/homeless fugitive/outcast on the earth,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
and it will be {that
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה (1)“and” or “so that”
everyone who finds me will kill me
Quote: כָל מֹצְאִ֖י יַֽהַרְגֵֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“anyone who sees/meets me will kill me!” Cain uses hyperbole here to emphasize his strong emotion. If possible, keep this hyperbole in your translation because it helps communicate how fearful Cain was feeling.
Genesis 4:15
Then Yahweh said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר ל֣וֹ יְהוָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So/But Yahweh said/replied to him/Cain,” or “Yahweh said/replied to him/Cain,”
For that {reason
Quote: לָכֵן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
“In that case,” or “So then,” That is what the Hebrew text has. Instead of that text, some ancient translations (such as the Septuagint) and many modern translations have: “Not so/true.” or “That will not happen {because}”. The textual variant that you do not use in your translation could be put in a footnote.
anyone who kills Cain will suffer vengeance
Quote: כָּל הֹרֵ֣ג קַ֔יִן & יֻקָּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{I will warn everyone that} if anyone kills Cain/you, I will take vengeance/revenge on him {for you}” or “{I will make it clear to everyone that} I will take vengeance/revenge on anyone who kills you” What God says here implies that he will do something to prevent people from killing Cain; he is not just talking about punishing them if they kill him. If necessary, you could make that explicit in your translation.
seven times over
Quote: שִׁבְעָתַ֖יִם (1)“{and punish him} seven times more {severely} {than I am punishing you}!”
Then Yahweh put a mark on Cain
Quote: וַיָּ֨שֶׂם יְהוָ֤ה לְקַ֨יִן֙ א֔וֹת (1)“Then Yahweh/he put a {special/distinguishing} sign/symbol on Cain” or “Then Yahweh/he marked Cain with a {special/distinguishing} mark/symbol”. We do not know exactly how Yahweh marked Cain, so keep your translation of this clause general (like the Hebrew text is).
so that everyone who found him would not strike him
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֥י הַכּוֹת אֹת֖וֹ כָּל מֹצְאֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so that anyone who saw/met him would not kill him.” or “to warn everyone who saw/met him not to kill him.” The phrase “strike him” is used here as an idiom that means “kill him”. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 4:16
Then Cain went away
Quote: וַיֵּ֥צֵא קַ֖יִן (1)“After that, Cain went/traveled away” or “Then Cain left”
from the presence of Yahweh
Quote: מִלִּפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“from Yahweh” or “from the place where Yahweh had been talking to him”. Yahweh is everywhere, so this probably means that after talking to Yahweh, Cain left that place.
and lived
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב (1)“and settled” or “and started living”
in the land of Nod
Quote: בְּאֶֽרֶץ נ֖וֹד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“in the land/region of/called Nod, {which means “wandering,”}” or “in Nod Land,” The original readers of the Hebrew text knew that the name “Nod” means “wandering”. Usually translators transliterate (copy or borrow) the name from the Hebrew text, and they might also include the meaning of the name in the text or in a footnote. If you do that here, the meaning should be similar to how you translated “wanderer” in verses 12 and 14.
east of Eden
Quote: קִדְמַת עֵֽדֶן (1)“{which was} east of {the land/region of/called} Eden.” or “{which was} east of Eden {Land}.” Consider again how you translated “{the land/region of} Eden” and “the Garden of Eden” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 2:8, 10, 15; 3:23-24; 4:16.
Genesis 4:17
Then Cain knew his wife
Quote: וַיֵּ֤דַע קַ֨יִן֙ אֶת אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then Cain had {marital} relations with his wife,” or “Then Cain slept with his wife,” See how you translated this idiom in Gen 4:1.
and she conceived and bore
Quote: וַתַּ֖הַר וַתֵּ֣לֶד (1)“so that she became pregnant and gave birth to”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 4:1.
Enoch
Quote: אֶת חֲנ֑וֹךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{a son named} Enoch.” or “{a son they named} Enoch.” or “{a son whose name was} Enoch.”
And he was building a city
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ בֹּ֣נֶה עִ֔יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“And/Now {at/during that time,} Cain was {in the process of} building/constructing a city,” Make sure that your translation of this clause refers to Cain, not Enoch.
so he called the name of the city
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֙ שֵׁ֣ם הָעִ֔יר (1)“so he called/named the/that city”
after the name of his son Enoch
Quote: כְּשֵׁ֖ם בְּנ֥וֹ חֲנֽוֹךְ (1)“after his son Enoch.” or “Enoch, after his son.” or “Enoch, the same name as his son.”
Genesis 4:18
Then to Enoch was born
Quote: וַיִּוָּלֵ֤ד לַֽחֲנוֹךְ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Later on, Enoch fathered/had” or “When Enoch {grew up,} he fathered/had” or “Enoch was the father of”. In this record of Cain’s descendants, It is implied that many years have gone by between each descendant growing up, getting married, and having his own children. Decide the best way to translate this genealogical record in your language.
Irad
Quote: אֶת עִירָ֔ד (1)“{a son named} Irad,” or “{a son whose name was} Irad,”
and Irad fathered
Quote: וְעִירָ֕ד יָלַ֖ד (1)“Then Irad fathered/had” or “When Irad {grew up,} he fathered/had” or “Irad was the father of”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence with each new generation that is mentioned in this verse.
Mehujael
Quote: אֶת מְחֽוּיָאֵ֑ל (1)“{a son named} Mehujael,” or “{a son whose name was} Mehujael,”
and Mehujael fathered
Quote: וּמְחִיּיָאֵ֗ל יָלַד֙ (1)“Then Mehujael fathered/had” or “When Mehujael {grew up,} he fathered/had” or “Mehujael was the father of”
Methushael
Quote: אֶת מְת֣וּשָׁאֵ֔ל (1)“{a son named} Methushael,” or “{a son whose name was} Methushael,”
and Methushael fathered
Quote: וּמְתוּשָׁאֵ֖ל יָלַ֥ד (1)“Then Methushael fathered/had” or “When Methushael {grew up,} he fathered/had” or “Methushael was the father of”
Lamech
Quote: אֶת לָֽמֶךְ (1)“{a son named} Lamech.” or “{a son whose name was} Lamech.”
Genesis 4:19
Then Lamech took for himself two wives
Quote: וַיִּֽקַּֽח ל֥וֹ לֶ֖מֶךְ שְׁתֵּ֣י נָשִׁ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Lamech {grew up, and} he chose two women to be his wives.” or “When Lamech {grew up,} he married two wives/women.” In this context, the phrase “took for himself” is an idiom that means “married”. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom.
The name of the one {was} Adah
Quote: שֵׁ֤ם הָֽאַחַת֙ עָדָ֔ה (1)“His first wife’s name was Adah,” or “His first wife was named Adah,”
and the name of the second {was} Zillah
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם הַשֵּׁנִ֖ית צִלָּֽה (1)“and his second wife’s name was Zillah.” or “and his second/other wife was named Zillah.”
Genesis 4:20
And Adah bore
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד עָדָ֖ה (1)“Adah gave birth to” or “Adah had”
Jabal
Quote: אֶת יָבָ֑ל (1)“{a son named} Jabal.” or “{a son whose name was} Jabal.”
He was
Quote: ה֣וּא הָיָ֔ה (1)“He/who was/became” or “He/who {grew up and} became”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the father of {those} who live
Quote: אֲבִ֕י יֹשֵׁ֥ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“the ancestor/first of {all} those/people who”. The phrase “father of” is used here as an idiom that means Jabal was the first person to do these things. He originated this way of living, and many people after him followed his example.
those} who live {in} tents
Quote: יֹשֵׁ֥ב אֹ֖הֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“are tent dwellers” or “live in portable shelters”. A tent is a portable living place that has walls made of cloth or animal skins and is held up by poles. Tents are used by people who need to take their home with them as they move from place to place, often to find food and water for themselves and their livestock. If people in your language area are not familiar with tents, you could include some of the above information in a footnote.
and own livestock
Quote: וּמִקְנֶֽה (1)“and raise livestock/animals {for a living}.” The term “livestock” includes all kinds of domestic animals, such as cows, sheep, goats, camels, and donkeys. See how you translated “livestock” in Gen 1:24-26; 2:20, 3:14.
Genesis 4:21
And the name of his brother {was} Jubal
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם אָחִ֖יו יוּבָ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“His/Jabal’s brother’s name was Jubal.” or “Jabal had a brother named Jubal.” Jubal was probably younger than Jabal. See how you translated “brother” in verse 2.
He was
Quote: ה֣וּא הָיָ֔ה (1)“He/who was/became” or “He/Jubal {grew up and} was/became”
the father of all
Quote: אֲבִ֕י כָּל (1)“the ancestor/first of all {those/people} who”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 20.
who play harps and flutes
Quote: תֹּפֵ֥שׂ כִּנּ֖וֹר וְעוּגָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“play {musical instruments called} harps/lyres and flutes/pipes.” or “play stringed instruments and wind instruments.”
Genesis 4:22
And Zillah
Quote: וְצִלָּ֣ה (1)“Zillah{, who was Lamech’s other wife,}” or “{Lamech’s other wife} Zillah”
also bore
Quote: גַם & יָֽלְדָה֙ (1)“also {became pregnant and} gave birth to {a son, and they named him}”
Tubal Cain
Quote: אֶת תּ֣וּבַל קַ֔יִן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Tubal-Cain” or “Tubal-cain” or “Tubalcain”. Be consistent with how you spell this name both times in verse 22.
who forged
Quote: לֹטֵ֕שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“who/He was {the first person to} forge/make” or “He {was the first blacksmith and} forged/made” or “He {was the ancestor/first of all those/people who} forge/make”. It is probably implied from verses 20-21 that Tubal Cain, like his brothers, was the father/ancestor or first of all those who had his skill.
all {kinds} of tools out of bronze and iron
Quote: כָּל חֹרֵ֥שׁ נְחֹ֖שֶׁת וּבַרְזֶ֑ל (1)“all {kinds} of tools {and other things} out of bronze/brass and iron.” or “all {kinds} of bronze/brass and iron things/tools.” The word “tools” that is used here in the Hebrew text is general and can include farming tools and weapons and other things that are made out of metal.
And the sister of Tubal Cain {was} Naamah
Quote: וַֽאֲח֥וֹת תּֽוּבַל קַ֖יִן נַֽעֲמָֽה (1)“Tubal Cain had a sister {named} Naamah.” or “Tubal Cain had a sister {whose name was} Naamah.”
Genesis 4:23
And Lamech said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר לֶ֜מֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“{One time,} Lamech said {proudly}” or “{One day,} Lamech bragged/boasted”. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this new event.
to his wives, Adah and Zillah
Quote: לְנָשָׁ֗יו עָדָ֤ה וְצִלָּה֙ (1)“to his {two} wives, “Adah and Zillah,” Be consistent with how you spelled these names in verses 19-20, 22-23.
hear my voice
Quote: שְׁמַ֣עַן קוֹלִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“listen to what I have to say.” or “listen to what I am going to tell you.” The phrase “my voice” refers here to the words being said. Consider what is the best way to translate this figure of speech in your language.
Wives of Lamech, give ear to my word{s
Quote: נְשֵׁ֣י לֶ֔מֶךְ הַאְזֵ֖נָּה אִמְרָתִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“My wives, listen to this:” or “My wives, listen to me carefully.” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes what Lamech says next. Also, consider whether or not your language has an idiom that is similar to “give ear to”.
For I killed a man for my wound, even a young man for my bruise
Quote: כִּ֣י אִ֤ישׁ הָרַ֨גְתִּי֙ לְפִצְעִ֔י וְיֶ֖לֶד לְחַבֻּרָתִֽי (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “I killed a man for wounding me; {he was} a young man who bruised/injured me!” or “I killed a young man for wounding/injuring me! In fact, {I killed} that man {just} because he bruised/injured me!” or (2) “I killed a man for wounding me, and also a young man for bruising/injuring me.” or “A man wounded me, so I killed him. A young man injured me, so I killed him too!” According to the first interpretation, Lamech refers to one man he killed. According to the second interpretation, he refers to two men he killed.
Genesis 4:24
If Cain is avenged seven times, then Lamech
Quote: כִּ֥י שִׁבְעָתַ֖יִם יֻקַּם קָ֑יִן וְלֶ֖מֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Since {God has promised} to avenge Cain seven times, then” or “Cain is avenged {by God} seven times, but” or “God will avenge Cain seven times, but”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
then Lamech {is avenged} seventy-seven times
Quote: וְלֶ֖מֶךְ שִׁבְעִ֥ים וְשִׁבְעָֽה (1)“{I,} Lamech {avenge myself} seventy-seven/77 times!” or “I {avenge myself} seventy-seven/77 times!” Lamech is bragging in verses 23 and 24 about how severely he avenges himself. He is not saying that God will avenge him more than he will avenge Cain. Also, each translation team needs to decide how they will handle numbers in the Hebrew text so that readers will not confuse those numbers with verse numbers. For example, it may be best to use words for single and double-digit numbers in the text. Be consistent with how you spelled the name “Lamech” in verses 18-19, 23-24.
Genesis 4:25
Then Adam knew his wife again
Quote: וַיֵּ֨דַע אָדָ֥ם עוֹד֙ אֶת אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then Adam slept with his wife {Eve} again,” or “Again Adam had {marital} relations with his wife {Eve},” See how you translated the idiom “knew” in 4:1, 17.
and she bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“and she gave birth to a son,” or “so that she {conceived and} bore/had a son,” or “with the result that she {became pregnant and} gave birth to a son,”
and she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“and she named him” or “and she gave him the name”. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 3:20.
Seth
Quote: שֵׁ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Seth, {which means “appointed/granted/given,”}”
because {she had said
Quote: כִּ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{She named him that} because {when he was born,} {she had said/exclaimed},” What follows is a direct quote of what Eve said that gave Seth his name. Make sure that is clear in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
God has appointed for me
Quote: שָֽׁת לִ֤י אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“God has granted/given to me”. If you include the meaning of Seth’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate “appointed” here, so that it is clear why he was given that name.
another offspring
Quote: זֶ֣רַע אַחֵ֔ר (1)“another child”
in place of Abel
Quote: תַּ֣חַת הֶ֔בֶל (1)“to replace Abel,” or “to take the place of Abel,”
since Cain killed him
Quote: כִּ֥י הֲרָג֖וֹ קָֽיִן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“whom Cain killed/murdered.” For some language it is necessary to put this phrase first in this clause (so that events are in the order that they happened) and say, “Since Cain killed Abel, God granted me another child to replace him.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 4:26
And to Seth also a son was born
Quote: וּלְשֵׁ֤ת גַּם & יֻלַּד בֵּ֔ן (1)“{Later on,} Seth also fathered/had a son,” The word order in the Hebrew text here emphasizes Seth. Do what is natural in your language.
and he called his name Enosh
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ אֱנ֑וֹשׁ (1)“and he named him Enosh.” or “whom he named Enosh.”
Then
Quote: אָ֣ז (1)“At/During that time” or “That is when”
people} began to call on the name of Yahweh
Quote: הוּחַ֔ל לִקְרֹ֖א בְּשֵׁ֥ם יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“people began to address God by his name Yahweh as they worshiped him.” or “people began to worship/praise Yahweh by name.” or “people first called Yahweh by name in their prayers and worship.” The phrase “call on the name of Yahweh” is an idiom that refers to prayers, worship, and praise in which people addressed God directly by his personal name Yahweh. It also implies that they were trusting in him to help and guide them.
Genesis 5
Genesis 5:1
This {is
Quote: זֶ֣ה (1)“Here {is}” or “What follows {is}”
the written account of
Quote: סֵ֔פֶר (1)“the written {family} record/history of/about” or “the {family} record of”
the generations of Adam
Quote: תּוֹלְדֹ֖ת אָדָ֑ם (1)“of/about Adam and his descendants:” or “of/about Adam’s family-line/genealogy:”
On the day God created man{kind}, he made him
Quote: בְּי֗וֹם בְּרֹ֤א אֱלֹהִים֙ אָדָ֔ם & עָשָׂ֥ה אֹתֽוֹ (1)“On the day {that/when} God created/made human beings, he made them”. See how you translated “created” in Gen 1:1, 27; 2:4, and “man” in Gen 1:26-27.
in the likeness of God
Quote: בִּדְמ֥וּת אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“in his own likeness.” or “to be like himself.” God created mankind to be like himself in certain ways, but not to be exactly like him in every way (Gen 1:26-27).
Genesis 5:2
He created them male and female
Quote: זָכָ֥ר וּנְקֵבָ֖ה בְּרָאָ֑ם (1)“He {also} created them {to be} male and female,” See how you translated this clause in Gen 1:27.
and he blessed them
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֹתָ֗ם (1)“He blessed them” or “He said/promised that he would make them prosper/flourish”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated “blessed” in Gen 1:22, 28. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and called their name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א אֶת שְׁמָם֙ (1)“and called/named them”. See how you translated the phrase “called … name” in Gen 4:17, 25, 26.
man{kind
Quote: אָדָ֔ם (1)“human beings”. Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 1.
on the day they were created
Quote: בְּי֖וֹם הִבָּֽרְאָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“on the {same} day {that} they were created {by him}.” or “on the {same} day {that} he created them.” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also, for some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “and on the {same} day {that} he created them, he blessed them and called/named them human beings.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 5:3
And Adam lived 130 years, then he fathered {a son
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י אָדָ֗ם שְׁלֹשִׁ֤ים וּמְאַת֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“When Adam had lived 130 years, he fathered/had {a son}” or “When Adam was 130 years old, he fathered/had {a son}”. Each translation team needs to decide how they are going to write large numbers in the Bible. Many teams use numerals, for example, “130” here in verse 3, especially if the target language has a complicated counting system. Other teams prefer to use words, for example, “one hundred thirty” here. Be consistent in what you do throughout your translation.
in his own likeness, according to his image
Quote: בִּדְמוּת֖וֹ כְּצַלְמ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
“who was {a human being} like himself and looked like him,” or “who was like him in many ways,” These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that Seth was similar to Adam in many ways. See how you translated similar phrases in Gen 1:26.
and he called his name Seth
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ שֵֽׁת (1)“and he/Adam named him Seth.” or “Adam named his/that son Seth.” For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 5:4
And the days of Adam after he fathered Seth were
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֣וּ יְמֵי אָדָ֗ם אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת שֵׁ֔ת (1)“After he/Adam fathered/had Seth, Adam/he lived” or “After Seth’s birth, Adam lived” or “After Seth was born, Adam lived”
800 years
Quote: שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵאֹ֖ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{another} 800 years,” or “800 {more} years,” For some languages, it may be more natural to change the clause order of this sentence and say, “Adam lived 800 {more} years after Seth was born …” Do what is best in your language throughout this chapter.
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Adam {also} fathered/had” or “He/Adam was {also} the father of”. This clause probably refers to all the other children that Adam had, including those who were born before and after Seth was born. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:5
So all the days of Adam that he lived were 930 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֞וּ כָּל יְמֵ֤י אָדָם֙ אֲשֶׁר חַ֔י תְּשַׁ֤ע מֵאוֹת֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Adam/he lived a total of 930 years,” or “All together Adam/he lived 930 years,” Make sure that the name “Adam” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 1, 3-5.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.” Notice that if you use the second alternative here (“before he died”), a comma is not used before it (in English). Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 5:6
And Seth lived 105 years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי־שֵׁ֕ת חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים וּמְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“When/After Seth had lived 105 years,” or “When/After Seth was 105 years old,” The events in verse 6 happened before Adam died (verse 5). So if you use a conjunction here, make sure your translation does not sound like verse 6 happened after Adam died.
then he fathered Enosh
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת אֱנֽוֹשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Enosh.” or “he fathered/had {a son he/they named} Enosh.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Enosh.” You could make it explicit in your translation or in a footnote that Enosh was a son. The same thing is true for the rest of the children whose births are mentioned in this chapter (who were all sons).
Genesis 5:7
Then after he fathered Enosh, Seth lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי שֵׁ֗ת אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת אֱנ֔וֹשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“After he/Seth had Enosh, Seth/he lived” or “After Enosh’s birth, Seth lived” or “After Enosh was born, Seth lived”. In fact, throughout chapter 5, make sure it is clear in your translation whom each pronoun refers to.
807 years
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֔ים וּשְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 807 years,” or “807 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Seth {also} fathered/had” or “He/Seth was {also} the father of”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this phrase and the following one in verse 4.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:8
So all the days of Seth were 912 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵי שֵׁ֔ת שְׁתֵּ֤ים עֶשְׂרֵה֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּתְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Seth/he lived a total of 912 years,” or “All together Seth/he lived 912 years,” Be consistent with how you spell the name “Seth” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:25-26; 5:3-4, 6-8.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:9
And Enosh lived ninety years
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֥י אֱנ֖וֹשׁ תִּשְׁעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“When/After Enosh had lived ninety/90 years,” or “When/After Enosh was ninety/90 years old,” See how you translated the beginning of a similar new paragraph in this genealogy at verse 6.
then he fathered Kenan
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת קֵינָֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Kenan.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Kenan.”
Genesis 5:10
Then after he fathered Kenan, Enosh lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י אֱנ֗וֹשׁ אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת קֵינָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“After he/Enosh had Kenan, Enosh/he lived” or “After Kenan’s birth, Enosh lived” or “After Kenan was born, Enosh lived”. See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 7, and see the notes about that there.
815 years
Quote: חֲמֵ֤שׁ עֶשְׂרֵה֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 815 years,” or “815 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Enosh {also} fathered/had” or “He/Enosh was {also} the father of”
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:11
So all the days of Enosh were 905 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י אֱנ֔וֹשׁ חָמֵ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים וּתְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Enosh/he lived a total of 905 years,” or “All together Enosh/he lived 905 years,” Make sure that the name “Enosh” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 6-7, 9-11.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:12
And Kenan lived seventy years
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֥י קֵינָ֖ן שִׁבְעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“When/After Kenan had lived seventy years,” or “When/After Kenan was seventy years old,” Throughout this chapter, be consistent with how you have decided to handle numbers in the Bible. For example, many translation teams use words for single and double-digit numbers, but use numerals for larger numbers. This strategy helps prevent confusion with verse numbers. This is especially true in translations that use a large font size for verse numbers so that people doing group Bible study can easily be in the same verse together.
then he fathered Mahalalel
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת מַֽהֲלַלְאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Mahalalel.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Mahalalel.”
Genesis 5:13
Then after he fathered Mahalalel, Kenan lived
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י קֵינָ֗ן אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“After he/Kenan had Mahalalel, Kenan/he lived” or “After Mahalalel’s birth, Kenan lived” or “After Mahalalel was born, Kenan lived”
840 years
Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 840 years,” or “840 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Kenan {also} fathered/had” or “He/Kenan was {also} the father of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Kenan at this point in the paragraph.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:14
So all the days of Kenan were 910 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י קֵינָ֔ן עֶ֣שֶׂר שָׁנִ֔ים וּתְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Kenan/he lived a total of 910 years,” or “All together Kenan/he lived 910 years,” Make sure that the name “Kenan” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 9-10, 12-14.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:15
And Mahalalel lived sixty-five years
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים וְשִׁשִּׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When/After Mahalalel had lived sixty-five/65 years,” or “When/After Mahalalel was sixty-five/65 years old,”
then he fathered Jared
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת יָֽרֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Jared.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Jared.”
Genesis 5:16
Then after he fathered Jared, Mahalalel lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֗ל אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת יֶ֔רֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“After he/Mahalalel fathered/had Jared, Mahalalel/he lived” or “After Jared’s birth, Mahalalel lived” or “After Jared was born, Mahalalel lived”
830 years
Quote: שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 830 years,” or “830 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Mahalalel {also} fathered/had” or “He/Mahalalel was {also} the father of”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:17
So all the days of Mahalalel were 895 years
Quote: וַיִּהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י מַהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל חָמֵ֤שׁ וְתִשְׁעִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Mahalalel/he lived a total of 895 years,” or “All together Mahalalel/he lived 895 years,” Make sure that the name “Mahalalel” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 12-13, 15-17.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:18
And Jared lived 162 years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי־יֶ֕רֶד שְׁתַּ֧יִם וְשִׁשִּׁ֛ים שָׁנָ֖ה וּמְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When/After Jared had lived 162 years,” or “When/After Jared was 162 years old,”
then he fathered Enoch
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת חֲנֽוֹךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Enoch.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Enoch.”
Genesis 5:19
Then after he fathered Enoch, Jared lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי יֶ֗רֶד אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת חֲנ֔וֹךְ (1)“After he/Jared fathered/had Enoch, Jared/he lived” or “After Enoch’s birth, Jared lived” or “After Enoch was born, Jared lived”
800 years
Quote: שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 800 years,” or “800 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Jared {also} fathered/had” or “He/Jared was {also} the father of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Jared at this point in the paragraph.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:20
So all the days of Jared were 962 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵי יֶ֔רֶד שְׁתַּ֤יִם וְשִׁשִּׁים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּתְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Jared/he lived a total of 962 years,” or “All together Jared/he lived 962 years,” Make sure that the name “Jared” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 15-16, 18-20.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:21
And Enoch lived sixty-five years
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י חֲנ֔וֹךְ חָמֵ֥שׁ וְשִׁשִּׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When/After Enoch had lived sixty-five/65 years,” or “When/After Enoch was sixty-five/65 years old,” Consider again how you translated double-digit numbers in verses 9, 12, 15, 21.
then he fathered Methuselah
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת מְתוּשָֽׁלַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Methuselah.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Methuselah.”
Genesis 5:22
after he fathered Methuselah
Quote: אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת מְתוּשֶׁ֔לַח (1)“After he/Enoch had Methuselah,” or “After Methuselah was born,” or “After Methselah’s birth,”
Then … Enoch walked with God
Quote: וַיִּתְהַלֵּ֨ךְ חֲנ֜וֹךְ אֶת הָֽאֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Enoch walked/lived {closely/faithfully} with God” or “Enoch lived {in a close/faithful relationship} with God”. The phrase “walked with” is used here as an idiom that means “lived in a close relationship with”. Consider whether or not you have a similar idiom in your language.
300 years
Quote: שְׁלֹ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 300 years,” or “for 300 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Enoch {also} fathered/had” or “He was {also} the father of”
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:23
So all the days of Enoch were 365 years
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י כָּל יְמֵ֣י חֲנ֑וֹךְ חָמֵ֤שׁ וְשִׁשִּׁים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁלֹ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָֽה (1)“So Enoch/he lived a total of 365 years.” or “All together Enoch/he lived 365 years.” Make sure that the name “Enoch” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 18-19, 21-24.
Genesis 5:24
And Enoch walked with God
Quote: וַיִּתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ חֲנ֖וֹךְ אֶת הָֽאֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“{All his life} Enoch/he walked/lived {in a close/faithful relationship} with God, and {then}” or “Then while he was {still} living {in a close relationship} with God,”
and {then} he was not {there
Quote: וְאֵינֶ֕נּוּ (1)“{suddenly} he was not {on earth} {anymore},” or “{suddenly} he was no longer {on earth},” or “he {suddenly} disappeared {from earth},”
because God took him away
Quote: כִּֽי לָקַ֥ח אֹת֖וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because God had taken him away {to be with him}.” It may be more natural to put this clause before the previous clause and say, “… God took him away {to be with him}, so he was {suddenly} no longer {on earth}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 5:25
And Methuselah lived 187 years
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י מְתוּשֶׁ֔לַח שֶׁ֧בַע וּשְׁמֹנִ֛ים שָׁנָ֖ה וּמְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When/After Methuselah had lived 187 years,” or “When/After Methuselah was 187 years old,” Consider again how you translated verses in this chapter that are similar in structure to this verse; see verses 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 25, and part of verses 3 and 28, and see the note about this at verse 6.
then he fathered Lamech
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת לָֽמֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he fathered/had {a son named} Lamech.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Lamech.”
Genesis 5:26
Then after he fathered Lamech, Methuselah lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י מְתוּשֶׁ֗לַח אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת לֶ֔מֶךְ (1)“After he/Methuselah had Lamech, Methuselah/he lived” or “After Lamech’s birth, Methuselah lived” or “After Lamech was born, Methuselah lived”
782 years
Quote: שְׁתַּ֤יִם וּשְׁמוֹנִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁבַ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 782 years,” or “782 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Methuselah {also} fathered/had” or “He was {also} the father of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Methuselah at this point in the paragraph.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:27
So all the days of Methuselah were 969 years
Quote: וַיִּהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י מְתוּשֶׁ֔לַח תֵּ֤שַׁע וְשִׁשִּׁים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּתְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Methuselah/he lived a total of 969 years,” or “So all together Methuselah/he lived 969 years,” Make sure that the name “Methuselah” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 21-22, 25-27.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:28
And Lamech lived 182 years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי־לֶ֕מֶךְ שְׁתַּ֧יִם וּשְׁמֹנִ֛ים שָׁנָ֖ה וּמְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When/After Lamech had lived 182 years,” or “When/After Lamech was 182 years old,”
then he fathered a son
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד בֵּֽן (1)“he had a son,”
Genesis 5:29
and he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א אֶת שְׁמ֛וֹ (1)“and he named him” or “whom he named”
Noah
Quote: נֹ֖חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Noah, {which means “comfort/relief/rest,”}” If you include the meaning of Noah’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches what Lamech says about him in the following quote so it is clear why he was given that name.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{because} he said,” or “{He/Lamech named him that because} he had said {about him},” What Lamech says next is the reason that he named his son Noah. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
This {one} will comfort us
Quote: זֶ֞֠ה יְנַחֲמֵ֤נוּ (1)“This {son} will relieve us” or “This {son} will give us rest/relief”
from our labors and from the toil of our hands
Quote: מִֽמַּעֲשֵׂ֨נוּ֙ וּמֵעִצְּב֣וֹן יָדֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
“from the {difficult} labor and toil/work we have to do with our hands” or “from the difficult/agonizing labor/work that we have to do/suffer”. These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize how difficult the work was. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
because of the ground which Yahweh has cursed
Quote: מִן הָ֣אֲדָמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֵֽרְרָ֖הּ יְהוָֽה (1)“because Yahweh has cursed the ground.” or “as we farm/cultivate the ground that Yahweh has cursed.”
Genesis 5:30
Then after he fathered Noah, Lamech lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי לֶ֗מֶךְ אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת נֹ֔חַ (1)“After he/Lamech fathered Noah, Lamech/he lived” or “After Noah’s birth, Lamech lived” or “After Noah was born, Lamech lived”. Consider again how you translated verses in this chapter that are similar in structure to this verse; see verses 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 26, 30, and part of verses 4 and 22.
595 years
Quote: חָמֵ֤שׁ וְתִשְׁעִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וַחֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵאֹ֖ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 595 years,” or “595 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Lamech {also} fathered/had” or “He was {also} the father of”
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 5:31
So all the days of Lamech were 777 years
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ כָּל יְמֵי לֶ֔מֶךְ שֶׁ֤בַע וְשִׁבְעִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּשְׁבַ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Lamech/he lived a total of 777 years,” or “All together Lamech/he lived 777 years,” Consider again how you translated verses that are similar to verse 31; see verses 8, 11, 14, 17, 20, 27, 31, and the first half of verses 5 and 23. Also make sure that the name “Lamech” is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 25-26, 28-31, and also in 4:18-19, 23-24 for a different person who has the same name.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 5:32
And Noah was a son of 500 years
Quote: וַֽיְהִי נֹ֕חַ בֶּן חֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“After Noah was 500 years old,” Noah’s sons were not triplets, but were born in different years after Noah was 500 years old. The way you translate this verse should allow for that meaning.
then Noah fathered
Quote: וַיּ֣וֹלֶד נֹ֔חַ (1)“he fathered/had”. Consider again how you translated “fathered” in this chapter; see verses 4, 6-7, 9-10, 12-13, 15-16, 18-19, 25-26, 28, 30, 32.
Shem, Ham, and Japheth
Quote: אֶת שֵׁ֖ם אֶת חָ֥ם וְאֶת יָֽפֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{sons named} Shem, Ham, and Japheth.” or “{sons he/they named} Shem, Ham, and Japheth.” or “{sons whose names were} Shem, Ham, and Japheth.”
Genesis 6
Genesis 6:1
And it happened
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now it happened”. The events in Gen 6:1-2 started happening long before the events in 5:32, so the way your translation begins this verse should allow for that meaning and not begin with a sequence word like “Then”, which would have the wrong meaning here. Many translations omit the conjunction here. Do what is best in your language. Also, the phrase “it happened” introduces and emphasizes important background information which the following narrative builds on. It also creates suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what will happen next. Some translations leave this phrase out, but doing that loses some of the suspense. Do what is best in your language.
when
Quote: כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“{that} when/as” or “that”
mankind
Quote: הָֽאָדָ֔ם (1)“human beings” or “people”. See how you translated this term in Gen 5:1-2.
began to multiply
Quote: הֵחֵ֣ל & לָרֹ֖ב (1)“began to multiply/increase {in number}” or “began to be more/very numerous”
on the surface of the earth
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽאֲדָמָ֑ה (1)“all over the earth” or “throughout the earth/world”
and daughters were born to them
Quote: וּבָנ֖וֹת יֻלְּד֥וּ לָהֶֽם (1)“and they were having {many} daughters,”
Genesis 6:2
then … saw
Quote: וַיִּרְא֤וּ (1)“then/Then {when those daughters/girls grew up,}” or “{When those daughters/girls grew up,}” Verses 1 and 2 are one long sentence in the Hebrew text. For many languages it is necessary to divide it into two or more shorter sentences. For example, depending on how you began verse 1, you could begin verse 2 with a new sentence. Do what is best in your language.
the sons of God
Quote: בְנֵי הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“{some} angels” or “{some} supernatural beings”. The meaning of Gen 6:2 is not certain and is heavily debated, so it is probably best to translate it fairly literally and possibly include a footnote about what it means. If it is not translated literally, the literal text should be put in a footnote. There are three main views of who “the sons of God” and “the daughters of mankind” refer to: (1) nonhuman, god-like (supernatural) beings, such as demons or angels (as in Job 1:6, 38:7) who took human form and married the daughters of human beings (which may be what is referred to in 1 Peter 3:19–20; 2 Peter 2:4, and Jude 6); or (2) male descendants of Seth (the righteous, chosen family line) who married female descendants of Cain (the unrighteous family line); or (3) sons of powerful men, such as judges or rulers (as in Exodus 22:8, Psalm 82:1, 6) who married the daughters of common, poor people.
then … saw the daughters of mankind, that they {were} beautiful
Quote: וַיִּרְא֤וּ & אֶת בְּנ֣וֹת הָֽאָדָ֔ם כִּ֥י טֹבֹ֖ת הֵ֑נָּה (1)“saw that the daughters of human beings {were} beautiful,” or “saw that those young women {were} beautiful,” or “saw that they {were} {very} beautiful,”
so they took wives for themselves from any {of them} that they chose
Quote: וַיִּקְח֤וּ לָהֶם֙ נָשִׁ֔ים מִכֹּ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר בָּחָֽרוּ (1)“so they married any {of them} that they wanted to.” or “So they chose any/all {of them} that they wanted and married them.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “took/married” in Gen 4:19.
Genesis 6:3
Then Yahweh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then/So Yahweh said {to himself},” Only make implied information explicit in your translation if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning or if your language’s grammar requires it, so that your translation is easier to read and understand.
My Spirit
Quote: רוּחִ֤י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “My Spirit” or “I”, which is a way of God referring to himself (Gen 1:2 is similar); or (2) “My spirit”, which could refer to God’s breath that gives life (as in Gen 2:7). If the text is not translated literally, the literal text should be put in a footnote.
will not strive with mankind forever
Quote: לֹֽא־יָד֨וֹן & בָֽאָדָם֙ לְעֹלָ֔ם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “will not contend with human beings forever,” or “will not put up with human beings forever,” or (2) “will not remain/live with/in human beings forever,” The interpretation that is not used in your translation could be put in a footnote.
because they {are} indeed flesh
Quote: בְּשַׁגַּ֖ם ה֣וּא בָשָׂ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“because they {are} certainly/very sinful/corrupt.” or “because they {are} only/mere sinful/corrupt mortals.” The word “flesh” is used here as an idiom that means human beings are “mortal” (that is, their bodies will die) and that they are “sinful/corrupt”. The two meanings are interrelated since it is because of sin that their bodies die. In this context, the focus is on their corrupt behavior, which is the reason God will send a flood.
Therefore their days will be 120 years
Quote: וְהָי֣וּ יָמָ֔יו מֵאָ֥ה וְעֶשְׂרִ֖ים שָׁנָֽה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “So they will have 120 years {to repent}.” or “I will give them 120 years {to repent}.” or (2) “{From now on,} they/people will have/live {no longer than} 120 years.” The first interpretation seems to best fit the context here of God announcing his plan to judge mankind for their sin (verse 7). This would mean that Noah was 480 years old when God said this (about 20 years before he started having sons; Gen 5:32), since the flood came when he was 600 years old (Gen 7:6); you could put some of that information in a footnote. The second interpretation does not fit with the fact that after God said this, many people lived much longer than 120 years, so it does not seem likely that length of life was his meaning here.
Genesis 6:4
The Nephilim
Quote: הַנְּפִלִ֞ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{People/Giants called} the Nephilim” or “Giants”. Most translations transliterate (borrow or copy) the Hebrew word “Nephilim” here, treating it as a name. The word means “fallen ones” and probably refers to their fallen (sinful) spiritual state. The Nephilim were the descendants of the sons of God and the daughters of mankind. The only other time in the Bible that the Nephilim are mentioned is centuries later in Numbers 13:32-33, where they are identified as evil giants. Based on that, some translations translate “the Nephilim” as “giants” here in Gen 6:4.
were on the earth
Quote: הָי֣וּ בָאָרֶץ֮ (1)“lived on the earth” or “were living on the earth”
in those days and also after that
Quote: בַּיָּמִ֣ים הָהֵם֒ וְגַ֣ם אַֽחֲרֵי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“during that time and also later on,” It may be more natural to put this time phrase first in verse 4 and say, “During that time there were Nephilim/giants living on the earth, when …” Do what is best in your language.
when
Quote: כֵ֗ן אֲשֶׁ֨ר (1)“{That was/happened} when”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
the sons of God
Quote: בְּנֵ֤י הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“angels” or “supernatural beings”. Be consistent here with how you translated this phrase in verse 2, and see the important note about that there.
went to
Quote: יָבֹ֜אוּ & אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“slept with” or “had {marital/sexual} relations with”. Translate this idiom in a way that is polite and will not shame or embarrass people when this verse is read aloud in public. See how you translated a similar idiom (“knew”) in Gen 4:1, 17, 25.
the daughters of mankind
Quote: בְּנ֣וֹת הָֽאָדָ֔ם (1)“the daughters of human beings,” or “human women,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2.
and they bore children for them
Quote: וְיָלְד֖וּ לָהֶ֑ם (1)“and those women gave birth to children for them.” or “and those women had children.”
They {were
Quote: הֵ֧מָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“The Nephilim {were}” or “Those/Their children {grew up and} {were/became} {the Nephilim, who were}”. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here.
the mighty {ones
Quote: הַגִּבֹּרִ֛ים (1)“the powerful men/warriors” or “heroes”
who {were} from long ago
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר מֵעוֹלָ֖ם (1)“who lived a long time ago,” or “who lived many years ago,”
the men of renown
Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֥י הַשֵּֽׁם (1)“{who/and were} famous men.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “They {were} the mighty men of renown who {were} from long ago.” or “They {were} the famous mighty men who lived a long time ago.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 6:5
And Yahweh saw
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Yahweh knew” or “Yahweh was aware”. The verb “saw” is used here as an idiom. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here. Do what is best in your language.
that the wickedness of mankind {was} great on the earth
Quote: כִּ֥י רַבָּ֛ה רָעַ֥ת הָאָדָ֖ם בָּאָ֑רֶץ (1)“how wicked/evil mankind/people had become on the earth,” or “that the people on the earth had become very wicked/evil,”
and that every inclination of the thoughts of their hearts
Quote: וְכָל יֵ֨צֶר֙ מַחְשְׁבֹ֣ת לִבּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and that every intention/desire they had in their hearts/minds” or “and that everything they thought about and desired/wanted”. In Hebrew culture the heart is considered the center of thoughts and desires. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom.
was} only evil
Quote: רַ֥ק רַ֖ע (1)“{was} completely evil”
all day long
Quote: כָּל הַיּֽוֹם (1)“all the time.” or “constantly.”
Genesis 6:6
So Yahweh was sorry
Quote: וַיִּנָּ֣חֶם יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“As a result, Yahweh/he regretted” or “Yahweh/he regretted”
that he had made mankind
Quote: כִּֽי עָשָׂ֥ה אֶת הָֽאָדָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“that he had made/created people/them” or “that he had made/created human beings”. See how you translated “mankind” in verses 1, 3, and 5, and consider whether or not it is best to use a pronoun (“them”) here in your language.
on the earth
Quote: בָּאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{to live} on the earth,”
and he was grieved in his heart
Quote: וַיִּתְעַצֵּ֖ב אֶל לִבּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and his heart was filled with pain/sadness/grief.” or “and he was/felt extremely/very sad/grieved.” Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here.
Genesis 6:7
Then Yahweh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)“Then/So Yahweh/he said {to himself},” See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Also make sure that the way you begin verse 7 fits well with the way you begin verse 6.
I will wipe away
Quote: אֶמְחֶ֨ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I will wash away” or “I will blot out” or “I will completely wipe/destroy”. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here.
mankind whom I created off the surface of the ground
Quote: אֶת הָאָדָ֤ם אֲשֶׁר בָּרָ֨אתִי֙ מֵעַל֙ פְּנֵ֣י הָֽאֲדָמָ֔ה (1)“{all} the human beings whom I created, from the surface of the earth,” or “from the earth {all} the people whom I created,”
both mankind and animals
Quote: מֵֽאָדָם֙ עַד בְּהֵמָ֔ה (1)“{In fact,} {I will destroy} {not just/only} {all} the people, but also {all} the animals,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and crawling creatures
Quote: עַד רֶ֖מֶשׂ (1)“and/including the creatures that crawl/move {on/along the ground}”
and the birds of the sky
Quote: וְעַד ע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)“and {all} the birds {that fly} in the sky/air,” or “and {all} the birds,”
because I am sorry
Quote: כִּ֥י נִחַ֖מְתִּי (1)“because I am sad/grieved” or “because I regret”. See how you translated “was sorry” or “regretted” in verse 6.
that I made them
Quote: כִּ֥י עֲשִׂיתִֽם (1)“that I {ever} made/created them.”
Genesis 6:8
But Noah found favor in the eyes of Yahweh
Quote: וְנֹ֕חַ מָ֥צָא חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“But Noah pleased God.” or “However, Yahweh was pleased with Noah.” The idiom “find favor” means to please someone. And the idiom “in the eyes of” refers to someone’s opinion about something or someone. Consider whether your language has similar idioms that work well here or whether it is better to translate this sentence without an idiom.
Genesis 6:9
These {are} the generations of Noah
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת נֹ֔חַ (1)“This/Here is {more of} the account/record/history of/about Noah and his descendants/family:” or “What follows tells {more} about Noah and his descendants/family:” Some of Noah’s history has already been given in Gen 5:29, 32, and 6:8. What follows tells more about him.
He {was
Quote: נֹ֗חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“He {was}”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a noun or a pronoun here to refer to Noah.
a righteous man
Quote: אִ֥ישׁ צַדִּ֛יק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“an upright/good man.” or “a man who did what was right.”
He was without blemish in his generation
Quote: תָּמִ֥ים הָיָ֖ה בְּדֹֽרֹתָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “He {alone} was blameless/faultless {in God’s eyes} among his contemporaries.” or “Out of all the people living at that time, Noah/he was the only one {whom God considered} blameless.” or (2) “He had a blameless/spotless reputation among his contemporaries.” or “His contemporaries considered him to be a man of integrity.” The phrase “without blemish” is often used in the Bible to describe animals that have no defects. Here it is used as an idiom that means Noah was “blameless/faultless” in an ethical or moral sense, or that he had good integrity, but it does not mean that he was sinless. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Also, the word “generation” refers here to people who lived during the same time period.
Noah walked with God
Quote: אֶת הָֽאֱלֹהִ֖ים הִֽתְהַלֶּךְ נֹֽחַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{and} he walked {closely/faithfully} with God.” or “{and} he lived in a close/faithful relationship with God.” Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 5:22, 24.
Genesis 6:10
And Noah fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד נֹ֖חַ (1)“Eventually Noah/he fathered/had” or “And {as mentioned before,} Noah/he had”. The fact that Noah fathered/had these three sons was already mentioned in Gen 5:32. Make sure that the way you begin this verse in your translation does not sound like he fathered these sons a second time.
three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth
Quote: שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה בָנִ֑ים אֶת שֵׁ֖ם אֶת חָ֥ם וְאֶת יָֽפֶת (1)“three sons, {namely} Shem, Ham, and Japheth.” or “three sons, {whose names were} Shem, Ham, and Japheth.”
Genesis 6:11
Now the earth was corrupt
Quote: וַתִּשָּׁחֵ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Now {the people of/on} the earth had become corrupt/wicked”. The phrase “the earth” is often used in the Bible to refer to all the people on the earth. Consider whether your language can do the same thing, or whether it is necessary to make that implied information explicit.
before God
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י הָֽאֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“in God’s sight/opinion,” or “according to God’s standards,”
and the earth was filled {with} violence
Quote: וַתִּמָּלֵ֥א הָאָ֖רֶץ חָמָֽס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“and they had filled the earth with {their} violence/lawlessness.” or “and all over the earth they were doing violent/lawless things.” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause in order to emphasize how evil the people on the earth had become. The two clauses are different enough from each other that, if possible, it is best to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation. Also be consistent with how you translated “the earth” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 6:12
And God saw
Quote: וַיַּ֧רְא אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)“God saw”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin this sentence with a conjunction.
the earth, and behold, it was corrupted
Quote: אֶת הָאָ֖רֶץ וְהִנֵּ֣ה נִשְׁחָ֑תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“that {everyone on} the earth was indeed/very corrupt/wicked,” or “how corrupt/wicked {everyone on} the earth had become,” See how you translated “corrupt” and “the earth” in verse 11.
because all flesh on the earth
Quote: כִּֽי & כָּל בָּשָׂ֛ר & עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“because all the people on the earth” or “because everyone {living} on earth”. The phrase “all flesh” refers here to all people and probably implies that people are mortal (verse 3).
had corrupted its way
Quote: הִשְׁחִ֧ית & אֶת דַּרְכּ֖וֹ (1)“were living corrupt/wicked lives.” or “were {continually} doing wicked/evil things.” or “were {continually} acting/behaving in evil ways.”
Genesis 6:13
So God said to Noah
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֜ים לְנֹ֗חַ (1)“So/Then God/he said to Noah,”
The end of all flesh has come before me
Quote: קֵ֤ץ כָּל בָּשָׂר֙ בָּ֣א לְפָנַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“I have decided to put an end to all human beings,” or “I am going to destroy all flesh/people,” Be consistent here with how you translated “flesh” in verse 12.
because the earth is filled {with} violence because of them
Quote: כִּֽי מָלְאָ֥ה הָאָ֛רֶץ חָמָ֖ס מִפְּנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“because they have filled the earth with {their} violence/lawlessness.” or “because all over the earth they are doing violent/lawless things.” See how you translated “violence” in verse 11.
So behold, I
Quote: וְהִנְנִ֥י (1)“Now listen,” or “In fact,” This phrase draws extra attention to what God says next. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
am destroying them
Quote: מַשְׁחִיתָ֖ם (1)“I am going to destroy them” or “I plan to destroy them” or “I will destroy them”
with the earth
Quote: אֶת הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“as well as {everything else on} the earth.” or “and {everything else on} the earth {too}.” This phrase includes everything on the earth, not just the people.
Genesis 6:14
Make
Quote: עֲשֵׂ֤ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“{Therefore/Consequently} {you must} make/build”
an ark
Quote: תֵּבַ֣ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
“a {very} large boat/houseboat”. The term “ark” is general and refers to a chest/box that is closed on all sides, including the top. In this case, the ark was a very large boat that people and many animals lived in for a year. It had no motor, no oars, no sail and no rudder. Since this was a unique, one-of-a-kind boat that may already be well-known as the “ark” in the receptor language area, some translations transliterate (copy or borrow) the word “ark” throughout Genesis. Decide what is best for your translation.
for yourself
Quote: לְךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“for you/yourself {and your family}”
out of gopher wood
Quote: עֲצֵי גֹ֔פֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“from gopher/cypress wood {which is good for building boats}.” or “out of the best wood {for building boats}.” It is not certain what kind of wood this was, so many translations transliterate (copy or borrow) the Hebrew word “gopher”. Some Bible scholars think it was cypress wood.
Make the ark {with} rooms
Quote: קִנִּ֖ים תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֣ה אֶת הַתֵּבָ֑ה (1)“Build/Construct the ark/boat with compartments/stalls {inside},” or “Make/Build rooms inside the ark/boat,”
and cover it inside and outside
Quote: וְכָֽפַרְתָּ֥ אֹתָ֛הּ מִבַּ֥יִת וּמִח֖וּץ (1)“and {completely} seal/coat it inside and outside”
with a covering
Quote: בַּכֹּֽפֶר (1)“with pitch/tar {to keep water out}.” or “with pitch/tar {to keep the boat from leaking}.” The Hebrew word “covering” is general and does not specify what kind of waterproofing material is being used. However, many translations are more specific than that here and refer to “pitch” or “tar” or some other material made from tree resin or sap that can seal a boat well and keep it from leaking.
Genesis 6:15
And this {is} how you must make it
Quote: וְזֶ֕ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה אֹתָ֑הּ (1)“Build the ark/boat with these dimensions/measurements:” or “You must make/build the ark/boat like this:”
the length of the ark {must be} 300 cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits
Quote: שְׁלֹ֧שׁ מֵא֣וֹת אַמָּ֗ה אֹ֚רֶךְ הַתֵּבָ֔ה חֲמִשִּׁ֤ים אַמָּה֙ רָחְבָּ֔הּ וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים אַמָּ֖ה קוֹמָתָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
“It {must be} 140 meters long, twenty-three/23 meters wide, and fourteen/14 meters high.” or “It {must be} 450 feet long, seventy-five/75 feet wide, and forty-five/45 feet high.” A cubit was about half a meter (18 inches) long, which was the distance from a man’s elbow to the tip of his middle finger. You can: (1) translate cubits into meters or feet, and put the literal text in a footnote; or (2) keep “cubits” in the main text (so that the numbers 300, fifty/50 and thirty/30 are kept) and put what that equals in meters or feet in a footnote.
Genesis 6:16
Make a window for the ark and finish it to within one cubit from the top
Quote: צֹ֣הַר תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֣ה לַתֵּבָ֗ה וְאֶל אַמָּה֙ תְּכַלֶ֣נָּה מִלְמַ֔עְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
“Make/Build a window/skylight for the ark/boat by finishing {the sides/walls of} the ark/boat to within one cubit below the top/roof {of the ark/boat}.” or “Make/Build a half-meter high window/opening between the top of the walls/sides of the ark and its roof {all the way around}, {to let light and air in}.” The meaning of the Hebrew text is not completely certain here, but God was probably telling Noah to make a one-cubit high window or opening at the top of the outside walls of the ark, just below the roof, all the way around the ark, to let light and air into the ark. See the note about “cubit” in verse 15.
And put the door of the ark in its side
Quote: וּפֶ֥תַח הַתֵּבָ֖ה בְּצִדָּ֣הּ תָּשִׂ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Also put/build a door in the side of the ark/boat.” or “Put/Build a door for the ark/boat in its side.” Some translations begin this sentence without a conjunction (“And” or “Also”). Do what is natural in your language.
Make a lower, a second, and a third {deck
Quote: תַּחְתִּיִּ֛ם שְׁנִיִּ֥ם וּשְׁלִשִׁ֖ים תַּֽעֲשֶֽׂהָ (1)“Make/Build a lower {deck/level}, a middle {deck/level}, and an upper {deck/level} {on the inside}.” or “{and} make/build a lower, second/middle, and third/upper story/floor {on the inside}.” or “{and} make/build three {complete} levels/floors {on the inside}.” Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 6:17
And I, behold, I
Quote: וַאֲנִ֗י הִנְנִי֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“Behold/Listen, I myself” or “Listen {carefully} to me: I”. In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “I” is emphatic, both by its form and by its position at the beginning of the sentence. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language.
am bringing floodwaters on the earth
Quote: מֵבִ֨יא אֶת־הַמַּבּ֥וּל מַ֨יִם֙ עַל־הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“am going to bring/send a flood on/over the {whole/entire} earth” or “am going to flood the {whole/entire} earth {with water}”
to destroy
Quote: לְשַׁחֵ֣ת (1)“{in order} to destroy” or “which will destroy”. See how you translated “destroy” in verse 13.
all flesh
Quote: כָּל בָּשָׂ֗ר (1)“all the creatures/beings” or “every creature” or “every living thing”. This phrase is general here and includes people and animals, so you may need to translate the phrase differently here from what you did earlier in verses 12-13 (where the focus seems to be on people).
that {has} the breath of life in it
Quote: אֲשֶׁר בּוֹ֙ ר֣וּחַ חַיִּ֔ים (1)“that breathe/breathes {air}”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 1:30.
from under the heavens
Quote: מִתַּ֖חַת הַשָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“from under the sky.” For some languages it may be clearer to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “to destroy every living thing under the heavens/sky that has the breath of life in it.” Do what is best in your language.
Everything that {is} on the earth
Quote: כֹּ֥ל אֲשֶׁר בָּאָ֖רֶץ (1)“{As a result,} every {living} thing/being that {is/lives} on land”
will expire
Quote: יִגְוָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“will breathe out {its last breath}!” or “will die/perish!” The verb “expire” (which could also be translated “exhale” or “breathe out”) is used here as an idiom that means “die”. Consider whether your language has a similar or different idiom that would work well here.
Genesis 6:18
But I will establish
Quote: וַהֲקִמֹתִ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But/However I will make/institute” or “But/However I will set up”. The word “establish” means to deliberately and formally put something into effect.
my covenant with you
Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖י אִתָּ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“a covenant between me and you,” or “a {special/peace} agreement between me and you,” This covenant is made up of the unconditional, unbreakable promises that God made to Noah (and all mankind and all other living things) in Genesis 8:2-9:17. The word “testament” is another word for “covenant,” so the way you translate “covenant” here could be similar to the way you translate the titles “Old Testament” and “New Testament.”
so you must go into the ark
Quote: וּבָאתָ֙ אֶל הַתֵּבָ֔ה (1)“so you must enter the ark/boat,” or “so you must get on board the ark/boat,”
you and your sons and your wife and the wives of your sons with you
Quote: אַתָּ֕ה וּבָנֶ֛יךָ וְאִשְׁתְּךָ֥ וּנְשֵֽׁי בָנֶ֖יךָ אִתָּֽךְ (1)“and {take} your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you.” or “and {take} with you your wife, your sons, and their wives.”
Genesis 6:19
And from every living {creature}, from all flesh, you must bring two from each {kind} into the ark
Quote: וּמִכָּל הָ֠חַי מִֽכָּל בָּשָׂ֞ר שְׁנַ֧יִם מִכֹּ֛ל תָּבִ֥יא אֶל הַתֵּבָ֖ה (1)“Also, from every {kind of} living creature, {yes,} from every {kind of} animal, you must bring/take two/pairs of each {kind} into the ark/boat” or “You must also bring/take into the ark/boat two/pairs of every {kind of} living creature, including every {kind of} animal,”
to keep alive with you
Quote: לְהַחֲיֹ֣ת אִתָּ֑ךְ (1)“{in order} to keep {them} alive with you.” or “so that they stay alive with you.”
They must be male and female
Quote: זָכָ֥ר וּנְקֵבָ֖ה יִֽהְיֽוּ (1)“They must be {pairs} with {one} male and {one} female {each}.” or “Each pair must have/include {one} male and {one} female.” or “Make sure that each pair has {one} male and {one} female.”
Genesis 6:20
From the birds according to their kinds
Quote: מֵהָע֣וֹף לְמִינֵ֗הוּ (1)“{Males and females} from/of every kind/type of bird,”
and from the animals according to their kinds
Quote: וּמִן הַבְּהֵמָה֙ לְמִינָ֔הּ (1)“and from/of every kind of animal,”
from every moving creature of the ground according to its kind
Quote: מִכֹּ֛ל רֶ֥מֶשׂ הָֽאֲדָמָ֖ה לְמִינֵ֑הוּ (1)“including every kind of creature that moves/lives on the ground/land,” This phrase emphasizes that the birds and animals mentioned in the first half of this verse lived on land.
two from every {kind} will come to you
Quote: שְׁנַ֧יִם מִכֹּ֛ל יָבֹ֥אוּ אֵלֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“two/pairs of every kind {of animal} will come to you” or “two/pairs of each kind {of animal} will come to you”. For some languages it is more natural to change the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “Two/Pairs of every kind of bird and every kind of animal, including every kind of creature that moves on the ground, will come to you … ” Do what is best in your language.
to keep alive
Quote: לְהַֽחֲיֽוֹת (1)“to keep {them} alive {on/in the ark/boat}.” or “{into the ark/boat} so that they stay alive.” or “so that you keep them alive {in the ark/boat}.”
Genesis 6:21
And you
Quote: וְאַתָּ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“You” or “You {and your family}”. Although the pronoun “you” is singular in the Hebrew text in verse 21, it could be translated as plural, since God’s instructions apply to Noah and his family, not just Noah. Or you could make his family explicit. Do what is best in your language.
must take with you
Quote: קַח־לְךָ֗ (1)“must {also} {gather and} take/bring” or “must {also} gather”
some of every food
Quote: מִכָּל מַֽאֲכָל֙ (1)“every {kind of} food” or “all the different kinds of food”
that is eaten
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֵֽאָכֵ֔ל (1)“that is eaten {by people and animals}” or “that people and animals eat” or “that you and {all} the animals/creatures will need”
and store it with you
Quote: וְאָסַפְתָּ֖ אֵלֶ֑יךָ (1)“and store/stockpile/put it {on the ark/boat} with you,”
and it will be food
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה & לְאָכְלָֽה (1)“This/That will be the food supply” or “so that there will be {enough} food”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for you
Quote: לְךָ֛ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“for you {and your family}”. Consider again how you translated the pronoun “you” in this verse.
and for them
Quote: וְלָהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and for {all} the animals.”
Genesis 6:22
And Noah did {that
Quote: וַיַּ֖עַשׂ נֹ֑חַ (1)“So, {that is what} Noah did;” or “Noah did {all of that}”. Some translations begin verse 22 without a conjunction. Do what is best in your language.
according to all that God had commanded him, so he did
Quote: כְּ֠כֹל אֲשֶׁ֨ר צִוָּ֥ה אֹת֛וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים כֵּ֥ן עָשָֽׂה (1)“he did everything just/exactly as God had commanded/told him {to do}.”
Genesis 7
Genesis 7:1
Then Yahweh said to Noah
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ לְנֹ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then {after they had finished building the ark/boat,} Yahweh told/commanded Noah,” or “{When/After the ark/boat was finished,} Yahweh told/commanded Noah,” For some languages it may be necessary to make it explicit that the boat was completed before Yahweh told Noah to enter it. Do what is best in your language.
Go into the ark, you and all your household
Quote: בֹּֽא אַתָּ֥ה וְכָל בֵּיתְךָ֖ אֶל הַתֵּבָ֑ה (1)“Enter/Board the ark/boat, along with your entire family,” or “You and your entire household/family must go/get into the ark/boat,” See how you translated “ark/boat” in Gen 6:14-16.
because I have seen
Quote: כִּֽי & רָאִ֛יתִי (1)“because I have found” or “because I see/know”
that} you {are} righteous
Quote: אֹתְךָ֥ & צַדִּ֥יק (1)“{that} you {alone} {are} upright” or “{that} you {are} {the only one who is} living righteously/rightly” or “… living the right way”. In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “you” is emphasized to show that Noah was the only one who was righteous. See how you translated “righteous” in Gen 6:9.
before me
Quote: לְפָנַ֖י (1)“in my sight/eyes/opinion” or “according to my standards/will”
in this generation
Quote: בַּדּ֥וֹר הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“among the people living today.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “… you {are} {the only one} among the people living today {who is} righteous in my sight.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 7:2
From every clean animal
Quote: מִכֹּ֣ל הַבְּהֵמָ֣ה הַטְּהוֹרָ֗ה (1)“From every {kind of} pure animal” or “From every {kind of} animal that is acceptable to sacrifice”. It may be necessary to include a footnote that explains the concept of clean and unclean animals: In the Bible a “clean animal” was an animal that was acceptable to be sacrificed to God or to be eaten, and an “unclean animal” was one that could not be sacrificed or eaten; it does not refer to how clean the animal was physically. Later Moses wrote down the laws about clean and unclean animals in the book of Leviticus.
take with you
Quote: תִּֽקַּח לְךָ֛ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“bring with you”. The pronoun “you” is singular in the Hebrew text, but could be translated as a plural to include Noah’s family.
seven pairs, a male and its female
Quote: שִׁבְעָ֥ה שִׁבְעָ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְאִשְׁתּ֑וֹ (1)“seven male and female pairs”. See how you translated “male and female” in Gen 6:19.
and from {every} animal that {is} not clean
Quote: וּמִן הַבְּהֵמָ֡ה אֲ֠שֶׁר לֹ֣א טְהֹרָ֥ה (1)“and from {every kind of} unclean/impure animal” or “and from {every kind of} animal that is not acceptable to sacrifice”
take} two, a male and its female
Quote: שְׁנַ֖יִם אִ֥ישׁ וְאִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{take} a/one male and female pair,” For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “Take with you seven male and female pairs of every {kind of} clean/pure animal, and {one} male and female pair of {every kind of} unclean/impure animal,” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 7:3
also
Quote: גַּ֣ם (1)“{and} also” or “In addition,” or “Also,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
from {every} bird of the sky
Quote: מֵע֧וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֛יִם (1)“from {every kind/type of} bird {that flies} in the sky/air” or “from {every kind/type of} bird”
take} seven pairs, male and female
Quote: שִׁבְעָ֥ה שִׁבְעָ֖ה זָכָ֣ר וּנְקֵבָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{take} seven male and female pairs”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 2. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “Also {take} seven male and female pairs of {every kind of} bird {that flies} in the sky/air …” Do what is best in your language.
to keep {their} offspring alive
Quote: לְחַיּ֥וֹת זֶ֖רַע (1)“so that {later} their offspring will live” or “so that {later} they will have offspring that will live”
on the surface of the whole earth
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י כָל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{and spread} all over the earth,” or “and/to repopulate the whole/entire earth,”
Genesis 7:4
because
Quote: כִּי֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{You must do that,} because” or “The reason {you must do that} is”. For many languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
in seven more days
Quote: לְיָמִ֨ים ע֜וֹד שִׁבְעָ֗ה (1)“seven days from now/today”. The phrase, “seven more days” could be translated “another week” here and in verse 11. However, it is probably best to keep the number seven in the text in both places, especially since the number seven often signifies perfection or completion in the Bible, perhaps also here.
I will cause it to rain
Quote: אָֽנֹכִי֙ מַמְטִ֣יר (1)“I will make it rain {continuously}” or “I will send rain”
on the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“{all} over the earth/world”
for} forty days and forty nights
Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם וְאַרְבָּעִ֖ים לָ֑יְלָה (1)“{for} forty days and nights,” This phrase refers to forty complete 24-hour days.
and I will wipe
Quote: וּמָחִ֗יתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“in order to wipe/blot out” or “That will wash away” or “In that way, I will completely destroy”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 6:7.
every living thing that I have made
Quote: אֶֽת כָּל הַיְקוּם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשִׂ֔יתִי (1)“every living creature that I have made” or “all the living things/creatures that I have made”. See how you translated a similar phrase (“living creature”) in Gen 6:19.
off the surface of the ground
Quote: מֵעַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“off/from the surface of the earth.” or “off/from the earth/land.” It may be clearer to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “in order to completely destroy from/off the ground/earth every living creature/thing that I have made.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 6:7.
Genesis 7:5
Then Noah did all that
Quote: וַיַּ֖עַשׂ נֹ֑חַ כְּכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר (1)“Then/So Noah did everything that” or “So Noah did everything {exactly} as”
Yahweh had commanded him
Quote: צִוָּ֖הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)“Yahweh had commanded/told him {to do}.” See how you translated Gen 6:22 which is similar to 7:5.
Genesis 7:6
Now Noah {was} a son of 600 years
Quote: וְנֹ֕חַ בֶּן שֵׁ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“Noah/He was 600 years old”. See how you handled large numbers in Gen 5 and in Gen 6:3, and see the note about this at Gen 5:3. Also see how you translated the idiom “son of … years” in Gen 5:32.
when the floodwaters came on the earth
Quote: וְהַמַּבּ֣וּל הָיָ֔ה מַ֖יִם עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“when the flood covered the earth.” or “when the earth was covered/flooded with deep water.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “When the flood waters came on the earth, Noah was 600 years old.” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “floodwaters” in Gen 6:17.
Genesis 7:7
And Noah and his sons and his wife and the wives of his sons went with him into the ark
Quote: וַיָּ֣בֹא נֹ֗חַ וּ֠בָנָיו וְאִשְׁתּ֧וֹ וּנְשֵֽׁי בָנָ֛יו אִתּ֖וֹ אֶל הַתֵּבָ֑ה (1)“{That is when} Noah/he and his wife, and his sons and their wives, went together into the ark/boat”. Noah and his family entered the ark on the same day that the floodwaters started coming (See verses 11-13). See how you translated a similar list of people in Gen 6:18.
from the presence of
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י (1)“because of” or “to escape from” or “to keep them safe from” or “so that they would not die in”
the waters of the flood
Quote: מֵ֥י הַמַּבּֽוּל (1)“the floodwaters.” or “the flood.”
Genesis 7:8
Pairs} from the clean animal{s} and from the animal{s} that are not clean
Quote: מִן הַבְּהֵמָה֙ הַטְּהוֹרָ֔ה וּמִן הַ֨בְּהֵמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֵינֶ֖נָּה טְהֹרָ֑ה (1)“{Also,} {every kind of} clean/pure animal and {every kind of} unclean/impure animal”. See how you translated “clean” and “unclean” animals in verse 2.
and from the bird{s
Quote: וּמִ֨ן הָע֔וֹף (1)“and {every kind of} bird,”
and everything that moves on the ground
Quote: וְכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר רֹמֵ֖שׂ עַל הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “including every {kind of creature/animal} that moves/lives on land,” or “which includes every {kind of creature/animal} that moves/lives on land,” According to this interpretation, the rest of verse 8 emphasizes that the clean and unclean animals and birds (verses 2-3, 8) were all creatures that lived on land (which are the creatures that the flood affected). Or it could mean: (2) “as well as every {kind of} creature/animal that crawls/creeps along the ground”. According to this interpretation, the rest of verse 8 refers to a fourth category of creatures besides the clean animals, unclean animals, and birds.
Genesis 7:9
went two {by} two to Noah into the ark
Quote: שְׁנַ֨יִם שְׁנַ֜יִם בָּ֧אוּ אֶל נֹ֛חַ אֶל הַתֵּבָ֖ה (1)“came to Noah in pairs {and came/went} into the ark/boat,” or “came in pairs and entered the ark/boat with Noah,”
male and female
Quote: זָכָ֣ר וּנְקֵבָ֑ה (1)“{They were} male and female pairs,” or “Each pair had one male and one female,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
just as God had commanded Noah
Quote: כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת נֹֽחַ (1)“which was exactly what God had commanded/told Noah/him {to take/bring along}.”
Genesis 7:10
And it happened
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֖י (1)“So it happened {that}” or “Then”. This phrase focuses attention on an important event (the beginning of the flood), and it builds suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what will happen next. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
after the seven days
Quote: לְשִׁבְעַ֣ת הַיָּמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“when the seven days {that God had spoken about} had passed,” or “after seven days,” This phrase refers to the seven days which God talked about in verse 4. It does not mean seven days after Noah and the animals went into the ark (verses 7-9); they went into the ark on the same day that the flood started (verse 13). Translate the beginning of this sentence in a way that makes that clear.
then the waters of the flood came on
Quote: וּמֵ֣י הַמַּבּ֔וּל הָי֖וּ עַל (1)“the floodwaters started to come on/over” or “water started to flood/cover”
the earth
Quote: הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“the {entire/whole} earth.”
Genesis 7:11
In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life
Quote: בִּשְׁנַ֨ת שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֤וֹת שָׁנָה֙ לְחַיֵּי נֹ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“When Noah was 600 years old,” Compare how you translated Noah’s age in verse 6.
in the second month, on the seventeenth day of the month
Quote: בַּחֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ הַשֵּׁנִ֔י בְּשִׁבְעָֽה עָשָׂ֥ר י֖וֹם לַחֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“on the seventeenth day of the second month {of the year},” For some languages it is more natural to switch the phrase order and say which day it is before giving the month. Do what is natural in your language.
on that day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֗ה (1)“on that {same/very} day” or “that is the day when”
all the fountains of
Quote: כָּֽל מַעְיְנֹת֙ (1)“all the springs” or “all the {underground} water sources”
the great deep
Quote: תְּה֣וֹם רַבָּ֔ה (1)“in the deep ocean”
burst open
Quote: נִבְקְעוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“split/ripped open,” or “started gushing/pouring out water,” For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier and say, “water started gushing/pouring out of all the fountains/springs in the deep ocean,” Do what is best in your language.
and the windows of the heavens were opened
Quote: וַאֲרֻבֹּ֥ת הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם נִפְתָּֽחוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“and {all} the windows/floodgates in the heavens/sky were opened {by God},” or “{God also caused} the water in the heavens/sky to start coming/pouring down, as if he had opened {huge} windows/floodgates/faucets {in the heavens/sky},” This metaphor describes the beginning of a very heavy rainfall; it does not refer to actual windows.
Genesis 7:12
so that the rain fell
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֥י הַגֶּ֖שֶׁם (1)“so that {torrential/heavy} rain fell/poured {continuously}” or “so that it rained {continuously}”
on the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{all} over the earth/world”
forty days and forty nights
Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם וְאַרְבָּעִ֖ים לָֽיְלָה (1)“{for} forty days and nights.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
Genesis 7:13
On that same day
Quote: בְּעֶ֨צֶם הַיּ֤וֹם הַזֶּה֙ (1)“{So it was/happened that} on the {very} same day {that the flood/rain started},” This is the same day that is mentioned in verse 11, when the flood started. Verses 13-16 repeat what happened, in order to emphasize it. Make sure that a translation does not sound like this is the second (or third) time that Noah and his family and the animals entered the ark.
Noah and Shem and Ham and Japheth, the sons of Noah, and the wife of Noah and the three wives of his sons with them
Quote: נֹ֔חַ וְשֵׁם וְחָ֥ם וָיֶ֖פֶת בְּנֵי נֹ֑חַ וְאֵ֣שֶׁת נֹ֗חַ וּשְׁלֹ֧שֶׁת נְשֵֽׁי בָנָ֛יו אִתָּ֖ם (1)“Noah and his sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, along with his wife and his sons’ three wives {all}” or “Noah and his wife and his/their sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and their three wives {all}”. See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 7.
went into the ark
Quote: בָּ֣א & אֶל הַתֵּבָֽה (1)“entered/boarded the ark/boat,”
Genesis 7:14
they and every
Quote: הֵ֜מָּה וְכָל (1)“They had/took with them every”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and every living thing according to its kind, and every
Quote: וְכָל הַֽחַיָּ֣ה לְמִינָ֗הּ וְכָל (1)In the Hebrew text this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “every kind of living thing/creature, including every” or (2) “every kind of wild animal, and every”. The animal groups listed in verse 14 show that every kind of animal was to be brought onto the ark. Your language may have a different way of grouping animals. Make sure it is clear in your translation of this verse that all the different kinds of birds and land animals are included.
and every livestock according to its kind
Quote: וְכָל הַבְּהֵמָה֙ לְמִינָ֔הּ (1)“every kind of livestock,” or “every kind of domestic/tame animal,”
and every moving creature moving on the earth according to its kind
Quote: וְכָל הָרֶ֛מֶשׂ הָרֹמֵ֥שׂ עַל הָאָ֖רֶץ לְמִינֵ֑הוּ (1)In the Hebrew text, this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “and every {other} kind of creature/animal that moves/lives on the earth/land,” which seems to fit this context best; or (2) “and every kind of creature/animal that crawls on the ground,”
and every bird according to its kind, every bird of every wing
Quote: וְכָל הָע֣וֹף לְמִינֵ֔הוּ כֹּ֖ל צִפּ֥וֹר כָּל כָּנָֽף (1)“and every kind of bird {and} everything {else} that has wings.” or “and every kind of bird {and} every {other} {kind of} creature that flies.” This phrase probably refers not only to birds, but also to other creatures that have wings and fly, such as bats and insects.
Genesis 7:15
So they went to Noah into the ark
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥אוּ אֶל נֹ֖חַ אֶל הַתֵּבָ֑ה (1)“They came to Noah {and went/came} into the ark,” or “They entered the ark with Noah,” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 9.
two {by} two from all flesh
Quote: שְׁנַ֤יִם שְׁנַ֨יִם֙ מִכָּל הַבָּשָׂ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“pairs of every {kind of} creature/animal” or “pairs of every {kind of} living thing/creature”. The word “flesh” refers here to any kind of creature or animal.
which {has} in it the breath of life
Quote: אֲשֶׁר בּ֖וֹ ר֥וּחַ חַיִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“that breathes {air}.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 6:17. For some languages it may be better to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “Pairs of every {kind of} living thing that breathes {air} came to Noah {and went} into the boat.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 7:16
And those that went in
Quote: וְהַבָּאִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“The pairs/animals that went/came into {the ark/boat}” or “Those animals”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use “went” or “came” here. Also consider again how you translated “went” in verses 7, 9, 13, and 15.
were} male and female
Quote: זָכָ֨ר וּנְקֵבָ֤ה (1)“{were} male and female {pairs}”
from all flesh
Quote: מִכָּל בָּשָׂר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“from/of every {kind of} creature/animal,” or “from/of every {kind of} living thing,” See how you translated “all flesh” in verse 15.
they went in just as God had commanded him
Quote: בָּ֔אוּ כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה אֹת֖וֹ אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“which was exactly what God had commanded him/Noah {to take/bring along}.” See how you translated “just as God commanded him” in verse 9.
Then Yahweh shut him in
Quote: וַיִּסְגֹּ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה בַּֽעֲדֽוֹ (1)“After that, Yahweh shut them in/inside {the ark/boat}.” or “Then {after they were all inside,} Yahweh shut/closed the door {of the ark/boat} behind him/them.”
Genesis 7:17
Then the flood came
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֧י הַמַּבּ֛וּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential
“After that the floodwaters/water kept getting deeper and deeper” or “The floodwaters/water kept coming”. Some translations begin this sentence without a conjunction. Do what is natural in your language. Also, notice that verses 17-20 talk about the forty days and nights that the flood kept getting deeper and deeper.
on the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{all} over the earth”
for} forty days
Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֥ים י֖וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{for} forty days {and forty nights},” For some languages it may be more natural to put this time phrase first in this sentence and say, “{For} forty days {and forty nights} the flood kept getting deeper and deeper {all} over the earth,” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
and the waters increased
Quote: וַיִּרְבּ֣וּ הַמַּ֗יִם (1)“and as the water level rose,” or “As the water got deeper and deeper,”
and lifted the ark so that it rose up off the earth
Quote: וַיִּשְׂאוּ֙ אֶת הַתֵּבָ֔ה וַתָּ֖רָם מֵעַ֥ל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“it lifted up the ark/boat so that it floated {on the water} {high} above the earth/ground.” or “it made the ark/boat lift/rise up off the ground and float.”
Genesis 7:18
And the waters rose
Quote: וַיִּגְבְּר֥וּ הַמַּ֛יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“So the floodwaters continued to rise and get much deeper/higher” or “Yes, the floodwaters/water continued …” or “The floodwaters/water continued …” Verse 18 repeats some of verse 17 to emphasize what happened. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language.
on the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{all} over the earth/world,”
and the ark went
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶךְ הַתֵּבָ֖ה (1)“but/while the ark/boat floated {safely}” or “so that the ark/boat moved/drifted {about/along}”
on the surface of the waters
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י הַמָּֽיִם (1)“on the surface of the water.” or “on top of the water.” or “on the water.”
Genesis 7:19
And the waters rose very greatly on the earth
Quote: וְהַמַּ֗יִם גָּֽבְר֛וּ מְאֹ֥ד מְאֹ֖ד עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“At last, the waters became very deep on/over the earth/world, so that” or “Eventually the water became so high/deep on/over the earth/world that”
all the high mountains
Quote: כָּל הֶֽהָרִים֙ הַגְּבֹהִ֔ים (1)“{even} all the highest mountains”
that {were} under the entire heavens
Quote: אֲשֶׁר תַּ֖חַת כָּל הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)“everywhere under the sky”
so that … were covered
Quote: וַיְכֻסּ֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“were covered {with/by water}.” or “were submerged {in/under water}.” or “were under water.” For some languages it is better to use an active form of the verb here and say, “Eventually the water became so deep on the earth that it {even} covered all the highest mountains under the entire sky.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 7:20
The waters rose fifteen cubits above {them
Quote: חֲמֵ֨שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה אַמָּה֙ מִלְמַ֔עְלָה גָּבְר֖וּ הַמָּ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
“{In fact,} the water rose {at least} seven meters above {the tops of} the {highest} mountains,” or “{In fact,} the {highest} mountain tops were covered with/by {at least} twenty-two feet of water,” See how you translated “cubits” in Gen 6:15-16.
so that the mountains were covered
Quote: וַיְכֻסּ֖וּ הֶהָרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“so that they were {completely} covered {with/by water}.” or “… {completely} submerged {in/under water}.” or “… {completely} under water.” See how you translated “were covered” in verse 19.
Genesis 7:21
all flesh
Quote: כָּל בָּשָׂ֣ר (1)“Then all the creatures/beings” or “Then every creature” or “Then every living thing”. This phrase refers to everything listed in verse 21, including people. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 6:17.
that moved on the earth
Quote: הָרֹמֵ֣שׂ עַל הָאָ֗רֶץ (1)“that moved/lived on the ground” or “that lived on land”
Then … expired
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֞ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“breathed out {its last breath},” or “died/perished,” See how you translated this idiom in Gen 6:17.
including the birds and the livestock
Quote: בָּע֤וֹף וּבַבְּהֵמָה֙ (1)“That included {all} the birds, the livestock,” or “including {all} the birds, the domestic/tame animals,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and the living things
Quote: וּבַ֣חַיָּ֔ה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and the {other} living things/creatures” or (2) “and the wild animals”
and all the swarming things swarming on the earth
Quote: וּבְכָל הַשֶּׁ֖רֶץ הַשֹּׁרֵ֣ץ עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“including every {kind of} creature/animal that lived in large groups/numbers on the earth,”
and all mankind
Quote: וְכֹ֖ל הָאָדָֽם (1)“in addition to all the human beings.” or “as well as all the people.”
Genesis 7:22
Everything that {had} the breath of the spirit of life in its nostrils
Quote: כֹּ֡ל אֲשֶׁר֩ נִשְׁמַת ר֨וּחַ חַיִּ֜ים בְּאַפָּ֗יו (1)“Every living creature/thing that breathed air”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 15.
everything that {lived} on dry land, died
Quote: מִכֹּ֛ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר בֶּחָֽרָבָ֖ה מֵֽתוּ (1)“and was/lived on dry land died.”
Genesis 7:23
So he wiped away
Quote: וַיִּ֜מַח (1)“That is how Yahweh washed away” or “In that way, Yahweh blotted out” or “… completely destroyed”. See how you translated this idiom in verse 4.
every living thing
Quote: אֶֽת כָּל הַיְק֣וּם (1)“every living creature” or “all living things/creatures”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
that {was} on the surface of the ground
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽאֲדָמָ֗ה (1)“that {was/lived} on the surface of the earth,” or “that {were/lived} on the earth/land,” See how you translated “the surface of the ground” in verse 4.
including mankind
Quote: מֵאָדָ֤ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“including {all} mankind/people”. See how you translated “mankind” in verse 21.
and livestock and crawling creatures
Quote: עַד בְּהֵמָה֙ עַד רֶ֨מֶשׂ֙ (1)“and {all} the livestock and {all the other} creatures/animals that moved/lived {on the ground/land}” or “and {all} the animals, including smaller creatures/animals that crawl/move {on/along the ground}”
and also the birds of the sky
Quote: וְעַד ע֣וֹף הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“and also the birds {that flew} in the sky.” or “and also the birds.” Some languages leave out the phrase “of the sky” because it is not natural. Do what is best in your language.
So they were wiped off the earth
Quote: וַיִּמָּח֖וּ מִן הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{All of} them were {completely} wiped/washed off the earth {by Yahweh/God},” or “He/God completely destroyed them all from the earth,” or “Yes, he/God completely destroyed everything {that lived} on the earth,” See how you translated “wipe … off” in verse 4.
and only Noah was left
Quote: וַיִשָּׁ֧אֶר אַךְ נֹ֛חַ (1)“so that only Noah was left/still alive, along with” or “so that the only ones who were left/still alive were Noah and” or “Only Noah survived, along with”. Some translations leave out the first conjunction and begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
and {those} who {were} with him in the ark
Quote: וַֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתּ֖וֹ בַּתֵּבָֽה (1)“and his family and the animals that were with him/them in the ark/boat.” or “along with his family …”
Genesis 7:24
And the waters prevailed over
Quote: וַיִּגְבְּר֥וּ הַמַּ֖יִם עַל (1)“{Deep} water continued to flood/cover” or “The floodwaters stayed/remained deep/high over”
the earth {for} 150 days
Quote: הָאָ֑רֶץ חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים וּמְאַ֖ת יֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“the {entire} earth/world {for} 150 days.” See how you handled a large number in verse 6.
Genesis 8
Genesis 8:1
But God remembered
Quote: וַיִּזְכֹּ֤ר אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“God kept in mind” or “But God did not forget” or “God never forgot”. The phrase “God remembered” is an idiom in the Bible that often means God was paying special attention to certain people and was about to do something. Make sure that the way you translate this phrase does not imply that God had forgotten about Noah.
Noah
Quote: אֶת נֹ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Noah {and his family}”. Noah is the person that the author is focusing on here, but Noah’s family is also included. Consider whether or not you need to make that explicit in your translation.
and all the living thing{s} and
Quote: וְאֵ֤ת כָּל הַֽחַיָּה֙ וְאֶת (1)In the Hebrew text this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “and all the creatures/animals, including” or (2) “and all the wild animals and”. See how you translated “living thing” in Gen 7:14.
all the livestock that {were} with him in the ark
Quote: כָּל הַבְּהֵמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתּ֖וֹ בַּתֵּבָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“all the domestic/tame animals that {were} with him/them in the ark/boat,” Some translations combine this phrase with the previous phrase and say, “and all the animals, both wild and tame/domestic, that {were} with him/them in the ark/boat.” Do what is best in your language.
and God caused a wind to pass over
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֵ֨ר אֱלֹהִ֥ים ר֨וּחַ֙ עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he sent a wind over” or “So God/he caused/sent a wind to blow over”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the earth
Quote: הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{the water that was covering/over} the earth,”
and the waters subsided
Quote: וַיָּשֹׁ֖כּוּ הַמָּֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“so that the floodwaters/water {started to} recede/decrease.” or “so that the water {level} {started to} go down.” Notice that the floodwaters did not go all the way down until verse 14, so the way you translate this clause should allow for that.
Genesis 8:2
And the fountains of the deep and the windows of the heavens were closed
Quote: וַיִּסָּֽכְרוּ֙ מַעְיְנֹ֣ת תְּה֔וֹם וַֽאֲרֻבֹּ֖ת הַשָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{He also caused} the fountains/springs in the deep {ocean} to stop {gushing out water}, and {he caused} the rain/water to stop pouring from the sky,” or “{God/He also} stopped the water from {gushing out of} springs/places at the bottom of the ocean, and the rain from pouring/coming from the heavens/sky,” See how you translated some of the same words and phrases in Gen 7:11.
and the rain from the heavens was stopped
Quote: וַיִּכָּלֵ֥א הַגֶּ֖שֶׁם מִן הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“so that rain stopped falling/coming from the sky.” or “so that it stopped raining.” Consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or a passive verb here and in the previous clause.
Genesis 8:3
Then the waters receded steadily
Quote: וַיָּשֻׁ֧בוּ הַמַּ֛יִם & הָל֣וֹךְ וָשׁ֑וֹב (1)“Then the floodwaters/water steadily/gradually went down”
from the earth
Quote: מֵעַ֥ל הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“from {the surface of} the land/ground,”
at} the end of the 150 days
Quote: מִקְצֵ֕ה חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים וּמְאַ֖ת יֽוֹם (1)“so that after the 150 days {had passed},” or “After the 150 days {had passed},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also make sure it is clear in your translation that the 150 days mentioned here in Gen 8:3 are the same 150 days mentioned in Gen 7:24, not two different periods of time.
the waters
Quote: הַמַּ֔יִם (1)“the water {level}” or “they/it”. Make sure the way you translate this phrase fits with the way you translated the beginning of the verse.
and {… had decreased
Quote: וַיַּחְסְר֣וּ (1)“had gone down,” or “had subsided,”
Genesis 8:4
so that … rested
Quote: וַתָּ֤נַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“so {much/far/low} that”
in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month
Quote: בַּחֹ֣דֶשׁ הַשְּׁבִיעִ֔י בְּשִׁבְעָה עָשָׂ֥ר י֖וֹם לַחֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“on the seventeenth day of the seventh month {of the year},” See how you translated a similar time phrase in Gen 7:11.
so that … the ark rested
Quote: וַתָּ֤נַח הַתֵּבָה֙ (1)“the ark/boat came to rest” or “the ark/boat settled/landed”
on the mountains
Quote: עַ֖ל הָרֵ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“on a mountain” or “on {one of} the mountains”. The ark landed on one mountain in a mountain range.
of Ararat
Quote: אֲרָרָֽט (1)“in {the land/region of} Ararat.” or “in the Ararat {mountain range}.”
Genesis 8:5
And the waters
Quote: וְהַמַּ֗יִם (1)“Then the water/floodwaters” or “The water/floodwaters”
continued to decrease
Quote: הָיוּ֙ הָל֣וֹךְ וְחָס֔וֹר (1)“continued to go down/away” or “kept decreasing/subsiding”. See how you translated “decreased” in verse 3.
until the tenth month. In the tenth month, on the first of the month
Quote: עַ֖ד הַחֹ֣דֶשׁ הָֽעֲשִׂירִ֑י בָּֽעֲשִׂירִי֙ בְּאֶחָ֣ד לַחֹ֔דֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“until the tenth month {of the year}. On the first day of that month,” or “until on the first {day} of the tenth month {of the year},” See how you translated a similar time phrase in verse 4.
the tops of the mountains
Quote: רָאשֵׁ֥י הֶֽהָרִֽים (1)“the peaks of the {surrounding} mountains” or “the mountaintops”
could be seen
Quote: נִרְא֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“could be seen {above the water} {by Noah}.” or “became visible {above the water}.” or “appeared {above the surface of the water}.”
Genesis 8:6
Then it happened {at} the end of forty days
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֕י מִקֵּ֖ץ אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֑וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“After forty {more} days {had passed},” The phrase “Then it happened” focuses attention on what happens next, and it builds suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what the outcome will be. Some translations leave this phrase out, but that loses some of the suspense. Do what is best in your language.
that Noah opened the window
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֣ח נֹ֔חַ אֶת חַלּ֥וֹן (1)“Noah opened a window”. It is not clear when Noah made this window. It may refer to the opening around the top of the walls of the ark (Gen 6:16) or a different window that he made sometime later.
of the ark that he had made
Quote: הַתֵּבָ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָֽׂה (1)“that he had made in the ark/boat,”
Genesis 8:7
and he sent out
Quote: וַיְשַׁלַּ֖ח (1)“and he released” or “and he set free”
the raven
Quote: אֶת הָֽעֹרֵ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“{a large black bird called} a raven”. A raven is a large, black scavenger bird that eats whatever it finds, including dead animals. If the people in your language area are not familiar with ravens, you could make a comparison to a similar bird that they are familiar with and say, “a large black bird {like a …}” Or you could include a footnote that explains what a raven is.
and it kept flying out and returning
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֤א יָצוֹא֙ וָשׁ֔וֹב (1)“which kept/continued flying back and forth {outside the ark/boat}” or “but it kept flying around {outside the ark/boat}”
until the waters
Quote: עַד & הַמַּ֖יִם (1)“until the water/floodwaters”
dried up from the earth
Quote: יְבֹ֥שֶׁת & מֵעַ֥ל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“had dried up {more} from the ground/land.” This phrase refers to the ground/land (as verse 8 confirms), not the entire planet.
Genesis 8:8
Then he sent out
Quote: וַיְשַׁלַּ֥ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous
“Then/Meanwhile he/Noah {also} sent out” or “Then/Meanwhile he/Noah {also} released”. The events in verse 8 happened while the raven was still flying back and forth (verse 7). Consider what conjunction best communicates that in your language.
the dove from him
Quote: אֶת הַיּוֹנָ֖ה מֵאִתּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“a dove that was with him” or “a dove from the ark/boat” or “a {small bird called a} dove”. A dove is a small, white or gray bird that makes a cooing sound. If doves are unknown in your language area, you could make a comparison to a similar bird they are familiar with and say, “a small white/gray bird {like a …}” Or you could include a footnote that explains what a dove is.
to see if the waters had subsided
Quote: לִרְאוֹת֙ הֲקַ֣לּוּ הַמַּ֔יִם (1)“to find out if/whether the floodwaters/water had receded”
from the surface of the ground
Quote: מֵעַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)“from the surface of the land.” or “from the ground/land.”
Genesis 8:9
But the dove did not find
Quote: וְלֹֽא־מָצְאָה֩ הַיּוֹנָ֨ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“But the dove could not find” or “But it was not able to find”. Consider what is the best way to refer to the dove at this point in the paragraph in your language.
a resting place for the sole of its feet
Quote: מָנ֜וֹחַ לְכַף רַגְלָ֗הּ (1)“anywhere to land/perch and rest,” In Hebrew the word “dove” is grammatically a feminine noun (for both male and female doves), so some translations say “her feet … she returned …” here. For languages such as English that do not assign grammatical gender to nouns, it is more accurate to use “its” and “it” here, because it is not known whether this dove was male or female. Do what is best in your language.
so it returned
Quote: וַתָּ֤שָׁב (1)“So/Then it returned” or “So/Then the dove flew back”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to him in the ark
Quote: אֵלָיו֙ אֶל הַתֵּבָ֔ה (1)“flew back to him/Noah in/at the ark/boat,”
because the waters {were} over the surface of the entire earth
Quote: כִּי מַ֖יִם עַל פְּנֵ֣י כָל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because water was {still} covering the entire earth/world.” Some languages may have to switch the clause order in this verse and say, “But water was {still} covering the entire earth/world, so the dove did/could not find a resting place for its feet. Then it returned to Noah at the boat, and he/Noah reached …” Do what is best in your language.
And he reached out his hand
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח יָדוֹ֙ (1)“Then/So he/Noah reached out” or “and he/Noah reached out”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and took it and brought it
Quote: וַיִּקָּחֶ֔הָ וַיָּבֵ֥א אֹתָ֛הּ (1)“caught it, and brought it”
to him into the ark
Quote: אֵלָ֖יו אֶל הַתֵּבָֽה (1)“{back} to himself in the ark/boat.” or “{back} into the ark/boat.”
Genesis 8:10
Then he waited
Quote: וַיָּ֣חֶל ע֔וֹד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“He/Noah waited”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin this sentence with or without a conjunction.
another seven days
Quote: שִׁבְעַ֥ת יָמִ֖ים אֲחֵרִ֑ים (1)“seven more days,”
and again sent out the dove from the ark
Quote: וַיֹּ֛סֶף שַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת הַיּוֹנָ֖ה מִן הַתֵּבָֽה (1)“then he sent the dove out from the ark/boat another time.” or “then he released the dove from the ark/boat again.”
Genesis 8:11
Then the dove returned to him at evening time
Quote: וַתָּבֹ֨א אֵלָ֤יו הַיּוֹנָה֙ לְעֵ֣ת עֶ֔רֶב (1)“That evening the dove returned to him/Noah,” or “When it was evening, the dove returned to him/Noah,”
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)“and surprisingly,” or “and he/Noah saw that”
there was} a freshly picked olive leaf in its mouth
Quote: עֲלֵה זַ֖יִת טָרָ֣ף בְּפִ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“{it was holding} a newly picked {green} leaf from an olive tree in its mouth/beak.” or “{the dove had} a {green} leaf in its mouth/beak that it had just picked/taken from an olive tree.” An olive tree produces small, oval, green fruit that has a hard pit. Olives are used for food and as a source of cooking oil. If olive trees are unknown in your language area, you could include a footnote about them.
So Noah knew
Quote: וַיֵּ֣דַע נֹ֔חַ (1)“Then Noah realized” or “That is how Noah/he knew/realized”
that the waters
Quote: כִּי & הַמַּ֖יִם (1)“that the water/floodwaters”
had subsided
Quote: קַ֥לּוּ (1)“had receded” or “had gone down {more/further}”. See how you translated “subsided” in verse 8, and how you translated three other Hebrew words with similar meanings In verses 1, 3, and 5.
from the earth
Quote: מֵעַ֥ל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“from the ground/land.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 7.
Genesis 8:12
Then he waited another seven days, and he sent out the dove
Quote: וַיִּיָּ֣חֶל ע֔וֹד שִׁבְעַ֥ת יָמִ֖ים אֲחֵרִ֑ים וַיְשַׁלַּח֙ אֶת־הַיּוֹנָ֔ה (1)“He waited another seven days, then he released the dove {again},” or “After he waited seven more days, he released the dove {again},” See how you translated “sent out” in verses 7, 8, and 10.
but it did not return to him again
Quote: וְלֹֽא יָסְפָ֥ה שׁוּב אֵלָ֖יו עֽוֹד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“but {this time} it did not come/fly back to him again {because it found a dry place to land/live}.” Remember to only make implied information explicit in a translation if it helps readers’ understanding or if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning or incorrect grammar.
Genesis 8:13
So it happened
Quote: וַֽ֠יְהִי (1)“So it happened {that}” or “So it was,”
in the six hundred and first year
Quote: בְּאַחַ֨ת וְשֵׁשׁ־מֵא֜וֹת שָׁנָ֗ה (1)“In {his/Noah’s} 601st year,” or “when {Noah was} 601 years old,” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 7:11.
in the first {month}, on the first {day} of the month
Quote: בָּֽרִאשׁוֹן֙ בְּאֶחָ֣ד לַחֹ֔דֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
“in the first {month} {of the year}, on the first {day} of the month,” or “on the first {day} of the first month {of the year},”
the waters were drying up
Quote: חָֽרְב֥וּ הַמַּ֖יִם (1)“the water was drying up” or “the water had {almost} dried up”. Make sure your translation of this phrase fits with the fact that the ground was not yet dry enough to get out of the ark. That did not happen until the end of the second month (verse 14).
from the earth
Quote: מֵעַ֣ל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“from the ground/land.”
Then Noah removed
Quote: וַיָּ֤סַר נֹ֨חַ֙ (1)“So Noah/he took off {part of}” or “made an opening in”
the covering of the ark
Quote: אֶת מִכְסֵ֣ה הַתֵּבָ֔ה (1)“the roof that was covering the ark/boat” or “the roof of the ark/boat”
and looked
Quote: וַיַּ֕רְא (1)“and looked {around/out},”
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)“and indeed,” or “and he saw that”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 11.
the surface of the ground
Quote: פְּנֵ֥י הָֽאֲדָמָֽה (1)“the land’s surface” or “the ground/land”
was drying
Quote: חָֽרְב֖וּ (1)“was drying off.” or “was {almost} dry.”
Genesis 8:14
Then in the second month, on the twenty-seventh day of the month
Quote: וּבַחֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ הַשֵּׁנִ֔י בְּשִׁבְעָ֧ה וְעֶשְׂרִ֛ים י֖וֹם לַחֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)“Then by the twenty-seventh day of the second month {of the year},” See how you translated similar time phrases in verses 4, 5, and 13.
the earth
Quote: הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“the land/ground”. Notice that the land/ground was dry here, not the entire earth. Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 3, 7, 11, 13-14.
was dry
Quote: יָבְשָׁ֖ה (1)“had dried off.” In this context “dry” means that the ground was dry enough to walk on and live on without getting stuck in mud. Make sure your translation does not imply that it was so dry that nothing would grow on it (like a desert).
Genesis 8:15
Then God said to Noah, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל נֹ֥חַ לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So God said to Noah,” or “Then God commanded Noah,” See how you translated “said to Noah” in Gen 7:1.
Genesis 8:16
Go out of the ark
Quote: צֵ֖א מִן הַתֵּבָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“Come out of/from the ark/boat” or “Disembark from the ark/boat”. Consider whether “come” or “go” is more natural here in your language. Also, some languages have a special term for getting off a boat that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
you and your wife
Quote: אַתָּ֕ה וְאִשְׁתְּךָ֛ (1)“together with” or “with”
and your wife and your sons
Quote: וְאִשְׁתְּךָ֛ וּבָנֶ֥יךָ (1)“your wife, your sons,”
and the wives of your sons with you
Quote: וּנְשֵֽׁי בָנֶ֖יךָ אִתָּֽךְ (1)“and your sons’ wives.” or “and their wives.”
Genesis 8:17
Bring out with you
Quote: הוצא אִתָּ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“Bring/Take with you” or “Bring/Take out”. Consider whether “bring” or “take” is more natural here in your language.
every living thing that {is
Quote: כָּל הַחַיָּ֨ה אֲשֶֽׁר (1)“all the living things/creatures that {are}” or “all the animals that {are}”
with you
Quote: ־אִתְּךָ֜ (1)“with you {in the ark/boat},” or “in the ark/boat,”
all flesh
Quote: מִכָּל בָּשָׂ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“all the animals,” or “all of them,” See how you translated “flesh” in Gen 7:15-16.
including the birds and the livestock
Quote: בָּע֧וֹף וּבַבְּהֵמָ֛ה (1)“including the birds, domestic/tame animals,”
and every moving creature moving
Quote: וּבְכָל הָרֶ֛מֶשׂ הָרֹמֵ֥שׂ (1)In the Hebrew text this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “and every {other} creature/animal that moves/lives”, which seems to fit this context best since it is general and includes all the land animals that were not birds or livestock; or (2) “and every creature/animal that crawls”, which is more specific and refers to animals like lizards, snakes, mice, and other animals that have bodies that are close to the ground.
on the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“on the ground,” or “on land,”
so that they will abound on the earth
Quote: וְשָֽׁרְצ֣וּ בָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“Then they will/can live/spread all over the earth/world”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and be fruitful
Quote: וּפָר֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“{yes,} they will have many offspring/young”. The rest of verse 17 forms a parallelism with “abound on the earth” that emphasizes filling the earth again with animals. Make sure your translation does not sound like this refers to separate events.
and multiply
Quote: וְרָב֖וּ (1)“and increase {in number}” or “and become {very} numerous/many”. See how you translated “be fruitful” and “multiply” in Gen 1:22, 28.
over the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{all} over the earth/world.” or “throughout the earth.”
Genesis 8:18
Then Noah went out
Quote: וַיֵּ֖צֵא נֹ֑חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“Then/So Noah went/came out {of the ark/boat},” or “Then/So Noah disembarked {from the ark/boat},” or “Then/So Noah got off {the ark/boat},”
and his sons and his wife and the wives of his sons with him
Quote: וּבָנָ֛יו וְאִשְׁתּ֥וֹ וּנְשֵֽׁי בָנָ֖יו אִתּֽוֹ (1)“and his sons, his wife, and his sons’ wives {went} with him.” or “along/together with his wife and his sons and their wives.” See how you translated this list of Noah’s family members (and similar lists) in Gen 6:18; 7:7, 13; 8:16. Notice that the order of the people in this list varies in the Hebrew text, perhaps depending on who is in focus in each context.
Genesis 8:19
Every living thing
Quote: כָּל הַֽחַיָּ֗ה (1)“Every living creature,” or “All the animals,”
every crawling thing
Quote: כָּל הָרֶ֨מֶשׂ֙ (1)“{including} every animal/creature that crawls” or “{including} all the animals/creatures that crawl”
and every bird
Quote: וְכָל הָע֔וֹף (1)“and all the birds”
everything
Quote: כֹּ֖ל (1)“{yes,} every creature” or “{and} everything {else}”
moving on the earth
Quote: רוֹמֵ֣שׂ עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“that moves/lives on the ground,” or “that lives on land,” This phrase refers here to the land, not the entire planet earth. See how you translated this phrase in verse 17.
went out of the ark
Quote: יָצְא֖וּ מִן־הַתֵּבָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“{also} went/came out of the ark/boat”. Consider again how you translated “go/come out” and “went/came out” and “bring/take out” in verses 16-19. Notice that your choices are affected by your perspective: whether the viewpoint is from inside the ark or whether the viewpoint is from outside the ark. Do what is natural in your language.
by their families
Quote: לְמִשְׁפְּחֹ֣תֵיהֶ֔ם (1)“{grouped} by their kinds.” or “in groups of their own kind.” or “one family/kind after another.”
Genesis 8:20
Then Noah built an altar
Quote: וַיִּ֥בֶן נֹ֛חַ מִזְבֵּ֖חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Then Noah built/made an altar {out of large stones}” or “Then Noah built/made a {sacrifice} table/mound {with large stones}”. An altar was an elevated, often table-shaped structure made out of stones where certain animals and crops were burned as sacrifices to God.
to Yahweh
Quote: לַֽיהוָ֑ה (1)“{to offer sacrifices} to Yahweh,” or “{dedicated} to Yahweh,” or “to worship Yahweh,”
and he took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח (1)“Then/Next he selected/chose”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
from every clean animal and from every clean bird
Quote: מִכֹּ֣ל הַבְּהֵמָ֣ה הַטְּהוֹרָ֗ה וּמִכֹּל֙ הָע֣וֹף הַטָּהֹ֔ר (1)“{some/one} from/of every {kind of} clean/pure animal and {some/one of} every {kind of} clean/pure bird,” or “{some/one} from/of every {kind of} animal and bird that are acceptable to sacrifice”. In the Bible, a “clean” animal or bird is one that is acceptable to be sacrificed to God or eaten; it does not refer to how clean the animal or bird was physically. See how you translated this term in Gen 7:2, 8.
and he offered burnt offerings on the altar
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל עֹלֹ֖ת בַּמִּזְבֵּֽחַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and he {killed them and} offered/sacrificed them as burnt offerings {to Yahweh} on the altar.” or “and he {killed them and} burned {their bodies} on the altar as offerings/gifts {to Yahweh} {to worship/honor/thank him}.” When animals were sacrificed, they were killed first, not burned alive. Consider whether or not you need to make that information explicit in your translation.
Genesis 8:21
And Yahweh smelled the pleasant aroma
Quote: וַיָּ֣רַח יְהוָה֮ אֶת רֵ֣יחַ הַנִּיחֹחַ֒ (1)“Yahweh smelled the pleasant/sweet aroma/smell {of the sacrifices},” or “When Yahweh smelled the aroma {of the sacrifices}, he was pleased,”
and Yahweh said in his heart
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה אֶל־לִבּ֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and/so he said/thought to himself,” Consider whether or not your language has this idiom or a similar idiom that would work well here.
Never again will I curse the ground
Quote: לֹֽא־אֹ֠סִף לְקַלֵּ֨ל ע֤וֹד אֶת־הָֽאֲדָמָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“I will never again curse/devastate the ground/earth”. Make sure that your translation of “curse” does not imply the use of magic.
because of mankind
Quote: בַּעֲב֣וּר הָֽאָדָ֔ם (1)“because of mankind{’s sins},” or “to punish mankind {for their sins},”
though the inclination of mankind’s hearts {is} evil
Quote: כִּ֠י יֵ֣צֶר לֵ֧ב הָאָדָ֛ם רַ֖ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{even} though the intentions/desires of their hearts/minds/thinking {are} evil” or “{even} though everything they desire {is} evil”. See how you translated “inclination” in a similar phrase in Gen 6:5.
from their youth
Quote: מִנְּעֻרָ֑יו (1)“from youth/childhood {onward}.” or “from the time they are young/children.”
And never again will I
Quote: וְלֹֽא אֹסִ֥ף ע֛וֹד (1)“I will never again” or “Nor will I ever again”
strike
Quote: לְהַכּ֥וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“destroy/annihilate/kill”. Consider whether your language has this idiom or a similar idiom that fits well here.
every living {thing
Quote: אֶת כָּל חַ֖י (1)“every living {creature}” or “all living {things/creatures}”
as I have done
Quote: כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשִֽׂיתִי (1)“as I {just} did.” or “the way I {just} did.”
Genesis 8:22
While all of the days of the earth continue
Quote: עֹ֖ד כָּל יְמֵ֣י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“As long as the earth {still} exists/lasts,”
seed time
Quote: זֶ֡רַע (1)“seed-planting time/season” or “the time/season for planting seeds”
and harvest
Quote: וְ֠קָצִיר (1)“and harvest {time/season},” or “the time/season for harvesting/gathering {crops}”
and cold and heat
Quote: וְקֹ֨ר וָחֹ֜ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“cold {weather/season} and hot {weather/season},” These terms form a parallelism with “summer and winter”. If possible, it is best to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation since each part has a different emphasis.
and summer and winter
Quote: וְקַ֧יִץ וָחֹ֛רֶף (1)“summer and winter,” The seasons of summer and winter may be described differently depending on which part of the world your language area is located in. For example, some translations might use the terms “dry season” and “rainy/wet season,” depending on what best corresponds to summer and winter in that area.
will not cease
Quote: לֹ֥א יִשְׁבֹּֽתוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“will never cease/stop.” or “will always continue {to happen/occur} {each year}.” It may be more natural to change the order of this sentence and say, “As long as the earth exists, {each year} there will always be a season/time to plant seeds and a season/time to harvest {crops}, as well as cold {weather} and hot {weather}, winter and summer, and day and night.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 9
Genesis 9:1
Then God blessed Noah and his sons
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֱלֹהִ֔ים אֶת נֹ֖חַ וְאֶת בָּנָ֑יו (1)“Then God showed favor to Noah and his sons” or “Then God caused Noah and his sons to prosper/flourish”. See how you translated “blessed” in Gen 1:22, 28.
and said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר לָהֶ֛ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“by saying to them,” or “by saying,” or “He said,” The phrase “blessed … and said” is a Hebrew expression that refers to one event and emphasizes it. It does not refer to two separate events. The words of the blessing are in verses 1-7. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 1:28.
Be fruitful
Quote: פְּר֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Bear/Have many children” or “You will bear/have many children”
and multiply
Quote: וּרְב֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
“so that you {and your descendants} {will} multiply/increase {greatly} {in number}” or “so that you {and your descendants} {will} become {very} numerous/many”. See how you translated “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” in Gen 1:28.
and fill the earth
Quote: וּמִלְא֥וּ אֶת הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“and fill the earth {with people}.” or “and inhabit the whole earth.” or “and live/spread all over the earth/world.”
Genesis 9:2
And the fear of you and the dread of you will be on every living thing of the earth
Quote: וּמוֹרַאֲכֶ֤ם וְחִתְּכֶם֙ יִֽהְיֶ֔ה עַ֚ל כָּל חַיַּ֣ת הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
“Every living thing/creature on the earth will be afraid and terrified of you,” or “All the animals on earth will be very/terribly afraid of you,” The phrase “the fear … and the dread” repeats the same idea in two different ways to emphasize how afraid the creatures will be. For some languages it may be better to combine the phrase and say “very afraid/terrified”. Do what is best in your language.
including on every bird of
Quote: וְעַ֖ל כָּל ע֣וֹף (1)“including every bird {that flies} in the sky/air,” or “including all the birds {that fly} in the sky/air,” The birds, moving creatures, and fish are all included in the general category of living creatures. Consider again how you translated “birds of the sky” in the book of Genesis; see Gen 1:26, 28, 30; 2:19-20; 6:7; 7:3, 23; 9:2.
on everything that moves
Quote: בְּכֹל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּרְמֹ֧שׂ (1)“{along} with every creature/animal that moves/lives on land” or “as well as all creatures/animals that move/live on land,”
on the ground
Quote: הָֽאֲדָמָ֛ה (1)“on land,”
and on all the fish of the sea
Quote: וּֽבְכָל דְּגֵ֥י הַיָּ֖ם (1)“and all the fish in the sea/ocean.”
Into your hand they are given
Quote: בְּיֶדְכֶ֥ם נִתָּֽנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I have put them {all} under your authority.” or “I have put you in charge of them {all}.” The phrase “into your hand” means God was again giving mankind the responsibility to manage and control all the rest of what God had created. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would work well here.
Genesis 9:3
Every moving creature that lives
Quote: כָּל רֶ֨מֶשׂ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הוּא חַ֔י (1)“{From now on} every {kind of} living creature/thing that moves” or “{From now on} every creature/animal that is alive and moves”. See how you translated “every moving creature” in Gen 1:26, and see the note about that there. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways in different contexts.
will be for you for food
Quote: לָכֶ֥ם יִהְיֶ֖ה לְאָכְלָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“is yours {to eat} as food.” or “is available for you {to eat} as food.” For some languages it is more natural to change the order of this sentence and say, “You may {now} have/eat any {kind of} living creature that moves, for food.” or “{I now permit} you to eat every/any {kind of} living creature that moves.” Do what is best in your language.
Just as the green plants
Quote: כְּיֶ֣רֶק עֵ֔שֶׂב (1)“green plants {for food},” or “plants {to eat},” Consider again how you translated “green plants” in Gen 1:30, and how you translated “plants” in Gen 1:11-12, 29; 2:5; 3:18; 9:3.
I give you everything
Quote: נָתַ֥תִּי לָכֶ֖ם אֶת כֹּֽל (1)“{now} I give/provide you everything {for food}.” or “{so now} I permit you to eat everything.” or “{so now} I permit you to eat both plants and animals.” Make sure that the way you translate this phrase means that God is now permitting people to eat both plants and animals.
Genesis 9:4
But
Quote: אַךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“However,” God is putting a limit on the way that people may eat meat.
you must not eat flesh
Quote: בָּשָׂ֕ר & לֹ֥א תֹאכֵֽלוּ (1)“you must never eat {animal} flesh/meat”
with its life, {that is,} its blood
Quote: בְּנַפְשׁ֥וֹ דָמ֖וֹ (1)“that still has its life {in it}, {which is in} its blood.” or “with its blood {in it}, which made it live.” or “that still has its lifeblood {in it}.” Since life is in the blood, God did not want people to eat meat that still had its blood in it. Rather he wanted them to drain it out first before they cooked it (also see Deuteronomy 12:16, 23). You could put that information in a footnote.
Genesis 9:5
And surely I will demand your blood for your lives
Quote: וְאַ֨ךְ אֶת דִּמְכֶ֤ם לְנַפְשֹֽׁתֵיכֶם֙ אֶדְרֹ֔שׁ (1)“Also, I will definitely require an accounting/reckoning for your lifeblood.” or “Also, I definitely require that anyone who murders someone must die.”
From the hand of every living thing
Quote: מִיַּ֥ד כָּל חַיָּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“From every/any animal {that kills a person}” or “{In fact,} if any animal {kills a human being},” In this verse, the phrase “the hand of” refers to the animal or the person that is responsible for killing someone.
I will demand it
Quote: אֶדְרְשֶׁ֑נּוּ (1)“I will demand/require its blood/life,” or “I require it to be killed,” or “I demand/require that it must die,”
and from the hand of mankind
Quote: וּמִיַּ֣ד הָֽאָדָ֗ם (1)“{That is also true} for human beings:” or “and {that is also true} for human beings.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
from the hand of a man {who kills
Quote: מִיַּד֙ אִ֣ישׁ (1)“If a man/person {kills/murders}” or “If anyone {kills/murders}”
his brother
Quote: אָחִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“his/a fellow human being,” or “another person,” This phrase is used here as a general reference to any human being, not just biological brothers.
I will demand the life of the man
Quote: אֶדְרֹ֖שׁ אֶת נֶ֥פֶשׁ הָֽאָדָֽם (1)“I require him to be executed/killed.” or “I demand/require that he must die.”
Genesis 9:6
The one shedding
Quote: שֹׁפֵךְ֙ (1)“{That’s right,} whoever” or “{Yes/Indeed,} if anyone/someone”. The first half of verse 6 repeats and summarizes verse 5.
The one shedding the blood of
Quote: שֹׁפֵךְ֙ דַּ֣ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{That’s right,} whoever spills the blood of” or “{Yes/Indeed,} if anyone/someone kills/murders” or “Whoever takes the life of”. The first half of verse 6 repeats and summarizes verse 5. The phrase “sheds the blood of” is an idiom that means to deliberately kill someone. Blood is an important concept in this passage and throughout the Bible so, if possible, it is best to keep this term in a translation. If that is not possible, you should put the literal text in a footnote.
a man
Quote: הָֽאָדָ֔ם (1)“a person,” or “another human being,” or “someone,”
by mankind his blood must be shed
Quote: בָּֽאָדָ֖ם דָּמ֣וֹ יִשָּׁפֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“people/you must execute him,” or “people/you must put him to death,” or “he must be executed,” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “{That’s right,} you must put to death anyone who murders a human being, because {I,} God, made human beings in my own image.” Do what is best in your language.
because in the image of God he made mankind
Quote: כִּ֚י בְּצֶ֣לֶם אֱלֹהִ֔ים עָשָׂ֖ה אֶת הָאָדָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“because {I,} God made/created mankind/people in my {own} image.” or “because I created human beings to be like myself.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is referring to himself in this clause. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 1:27.
Genesis 9:7
And you
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֖ם (1)“And/Now {as for} you,” or “As for you,” In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “you” is emphatic and has an emphatic position in the sentence (before the verb) to introduce a new topic. Consider what is the best way in your language to begin a new paragraph like this.
be fruitful
Quote: פְּר֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“bear/have many children”. See how you translated “be fruitful and multiply” in verse 1.
and multiply
Quote: וּרְב֑וּ (1)“so that you {and your descendants} become {very} numerous/many.” or “so that you have many descendants.”
Abound on the earth
Quote: שִׁרְצ֥וּ בָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“Spread out all over the earth” or “Live all over the earth”
and multiply
Quote: וּרְבוּ (1)“and multiply/increase {in numbers}” or “and become numerous”
on it
Quote: בָֽהּ (1)“throughout it.” or “everywhere.”
Genesis 9:8
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“Then God continued speaking”
to Noah and to his sons with him, saying
Quote: אֶל נֹ֔חַ וְאֶל בָּנָ֥יו אִתּ֖וֹ לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“to Noah and his sons {who were} with him, and said,” or “to Noah and his sons,” or “to them,” God is still speaking to the same people. This phrase emphasizes what he says next to them.
Genesis 9:9
And I, behold, I
Quote: וַאֲנִ֕י הִנְנִ֥י (1)“Now listen {carefully} to me: I” or “Listen {carefully} to me: I” See how you translated “behold” in Gen 1:29, 4:14, 6:13, 17. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
am establishing
Quote: מֵקִ֛ים (1)“am making/instituting” or “am setting up”. See how you translated “establish my covenant with” in Gen 6:18, and see the note about that there.
my covenant with you and with your offspring after you
Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖י אִתְּכֶ֑ם וְאֶֽת זַרְעֲכֶ֖ם אַֽחֲרֵיכֶֽם (1)“my/a {special/peace} covenant/agreement with you and your offspring/descendants {who come/live} after you,” or “my/a covenant/agreement between me and you and your offspring/descendants,” Notice that the pronouns “you” and “your” are plural throughout verses 2-15, since God is speaking to Noah and his sons.
Genesis 9:10
and with
Quote: וְאֵ֨ת (1)“along with” or “{It is} also with” or “{The covenant/agreement is} also with”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to break up this long sentence and begin a new sentence here.
every living creature that {is} with you
Quote: כָּל נֶ֤פֶשׁ הַֽחַיָּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתְּכֶ֔ם (1)“all the living creatures that {are} with you:”
with the birds, with the livestock
Quote: בָּע֧וֹף בַּבְּהֵמָ֛ה (1)“including the birds, the livestock,”
and with every living thing of the earth
Quote: וּֽבְכָל חַיַּ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“and all the {other} living things/creatures from/on the earth” or “and all the wild animals”
with you
Quote: אִתְּכֶ֑ם (1)“{that are} with you,”
from all that came out of the ark
Quote: מִכֹּל֙ יֹצְאֵ֣י הַתֵּבָ֔ה (1)“{That includes} all {those} that came/went out of the ark”. The words “from … to …” are used to emphasize that all the animals are included in God’s covenant. Consider what is the best way to express that in your language.
to every living thing
Quote: לְכֹ֖ל חַיַּ֥ת (1)“and all the living things/creatures” or “and all the creatures/animals”
of the earth
Quote: הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{that live} on the earth.” or “{that will ever live} on the earth.”
Genesis 9:11
And I am establishing my covenant with you
Quote: וַהֲקִמֹתִ֤י אֶת בְּרִיתִי֙ אִתְּכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“My/The covenant/agreement that I am establishing/making/instituting with you is that”. See how you translated “my covenant” and “establish” in verse 9.
that never again … all flesh
Quote: וְלֹֽא & כָּל בָּשָׂ֛ר ע֖וֹד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“never again will all life” or “never again will all living creatures/things”. The phrase “all flesh” refers here to all people and animals.
will … be cut off
Quote: יִכָּרֵ֧ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“be killed/destroyed by” or “be wiped out by” or “die from”
by the waters of a flood
Quote: מִמֵּ֣י הַמַּבּ֑וּל (1)“water from a flood,” or “a flood,” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 7:10.
and never again will there be a flood
Quote: וְלֹֽא יִהְיֶ֥ה ע֛וֹד מַבּ֖וּל (1)“That’s right, never again will {I use/cause} a flood” or “{I promise that} I will never again use/cause a flood”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to destroy
Quote: לְשַׁחֵ֥ת (1)“that destroys”. See how you translated “destroying” in Gen 6:13.
the earth
Quote: הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{life/everything on} the earth.” or “{all living creatures on} the earth.” This phrase refers here to everything that lives on the earth.
Genesis 9:12
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God {also} said {to them},” or “Then God added/continued,” or “Then God continued talking/speaking {to Noah and his sons},” God is still talking to the same people, but a quote margin (“Then God said”) is added here to emphasize the new topic (“the sign of the covenant”). For some languages it is more natural to leave this quote margin implied and just have a paragraph break. See what you did for a similar case in verse 8.
This {is} the sign of the covenant that I am making
Quote: זֹ֤את אֽוֹת הַבְּרִית֙ אֲשֶׁר אֲנִ֣י נֹתֵ֗ן (1)“This {is} the sign {which shows} {that I promise to always keep} the covenant/agreement that I am making/establishing” or “This is how I will show/remind {everyone} that I have made/established this covenant/agreement”
between me and you and every living creature that {is} with you
Quote: בֵּינִי֙ וּבֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם וּבֵ֛ין כָּל נֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתְּכֶ֑ם (1)“with you and with all the living creatures that {are} with you,”
for generations forever
Quote: לְדֹרֹ֖ת עוֹלָֽם (1)“for all future generations:” or “and with all generations to come:” or “as well as with all the people and creatures/animals that will ever live:”
Genesis 9:13
I have set my rainbow
Quote: אֶת קַשְׁתִּ֕י נָתַ֖תִּי (1)“I have/will put my rainbow” or “I am setting/putting/placing my rainbow”
in the clouds
Quote: בֶּֽעָנָ֑ן (1)“among the clouds {in the sky},”
and it will be the sign of
Quote: וְהָֽיְתָה֙ לְא֣וֹת (1)“where it will show/remind {everyone}” or “to show/remind {everyone}” or “and/where it will serve/function as the sign {which shows}”. See how you translated “the sign of the covenant” in verse 12.
the covenant between me and
Quote: בְּרִ֔ית בֵּינִ֖י וּבֵ֥ין (1)“that I have made/established my/this covenant/agreement with” or “that I promise/vow/pledge to {always} keep my/this covenant/agreement with”
the earth
Quote: הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{every living thing on} the earth.” or “{every creature that lives on} the earth.” This phrase refers here to mankind and all the animals. See how you translated the same phrase in verse 11.
Genesis 9:14
And it will be when I bring clouds
Quote: וְהָיָ֕ה בְּעַֽנְנִ֥י עָנָ֖ן (1)“So it will be/happen {that} whenever I bring/gather clouds {together}” or “So whenever I cause clouds to form/appear”
over the earth
Quote: עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{in the sky} over/above the earth”
and the rainbow is seen in the clouds
Quote: וְנִרְאֲתָ֥ה הַקֶּ֖שֶׁת בֶּעָנָֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and the/a rainbow appears/forms among the clouds,” or “and you see the/a rainbow in/among the clouds,” Consider whether it is better in your language to use a passive or active verb here.
Genesis 9:15
then I will remember my covenant
Quote: וְזָכַרְתִּ֣י אֶת בְּרִיתִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“then I will remember {and keep} my/the covenant/agreement” or “then I will not forget {to keep/fulfill} my/the covenant/treaty”. See how you translated “remember” in Gen 8:1. It may need to be translated differently in different contexts.
that {is} between me and you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר בֵּינִי֙ וּבֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“that {I have established/made} between me and you” or “that I have established/made with you”
and every living creature of all flesh
Quote: וּבֵ֛ין כָּל נֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּ֖ה בְּכָל בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and all living creatures of every kind,” or “and all the animals, including all the different kinds,” or (2) “and all {other} living creatures, including all people and animals,”
and never again will waters become a flood to destroy
Quote: וְלֹֽא יִֽהְיֶ֨ה ע֤וֹד הַמַּ֨יִם֙ לְמַבּ֔וּל לְשַׁחֵ֖ת (1)“that never again will there be a flood that destroys” or “{I promise/vow/pledge} that never again will I use/cause a flood to destroy”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that this last clause in verse 15 is what God promised in his covenant. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
all flesh
Quote: כָּל־בָּשָֽׂר (1)“all life.” or “all living creatures.” or “all people and animals.”
Genesis 9:16
So the rainbow will be
Quote: וְהָיְתָ֥ה הַקֶּ֖שֶׁת (1)“So/Yes, whenever the/a rainbow appears/forms” or “{That is how it will be:} Whenever there is a rainbow”. In verse 16, God repeats and emphasizes what he said in verses 12-15.
in the clouds
Quote: בֶּֽעָנָ֑ן (1)“among the clouds,” See how you translated this phrase in verses 13 and 14.
and I will see it
Quote: וּרְאִיתִ֗יהָ (1)“I will see it” or “I will look at it”
to remember
Quote: לִזְכֹּר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and keep/fulfill” or “and not forget {to keep/fulfill}”. See how you translated “remember” in verse 15.
the everlasting covenant
Quote: בְּרִ֣ית עוֹלָ֔ם (1)“{my} never-ending/permanent covenant/agreement” or “the/{my} covenant/agreement that lasts forever” or “the/{my} covenant/agreement that never ends”
between God and
Quote: בֵּ֣ין אֱלֹהִ֔ים וּבֵין֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“between me and” or “which I have established/made with”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is referring to himself here.
every living creature, with all flesh
Quote: כָּל נֶ֣פֶשׁ חַיָּ֔ה בְּכָל בָּשָׂ֖ר (1)“all living creatures/beings/things of every kind” or “all people and all animals”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 15 and how you translated “every living creature” in verses 10 and 12.
that {is} on the earth
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“that {live/are} on the earth.” or “that {live} in the world.”
Genesis 9:17
Then God said to Noah
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל נֹ֑חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Finally, God said to Noah,” or “Then God {concluded/finished} by saying to Noah,”
That {is
Quote: זֹ֤את (1)“A rainbow {is}”
the sign of the covenant that I have established
Quote: אֽוֹת הַבְּרִית֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הֲקִמֹ֔תִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“the sign {which shows} {that I promise to always keep} the covenant/agreement that I am establishing/making” or “what I will uses to show/remind {everyone} that I have established/made/instituted this covenant/agreement/treaty”. See how you translated a similar clause in verse 12. In that verse God is explaining the rainbow for the first time, whereas here in verse 17, he is pointing back to what he just said about the rainbow in order to emphasize its importance. Also, consider again how you translated “covenant” in verses 9, 11-13, 15-17.
between me and
Quote: בֵּינִ֕י וּבֵ֥ין (1)“with”
all flesh that {is} on the earth
Quote: כָּל בָּשָׂ֖ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“all living creatures/things.” or “all the people and creatures/animals that {are/live} on the earth.” Consider again how you translated “all flesh” when it includes people and animals. See Gen 6:12-13, 17; 7:21; 9:11, 15-17. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways in different contexts.
Genesis 9:18
the sons of Noah
Quote: בְנֵי נֹ֗חַ (1)“Noah’s sons” or “{The names of} Noah’s sons”
the ark
Quote: הַתֵּבָ֔ה (1)“who went out of/from the ark/boat {after the flood}” or “who disembarked from …” or “who got off …” Be consistent here with how you translated “ark/boat” in chapters 6-8, and see the note about this at Gen 6:14.
And … were Shem and Ham and Japheth
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֣וּ & שֵׁ֖ם וְחָ֣ם וָיָ֑פֶת (1)“were Shem, Ham, and Japheth;” Consider what is the best way to list names in your language.
and Ham, he
Quote: וְחָ֕ם ה֖וּא (1)“it was Ham who” or “Ham was the one who”. The pronoun “he” is emphatic here, emphasizing that Ham was the father of Canaan, who is probably mentioned here because he was well known as the ancestor of the Canaanites and the one whom the land/region of Canaan was named after.
was} the father of Canaan
Quote: אֲבִ֥י כְנָֽעַן (1)“{was} Canaan’s father.” or “fathered Canaan.”
Genesis 9:19
Those three {were} the sons of Noah, and from them the whole earth was overspread
Quote: שְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵי נֹ֑חַ וּמֵאֵ֖לֶּה נָֽפְצָ֥ה כָל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“It was from Noah’s three sons that the entire earth was populated {again}.” or “It was the descendants of Noah’s three sons who populated the entire earth {again}.”
Genesis 9:20
Now Noah, a man of the soil, began and planted
Quote: וַיָּ֥חֶל נֹ֖חַ אִ֣ישׁ הָֽאֲדָמָ֑ה וַיִּטַּ֖ע (1)“Now {later on,} Noah,” or “After a while, Noah,” or “Noah,” Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce or begin a new episode here. The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{who was} a farmer, began/started {farming} and planted” or “{who was} a farmer, was the first {man/person} to plant” or (2) “began {to be} a farmer and planted” or “became a farmer and planted”
a vineyard
Quote: כָּֽרֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{some} grapevines {and made wine from the grapes}.” or “a field/garden with grapevines. {And he made wine from the grapes.}” It is implied that Noah made wine from the grapes (verse 21). If necessary, you could make that explicit here. Also, if grapes are not known in your language area, you could say “vines/plants with a fruit called grapes”, or you could put in a footnote information about grapes, including how they are squeezed and how the juice is fermented to make wine.
Genesis 9:21
Then he drank some of the wine
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שְׁתְּ מִן הַיַּ֖יִן (1)“Then {one day} he drank {too much of} the wine,” or “{One day} he drank a lot of the wine,”
and he became drunk, and he uncovered himself
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכָּ֑ר וַיִּתְגַּ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“so that he became drunk and was {lying} naked” or “so that he became so intoxicated/drunk that he {fell asleep} uncovered/naked”. It is implied from verse 24 that Noah had fallen asleep.
inside his tent
Quote: בְּת֥וֹךְ אָהֳלֹֽה (1)See how you translated “tent” in Gen 4:20.
Genesis 9:22
Then Ham, the father of Canaan, saw
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא חָ֚ם אֲבִ֣י כְנַ֔עַן (1)“Ham, {who was} Canaan’s father, saw”
the nakedness of his father
Quote: אֵ֖ת עֶרְוַ֣ת אָבִ֑יו (1)“that his father was naked/uncovered,”
and he told his two brothers outside
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֥ד לִשְׁנֵֽי אֶחָ֖יו בַּחֽוּץ (1)“and he went outside and told his two brothers {about it}.” or “and he went out and told his two brothers {that their father was drunk and naked}.”
Genesis 9:23
But Shem and Japheth took
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֩ שֵׁ֨ם וָיֶ֜פֶת (1)“However/Then Shem and Japheth took”
a garment
Quote: אֶת הַשִּׂמְלָ֗ה (1)“a robe/cloak,” This garment would have probably been fairly large, big enough to cover Noah’s body.
and laid it across the shoulders of the two of them
Quote: וַיָּשִׂ֨ימוּ֙ עַל שְׁכֶ֣ם שְׁנֵיהֶ֔ם (1)“put it {between them} over their shoulders” or “held it {between them} at shoulder level”
and walked backward
Quote: וַיֵּֽלְכוּ֙ אֲחֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית (1)“and walked/went backward {into the tent}”
and covered the nakedness of their father
Quote: וַיְכַסּ֕וּ אֵ֖ת עֶרְוַ֣ת אֲבִיהֶ֑ם (1)“and covered their father’s naked body {with it}.” or “and used it to cover their naked father.”
And their faces were turned away
Quote: וּפְנֵיהֶם֙ אֲחֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית (1)“{As they did that,} they kept their faces/eyes turned/looking away {from him},” or “{As they did that,} they looked away {from him},”
so that they did not see the nakedness of their father
Quote: וְעֶרְוַ֥ת אֲבִיהֶ֖ם לֹ֥א רָאֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“so that they did/would not see his nakedness.” or “so that they did/would not see him naked.” Consider whether it is better here in your language to refer to Noah with a noun phrase or a pronoun.
Genesis 9:24
Then Noah woke up
Quote: וַיִּ֥יקֶץ נֹ֖חַ (1)“Later Noah/he woke up”
from his wine
Quote: מִיֵּינ֑וֹ (1)“{sober} from {the effects of} the wine,” or “from being drunk,” or “sober,”
and he learned
Quote: וַיֵּ֕דַע (1)“and he found out” or “and he heard {about}”. The text does not say how Noah found out about this, so it is best to not be too specific about that here in your translation.
what his youngest son had done to him
Quote: אֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר עָ֥שָׂה ל֖וֹ בְּנ֥וֹ הַקָּטָֽן (1)“that his youngest son {Ham} had dishonored/disrespected/mocked him,”
Genesis 9:25
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So he exclaimed {about him/Ham},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Cursed be
Quote: אָר֣וּר (1)“I {hereby} {ask God to} curse” or “May God curse”
Canaan
Quote: כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{Ham’s son} Canaan!” In verses 25-27, Canaan probably represents Ham and all of Ham’s descendants (the Canaanites), who will serve Shem and Japheth and all their descendants. You could put that information in a footnote.
He will be
Quote: יִֽהְיֶ֥ה (1)“Canaan will be” or “{I declare/proclaim that} he/Canaan will be”
a slave of slaves
Quote: עֶ֥בֶד עֲבָדִ֖ים (1)“the lowest slave/servant”. The Hebrew word here can mean either “slave” or “servant”. Slaves in the Old Testament were usually treated well and were not much different than servants, sometimes even becoming like members of their owner’s family. But they were of lower status than their masters, which is part of how Ham’s family is being cursed.
for his brothers
Quote: לְאֶחָֽיו (1)“for his/Canaan’s relatives.” Verses 26 and 27 show that “his brothers” probably refers here to Shem and Japheth (who were Canaan’s uncles) and their descendants.
Genesis 9:26
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he/Noah {also} said,” or “He/Noah also said,”
Praised be Yahweh
Quote: בָּר֥וּךְ יְהֹוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Praise Yahweh,” or “I praise Yahweh,” Although many English translations have “Blessed be” here instead of “Praised be,” the word used in the Hebrew text means “praise” when people are acting towards God (as here), and it means “bless” when God is acting towards people (as in Gen 1:28; 5:2; 9:1).
the God of Shem
Quote: אֱלֹ֣הֵי שֵׁ֑ם (1)“{who is} Shem’s God!” or “{who is} the God whom Shem worships/serves!” or “{who is} the God who takes care of Shem!”
And may Canaan be
Quote: וִיהִ֥י כְנַ֖עַן (1)“May he/God cause Canaan to be” or “May he/God make Canaan” or “I ask him/God to make Canaan”
a slave for him
Quote: עֶ֥בֶד לָֽמוֹ (1)“a servant for him/Shem.” or “his/Shem’s slave/servant.”
Genesis 9:27
May God enlarge Japheth
Quote: יַ֤פְתְּ אֱלֹהִים֙ לְיֶ֔פֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“I {also} ask God to enlarge/expand Japheth’s {territory},” or “I {also} pray that God will make Japheth{’s territory} larger,” or “… give Japheth more/much {land},” In this context, “Japheth” refers to the territory or land where he lived.
and may he live
Quote: וְיִשְׁכֹּ֖ן (1)“and enable him {and his family/descendants} to live”
in the tents of Shem
Quote: בְּאָֽהֳלֵי שֵׁ֑ם (1)“together {in harmony/peace} with Shem {and his family/descendants}.” or “peacefully among Shem {and his family/descendants}.”
And may Canaan be
Quote: וִיהִ֥י כְנַ֖עַן (1)“May God {also} cause Canaan to be” or “I {also} ask God to make Canaan” or “Canaan will {also} be”. See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 26.
a slave for him
Quote: עֶ֥בֶד לָֽמוֹ (1)“a servant for him/Japheth.” or “his/Japheth’s slave/servant.” Compare how you translated “slave” or “servant” in verses 25-27.
Genesis 9:28
after the flood
Quote: אַחַ֣ר הַמַּבּ֑וּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“After/From {the time that} the flood {began},” or “After/From {the beginning of} the flood,” Notice that this phrase refers to when the flood began, when Noah was 600 years old (Gen 7:6), not when it ended a year later, when he was 601 years old (8:13), since he was 950 when he died (verse 29), not 951.
And … Noah lived 350 years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי נֹ֖חַ & שְׁלֹ֤שׁ מֵאוֹת֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וַֽחֲמִשִּׁ֖ים שָׁנָֽה (1)“Noah lived {another} 350 years.” or “Noah lived 350 {more} years.”
Genesis 9:29
So all the days of Noah were
Quote: וַיִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵי נֹ֔חַ (1)“so that Noah/he lived a total of 950 years,” or “So all together Noah lived 950 years,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated Gen 5:31, which is similar to 9:29.
and he died
Quote: וַיָּמֹֽת (1)“and {then} he died.” or “before he died.”
Genesis 10
Genesis 10:1
Now these {are} the generations of
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת (1)“This/Here is the genealogy/list/record of {the names of}”. This sentence begins a new section.
the sons of Noah: Shem, Ham, and Japheth
Quote: בְּנֵי נֹ֔חַ שֵׁ֖ם חָ֣ם וָיָ֑פֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Noah’s sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth,” Give special attention to the best way in your language to spell all the names in this chapter.
and sons were born to them
Quote: וַיִּוָּלְד֥וּ לָהֶ֛ם בָּנִ֖ים (1)“and their sons {and other descendants} who were born” or “and the sons/descendants they had”. The following record includes the names of Noah’s sons and grandsons and their descendants (including some of the people groups who came from them).
after the flood
Quote: אַחַ֥ר הַמַּבּֽוּל (1)“after the flood {was over/gone}.”
Genesis 10:2
The sons of Japheth {were
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יֶ֔פֶת (1)“{The names of} Japheth’s sons {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Japheth’s sons:” Throughout this chapter, many translations have a colon (:) instead of “{were}”. Do what is best in your language.
Gomer and Magog and Madai and Javan and Tubal and Meshech and Tiras
Quote: גֹּ֣מֶר וּמָג֔וֹג וּמָדַ֖י וְיָוָ֣ן וְתֻבָ֑ל וּמֶ֖שֶׁךְ וְתִירָֽס (1)“Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Jubal, Meshech, and Tiras.” Translate the lists of names in this chapter in a way that is natural in your language.
Genesis 10:3
And the sons of Gomer {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י גֹּ֑מֶר (1)“{The names of} Gomer’s sons {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Gomer’s sons:”
Ashkenaz and Riphath and Togarmah
Quote: אַשְׁכֲּנַ֥ז וְרִיפַ֖ת וְתֹגַרְמָֽה (1)“{named} Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah.”
Genesis 10:4
And the sons of Javan {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֥י יָוָ֖ן (1)“{The names of} Javan’s sons/descendants {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Javan’s sons:” Compare how you translated a similar clause in verses 2 and 3.
Elishah and Tarshish
Quote: אֱלִישָׁ֣ה וְתַרְשִׁ֑ישׁ (1)“{named} Elishah and Tarshish, {and he was the ancestor of}”. These are the names of Javan’s sons, but the next two names are the names of people groups that descended from him.
the Kittim and the Dodanim
Quote: כִּתִּ֖ים וְדֹדָנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the Kittites and the Dodanites.” or “the Kitt people {group} and the Dodan people {group}.” Most translation teams transliterate people group names in the Bible, but handle the suffix endings in different ways. For example, you could: (1) transliterate the Hebrew plural suffix “-im”; or (2) use a suffix that your language has for names of people groups (such as “-ites” in English); or (3) translate “-im” as “people” or “people/ethnic group.” Try to be consistent in how you handle people group names throughout this chapter and the rest of the book of Genesis.
Genesis 10:5
From those
Quote: מֵ֠אֵלֶּה (1)“From those/Japheth’s {descendants}”. This phrase probably refers to Japheth’s descendants (verses 2-4), especially since the descendants of his brothers Ham (verse 20) and Shem (verse 31) are summarized in a similar way.
the coastland peoples spread out
Quote: נִפְרְד֞וּ אִיֵּ֤י הַגּוֹיִם֙ (1)“came the people groups who lived {in regions} near/beside the {Mediterranean} Sea. They moved to different places {and settled}”
into their lands
Quote: בְּאַרְצֹתָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“in their {own} territories/regions,”
each with its own language
Quote: אִ֖ישׁ לִלְשֹׁנ֑וֹ (1)“and each {group} spoke its own language,” or “They all developed/spoke their own languages,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to break up this long sentence and start a new sentence here (or later in this verse).
according to their clans
Quote: לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם (1)“and each of them lived in their {own} {extended} families,” or “They each had their {own} family groups,” The word “clan” refers to a group of families who are descended from a common ancestor.
in their nations
Quote: בְּגוֹיֵהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and they formed/became their own people/ethnic groups.” or “which {grew/multiplied and} became their own {distinct} people/ethnic groups.” The word “nations” refers here to people groups, not countries. Also, for some languages it may be clearer to change the order of the phrases in this verse and say, “Japheth’s descendants spread out and settled near/by the {Mediterranean} Sea. They all formed their own family groups, which {grew/multiplied and} became their own people groups that spoke their own languages and lived in their own territories/regions.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 10:6
And the sons of Ham {were} Cush
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י חָ֑ם כּ֥וּשׁ (1)“{The names of} Ham’s sons {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Ham’s sons:”
Cush and Mizraim and Put and Canaan
Quote: כּ֥וּשׁ וּמִצְרַ֖יִם וּפ֥וּט וּכְנָֽעַן (1)“Cush, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan.”
Genesis 10:7
And the sons of Cush {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י כ֔וּשׁ (1)“{The names of} Cush’s sons {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Cush’s sons:”
Seba and Havilah and Sabtah and Raamah and Sabteca
Quote: סְבָא֙ וַֽחֲוִילָ֔ה וְסַבְתָּ֥ה וְרַעְמָ֖ה וְסַבְתְּכָ֑א (1)“Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabtecah.”
And the sons of Raamah {were} Sheba and Dedan
Quote: וּבְנֵ֥י רַעְמָ֖ה שְׁבָ֥א וּדְדָֽן (1)“And Raamah’s sons {were} Sheba and Dedan.” or “{The names of} Raamah’s sons {were} Sheba and Dedan.”
Genesis 10:8
Cush also fathered Nimrod
Quote: וְכ֖וּשׁ יָלַ֣ד אֶת נִמְרֹ֑ד (1)“Cush also fathered/had {a son named} Nimrod,” See how you translated “fathered” in Gen 6:10, and how you translated a phrase in 10:1 (“were born to”) that has a similar meaning.
who began to be
Quote: ה֣וּא הֵחֵ֔ל לִֽהְי֥וֹת (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “who was the first {person/man/one} to be” or (2) “who became”
mighty
Quote: גִּבֹּ֖ר (1)“a powerful {warrior/conqueror}” or “a powerful {ruler/king}”. There were other mighty men before Nimrod, but apparently he was the first one to have a kingdom (verse 10).
on the earth
Quote: בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“on earth.” or “in the world.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier and say, “who was the first {person/man} on earth to be/become a powerful ruler/warrior.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 10:9
He was a mighty hunter
Quote: הֽוּא הָיָ֥ה גִבֹּֽר צַ֖יִד (1)“He/Nimrod was {also} a great/excellent hunter”
before Yahweh
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)“whom Yahweh blessed/helped.” or “because Yahweh helped him.”
For that reason
Quote: עַל כֵּן֙ (1)“That is why”
it is said
Quote: יֵֽאָמַ֔ר (1)“people say {about other great men},” or “people/we have the/this saying/expression {about other great men}:” This phrase indicates that what follows was a well-known saying that was used by people to praise or compliment other great men by comparing them to Nimrod.
Like Nimrod
Quote: כְּנִמְרֹ֛ד (1)“{That man is} like Nimrod,” or “{So and so is} like Nimrod,”
He was a mighty hunter
Quote: הֽוּא־הָיָ֥ה גִבֹּֽר צַ֖יִד (1)“He/Nimrod was {also} a great/excellent hunter”
before Yahweh
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)“whom Yahweh blessed/helped.” or “because Yahweh helped him.” Be consistent here with how you translated this phrase earlier in verse 9.
Genesis 10:10
And the beginning of his kingdom was
Quote: וַתְּהִ֨י רֵאשִׁ֤ית מַמְלַכְתּוֹ֙ (1)“His/Nimrod’s kingdom began with him ruling {over}” or “He/Nimrod started ruling as king {over}” or “The first cities that he/Nimrod ruled as king were”
Babel and Erech and Akkad and Calneh
Quote: בָּבֶ֔ל וְאֶ֖רֶךְ וְאַכַּ֣ד וְכַלְנֵ֑ה (1)“{the cities of} Babel, Erech, Akkad, and Calneh,”
in the land of Shinar
Quote: בְּאֶ֖רֶץ שִׁנְעָֽר (1)“{which were all located} in the land/region of/called Shinar.” Shinar is another name for the land/country of Babylonia. You could put that information in a footnote.
Genesis 10:11
From that land
Quote: מִן הָאָ֥רֶץ הַהִ֖וא (1)“From that region” or “From the land/region of Shinar” or “From there”
he went to Asshur
Quote: יָצָ֣א אַשּׁ֑וּר (1)“he/Nimrod went/moved to {the land/region of/called} Asshur/Assyria,” See how you translated “{the land/region of/called} Asshur/Assyria” in Gen 2:14.
and he built
Quote: וַיִּ֨בֶן֙ (1)“and {there} he built” or “where he built”
Nineveh and Rehoboth-Ir and Calah
Quote: אֶת נִ֣ינְוֵ֔ה וְאֶת רְחֹבֹ֥ת עִ֖יר וְאֶת כָּֽלַח (1)“{the cities of} Nineveh, Rehoboth-Ir, Calah,”
Genesis 10:12
and Resen, between Nineveh and Calah, which {is} the great city
Quote: וְֽאֶת רֶ֔סֶן בֵּ֥ין נִֽינְוֵ֖ה וּבֵ֣ין כָּ֑לַח הִ֖וא הָעִ֥יר הַגְּדֹלָֽה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and Resen, {which is located} between {the cities of} Nineveh and the great city of Calah.” or (2) “and Resen, {which is} the great city {located} between {the cities of} Nineveh and Calah.”
Genesis 10:13
And Mizraim fathered
Quote: וּמִצְרַ֡יִם יָלַ֞ד (1)“Mizraim was the father/ancestor of”
the Ludim and the Anamim and the Lehabim and the Naphtuhim
Quote: אֶת לוּדִ֧ים וְאֶת עֲנָמִ֛ים וְאֶת לְהָבִ֖ים וְאֶת נַפְתֻּחִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the Ludites, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites,” Throughout verses 13-18, translate the names of people groups in a way that is clear and natural in your language. See what you did in verse 4. Also consider what is the best way in your language to list the names in these verses. Some languages use a conjunction (like “and”) between names, while other languages only use a conjunction before the last name in the list, with commas between the other names.
Genesis 10:14
and the Pathrusim and the Casluhim (whom the Philistim came from) and the Caphtorim
Quote: וְֽאֶת פַּתְרֻסִ֞ים וְאֶת כַּסְלֻחִ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָצְא֥וּ מִשָּׁ֛ם פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים וְאֶת כַּפְתֹּרִֽים (1)“Pathrusites, Casluhites (whom the Philistines came/descended from), and Caphtorites.” or “Pathrusites, Casluhites, and Caphtorites. The Philistines came/descended from the Casluhites.”
Genesis 10:15
And Canaan fathered
Quote: וּכְנַ֗עַן יָלַ֛ד (1)“Canaan fathered/had”. See how you translated “fathered” in verses 8 and 13.
Sidon his firstborn
Quote: אֶת צִידֹ֥ן בְּכֹר֖וֹ (1)“Sidon {who was} his firstborn {son},”
then Heth
Quote: וְאֶת חֵֽת (1)“then {he fathered/had} {a son named} Heth,” Canaan’s son Heth was the ancestor of the Hittites, so some translations use “Hittites” here instead and say, “{He was} also {the ancestor of} the Hittites,”
Genesis 10:16
and the Jebusites and the Amorites and the Girgashites
Quote: וְאֶת הַיְבוּסִי֙ וְאֶת הָ֣אֱמֹרִ֔י וְאֵ֖ת הַגִּרְגָּשִֽׁי (1)“and {he/Canaan was also the ancestor of} the Jebusites, Amorites, Girgashites,” or “Jebusites, Amorites, Girgashites,” In verses 16-18, the people group names are singular collective nouns in Hebrew (in contrast to the people group names in verses 4, 13-14 that are plural nouns). Most English versions translate these names with a plural “-ites” suffix so that it is clear that these names refer to more than one person.
Genesis 10:17
and the Hivites and the Arkites and the Sinites
Quote: וְאֶת הַֽחִוִּ֥י וְאֶת הַֽעַרְקִ֖י וְאֶת הַסִּינִֽי (1)“Hivites, Arkites, Sinites,”
Genesis 10:18
and the Arvadites and the Zemarites and the Hamathites
Quote: וְאֶת הָֽאַרְוָדִ֥י וְאֶת הַצְּמָרִ֖י וְאֶת הַֽחֲמָתִ֑י (1)“Arvadites, Zemarites, and Hamathites.”
And afterward
Quote: וְאַחַ֣ר (1)“Later,” or “As time went by,”
the clans of the Canaanites
Quote: מִשְׁפְּח֖וֹת הַֽכְּנַעֲנִֽי (1)“those {extended} families {that descended} from {Ham’s son} Canaan”
scattered
Quote: נָפֹ֔צוּ (1)“spread out,” or “moved to different places,”
Genesis 10:19
so the border{s} of the Canaanites were
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֞י גְּב֤וּל הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)“and {eventually} the borders/boundaries of their {territory/land} reached/extended” or “so that {eventually} the territory/land where Canaanites/they lived reached/extended”
from Sidon
Quote: מִצִּידֹ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“from {the city of} Sidon {in the north},” or “from Sidon {City} {in the north},” Some languages have an affix or a word (that means “city”) that must be used every time the name of a city is mentioned or the first time a particular city is mentioned in a paragraph or section. Do what is natural in your language here and elsewhere throughout the Bible.
then} you go toward Gerar as far as Gaza
Quote: בֹּאֲכָ֥ה גְרָ֖רָה עַד עַזָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“all the way {down/south} toward {the city of} Gerar to {the city of} Gaza,” or “{down/south} to Gaza {City}, which is on the road to Gerar {City},” The Canaanites’ border reached Gaza, but did not extend down to Gerar, which was farther south.
then} you go to Sodom
Quote: בֹּאֲכָ֞ה סְדֹ֧מָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{then} as far {east} as”
to Sodom and Gomorrah and Admah and Zeboiim
Quote: סְדֹ֧מָה וַעֲמֹרָ֛ה וְאַדְמָ֥ה וּצְבֹיִ֖ם (1)“{the cities of} Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim,”
as far as Lasha
Quote: עַד לָֽשַׁע (1)“all the way to {the city of} Lasha.” or “until {you reach} Lasha {City}.”
Genesis 10:20
Those {are
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה (1)“Those {are/were} {the names of}” or “Those {men/people} {are/were}”. The word “Those” refers back to the people listed in verses 6-19. Also, many translations that use “were” (and other past tense verbs) in verses 2-19 and 21-30 use “are” here (and in verses 31 and 32). Do what is best in your language.
the sons of Ham
Quote: בְנֵי חָ֔ם (1)“the descendants of Ham” or “Ham’s sons/descendants”
according to their clans
Quote: לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם (1)“according to their family groups,” or “and each one had his own clan/family,” or “and their {extended} families,” See how you translated “clans” in verse 5.
according to their languages, in their lands, in their nations
Quote: לִלְשֹֽׁנֹתָ֑ם בְּאַרְצֹתָ֖ם בְּגוֹיֵהֶֽם (1)“Each {clan/family} had/spoke its own language and {lived in} its own territory/region, and {eventually} became its own people/ethnic group.” or “Each {clan/family} {grew/multiplied and} became/established its own people/ethnic group that had/spoke its own language and {lived in} its own territory/region.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated verse 5, which has some of the same phrases as verse 20.
Genesis 10:21
And sons were also born to Shem
Quote: וּלְשֵׁ֥ם יֻלַּ֖ד גַּם (1)“Shem also fathered/had {some} sons”. In the Hebrew text, “to Shem” comes first in this sentence after “And”, to emphasize Shem. Do what is natural in your language.
he {was} the father of all the sons of Eber
Quote: ה֑וּא אֲבִי֙ כָּל בְּנֵי עֵ֔בֶר (1)“He was the ancestor of all the descendants of Eber”
and the brother of Japheth the elder
Quote: אֲחִ֖י יֶ֥פֶת הַגָּדֽוֹל (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and his/Shem’s older brother was Japheth.” (2) “and he/Shem was Japheth’s older/oldest brother.”
Genesis 10:22
The sons of Shem {were
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י שֵׁ֖ם (1)“{The names of} Shem’s sons {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Shem’s sons:”
Elam and Asshur and Arpachshad and Lud and Aram
Quote: עֵילָ֣ם וְאַשּׁ֑וּר וְאַרְפַּכְשַׁ֖ד וְל֥וּד וַֽאֲרָֽם (1)“Elam, Asshur, Arpachshad, Lud and Aram.” The name “Arpachshad” is spelled as “Arphaxad” in many translations. Also, see how you spelled “Lud” in verse 13 (who is a different person with the same name). Be consistent with how you spell each name throughout the Bible.
Genesis 10:23
And the sons of Aram {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י אֲרָ֑ם (1)“{The names of} Aram’s sons {were}” or “These {were} {the names of} Aram’s sons:”
Uz and Hul and Gether and Mash
Quote: ע֥וּץ וְח֖וּל וְגֶ֥תֶר וָמַֽשׁ (1)“Uz, Hul, Gether, and Mash.” The same person who is called “Mash” here, is referred to as “Meshech/Meshek” in 1 Chronicles 1:17. To prevent confusion, some translations use “Meshech/Meshek” here too, or they put that name in a footnote.
Genesis 10:24
And Arpachshad fathered Shelah
Quote: וְאַרְפַּכְשַׁ֖ד יָלַ֣ד אֶת שָׁ֑לַח (1)“Arpachshad/Arphaxad fathered/had {a son named} Shelah,” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Arpachshad/Arphaxad” in verse 22.
then Shelah fathered Eber
Quote: וְשֶׁ֖לַח יָלַ֥ד אֶת עֵֽבֶר (1)“then/and Shelah fathered/had {a son named} Eber.”
Genesis 10:25
Then two sons were born to Eber
Quote: וּלְעֵ֥בֶר יֻלַּ֖ד שְׁנֵ֣י בָנִ֑ים (1)“Then Eber fathered/had two sons.”
The name of the one {was
Quote: שֵׁ֣ם הָֽאֶחָ֞ד (1)“The name of the first {one/son} {was}” or “The first one/son was named”
Peleg
Quote: פֶּ֗לֶג (1)“Peleg, {which means “division/divide,”}” You can put the meaning of Peleg’s name in the text or in a footnote, so that it is clear why he was given his name. See what you did for a similar case (Noah’s name) in Gen 5:29.
because in his days
Quote: כִּ֤י בְיָמָיו֙ (1)“because during his lifetime”
the earth was divided
Quote: נִפְלְגָ֣ה הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{the people on} the earth divided/separated {into separate groups} {and scattered everywhere}.” This phrase refers to the people on the earth and implies that they scattered and lived all over the earth (as specified in Gen 11:8).
And the name of his brother {was} Joktan
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם אָחִ֖יו יָקְטָֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“His/Peleg’s {younger} brother’s name was Joktan.” or “{Eber’s second/other son} was named Joktan and was younger than Peleg.” Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to in this sentence, especially after reading the previous two sentences.
Genesis 10:26
And Joktan fathered
Quote: וְיָקְטָ֣ן יָלַ֔ד (1)“Joktan fathered/had {sons named}” or “Joktan fathered/had {the following sons:}” Notice that the list of Joktan’s sons continues through verse 29.
Almodad and Sheleph and Hazarmaveth and Jerah
Quote: אֶת אַלְמוֹדָ֖ד וְאֶת שָׁ֑לֶף וְאֶת חֲצַרְמָ֖וֶת וְאֶת יָֽרַח (1)“Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah,”
Genesis 10:27
and Hadoram and Uzal and Diklah
Quote: וְאֶת הֲדוֹרָ֥ם וְאֶת אוּזָ֖ל וְאֶת דִּקְלָֽה (1)“Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah,”
Genesis 10:28
and Obal and Abimael and Sheba
Quote: וְאֶת עוֹבָ֥ל וְאֶת אֲבִֽימָאֵ֖ל וְאֶת שְׁבָֽא (1)“Obal, Abimael, Sheba,”
Genesis 10:29
and Ophir and Havilah and Jobab
Quote: וְאֶת אוֹפִ֥ר וְאֶת חֲוִילָ֖ה וְאֶת יוֹבָ֑ב (1)“Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab.” Consider again how you translated lists of names throughout chapter 10.
All those {were
Quote: כָּל אֵ֖לֶּה (1)“All those {were} {the names of}” or “All those {men/people} {were}” or “Those {were} all”
the sons of Joktan
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י יָקְטָֽן (1)“Joktan’s sons.”
Genesis 10:30
And their dwelling was
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֥י מוֹשָׁבָ֖ם (1)“Their dwelling {place}” or “Their territory/region” or “The region/area where they {and their descendants} lived”
And … was from Mesha
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֥י & מִמֵּשָׁ֑א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“extended/reached from {the city of} Mesha {in the west},” See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 19.
then} you go to Sephar
Quote: בֹּאֲכָ֥ה סְפָ֖רָה (1)“all the way to” or “as far as”
to Sephar
Quote: סְפָ֖רָה (1)“{the city/town of} Sephar, {which is in/near}”. Sephar might refer to a city, a mountain, or a region (that was named after the city or mountain).
the mountain{s} of the east
Quote: הַ֥ר הַקֶּֽדֶם (1)“the mountain range {that is} in the east.” or “the hill country in the east.” or “the eastern hill country.” The word “mountain{s}” is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It can be: (1) a collective noun that refers to mountains or hill country near the town of Sephar; or (2) a singular noun that refers to a specific mountain that was called Sephar.
Genesis 10:31
Those {are
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה (1)“Those {are/were} {the names of}” or “Those {men/people} {are/were}”. The word “Those” refers here to the people listed in verses 21-30. See how you translated verse 20, which is almost exactly the same as verse 31.
the sons of Shem
Quote: בְנֵי שֵׁ֔ם (1)“the descendants of Shem” or “Shem’s sons/descendants”
according to their clans
Quote: לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם (1)“and each one had his own clan/family.” See how you translated “clans” in verses 5 and 20.
according to their languages, in their lands, according to their nations
Quote: לִלְשֹׁנֹתָ֑ם בְּאַרְצֹתָ֖ם לְגוֹיֵהֶֽם (1)“Each {clan/family} had/spoke its own language and {lived in} its own territory, and {eventually} became its own people/ethnic group.” or “Each clan/family {grew/multiplied and} became/established its own people/ethnic group that had/spoke its own language and {lived in} its own territory.”
Genesis 10:32
Those {are} the clans of the sons of Noah
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה מִשְׁפְּחֹ֧ת בְּנֵי נֹ֛חַ (1)“{All} those {people} {are/were} the clans/families {who descended} from Noah’s sons,” or “{All} those clans/families descended from Noah’s sons,” The word “Those” refers here to everyone who is listed in verses 2-31. Consider again how you translated “clans” in verses 5, 18, 29, 31-32.
according to their generations, in their nations
Quote: לְתוֹלְדֹתָ֖ם בְּגוֹיֵהֶ֑ם (1)“Each clan/family had its own genealogy/descendants and became its own people/ethnic group.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, compare how you translated similar phrases in verses 5, 20, and 31.
And from those the nations spread out on the earth after the flood
Quote: וּמֵאֵ֜לֶּה נִפְרְד֧וּ הַגּוֹיִ֛ם בָּאָ֖רֶץ אַחַ֥ר הַמַּבּֽוּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“From those {people} {came/descended} {all} the people/ethnic groups {who} spread out on/over the earth after the flood.” or “In fact, after the flood {all} the people groups on the earth descended from them and spread out everywhere.” Consider again how you translated “nations” in verses 5, 20, 31-32.
Genesis 11
Genesis 11:1
Now the whole earth had one language
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֥י כָל־הָאָ֖רֶץ שָׂפָ֣ה אֶחָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now {at first,} everyone on the earth spoke/shared the same language” or “Now {for a while,} all {the people on} the earth spoke one language”. The events in chapter 11:1-9 happened before the people listed in chapter 10 had their own languages and before they spread out over the earth (Gen 10:5, 19-20, 30-32). You could include some of that information in a footnote.
and the same words
Quote: וּדְבָרִ֖ים אֲחָדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
“and {spoke/shared} the same words/vocabulary.” or “and spoke words everyone knew/understood.” or “so that everyone understood each other.” The phrases “one language” and “the same words” are very similar in meaning and emphasize the fact that everyone spoke the same language. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Genesis 11:2
And it happened
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“After a while, as/when” or “As/When” or “As time passed,” The phrase “it happened that” introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Some translations omit this phrase because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language.
as they migrated
Quote: בְּנָסְעָ֣ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“they moved/traveled” or “the people migrated/moved”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a pronoun (“they”) or a noun phrase (“the people”) here.
from the east
Quote: מִקֶּ֑דֶם (1)“from the eastern {regions},” or “{around} in the eastern {regions},” At first after the flood, people lived in the regions around the mountains of Ararat (where the ark had landed). As they began to migrate and spread out to different places (as God had told them to do), they must have headed south at some point since they ended up at the plain of Shinar, which was south of where the Ararat Mountains were. The reference to “the east” probably reflects the viewpoint of the author (Moses), since the Ararat mountains and the plain of Shinar were both far to the east of where he was living.
that they found
Quote: וַֽיִּמְצְא֥וּ (1)“they discovered” or “they {eventually} came to” or “and {eventually} came to”. Make sure the way you translate this phrase fits with the way you translated the first half of this verse.
a plain in the land of Shinar
Quote: בִקְעָ֛ה בְּאֶ֥רֶץ שִׁנְעָ֖ר (1)“a wide/spacious, flat valley/area in the land/region called Shinar”. This plain was a wide, flat area between mountains. Also be consistent here with how you translated “land of Shinar” in Gen 10:10.
and settled there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שְׁבוּ שָֽׁם (1)“and lived/stayed there.” or “and began to live there.”
Genesis 11:3
Then they said to each other
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל־רֵעֵ֗הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Then {one day} they urged each other,” The events that are described below probably did not happen immediately after they arrived at the plain. Consider what is the best way to begin these events in your language.
Come
Quote: הָ֚בָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Come on,” Consider whether or not your language has an idiom like this that is used to urge or persuade someone to do something together.
let us make
Quote: נִלְבְּנָ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“let us {work together and} make” or “we should {work together and} make”. The pronoun “us” is inclusive here and refers to the people who are talking to each other.
bricks
Quote: לְבֵנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{some} {clay/mud} bricks/blocks” or “{some} bricks/blocks {from clay/mud}”
and bake them with fire
Quote: וְנִשְׂרְפָ֖ה לִשְׂרֵפָ֑ה (1)“and harden them with fire.” or “and use fire to bake/harden them.” or “and put/bake them in/over fire {to make them hard/strong}.”
And they had
Quote: וַתְּהִ֨י לָהֶ֤ם (1)“So {they did that, and} they had” or “They had/used”
bricks for stones
Quote: הַלְּבֵנָה֙ לְאָ֔בֶן (1)“bricks/blocks {to build with} instead of stone,”
and they had tar
Quote: וְהַ֣חֵמָ֔ר הָיָ֥ה לָהֶ֖ם (1)“and they used tar {between the bricks/blocks}”
for mortar
Quote: לַחֹֽמֶר (1)“instead of mortar.” or “to hold/stick the bricks/blocks together.”
Genesis 11:4
Then they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֞וּ (1)“Then they said {to each other},” or “Then they urged {each other},”
Come
Quote: הָ֣בָה (1)“Come on,” See how you translated this idiom in verse 3.
let us build
Quote: נִבְנֶה (1)“let us {work together and} build” or “we should {work together and} build”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 3.
a city for ourselves
Quote: לָּ֣נוּ עִ֗יר (1)“a city for us {to live in}”
and a tower
Quote: וּמִגְדָּל֙ (1)“that includes/has a {high} tower” or “with a {very} tall building”
with its top in the heavens
Quote: וְרֹאשׁ֣וֹ בַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“that reaches high into the heavens/sky,” or “that reaches up to heaven,”
and let us make a name for ourselves, so that we are not scattered
Quote: וְנַֽעֲשֶׂה לָּ֖נוּ שֵׁ֑ם פֶּן נָפ֖וּץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{We should do that} to make ourselves famous and to keep us from spreading out” or “{That way} we will become well-known/famous, and we will not separate from each other {and live}”. The phrase “make a name for ourselves” is a idiom. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Also see how you translated the word “scattered” in Gen 10:18, 32.
over the face of the whole earth
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י כָל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“all over the earth/world.” or “around the world.”
Genesis 11:5
Then Yahweh came down
Quote: וַיֵּ֣רֶד יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then/But {one day} Yahweh came down {from heaven}”
to see the city
Quote: לִרְאֹ֥ת אֶת הָעִ֖יר (1)“and looked at the city” or “and inspected the city”. The text implies that Yahweh actually looked at the city. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to make that explicit here.
and the tower
Quote: וְאֶת הַמִּגְדָּ֑ל (1)“and the {very} tall building”. See how you translated this word in verse 4.
that the sons of mankind
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר & בְּנֵ֥י הָאָדָֽם (1)“that the people”
had built
Quote: בָּנ֖וּ (1)“were building.” or “had started building.” Make sure the way you translate this verb fits with the fact that the people had not yet finished building the city (verse 8).
Genesis 11:6
And Yahweh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“And/Then he said (to himself),” or “He said,” Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh here in your language.
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)“Look,” This term calls attention to what Yahweh says next. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
they are} one people
Quote: עַ֤ם אֶחָד֙ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{they are} one people/ethnic {group},” or (2) “the/these people {are} one/united {in what they are doing},”
and they all have one language
Quote: וְשָׂפָ֤ה אַחַת֙ לְכֻלָּ֔ם (1)“and they all speak/share the same language.” See how you translated “have one language” in verse 1.
So this {is} what they have begun to do
Quote: וְזֶ֖ה הַחִלָּ֣ם לַעֲשׂ֑וֹת (1)“This {is} {only} the beginning of what they can/will do {together}.”
and now
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ (1)“Now/Soon”
everything that they plan to do will not be impossible for them
Quote: לֹֽא יִבָּצֵ֣ר מֵהֶ֔ם כֹּ֛ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָזְמ֖וּ לַֽעֲשֽׂוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
“nothing that they plan to do will be impossible for them.” or “everything/anything they plan/attempt to do will be possible for them.” or “they will be able to do anything/whatever they plan/try to do.” The words “not” and “impossible” are two negatives that work together to communicate an emphatic positive statement. Consider what is the best way to translate this in your language.
Genesis 11:7
Come
Quote: הָ֚בָה (1)“{So} come on,” or “{So}”
let us go down … there
Quote: נֵֽרְדָ֔ה & שָׁ֖ם (1)“we must go down there {now}” or “let us go to them”. Most Bible scholars think the plural pronoun “us” refers here to God and the fact that he is three Persons in one God. So it is best to keep this plural pronoun in your translation. See what you did for similar pronouns in Gen 1:26.
and … confuse their language
Quote: וְנָבְלָ֥ה & שְׂפָתָ֑ם (1)“and scramble their language” or “and mix up their language”
so that they will not understand
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א יִשְׁמְע֔וּ (1)“so that they will not {be able to} understand” or “so that they cannot understand”
each other’s language
Quote: אִ֖ישׁ שְׂפַ֥ת רֵעֵֽהוּ (1)“what they say to each other.” or “each other.”
Genesis 11:8
Then Yahweh scattered them from there
Quote: וַיָּ֨פֶץ יְהוָ֥ה אֹתָ֛ם מִשָּׁ֖ם (1)“Then/So Yahweh {did that and} caused the people to leave from there and spread out” or “That is how Yahweh caused the people to leave from there and settle/live in different places”
over the face of the whole earth
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֣י כָל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“over the surface of the entire earth,” or “all over the earth/world,”
and they stopped building
Quote: וַֽיַּחְדְּל֖וּ לִבְנֹ֥ת (1)“so that they had to stop building/constructing”
the city
Quote: הָעִֽיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“the city {and the tower}.” or “the city {and the tall building}.” For some languages it is better to change the order of clauses in this verse (so that events are in the order that they happened) and say, “In that way, Yahweh caused the people to stop building the city {and the tower} and to move away from each other, {so that eventually they lived} all over the world.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 11:9
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֞ן (1)“That is why”
they called its name
Quote: קָרָ֤א שְׁמָהּ֙ (1)“people named the/that city” or “the name of the/that city is” or “the/that city was named/called”. Frequently in the Hebrew text, this phrase has a general meaning and does not refer to someone specific.
Babel
Quote: בָּבֶ֔ל (1)“Babel, {which means “confused/mixed-up/scrambled,”}” If you include the meaning of “Babel” here in your translation or in a footnote, be consistent with the way you translate “confused” later in this verse and in verse 7.
because there Yahweh
Quote: כִּי שָׁ֛ם & יְהוָ֖ה (1)“because that is where Yahweh” or “because {it was} in that city {that} Yahweh”
confused
Quote: בָּלַ֥ל (1)“mixed up” or “scrambled”
the language of the whole earth
Quote: שְׂפַ֣ת כָּל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“the language that everyone on the earth spoke/shared,”
and from there Yahweh scattered them
Quote: וּמִשָּׁם֙ הֱפִיצָ֣ם יְהוָ֔ה (1)“and {in that way} Yahweh/he made them spread out from there”
over the face of the whole earth
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֖י כָּל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“over the surface of the entire earth.” or “all over the earth/world.” See how you translated this phrase in verses 4 and 8.
Genesis 11:10
These {are} the generations of Shem
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת שֵׁ֔ם (1)“This/Here is the record/list of Shem’s descendants:” or “This is Shem’s genealogy/family-line:”
Shem {was} the son of 100 years, then he fathered Arpachshad two years after the flood
Quote: שֵׁ֚ם בֶּן מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֔ה וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת אַרְפַּכְשָׁ֑ד שְׁנָתַ֖יִם אַחַ֥ר הַמַּבּֽוּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Two years after the flood {began}, when Shem was 100 years old, he had {a son named} Arpachshad/Arphaxad.” The phrase “after the flood” probably refers to two years after the flood began, not after it ended; see a similar case in Gen 9:28. Also be consistent here with how you spelled “Arpachshad/Arphaxad” in Gen 10:22.
Genesis 11:11
Then after he fathered Arpachshad, Shem lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי שֵׁ֗ם אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת אַרְפַּכְשָׁ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“After he fathered/had Arpachshad/Arphaxad, Shem/he lived” or “After Arpachshad/Arphaxad was born, Shem lived” or “After Arpachshad/Arphaxad’s birth, Shem lived”. Throughout this section, make sure that names and pronouns (like “he”) are used in a way that is accurate and natural in your language, so that it is always clear who is being referred to.
500 years
Quote: חֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{another} 500 years,” or “500 {more} years,” See how you translated Gen 5:7, which has the same sentence structure as 11:11. For some languages, it may be more natural to change the clause order of this sentence and say, “Shem lived 500 {more} years after Arpachshad/Arphaxad was born …” Do what is best in your language throughout this chapter.
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Shem {also} fathered/had” or “He/Shem was {also} the father of”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this phrase and the following one in Gen 5:4.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:12
And Arpachshad lived thirty-five years
Quote: וְאַרְפַּכְשַׁ֣ד חַ֔י חָמֵ֥שׁ וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Arpachshad/Arphaxad had lived thirty-five/35 years,” or “When Arpachshad/Arphaxad was thirty-five/35 years old,” Make sure that your translation of this clause does not mean that Arpachshad only lived to be thirty-five years old. Also, throughout this chapter, be consistent with how you have decided to handle numbers in the Bible. For example, many translation teams use words for single and double-digit numbers, but use numerals for larger numbers. This strategy helps prevent confusion with verse numbers. This is especially true in translations that use a large font size for verse numbers so that people doing group Bible study can easily see the numbers and be in the same verse together. See what you did in chapter 5.
then he fathered Shelah
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת שָֽׁלַח (1)“he fathered/had {a son named} Shelah.” or “he fathered/had {a son he/they named} Shelah.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Shelah.” See how you translated Gen 5:6, which has the same sentence structure as 11:12.
Genesis 11:13
Then after he fathered Shelah, Arpachshad lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִ֣י אַרְפַּכְשַׁ֗ד אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת שֶׁ֔לַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“After he fathered/had Shelah, Arpachshad/Arphaxad lived” or “After Shelah was born, Arpachshad/Arphaxad lived” or “After Shem’s birth, Arpachshad/Arphaxad lived”. Be consistent with how you spell the name “Arpachshad/Arphaxad” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:22, 24; 11:10-13.
403 years
Quote: שָׁלֹ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים וְאַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 403 years,” or “403 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Arpachshad {also} fathered/had” or “He was {also} the father of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Arpachshad at this point in the paragraph.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:14
And Shelah lived thirty years
Quote: וְשֶׁ֥לַח חַ֖י שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Shelah had lived thirty/30 years,” or “When Shelah was thirty/30 years old,”
then he fathered Eber
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת עֵֽבֶר (1)“he fathered/had {a son named} Eber.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Eber.”
Genesis 11:15
Then after he fathered Eber, Shelah lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי שֶׁ֗לַח אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת עֵ֔בֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“After he/Shelah fathered/had Eber, Shelah/he lived” or “After Eber was born, Shelah lived” or “After Eber’s birth, Shelah lived”. Be consistent with how you spell the name “Shelah” in Gen 10:24; 11:12-15.
403 years
Quote: שָׁלֹ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים וְאַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 403 years,” or “403 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Shelah {also} fathered/had” or “He/Shelah was {also} the father of”
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:16
And Eber lived thirty-four years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי עֵ֕בֶר אַרְבַּ֥ע וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Eber had lived thirty-four/34 years,” or “When Eber was thirty-four/34 years old,”
then he fathered Peleg
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת פָּֽלֶג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“he fathered/had {a son named} Peleg.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Peleg.”
Genesis 11:17
Then after he fathered Peleg, Eber lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי עֵ֗בֶר אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת פֶּ֔לֶג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“After he/Eber fathered/had Peleg, Eber/he lived” or “After Peleg was born, Eber lived” or “After Peleg’s birth, Eber lived”. Be consistent with how you spell the name “Eber” in Gen 10:24-25; 11:14-17.
430 years
Quote: שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וְאַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 430 years,” or “430 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Eber {also} fathered/had” or “He/Eber was {also} the father of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Eber at this point in the paragraph.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:18
And Peleg lived thirty years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי פֶ֖לֶג שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Peleg had lived thirty/30 years,” or “When Peleg was thirty/30 years old,”
then he fathered Reu
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת רְעֽוּ (1)“he fathered/had {a son named} Reu.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Reu.”
Genesis 11:19
Then after he fathered Reu, Peleg lived
Quote: וַֽיְחִי פֶ֗לֶג אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת רְע֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“After he/Peleg had Reu, Peleg/he lived” or “After Reu was born, Peleg lived” or “After Reu’s birth, Peleg lived”. Be consistent with how you spell the name “Peleg” in Gen 10:25; 11:16-19.
209 years
Quote: תֵּ֥שַׁע שָׁנִ֖ים וּמָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 209 years,” or “209 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Peleg {also} fathered/had” or “He/Peleg was {also} the father of”
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:20
And Reu lived thirty-two years
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י רְע֔וּ שְׁתַּ֥יִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Reu had lived thirty-two/32 years,” or “When Reu was thirty-two/32 years old,”
then he fathered Serug
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת שְׂרֽוּג (1)“he fathered/had {a son named} Serug.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Serug.”
Genesis 11:21
Then after he fathered Serug, Reu lived
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י רְע֗וּ אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת שְׂר֔וּג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“After he/Reu had Serug, Reu/he lived” or “After Serug was born, Reu lived” or “After Serug’s birth, Reu lived”. Be consistent with how you spell “Reu” in Gen 11:18-21.
207 years
Quote: שֶׁ֥בַע שָׁנִ֖ים וּמָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 207 years,” or “207 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Reu {also} fathered/had” or “He/Reu was {also} the father of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Reu at this point in the paragraph.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:22
And Serug lived thirty years
Quote: וַיְחִ֥י שְׂר֖וּג שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Serug had lived thirty/30 years,” or “When Serug was thirty/30 years old,”
then he fathered Nahor
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת נָחֽוֹר (1)“he fathered/had {a son named} Nahor.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Nahor.”
Genesis 11:23
Then after he fathered Nahor, Serug lived
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י שְׂר֗וּג אַחֲרֵ֛י הוֹלִיד֥וֹ אֶת נָח֖וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“After he/Serug had Nahor, Serug/he lived” or “After Nahor was born, Serug lived” or “After Nahor’s birth, Serug lived”. Be consistent with how you spell the name “Serug” in Gen 11:20-23.
200 years
Quote: מָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 200 years,” or “200 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Serug {also} fathered/had” or “He/Serug was {also} the father of”
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.”
Genesis 11:24
And Nahor lived twenty-nine years
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י נָח֔וֹר תֵּ֥שַׁע וְעֶשְׂרִ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“When Nahor had lived twenty-nine/29 years,” or “When Nahor was twenty-nine/29 years old,”
then he fathered Terah
Quote: וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת תָּֽרַח (1)“he fathered/had {a son named} Terah.” or “he fathered/had {a son whose name was} Terah.” Consider again how you translated verses 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24, which all have the same sentence structure.
Genesis 11:25
Then after he fathered Terah, Nahor lived
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י נָח֗וֹר אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣וֹ אֶת תֶּ֔רַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“After he/Nahor had Terah, Nahor/he lived” or “After Terah was born, Nahor lived” or “After Terah’s birth, Nahor lived”
119 years
Quote: תְּשַֽׁע־עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה שָׁנָ֖ה וּמְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{another} 119 years,” or “119 {more} years,”
and he fathered
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹלֶד (1)“and he {also} fathered/had” or “He/Nahor {also} fathered/had” or “He/Nahor was {also} the father of”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
other} sons and daughters
Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּבָנֽוֹת (1)“{other} sons as well as daughters.” Consider again how you translated verses 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 25, which all have the same sentence structure.
Genesis 11:26
And Terah lived seventy years
Quote: וַֽיְחִי־תֶ֖רַח שִׁבְעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“After Terah had lived seventy/70 years,” or “After Terah was/turned seventy/70 years old,” Your translation needs to allow for the fact that Terah’s sons were not triplets (just as Noah’s sons were not triplets; see Gen 5:32), rather he started having children after he turned seventy and his sons were born in different years after that. In fact, Abram was not born until Terah was at least 130 years old (11:32, 12:4-5; Acts 7:4), and he was probably Terah’s youngest son. Abram is listed first (instead of Haran or Nahor) probably because of his importance as the one whom Yahweh made His covenant with. Some of this information could be put in a footnote.
then he fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran
Quote: וַיּ֨וֹלֶד֙ אֶת אַבְרָ֔ם אֶת נָח֖וֹר וְאֶת הָרָֽן (1)“he fathered/had {sons named} Abram, Nahor, and Haran.” or “he fathered/had {sons whose names were} Abram, Nahor, and Haran.”
Genesis 11:27
Now these {are} the generations of Terah
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת תֶּ֔רַח (1)“Here/This {is} the history/account/record about/of Terah and his descendants/family:” This section is different from the previous section. What follows is a history about Terah’s descendants (especially Abram); it is not a genealogy or list of names. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 6:9.
Terah fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran
Quote: תֶּ֚רַח הוֹלִ֣יד אֶת אַבְרָ֔ם אֶת נָח֖וֹר וְאֶת הָרָ֑ן (1)“Terah fathered/had {sons named} Abram, Nahor, and Haran;” or “Terah’s sons were Abram, Nahor, and Haran.”
and Haran fathered Lot
Quote: וְהָרָ֖ן הוֹלִ֥יד אֶת לֽוֹט (1)“and Haran fathered/had {a son named} Lot.” or “Haran’s son {was named} Lot.” or “and Haran had a son {whose name was} Lot.”
Genesis 11:28
And Haran died in the presence of Terah his father
Quote: וַיָּ֣מָת הָרָ֔ן עַל פְּנֵ֖י תֶּ֣רַח אָבִ֑יו (1)“Later Haran died while he was with his father Terah,” or “While his father Terah was still alive, Haran died”
in the land of his birth
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ מוֹלַדְתּ֖וֹ (1)“in the land where he was born,” or “in his native land,”
in Ur of the Kasdim
Quote: בְּא֥וּר כַּשְׂדִּֽים (1)“in {the city of} Ur which was ruled/inhabited by the Kasdim/Chaldeans.” or “in {the city of} Ur where the Kasdim/Chaldean people lived.” The word “Kasdim” probably comes from the name of one of Nahor’s sons, Kesed (Gen 22:22), and often refers to the Chaldeans who were a people group that lived in the country of Babylonia (where Ur was located).
Genesis 11:29
And Abram and Nahor took wives for themselves
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָ֧ם וְנָח֛וֹר לָהֶ֖ם נָשִׁ֑ים (1)“Meanwhile Abram and Nahor each got married.” or “Abram and Nahor each married a wife.”
The name of Abram’s wife {was} Sarai
Quote: שֵׁ֤ם אֵֽשֶׁת אַבְרָם֙ שָׂרָ֔י (1)“Abram’s wife was named Sarai,”
and the name of Nahor’s wife {was} Milcah
Quote: וְשֵׁ֤ם אֵֽשֶׁת נָחוֹר֙ מִלְכָּ֔ה (1)“and Nahor’s wife was Milcah.”
the daughter of Haran, the father of Milcah and the father of Iscah
Quote: בַּת הָרָ֥ן אֲבִֽי מִלְכָּ֖ה וַֽאֲבִ֥י יִסְכָּֽה (1)“She/Milcah was the daughter of {his/Nahor’s brother} Haran, who was the father of {both} Milcah and {her sister} Iscah.” or “Milcah and {her sister} Iscah were Haran’s daughters.”
Genesis 11:30
But Sarai was barren
Quote: וַתְּהִ֥י שָׂרַ֖י עֲקָרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“But/Now Sarai was unable to conceive,” or “Sarai was not able to become/get pregnant,” Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information about Sarai.
she did not have a child
Quote: אֵ֥ין לָ֖הּ וָלָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{so} she did not have any children.” or “{so} she had no children.” For some languages it may be better to switch the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “But/Now Sarai did not have any children, because she was not able to conceive.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 11:31
Then Terah took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח תֶּ֜רַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Then {one day,} Terah gathered” or “{One day,} Terah brought/called together”. Consider what is the best way to begin this new paragraph in your language.
Abram his son
Quote: אֶת אַבְרָ֣ם בְּנ֗וֹ (1)“his son Abram,” Make sure it is clear in your translation of this phrase that “his son” refers to Abram, not another person.
and Lot, Haran’s son, his son’s son
Quote: וְאֶת ל֤וֹט בֶּן הָרָן֙ בֶּן בְּנ֔וֹ (1)“and Lot, {who was} his son Haran’s son,” or “and his grandson Lot, {who was} Haran’s son,” The phrases “Lot,” “Haran’s son,” and “his son’s son” all refer to Lot. Make sure that is clear in your translation and that it does not sound like three people.
and Sarai his daughter-in-law
Quote: וְאֵת֙ שָׂרַ֣י כַּלָּת֔וֹ (1)“and his daughter-in-law Sarai,” The phrases “Sarai,” “his daughter-in-law,” and “the wife of his son Abram” all refer to Sarai. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
the wife of his son Abram
Quote: אֵ֖שֶׁת אַבְרָ֣ם בְּנ֑וֹ (1)“who was his son Abram’s wife,” or “who was Abram’s wife,”
and they went out together
Quote: וַיֵּצְא֨וּ אִתָּ֜ם (1)“and they {all} left” or “and {all of} them set out together” or “Then they {all} left”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
from Ur of
Quote: מֵא֣וּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“from {the city of} Ur” or “from Ur {City}”. See the note at Gen 10:19 about how to translate the names of cities.
the Kasdim
Quote: כַּשְׂדִּ֗ים (1)“of the Chaldeans” or “where the Kasdim/Chaldean people lived”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 28.
to go to the land of Canaan
Quote: לָלֶ֨כֶת֙ אַ֣רְצָה כְּנַ֔עַן (1)“to go/travel to the region of/called Canaan.” or “to go/travel to Canaan Land.”
But they came to Haran
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥אוּ עַד חָרָ֖ן (1)“But {on the way there,} they came to {the city of} Haran, and” or “But {along the way,} when they arrived/stopped at {the city of} Haran,” The city of Haran was not in the land of Canaan, rather it was around 450 kilometers (280 miles) northeast of there.
and they settled there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שְׁבוּ שָֽׁם (1)“they settled/stayed there {instead}.” or “they decided to settle/live there {instead}.”
Genesis 11:32
And the days of Terah were 205 years
Quote: וַיִּהְי֣וּ יְמֵי תֶ֔רַח חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים וּמָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“Then {many years later,} when Terah was 205 years old,” or “When Terah reached the age of 205 years,”
then Terah died
Quote: וַיָּ֥מָת תֶּ֖רַח (1)“he died {there}”
in Haran
Quote: בְּחָרָֽן (1)“in {the city of} Haran.” or “in Haran {City}.”
Genesis 12
Genesis 12:1
Then Yahweh said to Abram
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל אַבְרָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Then {one day} Yahweh told/commanded Abram,” Consider what is the best way to begin this new section in your language. Also, make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits with what Yahweh says in the following quote.
You yourself must go from your land
Quote: לֶךְ לְךָ֛ מֵאַרְצְךָ֥ (1)“Get yourself away from your homeland/country” or “You must move away from your homeland/country” or “You must leave {behind} the land/country where you are living”
and from your relatives
Quote: וּמִמּֽוֹלַדְתְּךָ֖ (1)“and your relatives/people,”
and from the house of your father
Quote: וּמִבֵּ֣ית אָבִ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“including your father’s household/family,” The phrase “the house” refers here to everyone who was a member of Terah’s household.
to the land
Quote: אֶל הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“{and go/move} to the land/place”
that I will show you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר אַרְאֶֽךָּ (1)“that I will guide you to.”
Genesis 12:2
And I will make you
Quote: וְאֶֽעֶשְׂךָ֙ (1)“I will make you {and your descendants} become” or “I will make you {the father/ancestor of}”
into a great nation
Quote: לְג֣וֹי גָּד֔וֹל (1)“an important/large people group,” or “a large, important people/ethnic group,”
and I will bless you
Quote: וַאֲבָ֣רֶכְךָ֔ (1)“and I will bless/prosper you {and them}.” or “and I will cause you {all} to prosper/flourish.” See how you translated “blessed” in Gen 1:22, 28. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and I will make your name great
Quote: וַאֲגַדְּלָ֖ה שְׁמֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I will make you {important and} well-known/famous,” Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and you must be a blessing
Quote: וֶהְיֵ֖ה בְּרָכָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and you will be a blessing {to many people}.” or “and you {and your descendants} will bless {many people}.” or “and {I will use} you {and your descendants} to bless {many people}.”
Genesis 12:3
And I will bless those who bless you
Quote: וַאֲבָֽרֲכָה֙ מְבָ֣רְכֶ֔יךָ (1)“I will bless everyone who blesses you,”
but whoever curses you I will curse
Quote: וּמְקַלֶּלְךָ֖ אָאֹ֑ר (1)“but I will curse anyone who curses you.” See how you translated “curse” in Gen 8:21.
in you
Quote: בְךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Through you {and your offspring/descendants}” or “Because of you {and your offspring/descendants}” or “By means of you {and your offspring/descendants}”. This phrase refers to Abram and his descendants, including ultimately the Messiah. In other words, God’s promise in this verse is part of his wonderful news (the Gospel message) for all people (Galatians 3:8-9) and is a prophecy about the Messiah/Christ, who was one of Abraham’s descendants (Matthew 1:1, Genesis 22:18, Galatians 3:16). God blessed all people on earth by sending his Son Jesus (the Messiah/Christ) to die in their place and pay for all their sins (John 3:16-18, 1 Timothy 2:3-6), so that they could have a close relationship with him/God and be part of his family forever. God repeats this great promise in Genesis 18:18; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
And … all the families of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְנִבְרְכ֣וּ & כֹּ֖ל מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת הָאֲדָמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“all the families/people on the earth will be blessed {by me}.” or “{I} will bless all the families/people on the earth.” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this passive sentence. For some languages it is clearer to change the order of the sentence and say, “I will use you {and your offspring/descendants} to bless all the families/people on the earth.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 12:4
Then Abram went, just as Yahweh had told him
Quote: וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ אַבְרָ֗ם כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּ֤ר אֵלָיו֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Then/So Abram left {the city of Haran}, just/exactly as Yahweh had told/commanded him {to do},” or “Then/So Abram did/obeyed what Yahweh had told/commanded him {to do} and left {the city of Haran},” Consider what is the best way in your language to begin this sentence to show that Abram is now doing what God just commanded him to do (verse 1).
and Lot went with him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ אִתּ֖וֹ ל֑וֹט (1)“and {his nephew} Lot went/left with him.”
And Abram
Quote: וְאַבְרָ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now Abram” or “Abram”. Many translations omit the conjunction “And” or “Now” here. Do what is best in your language.
was the son of
Quote: בֶּן (1)“was seventy-five/75 years old”. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 5:32 and 11:10.
when he departed
Quote: בְּצֵאת֖וֹ (1)“when he left” or “when he set out”
from Haran
Quote: מֵחָרָֽן (1)“from {the city of} Haran.” or “from there.”
Genesis 12:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח אֶת שָׂרַ֨י אִשְׁתּ֜וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“Abram/He took/brought {with him} his wife Sarai”. Be consistent here with how you spelled “Sarai” in Gen 11:29-31.
and Lot the son of his brother
Quote: וְאֶת ל֣וֹט בֶּן אָחִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and his {deceased} brother’s son Lot” or “and his nephew Lot”. For some languages it is more natural to make “son of his brother” or “his nephew” explicit in verse 4 (where Lot is first mentioned in this section) and leave it implied here in verse 5. Do what is best in your language.
and all their possessions that they had accumulated and the people whom they had acquired
Quote: וְאֶת כָּל רְכוּשָׁם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר רָכָ֔שׁוּ וְאֶת הַנֶּ֖פֶשׁ אֲשֶׁר עָשׂ֣וּ (1)“everything that they owned, including slaves/servants {and everything else} they had acquired/gotten”. The word “possessions” is general here and includes slaves, animals, furniture, clothes, and money. See how you translated “slave” or “servant” in Gen 9:25-27.
in Haran
Quote: בְחָרָ֑ן (1)“in {the city of} Haran,” or “in Haran {City}
and they set out to go
Quote: וַיֵּצְא֗וּ לָלֶ֨כֶת֙ (1)“and they {all} started traveling”
to the land of Canaan
Quote: אַ֣רְצָה כְּנַ֔עַן (1)“to the land/region of/called Canaan.” or “to Canaan Land.”
Then they came to the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖אוּ אַ֥רְצָה כְּנָֽעַן (1)“Then/Eventually they arrived in Canaan.” or “When they reached Canaan,” or “When they arrived/got there,”
Genesis 12:6
Then Abram passed
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֹ֤ר אַבְרָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Abram traveled/went” or “Abram {and his family} traveled/went” or “they traveled/went”. Abram is the only one named here because he is in focus. However, your translation should not sound like he traveled alone in verse 6. Also make sure that the way you begin this verse in your translation fits with the way you ended verse 5.
through the land
Quote: בָּאָ֔רֶץ (1)“through that land/region”. See how you translated “land” in verse 5.
as far as
Quote: עַ֚ד (1)“until they arrived at” or “to”
the place of Shechem
Quote: מְק֣וֹם שְׁכֶ֔ם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the city of Shechem,” or (2) “the/a {sacred} place at/near {the city of} Shechem,”
to the terebinth tree of Moreh
Quote: עַ֖ד אֵל֣וֹן מוֹרֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“to Moreh’s terebinth/oak tree.” or “to the terebinth/oak tree on Moreh’s land.” Moreh is probably the name of the person who owned the land where the terebinth tree was. A terebinth tree is a large, broadleaf, flowering tree in the cashew family that can grow to a height of 5 to 12 meters (16 to 40 feet). The Hebrew words for “oak” and “terebinth” are similar, so many translations (including LXX) translate this as “oak tree” here. Notice, however, that oak trees and terebinth trees are from two different families of trees.
And the Canaanites {were} in the land at that time
Quote: וְהַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י אָ֥ז בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“At/During that time the Canaanites {were still living} in that land/region,” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to put the time phrase (“at that time”) first in this sentence.
Genesis 12:7
Then Yahweh appeared to Abram
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֤א יְהוָה֙ אֶל אַבְרָ֔ם (1)“Then/but Yahweh came to Abram” or “but Yahweh visited Abram”. Yahweh’s promise in verse 7 to give Canaan to Abram’s descendants contrasts with the fact that the Canaanites were still occupying that region (verse 6). Also, notice that the text does not specify in what form or in what way God appeared to Abram, so your translation should not do that either.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said/promised {to him},”
To your offspring I will give this land
Quote: לְזַ֨רְעֲךָ֔ אֶתֵּ֖ן אֶת הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“I will give this land to your offspring/descendants.” In the Hebrew text, the phrase “to your offspring” is emphasized by its position at the beginning of this quote. However, for some languages it may be clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses and say, “I will give this land to your offspring/descendants.” Do what is best in your language.
So he built an altar
Quote: וַיִּ֤בֶן & מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So/Then he/Abram built/made an altar {out of large stones}” or “So/Then he/Abram built/made a sacrifice table/mound {with stones}”. Consider what is the best way to refer to Abram here in your language. See how you translated “altar” in Gen 8:20.
there
Quote: שָׁם֙ (1)“near the tree” or “in that place”
to Yahweh
Quote: לַיהוָ֖ה (1)“to worship Yahweh” or “{and burned sacrifices on it} to {thank and} worship Yahweh,”
who had appeared to him
Quote: הַנִּרְאֶ֥ה אֵלָֽיו (1)“who had appeared/come to him {there}.” or “because he/Yahweh had appeared/come to him {there}.” See how you translated “appeared” earlier in verse 7.
Genesis 12:8
Then from there he went on
Quote: וַיַּעְתֵּ֨ק מִשָּׁ֜ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“From {the place/city of} Shechem, he/Abram {and his family} moved/traveled {south} to”
to the mountains to the east of Bethel
Quote: הָהָ֗רָה מִקֶּ֛דֶם לְבֵֽית אֵ֖ל (1)“the hill country that was east of {the town of} Bethel” or “the mountainous region east of {the town of} Bethel”
and pitched his tents
Quote: וַיֵּ֣ט אָהֳלֹ֑ה (1)“and set/put up his/their tents {there}” or “They set up their tents/camp”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “tent” in Gen 9:21, 27.
with} Bethel on the west and Ai on the east
Quote: בֵּֽית אֵ֤ל מִיָּם֙ וְהָעַ֣י מִקֶּ֔דֶם (1)“between Bethel to the west and {the town of} Ai to the east.” or “Bethel was to the west {of them} and {the town of} Ai was to the east.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
And there he built
Quote: וַיִּֽבֶן שָׁ֤ם (1)“There he/Abram built/made”
an altar
Quote: מִזְבֵּ֨חַ֙ (1)“another altar” or “another sacrifice table/mound”. See how you translated “altar” in verse 7.
to Yahweh
Quote: לַֽיהוָ֔ה (1)“{and burned sacrifices on it} to worship Yahweh,” See how you translated “to Yahweh” in verse 7.
and he called on the name of Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֖א בְּשֵׁ֥ם יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he worshiped/praised Yahweh/him by name.” or “he addressed Yahweh/him by {his} name as he worshiped/praised him.” or “he used Yahweh’s/his name in his prayers and worship.” or “he worshiped/praised Yahweh/him.” See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 4:26.
Genesis 12:9
Then Abram set out and continued to travel
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֣ע אַבְרָ֔ם הָל֥וֹךְ וְנָס֖וֹעַ (1)“After that, Abram/he {and his family} traveled in stages” or “Then Abram/he {and his family} moved from place to place”
toward the Negev
Quote: הַנֶּֽגְבָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{south} toward the Negev/Southern {Wilderness/Desert}.” or “{southward} until they reached the Negev/Southern {Wilderness/Desert}.”The Hebrew word “Negev” can mean “south” or “dry country,” so some translations translate the meaning. But most translations transliterate the Hebrew name (as “Negev” or “Negeb”) as they do with other names in the Bible.
Genesis 12:10
Then there was
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י (1)“Now there was”. This clause gives the setting for the rest of the sentence. Translate this in a way that is natural in your language.
a famine
Quote: רָעָ֖ב (1)“a serious/extreme shortage/lack of food” or “a hungry/starving time when food was very/extremely scarce”. A “famine” is a prolonged period of time when people are starving because crops are failing, often due to a lack of rain or other severe weather conditions.
in the land
Quote: בָּאָ֑רֶץ (1)“in that land/region/area,” or “in the Negev Wilderness/Desert,”
so Abram went down
Quote: וַיֵּ֨רֶד אַבְרָ֤ם (1)“so Abram {and his family} headed/traveled southwest” or “so Abram {and his family} went/traveled/moved {further} south”. This phrase refers to the fact that Egypt is lower in elevation than Canaan (verse 5). It is also located southwest of Canaan.
to Egypt
Quote: מִצְרַ֨יְמָה֙ (1)“to/toward {the land/country} of Egypt”
to sojourn there
Quote: לָג֣וּר שָׁ֔ם (1)“to live/stay there for a while”
because the famine {was} heavy
Quote: כִּֽי כָבֵ֥ד הָרָעָ֖ב (1)“because the food shortage was {very} severe/oppressive”
in the land
Quote: בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“in that land/region.” or “in the Negev {Wilderness/Desert} {so they could not survive/live there}.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause near the beginning of this verse and say, “Then/Now there was a famine in that land/region that was so heavy/severe/bad that Abram {and his family} {left there and} went down to {the land/country of} Egypt to live for a while.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 12:11
And it happened that as he was about to enter Egypt
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר הִקְרִ֖יב לָב֣וֹא מִצְרָ֑יְמָה (1)“Just before they arrived in Egypt,” or “As they approached Egypt,”
then he said to Sarai his wife
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־שָׂרַ֣י אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)“Abram said to his wife Sarai,” or “he/Abram told/urged his wife Sarai,”
Behold please
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֣א (1)“Listen please,” or “Please listen {to me/this}:”
I know that you {are} a woman beautiful in appearance
Quote: יָדַ֔עְתִּי כִּ֛י אִשָּׁ֥ה יְפַת מַרְאֶ֖ה אָֽתְּ (1)“I know/realize that you {are} a very beautiful woman.” or “you {are} a very beautiful woman.”
Genesis 12:12
So it will happen when
Quote: וְהָיָ֗ה כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“So when” or “When”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin this sentence with or without a conjunction (“So”).
the Egyptians
Quote: הַמִּצְרִ֔ים (1)“the people of/in Egypt”
see you
Quote: יִרְא֤וּ אֹתָךְ֙ (1)“see/notice you {with me},”
then they will say, ‘This {is} his wife
Quote: וְאָמְר֖וּ אִשְׁתּ֣וֹ זֹ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“they will say/know that you are my wife,” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
and they will kill me but let you live
Quote: וְהָרְג֥וּ אֹתִ֖י וְאֹתָ֥ךְ יְחַיּֽוּ (1)“Then they will kill me but/and let you live {so that they can have/take you}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 12:13
Please say
Quote: אִמְרִי נָ֖א (1)“{So} please tell {people/them}”
that} you {are} my sister
Quote: אֲחֹ֣תִי אָ֑תְּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“ ‘I am his/Abram’s sister,’ ” Consider whether an indirect quote or direct quote is best here in your language.
so that it will go well for me
Quote: לְמַ֨עַן֙ יִֽיטַב לִ֣י (1)“so that I will be treated well” or “so that they/people will treat me well”
for your sake
Quote: בַעֲבוּרֵ֔ךְ (1)“because of you”
and my life will live because of you
Quote: וְחָיְתָ֥ה נַפְשִׁ֖י בִּגְלָלֵֽךְ (1)“and my life will be spared {by them}.” or “and they will spare my life.” or “and {they will} let me live.” For some languages it is not natural to include the phrase “because of you” here, because it repeats the same idea as “for your sake” in the previous clause. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 12:14
Then it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י (1)“That is {exactly} what happened:”
when Abram came into Egypt
Quote: כְּב֥וֹא אַבְרָ֖ם מִצְרָ֑יְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“When Abram {and his family} entered {the land/country of} Egypt,” Although Abram is in focus here, your translation should not sound like he was traveling alone.
then the Egyptians saw
Quote: וַיִּרְא֤וּ הַמִּצְרִים֙ (1)“the Egyptian {people} saw/noticed” or “the people {living} there saw/noticed”
the woman, that she {was} very beautiful
Quote: אֶת־הָ֣אִשָּׁ֔ה כִּֽי־יָפָ֥ה הִ֖וא מְאֹֽד (1)“that the woman {with him} {was} {indeed/truly} very beautiful.” or “that Sarai {was} {indeed/truly} very beautiful.”
Genesis 12:15
And the officials of Pharaoh saw her
Quote: וַיִּרְא֤וּ אֹתָהּ֙ שָׂרֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{Some of} the officials/officers who served/ruled under the {Egyptian} king/ruler noticed/spotted her, so” or “When some officials/officers of/under Pharaoh {the king of/over Egypt} saw/noticed her,” The term “officials” is general and refers to leaders or rulers who were under Pharaoh and served him. Also, the term “Pharaoh” is an Egyptian title that refers to the king or ruler over Egypt. However, in the Old Testament, it is treated as a name (that frequently occurs with the title “king of Egypt”), so translators often transliterate “Pharaoh” (which is how other names in the Bible are normally treated). Some languages require an honorific title with the names of kings, for example, “{King} Pharaoh”. Decide how you will handle this in your translation.
so they praised her to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְהַֽלְל֥וּ אֹתָ֖הּ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“they told Pharaoh/him how beautiful she was,” or “they highly recommended her to him,”
and the woman was taken
Quote: וַתֻּקַּ֥ח הָאִשָּׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and she/Sarai was taken/brought” or “So he had them bring her/Sarai”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
into Pharaoh’s house
Quote: בֵּ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)“into/to his palace {to be one of his wives}.”
Genesis 12:16
Then he treated Abram well for her sake
Quote: וּלְאַבְרָ֥ם הֵיטִ֖יב בַּעֲבוּרָ֑הּ (1)“Then Pharaoh treated Abram well because of her/Sarai,” or “The king thought that Abram was her/Sarai’s brother, so he treated him well.”
so that he had
Quote: וַֽיְהִי ל֤וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and Abram acquired {from him}” or “and he gave him/Abram” or “He gave him/Abram”. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
flock{s} and herd{s
Quote: צֹאן וּבָקָר֙ (1)“flocks {of sheep} and herds {of cattle},” or “many sheep and cattle,”
and male donkeys and male slaves and female slaves and female donkeys
Quote: וַחֲמֹרִ֔ים וַעֲבָדִים֙ וּשְׁפָחֹ֔ת וַאֲתֹנֹ֖ת (1)“as well as men and women slaves/servants, and male and female donkeys,”
and camels
Quote: וּגְמַלִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“and {larger load-bearing animals called} camels.” If camels are not known in your language area, you could include a picture of a camel in your translation. You could also describe it in the text or in a footnote.
Genesis 12:17
But Yahweh struck Pharaoh and his house
Quote: וַיְנַגַּ֨ע יְהוָ֧ה אֶת פַּרְעֹ֛ה & וְאֶת בֵּית֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“But/Then Yahweh struck/afflicted the king and {the people in} his household/family” or “Then Yahweh caused {King} Pharaoh and {the people} in his household/family to get/be very sick”. See how you translated “Pharaoh” in verse 15. You could translate it differently in different contexts. Do what is clear and natural in your language in each context.
with} great plagues
Quote: נְגָעִ֥ים גְּדֹלִ֖ים (1)“{with} severe/terrible diseases/illnesses”
on account of Sarai the wife of Abram
Quote: עַל דְּבַ֥ר שָׂרַ֖י אֵ֥שֶׁת אַבְרָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because of Sarai, Abram’s wife.” or “because he/Pharaoh had taken Abram’s wife Sarai.” For many languages it is clearer and more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “But since {King} Pharaoh had taken Abram’s wife Sarai, Yahweh afflicted the king and his family {with} severe illnesses.” Do what is best in your language
Genesis 12:18
So Pharaoh called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א פַרְעֹה֙ (1)“So/Then {King} Pharaoh called/sent for Abram” or “So/Then Pharaoh/he summoned Abram {before him}” or “So/Then the king sent for Abram {to come to him}”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to him},” or “and asked {him},” Make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits with the way that you translate the following quote.
What {is} this you have done to me
Quote: מַה זֹּ֖את עָשִׂ֣יתָ לִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why have you treated me so badly?” or “You have treated me very badly!” Pharaoh uses rhetorical questions in verses 18 and 19 to express his anger at what Abram had done; he does not expect Abram to answer him. Some languages must use statements or exclamations here instead. Do what is best in your language.
Why did you not tell me that she {was} your wife
Quote: לָ֚מָּה לֹא הִגַּ֣דְתָּ לִּ֔י כִּ֥י אִשְׁתְּךָ֖ הִֽוא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“You should have told/informed me that she/Sarai {is} your wife!”
Genesis 12:19
Why did you say, ‘She {is} my sister
Quote: לָמָ֤ה אָמַ֨רְתָּ֙ אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why did you say/pretend that she {is} your sister,” or “You should not have said/pretended that she {is} your sister,” Pharaoh uses this rhetorical question to scold Abram and express his anger at him. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
so that I took her to me as a wife
Quote: וָאֶקַּ֥ח אֹתָ֛הּ לִ֖י לְאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“so that I took/chose her to be a/my wife!” or “so that I ended up taking her to be my wife!” or “I believed you and took her to be my wife!” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
Now then
Quote: וְעַתָּ֕ה (1)“Now therefore,” or “So now,”
behold your wife
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה אִשְׁתְּךָ֖ (1)“here is your wife {back}.” or “look, I’m giving your wife back to you.”
Take {her} and go
Quote: קַ֥ח וָלֵֽךְ (1)“Take {her} and leave {my country}!”
Genesis 12:20
Then Pharaoh commanded
Quote: וַיְצַ֥ו & פַּרְעֹ֖ה (1)“Then {King} Pharaoh gave orders to” or “Then the {Egyptian} king ordered” or “Then the king {of/over Egypt} commanded/ordered”. Consider again how you translated “Pharaoh” in verses 15-18, 20. It may be helpful to read this section aloud to make sure it is clear and natural in your language.
his men
Quote: אֲנָשִׁ֑ים (1)“{some of} his men/soldiers”
concerning him
Quote: עָלָ֛יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“concerning/about him/Abram,” or “to make sure that Abram left,” Throughout this verse, make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to.
and they sent him away
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּח֥וּ אֹת֛וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“and/so they forced him to leave {the/their country},” or “and/so they expelled him {from Egypt},”
and his wife
Quote: וְאֶת אִשְׁתּ֖וֹ (1)“along with his wife”
and everything that {belonged} to him
Quote: וְאֶת כָּל אֲשֶׁר לֽוֹ (1)“and all that he/they had/owned.” or “all his/their possessions.” This included Abram’s slaves, animals, and everything else that he owned.
Genesis 13
Genesis 13:1
Then Abram went up from Egypt
Quote: וַיַּעַל֩ אַבְרָ֨ם מִמִּצְרַ֜יִם (1)“So Abram went/traveled {northeast} from {the land/country of} Egypt,” or “Then/So Abram left {the land/country of} Egypt,” The Negev Wilderness (or Desert) is northeast in direction from Egypt and is higher in elevation. Compare how you translated “down” in Gen 12:10 when Abram traveled in the opposite direction.
he and his wife
Quote: ה֠וּא וְאִשְׁתּ֧וֹ (1)“{taking} with him his wife” or “{He took} with him his wife”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and everything that {belonged} to him
Quote: וְכָל אֲשֶׁר ל֛וֹ (1)“and everything that he/they owned/had,”
and Lot with him
Quote: וְל֥וֹט עִמּ֖וֹ (1)“as well as {his nephew} Lot,” or “and also {his nephew} Lot,” or “and {his nephew} Lot {went} with him/them.”
to the Negev
Quote: הַנֶּֽגְבָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{and they all went/traveled} {back} to the Negev/Southern {Wilderness/Desert}.” For many languages it is more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “Then Abram went up from Egypt {and traveled back} to the Negev {Wilderness/Desert}, along with his wife and everything that belonged to him. {His nephew} Lot also went with them.” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “Negev” in Gen 12:9, and see the note about that there.
Genesis 13:2
And Abram
Quote: וְאַבְרָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now” or “{By this/that time} Abram” or “Abram”. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information about Abram.
was} very wealthy
Quote: כָּבֵ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד (1)“{had become} very wealthy/rich”
in livestock
Quote: בַּמִּקְנֶ֕ה (1)“with {many} livestock” or “so that he owned {many} livestock”. The term “livestock” includes all kinds of domestic animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, camels and donkeys.
in silver, and in gold
Quote: בַּכֶּ֖סֶף וּבַזָּהָֽב (1)“and {much} silver and gold.” In this context, “silver and gold” includes the metals themselves as well as objects made out of the metals, but not coins (since coins did not exist at that time). See how you translated “gold” in Gen 2:11-12.
Genesis 13:3
from the Negev
Quote: מִנֶּ֖גֶב (1)“From the Negev/Southern {Wilderness/Desert}”. See how you translated “the Negev” in verse 1.
Then he went on his journeys
Quote: וַיֵּ֨לֶךְ֙ לְמַסָּעָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he/Abram {and his family} moved/traveled from place to place {northward}” or “he/Abram {and his family} continued traveling {northward}”. Abram represents his whole family here, and it is assumed that they are traveling with him. Consider whether or not you need to make them explicit in your language.
as far as Bethel
Quote: וְעַד בֵּֽית אֵ֑ל (1)“{until he/they came} to {the town of} Bethel,”
to the place where his tents had been
Quote: עַד הַמָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁר הָ֨יָה שָׁ֤ם אָֽהֳלוֹ֙ (1)“to the place/site where he/they had camped/lived in tents” or “where he had pitched his tents”
at the beginning
Quote: בַּתְּחִלָּ֔ה (1)“before/previously,” or “the first time {he was there},”
between Bethel and Ai
Quote: בֵּ֥ין בֵּֽית אֵ֖ל וּבֵ֥ין הָעָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“between {the towns of} Bethel and Ai,” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “Then from the Negev {Desert} Abram {and his family} continued traveling {northward} {until they came} to the place between {the towns of} Bethel and Ai where they had camped in tents before.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled “Bethel” and “Ai” in Gen 12:8.
Genesis 13:4
to the place of the altar that he had made there at first
Quote: אֶל מְקוֹם֙ הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ אֲשֶׁר עָ֥שָׂה שָׁ֖ם בָּרִאשֹׁנָ֑ה (1)“to the {same} place/site where he had made/built an altar before/previously,” or “{That is/was} the {same} place/site where he had first/previously made/built an altar,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated “altar” in Gen 8:20 and 12:7-8.
and there Abram called on the name of Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שָׁ֛ם אַבְרָ֖ם בְּשֵׁ֥ם יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“There {again} Abram/he {sacrificed animals on the/that altar and} addressed Yahweh by {his} name as he worshiped/praised him.” or “So Abram/he {again} {used that altar} there {and} worshiped/praised Yahweh by name.” or “… worshiped/praised Yahweh.” See how you translated “called on the name of Yahweh” in Gen 12:8.
Genesis 13:5
Now Lot, who was traveling with Abram, also had
Quote: וְגַם לְל֔וֹט הַהֹלֵ֖ךְ אֶת אַבְרָ֑ם הָיָ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Lot was traveling with {his uncle} Abram, and he {and his family} also had/owned”. The word “Now” introduces more background information for the new episode. For some languages it is more natural to leave “Now” implied and just use a paragraph break. Do what is best in your language.
flock{s} and herd{s
Quote: צֹאן וּבָקָ֖ר (1)“flocks {of sheep and goats} and herds {of cattle}” or “many sheep and cattle”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:16.
and tents
Quote: וְאֹהָלִֽים (1)“and {many} tents.” or “as well as {many} tents.”
Genesis 13:6
But the land could not support them
Quote: וְלֹא־נָשָׂ֥א אֹתָ֛ם הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)“As a result, there was not enough land to provide them {all} with enough food and water” or “In fact, there was not enough land to provide/have enough food and water for both families {and their livestock/animals}”
while they stayed together
Quote: לָשֶׁ֣בֶת יַחְדָּ֑ו (1)“if they lived near each other,” or “if they lived in the same area/region,”
because their possessions were great
Quote: כִּֽי הָיָ֤ה רְכוּשָׁם֙ רָ֔ב (1)“because their belongings were so abundant that” or “because they owned so many servants and livestock/animals that” or “They each owned so many servants and livestock/animals that”. The phrase “their possessions” especially refers to their livestock, which required much land to graze on and much water to drink, and probably also includes their many servants. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
so that they were not able to stay together
Quote: וְלֹ֥א יָֽכְל֖וּ לָשֶׁ֥בֶת יַחְדָּֽו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“they could not {all} live near each other.” or “it was not possible for them to {all} live in the same area/region.” See how you translated a similar phrase earlier in this verse. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “In fact, they {each/both} owned so many servants and livestock/animals that they could not live in the same area. There was not enough land to provide/produce the amount of food and water that they {all} needed.” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “stayed together” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 13:7
Then there was
Quote: וַֽיְהִי (1)“In fact,” or “As a result,”
Then there was strife
Quote: וַֽיְהִי רִ֗יב (1)“there was conflict/arguing” or “arguments/quarreling erupted/started”. The Hebrew word for “strife” is general in meaning and can include arguing and fighting. Some languages have an idiom for this that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock
Quote: בֵּ֚ין רֹעֵ֣י מִקְנֵֽה אַבְרָ֔ם וּבֵ֖ין רֹעֵ֣י מִקְנֵה ל֑וֹט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“between Abram’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen.” or “between the men who were tending Abram’s livestock and the men who were tending Lot’s livestock.” For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Then the men who were taking care of Abram’s livestock and the men who were taking care of Lot’s livestock started to argue with each other.” Do what is best in your language.
And the Canaanites
Quote: וְהַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)“Besides that,” or “Adding to that {problem was the fact that}”
And the Canaanites and the Perizzites
Quote: וְהַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ וְהַפְּרִזִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the Canaanite people and the Perizzite people” or “the descendants of Canaan and Perez”. See how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10, and see how you translated “the Canaanites” in Gen 12:6.
were living in the land
Quote: יֹשֵׁ֥ב בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)“were {also} living in the/that land/area/region”
then
Quote: אָ֖ז (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“at that time.” For some languages it is more natural to put this time phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “… at that time the Canaanites …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 13:8
So Abram said to Lot
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָ֜ם אֶל ל֗וֹט (1)“Then/Finally {one day} Abram said to Lot,”
Please do not let there be
Quote: אַל נָ֨א תְהִ֤י (1)“Please, we should not have/allow” or “We need to do something so that there is not {any}”
strife
Quote: מְרִיבָה֙ (1)“conflict/fighting/arguing”. See how you translated “strife” in verse 7.
between me and you
Quote: בֵּינִ֣י וּבֵינֶ֔יךָ (1)“between you and me,” or “between us,”
or between my herdsmen and your herdsmen
Quote: וּבֵ֥ין רֹעַ֖י וּבֵ֣ין רֹעֶ֑יךָ (1)“or/nor between the men tending my livestock and the men tending your livestock,” or “or/nor between our herdsmen,” See how you translated “herdsmen” in verse 7.
because we {are} men, brothers
Quote: כִּֽי אֲנָשִׁ֥ים אַחִ֖ים אֲנָֽחְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because/since we {are} men {who are also} brothers/relatives.” or “because/since we {are} close relatives.” Abram and Lot were close relatives, not actual brothers. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “Please, since we {are} close relatives, we need to do something so that you and I and our herdsmen will not argue.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 13:9
Is not the whole land before you
Quote: הֲלֹ֤א כָל הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Look, the entire land is available to you {to choose from}.” or “You can {choose to} live anywhere in this entire land.” Abram is using a rhetorical question to emphasize his point. He does not expect an answer from Lot. If that is not clear, you can translate this as a statement.
Please separate from me
Quote: הִפָּ֥רֶד נָ֖א מֵעָלָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Please {choose the land you want, and} let’s go our separate ways.” or “Please {choose where you want to live, and} let’s live in separate places.” Make sure it is clear in your translation of verse 9 that Abram is being kind to Lot, not mean or rude.
If {you go to} the left
Quote: אִם הַשְּׂמֹ֣אל (1)“If {you choose} {the land to} the left {of here},” or “if {you decide to live} {in the land to} our left,”
then I will go right
Quote: וְאֵימִ֔נָה (1)“then I will take/choose {the land to} the right,” or “then I will live {in the land} to our right,”
or if {you go to} the right
Quote: וְאִם הַיָּמִ֖ין (1)“Or if {you choose} {the land to} the right {of here},” or “Or if {you decide to live} {in the land to} our right,” For some languages, it may be more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
then I will go left
Quote: וְאַשְׂמְאִֽילָה (1)“then I will take/choose {the land to} the left.” or “then I will live {in the land} to our left.”
Genesis 13:10
Then Lot lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂא־ל֣וֹט אֶת־עֵינָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idioms
“So Lot looked {all} around” or “Lot looked around {carefully}”
and saw all the plain of the Jordan as you go {toward} Zoar, that all of it
Quote: וַיַּרְא֙ אֶת־כָּל־כִּכַּ֣ר הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן כִּ֥י כֻלָּ֖הּ & בֹּאֲכָ֖ה צֹֽעַר (1)“and he observed/noticed that the entire/whole Jordan {River} Valley, all the way to {the town of} Zoar,” The Jordan Plain is the wide, flat valley where the Jordan River flows between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea.
was} well-watered
Quote: מַשְׁקֶ֑ה (1)“had a lot of water,” or “had plenty of water,”
like Yahweh’s garden
Quote: כְּגַן יְהוָה֙ (1)“{It was lush and green} like the garden that Yahweh had planted,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated “garden” in Gen 3:23-24. This phrase refers to the Garden of Eden. You could put that information in a footnote.
like the land of Egypt
Quote: כְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“and/or like the country of Egypt,”
before Yahweh destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י שַׁחֵ֣ת יְהוָ֗ה אֶת סְדֹם֙ וְאֶת עֲמֹרָ֔ה (1)“{That is what it was like} before Yahweh destroyed {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah {which were also in that valley}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 13:11
So Lot chose for himself all the plain of the Jordan
Quote: וַיִּבְחַר ל֣וֹ ל֗וֹט אֵ֚ת כָּל כִּכַּ֣ר הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן (1)“So/Then Lot chose the entire/whole Jordan {River} Plain/Valley for himself,” or “So/Then Lot decided to live in the plain/valley that surrounded/bordered the Jordan {River},” See how you translated “plain of the Jordan” in verse 10.
and Lot traveled
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֥ע ל֖וֹט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he traveled/moved” or “Then Lot/he {left Abram and} traveled/moved”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use Lot’s name or a pronoun to refer to him here.
to the east
Quote: מִקֶּ֑דֶם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “to/toward the east {to live there}” or “eastward” or (2) “from the east”
and they separated from each other
Quote: וַיִּפָּ֣רְד֔וּ אִ֖ישׁ מֵעַ֥ל אָחִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So {in this way} they lived separately from each other.” or “That is how Abram and Lot ended up living in separate/different places.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider what is the best way to refer to Abram and Lot at this point in the paragraph.
Genesis 13:12
Abram settled
Quote: אַבְרָ֖ם יָשַׁ֣ב (1)“Abram settled/stayed {where he was}” or “Abram continued to live”
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶֽרֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)“in {that part of} the land/region of Canaan,”
and Lot settled
Quote: וְל֗וֹט יָשַׁב֙ (1)“but/while/whereas Lot lived”
in the cities of the plain
Quote: בְּעָרֵ֣י הַכִּכָּ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{in another part of the land/region} in/among the cities of/in the {Jordan River} valley” or “{in another part of the land/region} in/among the cities in the plain/valley {surrounding/bordering the Jordan River}”. As Lot traveled, he probably lived in several different cities in the Jordan River Valley until he eventually settled in the city of Sodom (Gen 14:12).
and moved his tents as far as
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֖ל עַד (1)“He {eventually} pitched his tents in/near” or “and {eventually} moved his tents to/near”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Sodom
Quote: סְדֹֽם (1)“{the city of} Sodom {and settled/stayed there}.”
Genesis 13:13
Now the men of Sodom
Quote: וְאַנְשֵׁ֣י סְדֹ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“But the people {who lived} in {the city of} Sodom”. The conjunction “Now/But” introduces background information that builds suspense for what happens to the people of Sodom later in Genesis (chapters 18-19). Consider what is the best way to begin this verse in your language. Also, this phrase probably has a general meaning here that includes all the people of Sodom, especially the men.
were} exceedingly wicked
Quote: רָעִ֖ים & מְאֹֽד (1)“{were} extremely/very wicked/evil”
and sinful against Yahweh
Quote: וְחַטָּאִ֑ים לַיהוָ֖ה (1)“were {terrible} sinners against Yahweh.” or “were {always/constantly} sinning/rebelling against Yahweh.” Some translations treat the phrase “wicked and sinful” as a hendiadys that means “wicked sinners”, but it is best to keep the two parts of this phrase separate (like the Hebrew text does) to emphasize the people’s evil character and behavior.
Genesis 13:14
Then Yahweh said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him
Quote: וַֽיהוָ֞ה אָמַ֣ר אֶל אַבְרָ֗ם אַחֲרֵי֙ הִפָּֽרֶד ל֣וֹט מֵֽעִמּ֔וֹ (1)“After Lot had left Abram, Yahweh said to Abram,”
Lift up your eyes please
Quote: שָׂ֣א נָ֤א עֵינֶ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Look around please/now” or “Look {all} around you”. See how you translated the idiom “lift … eyes” in verse 10. The Hebrew word for “please” is used to show politeness when making a proposal or to soften a command. It can also be translated “now” or omitted, depending on the context. Your translation here should not sound like God is begging.
from the place where you {are
Quote: מִן הַמָּק֖וֹם אֲשֶׁר אַתָּ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“from the place where you {live},” or “from where you {are standing},” For some languages it is more natural to put this phrase first in this quote and say, “From where you are standing, look {all} around you. Look …” Do what is best in your language.
and look
Quote: וּרְאֵ֔ה (1)“Look”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
northward and southward and eastward and westward
Quote: צָפֹ֥נָה וָנֶ֖גְבָּה וָקֵ֥דְמָה וָיָֽמָּה (1)“to the north, south, east, and west,” or “{in all directions:} north, south, east, and west,” or “around you in every direction,” See how you translated “east” and “west” in Gen 12:8.
Genesis 13:15
because all the land that you see
Quote: כִּ֧י אֶת כָּל הָאָ֛רֶץ אֲשֶׁר אַתָּ֥ה רֹאֶ֖ה (1)“All the land that you see” or “All that land, as far as you can see,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
I will give to you and to your offspring
Quote: לְךָ֣ אֶתְּנֶ֑נָּה וּֽלְזַרְעֲךָ֖ (1)“I will give to you and your descendants”. See how you translated “offspring” in Gen 12:7.
forever
Quote: עַד עוֹלָֽם (1)“{to own/possess} forever.”
Genesis 13:16
And I will make your offspring
Quote: וְשַׂמְתִּ֥י אֶֽת זַרְעֲךָ֖ (1)“Besides that, I will {also} cause your offspring/descendants to be” or “In fact, I will {also} give you so many offspring/descendants that they will be”
like the dust of the earth
Quote: כַּעֲפַ֣ר הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“as {numerous as} the {specks of} dust/dirt on the earth,” See how you translated “dust/dirt” in Gen 3:19.
which if anyone were able to count
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִם יוּכַ֣ל אִ֗ישׁ לִמְנוֹת֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary
“Just as it is impossible to count” or “Just as no one is able to count”. The Hebrew text has a contrary-to-fact clause here which implies that it is impossible for anyone to count all the specks of dust. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
the dust of the earth
Quote: אֶת־עֲפַ֣ר הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“all the dust/dirt specks/particles,” or “how many specks/particles of dust/dirt there are,” For some languages it is not natural to repeat “of/on the earth” here. Do what is best in your language.
your offspring could also be counted
Quote: גַּֽם זַרְעֲךָ֖ יִמָּנֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“so it will be impossible to count all your offspring/descendants {because they will be so numerous}.” or “no one will be able to count how many descendants you have.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the last two clauses and say, “No one will be able to count how many offspring/descendants you have, just as no one can count how many {specks/particles of} dust/dirt there are.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 13:17
Get up and walk
Quote: ק֚וּם הִתְהַלֵּ֣ךְ (1)“{Now} go walk” or “{So now,} start walking”. The phrase “get up” may imply that Abram was sitting down, but it probably just means that God is telling him to start walking through the land.
through the land
Quote: בָּאָ֔רֶץ (1)“through/throughout the land {in all directions},”
through its length and through its width
Quote: לְאָרְכָּ֖הּ וּלְרָחְבָּ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
“including its length and its width, {and look it over,}” or “Walk/Go throughout the entire land {and look it over},” The phrase “its length … its width” also includes all the area of land in between. Consider what is the best way to translate this merism in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
because to you I am giving it
Quote: כִּ֥י לְךָ֖ אֶתְּנֶֽנָּה (1)“because you {are the one} I am giving it to.” or “because I am giving it {all} to you.” In the Hebrew text, the phrase “to you” is before the verb to emphasize Abram. In your translation, communicate this emphasis in a way that is natural in your language.
Genesis 13:18
So Abram moved his tents
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֣ל אַבְרָ֗ם (1)“Then Abram {did what Yahweh commanded} and moved his tents” or “Abram {obeyed Yahweh and} moved/relocated his tents”. Abram obeyed God, but we do not know if he did everything that God commanded in verse 17 before he moved his tents near Hebron (verse 18), or if moving his tents was the first step in obeying what God told him to do. It is best to keep this general in your translation (as the Hebrew text does). Also see how you translated the phrase “moved his tents” in verse 12.
and went and settled
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֛א וַיֵּ֛שֶׁב (1)“and went to settle/live” or “and settled”
by the terebinth trees of Mamre
Quote: בְּאֵלֹנֵ֥י מַמְרֵ֖א (1)“near the terebinth/oak trees on Mamre’s {land},” or “near the terebinth/oak trees {on the land} owned by {a man named} Mamre,” See how you translated “terebinth” in Gen 12:6.
that {were} near Hebron
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּחֶבְר֑וֹן (1)“near {the city of} Hebron,”
and there he built an altar
Quote: וַיִּֽבֶן שָׁ֥ם מִזְבֵּ֖חַ (1)“There he built an altar {out of stones}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:7-8.
to Yahweh
Quote: לַֽיהוָֽה (1)“{and burned/offered sacrifices on it} to {thank and} worship Yahweh.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:7 and how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 8:20 and 12:8.
Genesis 14
Genesis 14:1
Now it happened in the days of
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י בִּימֵי֙ (1)“Then it happened {that} during the days/time when” or “During that time”
Amraphel king of
Quote: אַמְרָפֶ֣ל מֶֽלֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-keyterms
“Amraphel {was} the king/ruler over” or “King Amraphel was ruling”. The term “king” refers to the highest ruler or leader over a kingdom, which at that time was often just a city, a small region or a people group. Translate this with the best word for that in your language. Also see how you translated “Shinar” in Gen 10:10; 11:2.
Shinar
Quote: שִׁנְעָ֔ר (1)“{the land/region of} Shinar,”
Arioch king of
Quote: אַרְי֖וֹךְ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Arioch {was} the king/ruler over” or “King Arioch was ruling”. It is not known whether Ellasar was the name of a city or the name of a kingdom that had one or more cities.
Ellasar
Quote: אֶלָּסָ֑ר (1)“{the city/kingdom of} Ellasar,”
Kedorlaomer king of
Quote: כְּדָרְלָעֹ֨מֶר֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer {was} the king/ruler over” or “King Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer was ruling”. In Hebrew this king’s name is pronounced “Kedorlaomer”. However in many translations it is spelled “Chedorlaomer”. Be consistent with your choice throughout this chapter. Also, “Elam” refers to the land where the descendants of Shem’s son Elam lived (Gen 10:22).
Elam
Quote: עֵילָ֔ם (1)“{the land/region of} the Elamites,”
and Tidal king of
Quote: וְתִדְעָ֖ל מֶ֥לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“and Tidal {was} the king/ruler over” or “and King Tidal was ruling”. Most translation teams transliterate the name “Goyim” (as they do other names in the Bible). Some translations translate its meaning and say, “the nations/peoples.” Do what is best in your language.
the Goiim
Quote: גּוֹיִֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the Goyim {people},” Most translation teams transliterate the name “Goyim” (as they do other names in the Bible). Some translations translate its meaning and say “the nations/peoples”. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 14:2
they made war against
Quote: עָשׂ֣וּ מִלְחָמָ֗ה אֶת־ (1)“those/Those {four} kings {became allies/partners and} made/waged war” or “those/Those {four} kings {joined forces and} went to war”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here, which depends on how you translated verse 1.
Bera king of
Quote: בֶּ֨רַע֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Bera {who was} the king/ruler over” or “King Bera who was ruling”
Sodom
Quote: סְדֹ֔ם (1)“{the city of} Sodom,”
and against Birsha king of
Quote: וְאֶת בִּרְשַׁ֖ע מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Birsha {who was} the king/ruler over” or “King Birsha who was ruling”
Gomorrah
Quote: עֲמֹרָ֑ה (1)“{the city of} Gomorrah,”
Shinab king of
Quote: שִׁנְאָ֣ב מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Shinab {who was} the king/ruler over” or “King Shinab who was ruling”
Admah
Quote: אַדְמָ֗ה (1)“{the city of} Admah,”
and Shemeber king of
Quote: וְשֶׁמְאֵ֨בֶר֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Shemeber {who was} the king/ruler over” or “King Shemeber who was ruling”
Zeboiim
Quote: צְבוֹיִ֔ים (1)“{the city of} Zeboyim,”
and the king of
Quote: וּמֶ֥לֶךְ (1)“and the king/ruler over” or “and the king/ruler who was ruling”
Bela
Quote: בֶּ֖לַע (1)“{the town of} Bela,”
which {is} Zoar
Quote: הִיא צֹֽעַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“which {is also/now called} Zoar.” or “which {was later called} Zoar.” or “that is, Zoar.” This town is first mentioned in Gen 13:10, but it was not actually named Zoar until later (Gen 19:22). You may want to put that information in a footnote.
Genesis 14:3
All these
Quote: כָּל אֵ֨לֶּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“These/Those {five kings} all”. Consider whether it is necessary to make it explicit in your translation that “these” refers to the five kings just mentioned in verse 2.
joined together
Quote: חָֽבְר֔וּ (1)“united/combined their forces/armies {as allies/partners} {and fought against the four kings}”
in the Valley of Siddim
Quote: אֶל עֵ֖מֶק הַשִּׂדִּ֑ים (1)“in the Siddim Valley,”
which {is now} the Sea of Salt
Quote: ה֖וּא יָ֥ם הַמֶּֽלַח (1)“which {later} {became} the Salt Sea.” or “where the Salt Sea {is now}.” The Hebrew word for “sea/ocean” can also refer to a large lake. The Salt Sea, also known as the Dead Sea, is about 31 miles (50 kilometers) long and 9 miles (15 kilometers) wide. Use a term in your language for a body of water that size.
Genesis 14:4
For} twelve years
Quote: שְׁתֵּ֤ים עֶשְׂרֵה֙ שָׁנָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“{This is what happened:} {For/During} twelve years” or “{This is why they were fighting:} {For/During} twelve years”. This paragraph (verses 4-9) is a flashback that tells the events that led up to the war (verses 1-3). Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information.
they had served
Quote: עָבְד֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“the five kings had paid tribute/taxes/money to” or “the five kings had been subject to” or “they had been ruled by””. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to the five kings (listed in verse 2) at this point in the paragraph.
Kedorlaomer
Quote: אֶת כְּדָרְלָעֹ֑מֶר (1)“{King} Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer,” Be consistent here with how you spelled this name in verse 1.
but the thirteenth year
Quote: וּשְׁלֹשׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה שָׁנָ֖ה (1)“but {sometime} in/during the thirteenth year”
they rebelled
Quote: מָרָֽדוּ (1)“they started to rebel/revolt {against him}.”
Genesis 14:5
Then in the fourteenth year
Quote: וּבְאַרְבַּע֩ עֶשְׂרֵ֨ה שָׁנָ֜ה (1)“Then {sometime} in/during the fourteenth year,”
Kedorlaomer
Quote: כְדָרְלָעֹ֗מֶר (1)“{King} Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer”
and the kings
Quote: וְהַמְּלָכִים֙ (1)“and the {three} kings”
who {were} with him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתּ֔וֹ (1)“who {were allied} with him” or “who {were} his allies/partners”
went
Quote: בָּ֣א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{united/combined their armies and} went {to war/fight} {against all their enemies}”. Verses 5-7 list enemies of King Kedorlaomer that are in addition to the five kings mentioned in verses 2-4. Consider whether or not to make it explicit in your translation here that they were fighting all their enemies.
and struck
Quote: וַיַּכּ֤וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{First,} they conquered/defeated”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the Rephaim
Quote: אֶת רְפָאִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the Rephaites” or “the Rephaite/Repha people”. See how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10:4, 13-18, and see the note about that at 10:4.
in Ashteroth-Karnaim
Quote: בְּעַשְׁתְּרֹ֣ת קַרְנַ֔יִם (1)“in {the city of} Ashteroth-Karnaim,”
and the Zuzim
Quote: וְאֶת הַזּוּזִ֖ים (1)“and/then the Zuzites” or “and the Zuzite/Zuz people”
in Ham
Quote: בְּהָ֑ם (1)“in {the city of} Ham,”
the Emim
Quote: הָֽאֵימִ֔ים (1)“the Emites” or “the Emite/Em people”
in Shaveh-Kiriathaim
Quote: בְּשָׁוֵ֖ה קִרְיָתָֽיִם (1)“in {the city of} Shaveh-Kiriathaim,”
Genesis 14:6
and the Horites
Quote: וְאֶת הַחֹרִ֖י (1)“and the Horite/Hor people”
in their hill country of Seir
Quote: בְּהַרְרָ֣ם שֵׂעִ֑יר (1)“{who lived} in the hill country of {the land/region of} Seir” or “{who lived} in the Seir Hills/Mountains”
as far as El Paran
Quote: עַ֚ד אֵ֣יל פָּארָ֔ן (1)“{all the way} to {the city of} El Paran,”
which {is} by
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל (1)“which {is located} near/beside” or “which {is} on/at the edge/border of”
the wilderness
Quote: הַמִּדְבָּֽר (1)“the/a desert.” A wilderness is a dry, rocky area where few plants grow and few people live. See how you translated “wilderness/desert” in Gen 12:9 and 13:1, 3 (if you made that explicit in those verses).
Genesis 14:7
Then they turned back
Quote: וַ֠יָּשֻׁבוּ (1)“Next the/those {four} kings {and their armies}”
Then they turned back
Quote: וַ֠יָּשֻׁבוּ (1)“turned around” or “started to return home”
and came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֜אוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“and went”
to En Mishpat
Quote: אֶל עֵ֤ין מִשְׁפָּט֙ (1)“to {the city of} En Mishpat,”
which {is} Kadesh
Quote: הִ֣וא קָדֵ֔שׁ (1)“which {is also/now called} Kadesh,” or “which {was later called} Kadesh,” or “that is, Kadesh,” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 2.
and they struck
Quote: וַיַּכּ֕וּ (1)“They conquered/defeated”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the entire territory of the Amalekites
Quote: אֶֽת כָּל שְׂדֵ֖ה הָעֲמָלֵקִ֑י (1)“the entire/whole territory/area/land where the Amalekites lived” or “… where the Amalekite/Amalek people {group} lived”
and also the Amorites
Quote: וְגַם֙ אֶת הָ֣אֱמֹרִ֔י (1)“as well as the Amorite/Amor people {group},” Be consistent here with how you translated “Amorites” in Gen 10:16.
who were living in Hazezon Tamar
Quote: הַיֹּשֵׁ֖ב בְּחַֽצְצֹ֥ן תָּמָֽר (1)“who lived in {the city of} Hazezon Tamar.”
Genesis 14:8
Then … went out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֨א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“That’s when”. Verse 8 is talking about the same battle that is mentioned in verse 2, except it leaves out the names of the kings. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like a different battle.
the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela
Quote: מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹ֜ם וּמֶ֣לֶךְ עֲמֹרָ֗ה וּמֶ֤לֶךְ אַדְמָה֙ וּמֶ֣לֶךְ צְבוֹיִ֔ם וּמֶ֥לֶךְ בֶּ֖לַע (1)“the king over {the city of} Sodom, the king over {the city of} Gomorrah, the king over {the city of} Admah, the king over {the city of} Zeboyim, and the king over {the town of} Bela,” or “the kings over {the cities of} Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Bela,” Be consistent in verse 8 with how you spelled the names of these cities in verse 2 and in Gen 10:19.
which {is} Zoar
Quote: הִוא צֹ֑עַר (1)“which {is also/now called} Zoar,” or “that is, Zoar,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2.
Then … went out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֨א (1)“went/marched out {with their armies}”
into the Valley of Siddim
Quote: בְּעֵ֖מֶק הַשִּׂדִּֽים (1)“into the Siddim Valley”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
and arranged themselves for battle
Quote: וַיַּֽעַרְכ֤וּ אִתָּם֙ מִלְחָמָ֔ה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and assembled/prepared/positioned {themselves} for battle” or “and got ready to fight” or (2) “and joined/united together in battle”
Genesis 14:9
against Kedorlaomer king of
Quote: אֵ֣ת כְּדָרְלָעֹ֜מֶר מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“against Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer {who was} the king/ruler over” or “against King Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer who was ruling”. The same kings (and the places they ruled) that are listed here in verse 9 are listed in verse 1, but in a different order. Be consistent here with how you spelled the names there.
Elam
Quote: עֵילָ֗ם (1)“{the land/region of} Elam,”
and Tidal king of
Quote: וְתִדְעָל֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Tidal {who was} the king/ruler over” or “King Tidal who was ruling”
Goiim
Quote: גּוֹיִ֔ם (1)“the Goyim {people},” Be consistent here with how you translated this people group name in verse 1.
and Amraphel king of
Quote: וְאַמְרָפֶל֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“Amraphel {who was} the king/ruler over” or “King Amraphel who was ruling”
Shinar
Quote: שִׁנְעָ֔ר (1)“{the land/region of} Shinar,”
and Arioch king of
Quote: וְאַרְי֖וֹךְ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)“and Arioch {who was} the king/ruler over” or “and King Arioch who was ruling”
Ellasar
Quote: אֶלָּסָ֑ר (1)“{the city/kingdom of} Ellasar,”
four kings against
Quote: אַרְבָּעָ֥ה מְלָכִ֖ים אֶת (1)“{It was} four kings {who started fighting} against” or “{Then} the/those four kings attacked”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the five
Quote: הַחֲמִשָּֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“the five {kings} {and started defeating them}.” It is implied in verse 10 that the four kings had started defeating the five kings. If that is not clear, you could make that explicit here.
Genesis 14:10
Now the Valley of Siddim {had} many tar pits
Quote: וְעֵ֣מֶק הַשִׂדִּ֗ים בֶּֽאֱרֹ֤ת בֶּאֱרֹת֙ חֵמָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“The Siddim Valley was full of tar pits,” or “There were many tar pits in the Siddim Valley,” The word “Now” indicates a change of topic and introduces background information. For some languages it is more natural to omit that word and just use a paragraph break. Do what is best in your language. Also be consistent here with how you translated “the Valley of Siddim” in verses 3 and 8, and how you translated “tar” in Gen 11:3.
and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled
Quote: וַיָּנֻ֛סוּ מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹ֥ם וַעֲמֹרָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“As/When the kings of/over {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah {and their armies/soldiers} were running away {from the battle},” It is assumed here that the kings were accompanied by their armies. If that is not understood, you could make that explicit in your translation. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and they fell there
Quote: וַיִּפְּלוּ שָׁ֑מָּה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “they died there {in the tar pits}.” or “some {of their soldiers/men} were killed there {in the tar pits}.” or “they fell into the tar pits {and died}.” or (2) “jumped into the tar pits {to hide}.” Notice that the king of Sodom is still alive in verse 17, so the pronoun “they” probably does not include him here, depending on how you translate “fell there”.
And those who remained
Quote: וְהַנִּשְׁאָרִ֖ים (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “while/but those who were left” or “Those who escaped” or (2) “But the other {three kings and their armies/soldiers}”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence.
fled
Quote: נָּֽסוּ (1)“ran away”. See how you translated “fled” earlier in this verse.
to the hill country
Quote: הֶ֥רָה (1)“to the mountains/hills {to hide}.” See how you translated “hill country” in verse 6.
Genesis 14:11
Then they took
Quote: וַ֠יִּקְחוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then the four kings took {by force}” or “Then the four kings seized”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to the four kings at this point in the paragraph.
all the possessions of Sodom and Gomorrah
Quote: אֶת כָּל רְכֻ֨שׁ סְדֹ֧ם וַעֲמֹרָ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“all the possessions of/from {the people of/in} {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah” or “all the {people’s} belongings in {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah”. The phrase “Sodom and Gomorrah” refers here to the people who lived in those cities. Consider what is the best way to refer to those people here in your language.
and all their food
Quote: וְאֶת כָּל אָכְלָ֖ם (1)“including/even all their food,” or “as well as all their food,”
and left
Quote: וַיֵּלֵֽכוּ (1)“and left {with it all}.” or “and carried it {all} away {with them}.” or “and went on their way.”
Genesis 14:12
And they took
Quote: וַיִּקְח֨וּ (1)“They also took {with them}” or “They also carried off/away” or “The four kings also captured”
Lot and his possessions, the son of Abram’s brother, when they left
Quote: אֶת ל֧וֹט וְאֶת רְכֻשׁ֛וֹ בֶּן אֲחִ֥י אַבְרָ֖ם וַיֵּלֵ֑כוּ (1)“Abram’s nephew Lot and his possessions/belongings,”
since he was living in Sodom
Quote: וְה֥וּא יֹשֵׁ֖ב בִּסְדֹֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“since he was living in {the city of} Sodom.” For some languages it may be more clearer or more natural to put this phrase first in this sentence and say, “Since Abram’s nephew Lot was {also} living in {the city of} Sodom, the four kings took/captured him too, along with his possessions.”
Genesis 14:13
Then someone who escaped came
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ הַפָּלִ֔יט (1)“Then/But someone {from Sodom} escaped {from the battle} and came/went”
and reported to Abram the Hebrew
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֖ד לְאַבְרָ֣ם הָעִבְרִ֑י (1)“to Abram the Hebrew and reported {to him} {what had happened}.” The Hebrew people are the descendants of Abram (Abraham), and they were named after his ancestor Eber, who was Shem’s great grandson (Genesis 11:10-26). Some of this information could be put in a footnote.
And he
Quote: וְהוּא֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now {at that time} he/Abram” or “{At that time} he/Abram”. This phrase introduces background information about Abram as part of the setting for what happens next. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
was living by the terebinth trees of Mamre
Quote: שֹׁכֵ֨ן בְּאֵֽלֹנֵ֜י מַמְרֵ֣א (1)“was {still} living by/near the terebinth/oak trees that were owned by Mamre” or “was {still} living by/near the terebinth/oak trees on the land owned by Mamre”. See how you translated this clause in Gen 13:18.
the Amorite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִ֗י (1)“{who was} {a member of} the Amorite {people/ethnic group}”. See how you translated “Amorites” in verse 7.
the brother of Eshcol and the brother of Aner
Quote: אֲחִ֤י אֶשְׁכֹּל֙ וַאֲחִ֣י עָנֵ֔ר (1)“{who was} the brother of Eshcol and Aner” or “{whose} brothers were Eshcol and Aner”
and they {were
Quote: וְהֵ֖ם (1)“Those {three} men”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
owners of a covenant with Abram
Quote: בַּעֲלֵ֥י בְרִית אַבְרָֽם (1)“had made a covenant/pact/agreement with Abram {to be his allies}.” or “and Abram had made a covenant/pact/agreement together {that they would help each other against their enemies}.”
Genesis 14:14
And when Abram heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע אַבְרָ֔ם (1)“When Abram found out”
that his relative had been taken captive
Quote: כִּ֥י נִשְׁבָּ֖ה אָחִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“that his relative/nephew {Lot} had been captured,” or “that {the four kings} had captured his nephew {Lot},” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
then he led out
Quote: וַיָּ֨רֶק (1)“he called/gathered together {for battle}” or “he summoned/assembled/mobilized {for battle}.”
his 318 trained men who had been born in his house
Quote: אֶת חֲנִיכָ֜יו יְלִידֵ֣י בֵית֗וֹ שְׁמֹנָ֤ה עָשָׂר֙ וּשְׁלֹ֣שׁ מֵא֔וֹת (1)“318 of his/the servants who had been born in his household and were trained/skilled warriors” or “318 of his servants born in his household whom he had trained to fight/battle”. It is clear from verse 15 that these men were Abram’s servants.
and he pursued {his enemies
Quote: וַיִּרְדֹּ֖ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then he/Abram {and his men/servants and his allies} went/chased after {the invaders}” or “Then {together with his allies} they {all} pursued {the four kings and their armies}”. In this sentence the pronoun “he” refers to Abram and all those who had united with him as his allies.
as far as
Quote: עַד (1)“all the way to” or “until they caught up with them at”
Dan
Quote: דָּֽן (1)“{the town of} Dan.”
Genesis 14:15
Then he divided against them during the night, he and his servants
Quote: וַיֵּחָלֵ֨ק עֲלֵיהֶ֧ם לַ֛יְלָה ה֥וּא וַעֲבָדָ֖יו (1)“Then/There during the night he/Abram and his servants/men divided {into groups}, {surprise} attacked the {four} kings {and their soldiers},”
and struck them
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and overpowered/defeated/routed them”
and pursued them
Quote: וַֽיִּרְדְּפֵם֙ (1)“Then they went/chased after them”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to Hobah
Quote: עַד חוֹבָ֔ה (1)“{all the way} to {the town of} Hobah,” or “as far as {the town of} Hobah,”
which {is} north of Damascus
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר מִשְּׂמֹ֖אל לְדַמָּֽשֶׂק (1)“which {is located} north of {the city of} Damascus.”
Genesis 14:16
And he brought back
Quote: וַיָּ֕שֶׁב (1)“As a result, he/Abram got back” or “He/Abram recovered”
all the possessions
Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל הָרְכֻ֑שׁ (1)“all the {people’s} belongings/things {that the four kings had taken/seized}”
and he also brought back
Quote: וְגַם֩ & הֵשִׁ֔יב (1)“He also got back” or “He also recovered/rescued”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
his relative Lot
Quote: אֶת ל֨וֹט אָחִ֤יו (1)“his nephew Lot”
and his possessions
Quote: וּרְכֻשׁוֹ֙ (1)“and {all} his/Lot's belongings,”
and also the women
Quote: וְגַ֥ם אֶת הַנָּשִׁ֖ים (1)“as well as the women”
and the {other} people
Quote: וְאֶת הָעָֽם (1)“and {all} the {other} people {whom the kings had captured}.”
Genesis 14:17
Then the king of Sodom came out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֣א מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹם֮ (1)“Then the king over {the city of} Sodom”
Then the king of Sodom came out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֣א מֶֽלֶךְ־סְדֹם֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“Then the king over {the city of} Sodom went out”. Consider whether “came” or “went” is more natural here in your language.
to meet him
Quote: לִקְרָאתוֹ֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“to greet/welcome him/Abram” or “and greeted/welcomed him/Abram”
in the Valley of Shaveh
Quote: אֶל עֵ֣מֶק שָׁוֵ֔ה (1)“in the Shaveh Valley,”
which {is} the King’s Valley
Quote: ה֖וּא עֵ֥מֶק הַמֶּֽלֶךְ (1)“which {is also called/named} the King’s Valley,” or “that is, the King’s Valley,”
after he returned
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֣י שׁוּב֗וֹ (1)“as he/Abram was returning {home}” or “as he/Abram was going/headed back home”. When Abram reached the Shaveh Valley, he was still about 20 miles (30 kilometers) north of his home, which was near the city of Hebron (Gen 13:18).
from striking
Quote: מֵֽהַכּוֹת֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“after defeating” or “after he defeated”. See how you translated “struck” in verse 15.
Kedorlaomer
Quote: אֶת כְּדָרלָעֹ֔מֶר (1)“{King} Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer {and his army}”. Be consistent here with how you spelled this name previously in this chapter; see verses 1, 4-5, 9, 17.
and the kings
Quote: וְאֶת הַמְּלָכִ֖ים (1)“and {the armies of} the {other} {three} kings”
who {were} with him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“who were Kedorlaomer’s/Chedorlaomer’s allies/partners.” or “who had joined/allied themselves with Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer.” For some languages it may be better to put the clauses of this verse in the order that the events actually happened. For example you could say, “After Abram defeated {King} Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer and the {other} {three} kings who were Kedorlaomer’s/Chedorlaomer’s allies, he started to return {home}. When Abram reached the Shaveh Valley, that is, the King’s Valley, the king over {the city of} Sodom came/went there and greeted/welcomed him.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 14:18
Then Melchizedek the king of Salem
Quote: וּמַלְכִּי צֶ֨דֶק֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ שָׁלֵ֔ם (1)“Then Melchizedek {who was} the king over {the city of} Salem {also came/went there, and he}”. Salem is the short name for the city of Jerusalem (See: Psalm 76:2). The Shaveh Valley, where Melchizedek met Abram, was located just east of Jerusalem. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
brought out bread and wine
Quote: הוֹצִ֖יא לֶ֣חֶם וָיָ֑יִן (1)“brought (some) bread and wine {for them to eat and drink}.” or “brought {some} bread and wine {for Abram and his men to eat and drink}.” It is not known whether Melchizedek brought out a large amount of bread and wine to feed Abram and his men, or if he brought out just enough for him and Abram to share, possibly as part of establishing a covenant between them. The first alternate above would work for either meaning. See how you translated “wine” in Gen 9:21, 24.
And he {was
Quote: וְה֥וּא (1)“He {was also}” or “{King} Melchizedek {was also}”
a priest
Quote: כֹהֵ֖ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“a priest for” or “a priest who served”. A priest is someone who represents people to God, and who represents God to the people. He leads the people in praying, worship, making sacrifices, ceremonies, and festivals.
to God Most High
Quote: לְאֵ֥ל עֶלְיֽוֹן (1)“the most high/powerful God.” or “the highest/greatest God.” or “God who is higher/greater {than all other gods}.”
Genesis 14:19
And he blessed him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרְכֵ֖הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“He blessed Abram” or “So he/Melchizedek blessed Abram”. Make sure your translation of “blessed … and said” refers to the same event, not two separate events. Also see how you translated “bless” in Gen 12:2-3.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)“by saying {to him},”
May Abram be blessed
Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ אַבְרָם֙ (1)“I pray that {you} Abram will be blessed”
by God Most High
Quote: לְאֵ֣ל עֶלְי֔וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“by the most high/powerful God,” or “by the highest/greatest God,” See how you translated this title in verse 18. For some languages it may be better to switch the order of phrases in this sentence and say, “May the greatest God, who owns heaven and earth, bless Abram/you.” or “I pray that the most high/powerful God, who created heaven and earth, will bless {you} Abram.” Do what is best in your language.
the Possessor of heaven and earth
Quote: קֹנֵ֖ה שָׁמַ֥יִם וָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{who is} the Owner/Creator of heaven and earth.” or “who owns/created heaven and earth.” The Hebrew word for “Possessor” also means “Creator,” which is used in many translations. Whichever one you do not use in the text you could put in a footnote.
Genesis 14:20
And praised be
Quote: וּבָרוּךְ֙ (1)“Praise” or “Give praise to” or “Let everyone praise”. See how you translated “Praised be” in Gen 9:26.
God Most High
Quote: אֵ֣ל עֶלְי֔וֹן (1)“the most high/powerful God,” or “the highest/greatest God,” See how you translated this phrase in verses 18-19.
who delivered your enemies into your hand
Quote: אֲשֶׁר מִגֵּ֥ן צָרֶ֖יךָ בְּיָדֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“because he gave you victory over your enemies!” or “because he enabled you to defeat your enemies!” The phrase “delivered … into your hand” is an idiom. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that fits well here.
Then he gave to him
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן ל֥וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Abram gave {King} Melchizedek”. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here.
a tenth
Quote: מַעֲשֵׂ֖ר (1)“one-tenth” or “ten percent”
of everything
Quote: מִכֹּֽל (1)“of everything {that he had recovered/captured in the battle}.” or “of all {the plunder he had brought back from the battle}.” This phrase refers to the belongings of the people of Sodom that Abram had recovered from the kings who stole them.
Genesis 14:21
Then the king of Sodom said to Abram
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹ֖ם אֶל־אַבְרָ֑ם (1)“Then the king of Sodom requested of Abram,” or “After that, the king over {the city of} Sodom urged/asked Abram,”
Give to me
Quote: תֶּן לִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} give/return to me”. Make sure in your translation that the king of Sodom’s request to Abram sounds polite, not rude or demanding.
the people
Quote: הַנֶּ֔פֶשׁ (1)“the/my people {whom you rescued/saved},” or “the people {from Sodom} {whom you rescued},”
but the possessions take for yourself
Quote: וְהָרְכֻ֖שׁ קַֽח לָֽךְ (1)“but the possessions/plunder you may take/keep for yourself.” or “but take/keep for yourself the/their belongings {that you recovered}.” See how you translated “possessions” in verses 11-12,16.
Genesis 14:22
But Abram said to the king of Sodom
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אַבְרָ֖ם אֶל מֶ֣לֶךְ סְדֹ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“But Abram/he replied to him,” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Abram and to the king of Sodom at this point in their conversation.
I raise my hand to Yahweh
Quote: הֲרִימֹ֨תִי יָדִ֤י אֶל יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“{I will not keep anything, because} I have raised my hand {and sworn/vowed/promised} to Yahweh,” It was the custom that when a person made an oath, he raised his hand to show that he was telling the truth and making a serious, unbreakable promise. Abram’s oath to Yahweh made Yahweh his witness who would hold him accountable and punish him if he were to break his oath.
God Most High
Quote: אֵ֣ל עֶלְי֔וֹן (1)“{who is} the highest/greatest God,” See how you translated this phrase in verses 18-20.
the Possessor of heaven and earth
Quote: קֹנֵ֖ה שָׁמַ֥יִם וָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{and} the Owner/Creator of heaven and earth,” or “{and} the One who owns/created heaven and earth,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 19.
Genesis 14:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: אִם (1)“{that} I will not {keep/accept}”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: מִחוּט֙ וְעַ֣ד שְׂרֽוֹךְ נַ֔עַל (1)“even a thread/string or the strap from a sandal,” or “even {something as small/insignificant as} a {piece of} string or a sandal strap,”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וְאִם אֶקַּ֖ח מִכָּל (1)“No/Yes, I will not keep/accept anything”. This clause emphasizes Abram’s point. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: אֲשֶׁר לָ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“that {belongs} to you {or your people},” or “that is yours {or your people’s},” For some languages, it may be clearer and more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “{that} I will not keep/accept anything that {belongs} to you {or your people}, not even {something as small as} a {piece of} thread/string or the strap from a sandal.” Do what is best in your language.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וְלֹ֣א תֹאמַ֔ר (1)“That way you can never say,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: אֲנִ֖י הֶעֱשַׁ֥רְתִּי אֶת אַבְרָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I {am the one who} made Abram rich/wealthy!” or “that you {were the one who} made me rich.” The Hebrew pronoun that refers here to the king of Sodom is emphatic. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language. Also consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 14:24
I {will take} nothing, except
Quote: בִּלְעָדַ֗י רַ֚ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“{So} I {will} not {keep/accept} anything, except” or “{So} I {will} only {keep/accept}”. Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this exception sentence.
what the young men have eaten
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָֽכְל֣וּ הַנְּעָרִ֔ים (1)“what my servants {who fought with me} have eaten” or “what my men/warriors ate”. These young men were Abram’s trained servants or warriors who are mentioned in verses 14-15.
and the share of the other men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre
Quote: וְחֵ֨לֶק֙ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָלְכ֖וּ אִתִּ֑י עָנֵר֙ אֶשְׁכֹּ֣ל וּמַמְרֵ֔א (1)“and the share/part {of the plunder} that Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre deserve for being my allies/partners.” or “and what Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre deserve for helping me in the battle.”
Let them take
Quote: הֵ֖ם יִקְח֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} let them take/have” or “{Please} give them”. Abram is being polite, but make sure in your translation that he does not sound like he is begging, especially since he is a mighty warrior.
their share
Quote: חֶלְקָֽם (1)“their share/part {of the plunder}.” or “their share/part {of what we recovered}.”
Genesis 15
Genesis 15:1
After those things
Quote: אַחַ֣ר הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֗לֶּה (1)“After those things/events {happened},” or “After that,”
the word of Yahweh came to Abram in a vision, saying
Quote: הָיָ֤ה דְבַר יְהוָה֙ אֶל אַבְרָ֔ם בַּֽמַּחֲזֶ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Yahweh said to Abram in a vision,” or “Yahweh appeared/came to Abram visually and said {to him},” A vision is a supernatural experience that a person has while he is awake, so the way you translate this term should be different from the way you translate “dream” (since people have dreams while asleep). Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like what Abram saw was unreal; what he saw and heard actually happened.
Do not be afraid, Abram
Quote: אַל תִּירָ֣א אַבְרָ֗ם (1)“Abram, do not be afraid!”
I {am} a shield for you
Quote: אָנֹכִי֙ מָגֵ֣ן לָ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“I {am} your shield/protector,” or “I protect you {like} a shield,” or “I will shield/protect you,” God is like a shield to Abram since he protects him. Consider what is the best way to translate this metaphor in your language.
your reward will be very great
Quote: שְׂכָרְךָ֖ הַרְבֵּ֥ה מְאֹֽד (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{and} your reward {from me} will be very great.” or “{and} I will give you a very great/valuable reward/gift.” (2) “{and} {I am} your very great/valuable reward.” The context (verse 2) shows that the first interpretation is what Abram understood God to be saying.
Genesis 15:2
But Abram said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אַבְרָ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abram said/lamented {to him},” or “But/Then Abram asked {him},” The way you translate this quote margin may depend on how you translate the following rhetorical question.
My Lord Yahweh
Quote: אֲדֹנָ֤י יֱהוִה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“My Master Yahweh,” or “Yahweh my Lord/Master,” The phrase “My Lord” means that Yahweh owns Abram and has complete authority over him, just as a master (at that time) had complete authority over his servant.
what will you give to me
Quote: מַה תִּתֶּן לִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“what {reward} will/can you give to me {that would benefit me},” or “{I don’t understand} how a reward from you {would benefit/help} me,” or “even if you reward me {greatly}, {that will not benefit/help me,}” Abram uses this rhetorical question to show that he is lamenting that he has no children. Make sure in your translation that he does not sound rude.
since I go childless
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י הוֹלֵ֣ךְ עֲרִירִ֑י (1)“since I remain childless” or “I still have no children”
and the son of the inheritance of
Quote: וּבֶן מֶ֣שֶׁק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so that {when/after I die,} the inheritor/heir of” or “So {when I die,} the one who will inherit/own”. The phrase “son of the inheritance” is used here as an idiom that means “inheritor” or “heir”; it does not refer to an actual son. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
my house
Quote: בֵּיתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“my estate/property” or “all/everything that I have/own”. This phrase refers here to all Abram’s belongings.
is} the Damascan, Eliezer
Quote: דַּמֶּ֥שֶׂק אֱלִיעֶֽזֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{is} {my foreign servant} Eliezer from Damascus” or “{is} {my servant} Eliezer {who is} {a foreigner} from {the city of} Damascus”. In the Hebrew text, Abram emphasizes the fact that Eliezer was from Damascus, which means he was a foreigner from a foreign city, not a blood relative. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translated “{the city of} Damascus” in Gen 14:15.
Genesis 15:3
Then Abram said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אַבְרָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he continued/added,” Some languages omit these words, because the same speaker is still speaking to the same audience. Do what is best in your language.
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)“Look/Indeed,” Some translations omit this phrase to prevent Abram from sounding rude. Do what is best in your language.
you have not given a child to me
Quote: לִ֔י לֹ֥א נָתַ֖תָּה זָ֑רַע (1)“you have not given me any children,” In the Hebrew text “to me” is before “you have not given” to emphasize Abram. Do what is natural in your language.
so that behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)“so that now {when/after I die},”
a servant of my house
Quote: בֶן בֵּיתִ֖י (1)“a servant from my household” or “one of my household servants”
is my heir
Quote: יוֹרֵ֥שׁ אֹתִֽי (1)“will be my heir!” or “will inherit/get everything I own!”
Genesis 15:4
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)“But immediately” or “Immediately”
the word of Yahweh {came} to him, saying
Quote: דְבַר יְהוָ֤ה אֵלָיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Yahweh said/replied to him/Abram,” See how you translated this idiom in verse 1. It may be necessary to translate it differently here because of the different context.
That {man
Quote: זֶ֑ה (1)“{No,} that man/servant” or “{No,} your servant {Eliezer}”
will not be your heir, but rather
Quote: לֹ֥א יִֽירָשְׁךָ֖ & כִּי אִם֙ (1)“will not inherit/get your estate/property, rather”
a son who comes from your bowels, he
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֵצֵ֣א מִמֵּעֶ֔יךָ ה֖וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-Idiom
“a son whom you father” or “it will be your very own {biological} son who”. The phrase “comes from your bowels” is an idiom that refers to fathering a child. Make sure your translation of this clause does not imply that Abram would give birth to a son.
will be your heir
Quote: יִֽירָשֶֽׁךָ (1)“will inherit/own your estate/property.” or “will inherit/own it.”
Genesis 15:5
Then he brought him
Quote: וַיּוֹצֵ֨א אֹת֜וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Yahweh took/led him/Abram”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Yahweh and Abram at this point in the paragraph.
outside
Quote: הַח֗וּצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“outside {his tent}”. Abram was probably inside a tent, not inside a house. But if possible, it is best to leave this implied in a translation (as the Hebrew text does).
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to him},”
Please look
Quote: הַבֶּט נָ֣א (1)“Please/Now look {up}” or “Look {up}”. See how you translated “please” in Gen 13:14. Make sure your translation does not sound like God is begging.
at the heavens
Quote: הַשָּׁמַ֗יְמָה (1)“into the heavens” or “at/into the {night} sky”
and count the stars, if you are able to count them
Quote: וּסְפֹר֙ הַכּ֣וֹכָבִ֔ים אִם תּוּכַ֖ל לִסְפֹּ֣ר אֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary
“and {try to} count how many stars there are, if {in fact,} anyone could {possibly} count {all of} them.” or “There are so many stars that no one could {ever/possibly} count them {all}.” God’s point here is that there are so many stars that no one could ever count that high. He is not questioning Abram’s ability to count. Consider what is the best way to translate this contrary-to-fact statement in your language.
Then he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{While Abram was looking at the stars,} Yahweh said to him/Abram,” or “{So Abram looked up at the stars,} and Yahweh continued speaking to him,” Throughout this chapter make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking to whom. Always use pronouns and nouns in a way that is clear and natural in your language.
So will your offspring be
Quote: כֹּ֥ה יִהְיֶ֖ה זַרְעֶֽךָ (1)“That is how {numerous/many} your offspring/descendants will be.” or “That is how many offspring/descendants you will have.”
Genesis 15:6
And he trusted
Quote: וְהֶאֱמִ֖ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“He/Abram trusted/believed Yahweh,” or “He/Abram believed what Yahweh said,” Many translations omit the conjunction “And” here. Do what is best in your language. Also, make sure it is clear in your translation that Abram is the subject here, not Yahweh (who was the last subject in verse 5).
and he counted it to him {as} righteousness
Quote: וַיַּחְשְׁבֶ֥הָ לּ֖וֹ צְדָקָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and {so} Yahweh counted/credited it/that to him {as} righteousness.” or “and because of that, Yahweh considered/reckoned him/Abram to be righteous.” or “so Yahweh considered him/Abram to have a right relationship with him.” Notice that Yahweh is now the subject again. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking to whom here and throughout this section.
Genesis 15:7
Then he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֵלָ֑יו (1)“Then Yahweh said to him/Abram,”
I {am} Yahweh who brought you out of Ur of
Quote: אֲנִ֣י יְהוָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֤ר הוֹצֵאתִ֨יךָ֙ מֵא֣וּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“I {am} Yahweh who brought/led you {here} from {the city of} Ur”
the Kasdim
Quote: כַּשְׂדִּ֔ים (1)“which is ruled/inhabited by the Kasdim/Chaldeans” or “that the Kasdim/Chaldeans rule” or “where the Kasdim/Chaldeans live”. See how you translated “Ur of the Kasdim/Chaldeans” in Gen 11:28, 31, and see the note about that there.
to give to you this land
Quote: לָ֧תֶת לְךָ֛ אֶת הָאָ֥רֶץ הַזֹּ֖את (1)“to give this land to you”
to possess it
Quote: לְרִשְׁתָּֽהּ (1)“to own.” or “as your homeland.” or “to be your own/home.”
Genesis 15:8
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then/But Abram said/replied {to him},” or “Then/But he/Abram asked {him},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abram is the one speaking here, not Yahweh.
My Lord Yahweh
Quote: אֲדֹנָ֣י יֱהוִ֔ה (1)“My Lord/Master Yahweh,” or “Yahweh my Lord/Master,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2.
how will I know
Quote: בַּמָּ֥ה אֵדַ֖ע (1)“how will/can I know {for sure}” or “how will/can I be certain/sure”
that I will possess it
Quote: כִּ֥י אִֽירָשֶֽׁנָּה (1)“that I will possess/own this land/territory?” or “that this land will be mine?”
Genesis 15:9
Then he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֗יו (1)“Yahweh said/replied to him/Abram,” or “Yahweh replied,”
Bring to me
Quote: קְחָ֥ה לִי֙ (1)“Bring me”
a three-year-old heifer
Quote: עֶגְלָ֣ה מְשֻׁלֶּ֔שֶׁת (1)“a cow that is three years old,”
and a three-year-old she-goat
Quote: וְעֵ֥ז מְשֻׁלֶּ֖שֶׁת (1)“a female goat that is three years old,”
and a three-year-old ram
Quote: וְאַ֣יִל מְשֻׁלָּ֑שׁ (1)“and a male sheep that is three years old”. For some languages it may be more natural to shorten this list of animals and say, “Bring to me a {young} cow, a female goat, and a male sheep, each of which is three years old,” Do what is best in your language.
and a turtledove and a young pigeon
Quote: וְתֹ֖ר וְגוֹזָֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“as well as a turtledove/dove and a young pigeon.” Turtledoves and pigeons are common, closely related birds that look similar and are often gray or grayish brown in color. One of the main differences is that turtledoves are smaller than pigeons. Compare how you translated “dove” in Gen 8:8.
Genesis 15:10
So he brought
Quote: וַיִּֽקַּֽח (1)“So {the next/following day} Abram brought/took”. It was nighttime in verse 5 when Abram looked at the stars. Now in verses 10-11 it was probably daytime, which is when birds of prey fly (verse 11). Then in verse 12 it became night again. Consider what is the best way to begin this verse in your translation.
all those to him
Quote: ל֣וֹ אֶת כָּל אֵ֗לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“all those {animals} to him/Yahweh {and slaughtered/killed them}.” Some languages need to make explicit that Abram killed the animals first, before cutting them in half. Do what is best in your language.
Then he cut them in two
Quote: וַיְבַתֵּ֤ר אֹתָם֙ (1)“Then/Next Abram cut/divided the animals’ bodies”
down the middle
Quote: בַּתָּ֔וֶךְ (1)“in half lengthwise” or “into two parts lengthwise”. Abram probably cut the animals down the middle lengthwise, which means that each half had one front leg, and one back leg.
and laid the halves opposite to each other
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן אִישׁ־בִּתְר֖וֹ לִקְרַ֣את רֵעֵ֑הוּ (1)“and placed/arranged each half a short distance/space across from the/its other half {in two rows},” or “and laid/arranged the right half of each animal opposite/across from its left half {in two rows},”
but the birds he did not cut in two
Quote: וְאֶת הַצִפֹּ֖ר לֹ֥א בָתָֽר (1)“but he did not cut/divide {the bodies of} the birds in two/half.” or “except for the birds, which he did not cut in two/half.” See how you translated “cut … in two” earlier in verse 10.
Genesis 15:11
Then birds of prey came down
Quote: וַיֵּ֥רֶד הָעַ֖יִט (1)“Then {some} birds of prey landed” or “Then {some} vultures flew/swooped down {and landed}” or “Then {some} meat-eating birds”. This phrase refers to large birds that eat dead animal meat. Examples of these birds include vultures, buzzards, condors, eagles, and crows.
on the carcasses
Quote: עַל־הַפְּגָרִ֑ים (1)“the {dead} animal bodies/parts {to eat them},” or “the dead animals {to eat them},”
and Abram drove them away
Quote: וַיַּשֵּׁ֥ב אֹתָ֖ם אַבְרָֽם (1)“but Abram chased/scared them away.” or “but Abram made them go away.”
Genesis 15:12
Then it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י (1)“Then it happened {that}” or “Later”. This phrase adds suspense and makes the reader wonder what will happen next. Many translations leave it out, but if possible it is best to keep it in your translation.
the sun was setting
Quote: הַשֶּׁ֨מֶשׁ֙ לָב֔וֹא (1)“as/when the sun was going down” or “as/when it was starting to become dark/night”
and a deep sleep fell on Abram
Quote: וְתַרְדֵּמָ֖ה נָפְלָ֣ה עַל אַבְרָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Abram fell/went into a deep/sound sleep,” or “Abram went soundly asleep,” See how you translated a similar idiom in Gen 2:21.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)“and suddenly,” or “Then suddenly,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
terror {and} great darkness fell on him
Quote: אֵימָ֛ה חֲשֵׁכָ֥ה גְדֹלָ֖ה נֹפֶ֥לֶת עָלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“a great/deep, terrifying darkness came over him.” or “it became completely/very dark, and he became/was terrified.”
Genesis 15:13
Then he said to Abram
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְאַבְרָ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Yahweh said to Abram/him,”
Know for certain that
Quote: יָדֹ֨עַ תֵּדַ֜ע כִּי (1)“You can be certain/sure that” or “I want you to know that”
your offspring
Quote: זַרְעֲךָ֗ (1)“your descendants”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 5.
will be strangers
Quote: גֵ֣ר יִהְיֶ֣ה (1)“will live as foreigners/sojourners”. The word “strangers” refers to people who live temporarily in a city, country, or region, but they do not settle there permanently.
in a land
Quote: בְּאֶ֨רֶץ֙ (1)“in a country”
that} {does} not {belong} to them
Quote: לֹ֣א לָהֶ֔ם (1)“that is not their own.” or “that is not their home/homeland.”
and they will serve them
Quote: וַעֲבָד֖וּם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“They will serve the people {of/in that land/country} {as slaves},” or “They will be servants/slaves for the people {who live in that land/country},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, make sure that your translation of these pronouns clearly communicates who is being referred to.
and they will afflict them
Quote: וְעִנּ֣וּ אֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and those people will oppress/mistreat them” or “and those people will treat them cruelly/badly”. Notice that here the pronoun “they” refers to the people who were living in the country where Abram’s descendants will be sojourning and “them” refers to Abram’s descendants. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
400 years
Quote: אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{for} 400 years.” or “{for a period of} 400 years.” This phrase refers to how long Abram’s descendants would live in a land that is not theirs, not how long they would be oppressed, which was less than half of those 400 years. To make that clear in your translation, you could move this phrase earlier and say: “I want you to know that for 400 years your offspring/descendants will live in a land/country that is not their own, and the people of that country will oppress them.”
Genesis 15:14
But also
Quote: וְגַ֧ם (1)“But” or “But/And you can also be certain/sure that”
the nation
Quote: אֶת הַגּ֛וֹי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{the people of} that nation/country” or “the/those people”
that they serve
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יַעֲבֹ֖דוּ (1)“whom they serve {as slaves}” or “who made them slaves”
I will judge
Quote: דָּ֣ן אָנֹ֑כִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“I will punish,” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “But I will also judge/punish {the people of} the nation that they serve”. Do what is natural in your language.
and after that
Quote: וְאַחֲרֵי כֵ֥ן (1)“After that,” or “Then”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
they will come out
Quote: יֵצְא֖וּ (1)“your offspring/descendants will leave {that land/country}”
with great possessions
Quote: בִּרְכֻ֥שׁ גָּדֽוֹל (1)“with many possessions.” or “with great/much wealth.” or “and take many possessions/riches with them.” See how you translated “possessions” in Gen 14:16, 21.
Genesis 15:15
And you
Quote: וְאַתָּ֛ה (1)“Now/But {as for} you,” or “As for you,” In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “you” is emphatic and has an emphatic position in the sentence (before the verb) to change the topic. Do what is clear and natural in your language.
you will go to your fathers in peace
Quote: תָּב֥וֹא אֶל אֲבֹתֶ֖יךָ בְּשָׁל֑וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“you will be at peace when you {die and} join your forefathers/ancestors {who have died/gone before you}”. This clause is a euphemism that refers to Abram’s death. However, it is best to translate the clause as literally as possible, since it implies the important information that people are still alive after they have died on earth. Also, notice that the term “fathers” refers here to ancestors who have died, not those who are still alive on earth.
you will be buried at a good old age
Quote: תִּקָּבֵ֖ר בְּשֵׂיבָ֥ה טוֹבָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{In fact,} you will not die until you have lived a good/blessed, long life.” or “{In fact,} you will live a good/blessed, long life before you die.” This clause is a euphemism that refers to Abram’s death. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like he will be buried alive. For some languages it may be more natural to change the order of this sentence and say, “after you have lived a good/blessed long life, you will die peacefully and join your ancestors {who have died before you}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 15:16
Then in the fourth generation
Quote: וְד֥וֹר רְבִיעִ֖י (1)“Then four generations later,” or “Then after four generations {have passed},”
they will come back here
Quote: יָשׁ֣וּבוּ הֵ֑נָּה (1)“your descendants will return here {to live},” or “your descendants will come back to this land {and live here},”
because the sin of the Amorites {will} not {be} complete until then
Quote: כִּ֧י לֹא שָׁלֵ֛ם עֲוֺ֥ן הָאֱמֹרִ֖י עַד הֵֽנָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“because that is when the Amorite/Amor people will have sinned as much as I will allow {before I take away their land and give it to your descendants}.” or “{and I will give them the land of the} Amorite/Amor people, whose sin will have reached its limit by then.” God planned to give the Amorites’ land to Abram’s descendants because of the Amorites’ sin. Consider whether or not to include that implied information in your translation or in a footnote. Also, see how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10:13-18.
Genesis 15:17
Then it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י (1)“Then it happened {that}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 12, and see the note about that there.
the sun went down
Quote: הַשֶּׁ֨מֶשׁ֙ בָּ֔אָה (1)“when/after the sun had gone down,” or “when/after the sun had set,” The sun had started to go down in verse 12. Here it had completely set.
and darkness came
Quote: וַעֲלָטָ֖ה הָיָ֑ה (1)“it was/became {very} dark”. This Hebrew word for “darkness” implies that it was darker than normal, so that not even light from the moon and stars was visible.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)“and suddenly,” or “Then suddenly,” For some languages it is better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
there was} a smoking fire pot
Quote: תַנּ֤וּר עָשָׁן֙ (1)“a {clay} pot {appeared} {that was full} of burning coals and had smoke coming from it,”
and a flaming torch
Quote: וְלַפִּ֣יד אֵ֔שׁ (1)“and {also} a burning/blazing torch”
that passed
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָבַ֔ר (1)“and they {both} passed/went”
between those pieces
Quote: בֵּ֖ין הַגְּזָרִ֥ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)“between those/the {two rows of} {animal} parts/halves.”
Genesis 15:18
On that day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֗וּא (1)“On that {very} day” or “At that time”. It is still nighttime at this point (See: verse 17), so the word “day” refers generally here to a 24-hour day; it does not refer to daytime.
Yahweh cut
Quote: כָּרַ֧ת יְהוָ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-Idiom
“Yahweh established/made”
a covenant with Abram
Quote: אֶת אַבְרָ֖ם בְּרִ֣ית (1)“a {special/peace} covenant/agreement with Abram”. See how you translated “covenant” in Gen 9:9, 11-13, 15-17.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“{by} saying,” or “and said,”
To your offspring I have given this land
Quote: לְזַרְעֲךָ֗ נָתַ֨תִּי֙ אֶת הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֔את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“I am giving your offspring/descendants this land,” or “I hereby give this land to your offspring/descendants,” In the Hebrew text “to your offspring/descendants” is first in this quote to emphasize Abram’s descendants. Do what is natural in your language.
from the river of Egypt
Quote: מִנְּהַ֣ר מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“{which extends} from Egypt’s river {in the south}”. This phrase probably refers to the Wadi El-Arish (not the Nile River), which is on the border between Egypt and Israel. It is best in a translation to leave this general as the Hebrew text does.
to the great river, the Euphrates River
Quote: עַד הַנָּהָ֥ר הַגָּדֹ֖ל נְהַר פְּרָֽת (1)“to the great/big Euphrates River {in the north},”
Genesis 15:19
the land of
Quote: אֶת (1)“{including} {the land which is owned/inhabited by}” or “{That is/includes} {the land which belongs to}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the land of} the Kenites and the Kenizzites and the Kadmonites
Quote: אֶת הַקֵּינִי֙ וְאֶת הַקְּנִזִּ֔י וְאֵ֖ת הַקַּדְמֹנִֽי (1)“the Kenites, the Kenizzites, the Kadmonites,” or “Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites,” In a list of people group names like this (verses 19-21), for some languages it is more natural to leave out “and” and “the” most of the time. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 15:20
and the Hittites and the Perizzites and the Rephaim
Quote: וְאֶת הַחִתִּ֥י וְאֶת הַפְּרִזִּ֖י וְאֶת הָרְפָאִֽים (1)“the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim/Rephaites,” or “Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaim/Rephaites,” Be consistent here with how you translated “the Hittites” in Gen 10:15, “the Perizzites” in Gen 13:7, and “the Rephaim/Rephaites” in Gen 14:5.
Genesis 15:21
and the Amorites and the Canaanites and the Girgashites and the Jebusites
Quote: וְאֶת הָֽאֱמֹרִי֙ וְאֶת הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֔י וְאֶת הַגִּרְגָּשִׁ֖י וְאֶת הַיְבוּסִֽי (1)“the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites, and the Jebusites.” or “Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.” Be consistent here with how you translated “the Amorites” in verse 18 and “Amorites”, “Canaanites”, “Girgashites”, and “Jebusites” in Gen 10:15-18.
Genesis 16
Genesis 16:1
Now Sarai, the wife of Abram
Quote: וְשָׂרַי֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת אַבְרָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Sarai, Abram’s wife,” or “Now Abram’s wife Sarai”. This verse begins a new topic and gives background information about Sarai. Some languages have a special conjunction for this. Other languages do not use a conjunction here. Do what is best in your language.
had not born {children} for him
Quote: לֹ֥א יָלְדָ֖ה ל֑וֹ (1)“{still} had not had {any} children for him,” or “had {still} not given birth {to any children} for him,” Sarai’s barrenness is first mentioned in Gen 11:30.
but she had
Quote: וְלָ֛הּ (1)“but she owned” or “but she did have”
an Egyptian maidservant
Quote: שִׁפְחָ֥ה מִצְרִ֖ית (1)“an Egyptian slave/servant woman” or “a female slave/servant from {the country of} Egypt”. See how you translated “female slaves/servants” in Gen 12:16.
and her name {was} Hagar
Quote: וּשְׁמָ֥הּ הָגָֽר (1)“whose name was Hagar.” or “named Hagar.”
Genesis 16:2
So Sarai said to Abram
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר שָׂרַ֜י אֶל אַבְרָ֗ם (1)“So she told Abram,” or “Then Sarai/she told Abram,”
Behold please
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֞א (1)“Listen please/now:” or “Please listen {to me/this}:” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:11.
Yahweh has prevented me from bearing {children
Quote: עֲצָרַ֤נִי יְהוָה֙ מִלֶּ֔דֶת (1)“{Since} Yahweh has not permitted/allowed me to bear/have {any} children,” or “{As you know,} Yahweh has not permitted/allowed me to bear/have {any} children, {so}”
Please go to
Quote: בֹּא נָא֙ אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“please sleep with” or “please have {marital/sexual} relations with”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence. Also, see how you translated the idiom “went to” in Gen 6:4.
my maidservant
Quote: שִׁפְחָתִ֔י (1)“my slave/servant woman {Hagar}.” See how you translated “maidservant” in verse 1.
Perhaps
Quote: אוּלַ֥י (1)“Maybe” or “{so that} perhaps/maybe”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
I can be built up from her
Quote: אִבָּנֶ֖ה מִמֶּ֑נָּה (1)“I can build/have a family through her {children}.” or “she can have children for me so that I can build/have a family.”
And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֥ע אַבְרָ֖ם לְק֥וֹל שָׂרָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Abram agreed to do what Sarai/she requested/suggested.” or “So Abram listened to Sarai.”
Genesis 16:3
So Sarai, the wife of Abram, took
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֞ח שָׂרַ֣י אֵֽשֶׁת אַבְרָ֗ם (1)“So/Then Abram’s wife Sarai took/brought” or “Then Sarai took/brought”. In the Hebrew text, the phrase “Abram’s wife” is repeated (in verses 1 and 3) to emphasize Sarai’s relationship to Abram in contrast to Hagar. For some languages it is overly redundant to repeat that phrase, and so they leave it implied here. However, if possible, it is best to keep this repetition in your translation.
Hagar, her Egyptian maidservant
Quote: אֶת הָגָ֤ר הַמִּצְרִית֙ שִׁפְחָתָ֔הּ (1)“her Egyptian servant woman Hagar,” or “her servant Hagar,” The word “Egyptian” is repeated (in verses 1 and 3) to emphasize the fact that Hagar was a foreigner. If possible, it is best to keep this repetition in your translation.
at the end of ten years that Abram had lived in the land of Canaan
Quote: מִקֵּץ֙ עֶ֣שֶׂר שָׁנִ֔ים לְשֶׁ֥בֶת אַבְרָ֖ם בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)“after Abram {and Sarai} had lived in the land/region of Canaan for ten years,”
and gave her to Abram her husband as a wife for him
Quote: וַתִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֛הּ לְאַבְרָ֥ם אִישָׁ֖הּ ל֥וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and she gave her to her husband Abram to be his {second} wife.” For most languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “So Abram’s wife Sarai gave her servant Hagar to her husband Abram to be his {second} wife. {This/That happened} after Abram {and Sarai} had lived in the land/region of Canaan for ten years.” Make sure your translation does not sound like verse 3 happened ten years after Abram agreed to sleep with Hagar.
Genesis 16:4
Then he went to Hagar
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֶל הָגָ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then/So Abram slept with Hagar,” or “Then/So Abram/he had {marital} relations with Hagar,” Consider whether it is better in your language to refer to Abram by his name or by a pronoun here at the beginning of this paragraph. See how you translated the idiom “go to” in verse 2.
and she conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֑הַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“and {as a result,}” or “and {so}”
and she conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֑הַר (1)“and {as a result,} she became pregnant.” or “and {so} she became pregnant.” Make sure that the way you translate this phrase will not be embarrassing or offensive to people, especially when it is read aloud.
And she saw that she had conceived
Quote: וַתֵּ֨רֶא֙ כִּ֣י הָרָ֔תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“And/But {when} she/Hagar saw/realized that she was pregnant,” The word “saw” is used here as an idiom that means “realized” or “perceived”. Consider whether or not you have a similar idiom in your language that would work well here.
and her mistress was despised in her eyes
Quote: וַתֵּקַ֥ל גְּבִרְתָּ֖הּ בְּעֵינֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“she despised/disrespected her mistress/owner {Sarai}.” or “she regarded/treated her mistress/owner {Sarai} with contempt/disdain.” or “she started to look down on her mistress {Sarai}.” The phrase “despised in her eyes” is an idiom that refers here to Hagar’s attitude and disrespectful actions toward Sarai. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 16:5
Then Sarai said to Abram
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר שָׂרַ֣י אֶל אַבְרָם֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So Sarai complained to Abram,”
My wrong {is} on you
Quote: חֲמָסִ֣י עָלֶיךָ֒ (1)“I am suffering because of you!” or “I am being mistreated because of you!” or “It is your fault that I am being treated wrongly/badly!” or “It is your fault that I am suffering!”
I myself put my maidservant into your arms
Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י נָתַ֤תִּי שִׁפְחָתִי֙ בְּחֵיקֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“I gave my maidservant/servant to you to be your wife,” or “I allowed my maidservant/servant to have {marital} relations with you,” The idiom “put … into your arms” refers to Abram’s relationship with Hagar. Make sure that your translation of this clause is not offensive.
but she sees that she has conceived
Quote: וַתֵּ֨רֶא֙ כִּ֣י הָרָ֔תָה (1)“but {now that} she knows/realizes that she is pregnant,”
and I am despised in her eyes
Quote: וָאֵקַ֖ל בְּעֵינֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“she despises/disrespects me!” or “she treats me with contempt/disdain”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also see how you translated a similar clause in verse 4.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: יִשְׁפֹּ֥ט בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽיׄךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“I ask Yahweh to judge/decide between you and me {who is responsible for this}!” or “I ask Yahweh to judge/decide who is right/wrong, you or me!” or “May Yahweh judge whether it is you or I who is responsible {for this}!” As the head of the household, it was Abram’s responsibility to rebuke Hagar and require her to respect Sarai. You could put that information in a footnote.
Genesis 16:6
Then Abram said to Sarai
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָ֜ם אֶל שָׂרַ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Abram said/replied to Sarai/her,” or “Abram said/replied,”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)“Look/Listen,”
your maidservant {is} in your hand
Quote: שִׁפְחָתֵךְ֙ בְּיָדֵ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“your slave/servant woman is under your authority/control.” or “you have authority over your slave/servant.” or “you are in charge of your servant.” The phrase “in your hand” is an idiom that refers to having control or authority over someone. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also see how you translated “maidservant” in verses 1-3, 5.
Do to her
Quote: עֲשִׂי לָ֖הּ (1)“Do with her” or “{So} {you can/may} do to/with her”
what {is} good in your eyes
Quote: הַטּ֣וֹב בְּעֵינָ֑יִךְ (1)“what{ever} you think/decide is good/right/best.” or “what{ever} pleases you.” The phrase “in your eyes” is an idiom that refers to Sarai’s opinion. See how you translated a similar idiom (“in her eyes”) in verses 4 and 5.
Then Sarai afflicted her
Quote: וַתְּעַנֶּ֣הָ שָׂרַ֔י (1)“Then/So Sarai oppressed/mistreated her/Hagar, and/so” or “Then/So Sarai treated her/Hagar so harshly/badly that”. See how you translated “afflict” in Gen 15:13.
and she fled from her face
Quote: וַתִּבְרַ֖ח מִפָּנֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“she/Hagar ran away from her.” or “she/Hagar ran away {from home to get away} from her/Sarai.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Hagar is the one who fled, not Sarai.
Genesis 16:7
Then the angel of Yahweh found her
Quote: וַֽיִּמְצָאָ֞הּ מַלְאַ֧ךְ יְהוָ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Then/But an angel/messenger {sent} from Yahweh found Hagar” or “Then/But one of Yahweh’s angels/messengers came to Hagar”. Make sure that the way you translate “found” does not sound like the angel had come across Hagar accidentally. Rather, he knew where she was and had gone to her intentionally. Also, this messenger from Yahweh was an angel, not a human being.
at a spring of water
Quote: עַל עֵ֥ין הַמַּ֖יִם (1)“by/beside a spring of water” or “by/beside a spring”
in the wilderness
Quote: בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר (1)“in the desert”. See how you translated “wilderness” in Gen 14:6.
at the spring
Quote: עַל הָעַ֖יִן (1)“{She was} at the spring” or “{It was} the spring”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
beside the road of Shur
Quote: בְּדֶ֥רֶךְ שֽׁוּר (1)“{that was} beside/by the road {that goes} to {the city of} Shur.” or “{that was} beside/by the road near {the city of} Shur.”
Genesis 16:8
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“And the angel/messenger said {to her},” or “The angel/messenger asked {her},” The angel asked Hagar a question, so for some languages it is better to use a word like “asked” here. Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
Hagar, maidservant of Sarai
Quote: הָגָ֞ר שִׁפְחַ֥ת שָׂרַ֛י (1)“Hagar, Sarai’s slave/servant,” or “Hagar, who serves Sarai,”
where have you come from, and where are you going
Quote: אֵֽי מִזֶּ֥ה בָ֖את וְאָ֣נָה תֵלֵ֑כִי (1)“where are you coming from, and where are you headed?”
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“She/Hagar said/replied {to him},” or “She/Hagar answered {him},”
I am fleeing from the face of Sarai, my mistress
Quote: מִפְּנֵי֙ שָׂרַ֣י גְּבִרְתִּ֔י אָנֹכִ֖י בֹּרַֽחַת (1)“I am running away from my mistress/owner Sarai.” See how you translated “fled from … face” in verse 6 and how you translated “mistress” in verse 4.
Genesis 16:9
Then the angel of Yahweh said to her
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהּ֙ מַלְאַ֣ךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“But/So Yahweh’s angel/messenger told her/Hagar,” or “Then/But he told her/Hagar,” Consider what is the best way to begin this verse in your translation, after what Hagar said in verse 8.
Return to your mistress
Quote: שׁ֖וּבִי אֶל גְּבִרְתֵּ֑ךְ (1)“Go back {home} to your mistress/owner {Sarai}”. See how you translated “mistress/owner” in verses 4 and 8.
and submit under her hands
Quote: וְהִתְעַנִּ֖י תַּ֥חַת יָדֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and {humbly} submit {yourself} to her authority.” or “obey her {as her servant}.” See how you translated a similar idiom (“in your hand”) in verse 6.
Genesis 16:10
Then the angel of Yahweh said to her
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהּ֙ מַלְאַ֣ךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then the angel/messenger told/promised her,” or “Then he added/continued,” Some languages do not include the quote margins here and in verse 11, because the angel is still talking to Hagar. However, the repeated quote margins could be there to emphasize what the angel says next and/or to show that he paused or that he is changing the topic.
I will greatly increase your offspring
Quote: הַרְבָּ֥ה אַרְבֶּ֖ה אֶת זַרְעֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“I {Yahweh} will greatly increase/multiply {the number of} your offspring/descendants, so that” or “{This is what Yahweh says/promises to you:} “I will give you so many offspring/descendants that” ” or “{Yahweh promises to you that} he will give you many descendants, so that”. The pronoun “I” refers to Yahweh here. So either the angel was representing Yahweh and speaking Yahweh’s words to Hagar or it was Yahweh himself who had taken on the form of an angel.
so that they cannot be counted
Quote: וְלֹ֥א יִסָּפֵ֖ר (1)“no one will be able to count them all,” or “there will be too many to count,”
because of their abundance
Quote: מֵרֹֽב (1)“because of their large number.” or “because there will be so many of them.”
Genesis 16:11
Then the angel of Yahweh said to her
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהּ֙ מַלְאַ֣ךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“Then/Finally the angel/messenger {also} said/prophesied to her,” or “Then/Finally he {also} told her,” or “Then the angel/messenger added/continued,”
Behold, {you are} pregnant, and you will bear a son
Quote: הִנָּ֥ךְ הָרָ֖ה וְיֹלַ֣דְתְּ בֵּ֑ן (1)“Look/Listen, {as you know,} {you are} expecting a child/baby. You will bear/have a son, and/then” or “Look/Listen, you are pregnant with a son. After/When he is born,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Hagar already knew that she was pregnant, but did not know she was having a son or what she should name him.
and you will call his name
Quote: וְקָרָ֤את שְׁמוֹ֙ (1)“give him the name” or “name him”
Ishmael
Quote: יִשְׁמָעֵ֔אל (1)“Ishmael, {which means “God listens/hears,”}” Some translation teams make the meaning of Ishmael’s name explicit in their translation. Other teams put the meaning of his name in a footnote. See what you did for similar cases in Gen 3:20, 4:1, 16, 25; 6:29, 10:25, 11:9.
because Yahweh has listened to
Quote: כִּֽי שָׁמַ֥ע יְהוָ֖ה אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“because Yahweh heard” or “because Yahweh paid attention to”. If you include the meaning of Ishmael’s name earlier in this verse, make sure it fits with how you translate this clause.
your misery
Quote: עָנְיֵֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“your {cries of} misery/suffering {and has helped you}.” or “you when you were suffering {and has helped you}.” The word that means “listened to” implies here that God also took action to help Hagar.
Genesis 16:12
And he
Quote: וְה֤וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{When Ishmael grows up,} he” or “As for Ishmael, {when he grows up,} he”. The pronoun “he” is emphatic here, to emphasize Ishmael. Make sure that your translation refers here to Ishmael, not Yahweh.
will be a wild donkey of a man
Quote: יִהְיֶה֙ פֶּ֣רֶא אָדָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“will be {proud and free} {like} a wild/untamed donkey” or “will be {like} a wild/untamed donkey {that no one can control/rule}” or “will not be ruled by anyone else”. The angel compares Ishmael to a wild donkey. Consider whether or not your language can use a similar metaphor or a simile here.
his hand against everyone and the hand of everyone against him
Quote: יָד֣וֹ בַכֹּ֔ל וְיַ֥ד כֹּ֖ל בּ֑וֹ (1)“He will fight against everyone, and everyone will fight against him.” or “He will be enemies with everyone.”
and he will live in the faces of
Quote: וְעַל־פְּנֵ֥י & יִשְׁכֹּֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“In fact, he will {even} be hostile toward” or “Yes/Indeed, he will {also/even} fight against”. The rest of this verse forms a parallelism with the first half, emphasizing what Ishmael (and his descendants) will be like. Try to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation, since each part has a different focus and the second part adds important information. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
all of his brothers
Quote: כָל אֶחָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“all of his {own} relatives.” or “all of his {own} family members.” The word “brothers” is used here to refer to relatives in general. Consider what is the best way to translate this synecdoche in your language.
Genesis 16:13
Then she called the name of Yahweh who had spoken to her, “You {are} El Roi
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֤א שֵׁם יְהוָה֙ הַדֹּבֵ֣ר אֵלֶ֔יהָ אַתָּ֖ה אֵ֣ל רֳאִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Then she/Hagar named Yahweh who had spoken to her. {She said/exclaimed,} “You are the God who sees!” ” or “After Yahweh spoke to her/Hagar, she called him El Roi, {which means “the God who sees,”}” Some translations transliterate (copy or borrow) the name “El Roi” from the Hebrew, some translate its meaning, and some do both. Decide what is best in your language.
because she said
Quote: כִּ֣י אָֽמְרָ֗ה (1)“{She named him that,} because she {had} said/exclaimed {to herself},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Have I really seen here the back of {the one who} sees me
Quote: הֲגַ֥ם הֲלֹ֛ם רָאִ֖יתִי אַחֲרֵ֥י רֹאִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“How can it be that I was able to look at the back of {the one/God who} looks after me?” or “I just now saw the back of {him/God who} sees me!” Hagar’s rhetorical question shows surprise and amazement. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your translation.
Genesis 16:14
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּן֙ (1)“That is why”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 11:9.
they call the well
Quote: קָרָ֣א לַבְּאֵ֔ר (1)“the/that well is/was called/named” or “people call that well” or “the name of the/that well is”. Frequently in the Hebrew text, this phrase has a general meaning and does not refer to someone specific. Also, this well is the same as the spring in verse 7. For some languages, it may be necessary to translate these words the same way so that it is clear that they refer to the same place. Do what is best in your language.
Beer Lahai Roi
Quote: בְּאֵ֥ר לַחַ֖י רֹאִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Beer Lahai Roi, {which means, “Well of the Living One, who sees me.”}”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה (1)“It is {still} there” or “That well is {still} there”
it is} between Kadesh and Bered
Quote: בֵין קָדֵ֖שׁ וּבֵ֥ין בָּֽרֶד (1)“between {the cities of} Kadesh and Bered.” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Kadesh” in Gen 14:7.
Genesis 16:15
Then Hagar bore a son for Abram
Quote: וַתֵּ֧לֶד הָגָ֛ר לְאַבְרָ֖ם בֵּ֑ן (1)“After that, Hagar/she {returned home and} gave birth to a son for Abram,”
and Abram called the name of his son, whom Hagar bore, Ishmael
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אַבְרָ֧ם שֶׁם בְּנ֛וֹ אֲשֶׁר יָלְדָ֥ה הָגָ֖ר יִשְׁמָעֵֽאל (1)“and he called/named his son whom she bore/had Ishmael.” or “and Abram/he named his/their son Ishmael.”
Genesis 16:16
And Abram {was
Quote: וְאַבְרָ֕ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Abram {was}”. For some languages it is more natural to omit the conjunction here. Do what is best in your language.
a son of
Quote: בֶּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idioms
“86 years old”. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 5:32.
when Hagar bore Ishmael for Abram
Quote: בְּלֶֽדֶת הָגָ֥ר אֶת יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל לְאַבְרָֽם (1)“when Hagar gave birth to Ishmael for him.” or “when Hagar had Ishmael for him.” See how you translated “bore … for Abram” in verse 15. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled “Hagar” in chapter 16 (verses 1, 4, 6-11, 13), and how you spelled “Ishmael” in verses 11, 12 and 15.
Genesis 17
Genesis 17:1
Then Abram was a son of ninety-nine years
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י אַבְרָ֔ם בֶּן־תִּשְׁעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְתֵ֣שַׁע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“{Years} later, when Abram was ninety-nine/99 years old,” Thirteen years have passed between the last verse of chapter 16 and the first verse of chapter 17. Consider what is the best way in your language to begin this new section. See how you translated “was a son of … years” in Gen 5:32.
and Yahweh appeared to Abram
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֨א יְהוָ֜ה אֶל אַבְרָ֗ם (1)“Yahweh appeared/came to him” or “Yahweh visited him”. See how you translated this clause in Gen 12:7.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ (1)“and told him,”
I {am} God Almighty
Quote: אֲנִי אֵ֣ל שַׁדַּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“I {am} Almighty God.” or “I {am} the all-powerful God.” or “I {am} God {who is} all-powerful.” Most translation teams translate the meaning of God’s title here (“God Almighty”). A few teams transliterate the title as “El Shaddai” (as if it were a personal name) and put the meaning of the title in a footnote. Abram already knew that God’s personal name is Yahweh (Gen 12:8; 15:7-8), so he would have understood that God was using a title here (not a personal name). The title “God Almighty” emphasizes God’s authority and power. You could include a transliteration of this title in a footnote.
Walk before me
Quote: הִתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ לְפָנַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idioms
“Walk/Live in my presence” or “Live according to my will” or “Live in a way that pleases me”. This phrase is an idiom that means to habitually live according to God’s will.
and be
Quote: וֶהְיֵ֥ה (1)“{yes, you must} be” or “so that you will be”
without blemish
Quote: תָמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“without fault.” or “blameless/upright.” See how you translated this idiom in Gen 6:9. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 17:2
And I will make my covenant
Quote: וְאֶתְּנָ֥ה בְרִיתִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“I will establish/institute my covenant/agreement”. Some translations begin this sentence without a conjunction. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “cut/make/establish … covenant” in Gen 15:18, where the verb is different from here but has a similar meaning (“establish/seal” or “put into effect”).
between me and you
Quote: בֵּינִ֣י וּבֵינֶ֑ךָ (1)“with you,”
and I will multiply you very greatly
Quote: וְאַרְבֶּ֥ה אוֹתְךָ֖ בִּמְאֹ֥ד מְאֹֽד (1)“and I will cause you to have very many descendants.” or “and I will increase {the number of} your descendants so that they are exceedingly/very numerous.”
Genesis 17:3
Then Abram fell on his face
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל אַבְרָ֖ם עַל־פָּנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then Abram prostrated himself {before God} {to show him respect},” or “{When} Abram {heard that, he} bowed with his face to the ground {before God} {to show respect},” Make sure that the translation of this clause does not sound like Abram fell down accidentally. Rather, he intentionally threw himself to the ground out of deep respect for God.
and God spoke with him, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר אִתּ֛וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and God spoke with/to him and said,” or “and God continued speaking with/to him/Abram,” or “and God continued/added,” Some translations omit “saying” here because it is not natural in those languages. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 17:4
As for} me, behold, my covenant with you {is} that you will be
Quote: אֲנִ֕י הִנֵּ֥ה בְרִיתִ֖י אִתָּ֑ךְ וְהָיִ֕יתָ (1)“Listen/Look, this is my part/responsibility in my covenant/agreement with you: I will cause you to be/become” or “Listen/Look, this is what I will do to fulfill my covenant/agreement with you: I will make you” In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “me” is emphatic both in form and in sentence position to emphasize that Yahweh is the one doing this.
the father of
Quote: לְאַ֖ב (1)“the ancestor of”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 4:20, 21; 10:21.
a multitude of
Quote: הֲמ֥וֹן (1)“a large number of” or “many”
nations
Quote: גּוֹיִֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“people/ethnic groups.” See how you translated this term in Gen 10:5, 20, 31, 32.
Genesis 17:5
And your name will not be called Abram anymore
Quote: וְלֹא־יִקָּרֵ֥א ע֛וֹד אֶת־שִׁמְךָ֖ אַבְרָ֑ם (1)“So your name will not be Abram anymore,” or “Your name will no longer be Abram,”
but your name will be Abraham
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה שִׁמְךָ֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“Rather/Instead, {from now on} it will be Abraham,” or “Rather, I am changing it {now} to Abraham,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
because I have made you
Quote: כִּ֛י & נְתַתִּֽיךָ (1)“because I will make you” or “because you will be”. The form of the Hebrew verb in this clause is completed aspect (“have made”) and shows certainty that God will do this. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
the father of a multitude of nations
Quote: אַב הֲמ֥וֹן גּוֹיִ֖ם (1)“the ancestor of many people/ethnic groups.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
Genesis 17:6
And I will make you very, very fruitful
Quote: וְהִפְרֵתִ֤י אֹֽתְךָ֙ בִּמְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Yes, I will make you extremely/exceedingly fruitful,” or “I will give you very many offspring/descendants,” This verse repeats and elaborates on the last part of verse 5; it does not refer to different events. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language.
and I will make you into nations
Quote: וּנְתַתִּ֖יךָ לְגוֹיִ֑ם (1)“so that you will be/become {the father/ancestor of} {many} people/ethnic groups,” or “and I will cause your descendants to become {many} people/ethnic groups,”
and kings will come from you
Quote: וּמְלָכִ֖ים מִמְּךָ֥ יֵצֵֽאוּ (1)“In fact, there will be kings who descend from you.” or “In fact, some of your descendants will be/become kings.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “king” in Gen 14:1-5.
Genesis 17:7
And I will establish my covenant between me and you
Quote: וַהֲקִמֹתִ֨י אֶת בְּרִיתִ֜י בֵּינִ֣י וּבֵינֶ֗ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“I will establish/make my covenant/agreement with you”. See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2. The pronouns “you” and “your” are singular in this clause and also later in this verse.
and your offspring after you
Quote: וּבֵ֨ין זַרְעֲךָ֧ אַחֲרֶ֛יךָ (1)“and {all} your offspring/descendants {who live/come} after you” or “as well as {all} your offspring/descendants”
throughout their generations
Quote: לְדֹרֹתָ֖ם (1)“for {all} generations to come” or “for {all} future generations”
as an eternal covenant
Quote: לִבְרִ֣ית עוֹלָ֑ם (1)“It will be a covenant/agreement that never ends,” or “It will be a covenant/agreement that lasts forever,” For some languages it is better to break up this long sentence and begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
to be God to you and to your offspring after you
Quote: לִהְי֤וֹת לְךָ֙ לֵֽאלֹהִ֔ים וּֽלְזַרְעֲךָ֖ אַחֲרֶֽיךָ (1)“that I will be your God and {the God} of {all} your descendants.” or “that I will be the God who takes care of you and {all} your descendants.” or “that I will be the God whom you and {all} your descendants worship/serve.”
Genesis 17:8
And I will give to you and to your offspring after you
Quote: וְנָתַתִּ֣י לְ֠ךָ וּלְזַרְעֲךָ֨ אַחֲרֶ֜יךָ (1)“I will also give to you and your offspring/descendants”
the land of your sojournings
Quote: אֵ֣ת אֶ֣רֶץ מְגֻרֶ֗יךָ (1)“the/this land where you have been living as a foreigner/outsider,”
all the land of Canaan
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל אֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)“{yes,} the entire land/region of Canaan,”
as an eternal possession
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּ֖ת עוֹלָ֑ם (1)“It will be their land/property forever,” or “They will own it forever,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and I will be God to them
Quote: וְהָיִ֥יתִי לָהֶ֖ם לֵאלֹהִֽים (1)“and I will be their God.” or “and I will be the God who takes care of them.” or “I will be the God whom they worship/serve.” See how you translated the phrase “be God to you” in verse 7.
Genesis 17:9
Then God said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“Then God continued,” Some languages leave out this quote margin, because God is still speaking to the same person. See what you did for similar cases in Gen 16:10-11.
And you
Quote: וְאַתָּ֖ה (1)“As for you,” or “Now as for your part/responsibility {in this/my covenant/agreement},” or “Your part/responsibility {in this/my covenant/agreement} is that”. In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “you” is emphatic both in form and in sentence position to shift the focus from talking about God’s part in the covenant (verses 4-8) to talking about Abraham’s part. Translate this phrase in a way that shows this change in focus.
you must keep my covenant
Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֣י תִשְׁמֹ֑ר (1)“you must keep/obey {the requirements/rules of} my covenant/agreement,” or “you must obey me,”
you and your offspring
Quote: אַתָּ֛ה וְזַרְעֲךָ֥ (1)“{both/including} you and” or “{That includes} you and” or “{That applies to} you as well as”. For some languages it is better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
and your offspring after you
Quote: וְזַרְעֲךָ֥ אַֽחֲרֶ֖יךָ (1)“{all} your descendants {who live} after you” or “{all} your offspring/descendants”
throughout their generations
Quote: לְדֹרֹתָֽם (1)“for/including {all} generations to come.” or “for/including {all} future generations.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 7, and a similar phrase in verse 8.
Genesis 17:10
This {is} my covenant
Quote: זֹ֣את בְּרִיתִ֞י (1)“This is {what I require in} my covenant/agreement” or “This is {one of the requirements of/in} my covenant/agreement”
which you must keep
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּשְׁמְר֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“which you {all} must obey,” Notice that the pronoun “you” is plural here.
between me and you and
Quote: בֵּינִי֙ וּבֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם וּבֵ֥ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“{the covenant/agreement that is} between me and you {all}, including” or “{the covenant/agreement I have made} with {all of} you, including”. The pronoun “you” is plural here and probably refers to Abraham and his family or household.
your offspring after you
Quote: זַרְעֲךָ֖ אַחֲרֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“your descendants {who will live} after you:” or “{all} your descendants:” Notice that the pronouns “your” and “you” are singular here and refer to Abraham. Also, it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of some of the clauses in this sentence and say, “This is {what I require in} my covenant/agreement with you and your descendants {who will live after you}, which you {all} must keep/obey:” Do what is best in your language.
Every male among you must be circumcised
Quote: הִמּ֥וֹל לָכֶ֖ם כָּל זָכָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“You must circumcise all males {who live} among/with you.” or “You must cut off the {male} foreskin of every boy and man {who lives} among you.” Circumcision involves cutting the foreskin off the penis of a boy or man. Translate this clause in a way that does not offend or embarrass people. Some languages may need to be more discreet and say something general like “must cut off the {male} skin” or “must follow the {male} skin-cutting custom.” It may be necessary to include a footnote and/or an explanation in the glossary about this so that people understand what circumcision is, especially in areas where people cut their skin on other parts of the body for other reasons.
Genesis 17:11
Indeed, you must be circumcised {in} the flesh of your foreskins
Quote: וּנְמַלְתֶּ֕ם אֵ֖ת בְּשַׂ֣ר עָרְלַתְכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“Yes, {all the males among} you must have your/their foreskins cut off,” or “Indeed/Yes, you must circumcise the foreskin of {all the males among} you”. Notice that in the Hebrew text, the pronouns “you” and “your” are plural in this verse. Also, be consistent here with how you translated “circumcise” in verse 10.
and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and you
Quote: וְהָיָה֙ לְא֣וֹת בְּרִ֔ית בֵּינִ֖י וּבֵינֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“and that {custom/practice} will serve as the sign {that reminds you} of this/my covenant/agreement {I made} with {all of} you.” or “and that {custom/practice} will remind/show {you all} that {I made} this/my covenant/agreement with you.” The pronoun “you” is plural here.
Genesis 17:12
So a son of eight days must be circumcised
Quote: וּבֶן שְׁמֹנַ֣ת יָמִ֗ים יִמּ֥וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{Every} eight-day-old baby boy must be circumcised {by you},” or “So you must circumcise {every} eight-day-old baby boy,” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
every male
Quote: כָּל זָכָ֖ר (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{and} every {other} male” or “{as well as} all {other} males” or (2) “{yes,} every male {child}”. The following context suggests that this phrase includes males of all ages, not just babies, since male slaves who were bought would especially include adult males.
among you
Quote: לָכֶ֛ם (1)“among your people”
throughout your generations
Quote: לְדֹרֹתֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“for all {future} generations,” It may be more natural to put this phrase at the beginning of this verse and say, “For all {future} generations you must circumcise {every} baby boy who is eight days old, {as well as} all {other} males among your people …” Do what is best in your language.
the one born in {your} house
Quote: יְלִ֣יד בָּ֔יִת (1)“{including} those/males {who are} born in your household/family” or “{That includes} those/males from your own household/family”. This phrase refers to Abraham’s future sons, including Isaac (Gen 21:4) and his concubines’ sons (25:6), and may also refer to the sons of Abraham’s servants. Also, for some languages it may be better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
and the one bought with money from any son of a foreigner, who {is} not your offspring
Quote: וּמִקְנַת כֶּ֨סֶף֙ מִכֹּ֣ל בֶּן נֵכָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹ֥א מִֽזַּרְעֲךָ֖ (1)“and those whom you buy from foreigners {as slaves/servants}, who {are} not your offspring/descendants.” or “as well as those who {are} not your offspring/descendants but {are slaves/servants whom you} have bought from foreigners.”
Genesis 17:13
He must surely be circumcised
Quote: הִמּ֧וֹל יִמּ֛וֹל (1)“{That’s right,} they must definitely be circumcised,” or “{Yes,} you must surely/definitely circumcise {all of} them,” This verse repeats and emphasizes what was just said in verse 12. Consider what is the best way to communicate this emphasis in your language.
the one born in your house and the one bought with your money
Quote: יְלִ֥יד בֵּֽיתְךָ֖ וּמִקְנַ֣ת כַּסְפֶּ֑ךָ (1)“{including} those/males who are born in your household as well as those/males whom you buy {as a slave/servant}.” or “{regardless of whether} they are sons/males from your own household/family or slaves/servants whom you have bought.” See how you translated these phrases in verse 12. It may be best to translate them in a slightly different way here because of the repetition. Do what is best in your language.
So my covenant will be
Quote: וְהָיְתָ֧ה בְרִיתִ֛י (1)“That is how {the sign of} my covenant/agreement will/must be marked” or “That is how you must mark my covenant/agreement”
in your flesh
Quote: בִּבְשַׂרְכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“on your bodies”. The word “flesh” refers here to the body in general. Translate this in a way that is clear and natural in your language.
as an eternal covenant
Quote: לִבְרִ֥ית עוֹלָֽם (1)“to show that it is an everlasting/permanent covenant/agreement.” or “to show that it is a covenant/agreement that never ends.” See how you translated “an eternal covenant” in verse 7.
Genesis 17:14
And {as for} an uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin
Quote: וְעָרֵ֣ל זָכָ֗ר אֲשֶׁ֤ר לֹֽא יִמּוֹל֙ אֶת בְּשַׂ֣ר עָרְלָת֔וֹ (1)“But {as for} any/every male/man who is not circumcised,” or “In fact, if a/any man refuses to let you circumcise him,” or “If a/any man refuses to be circumcised,” In this context, “male” refers to men who refuse to be circumcised, not baby boys.
indeed that person must be cut off from his people
Quote: וְנִכְרְתָ֛ה הַנֶּ֥פֶשׁ הַהִ֖וא מֵעַמֶּ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“that person must {be sent away and} not be allowed to associate/fellowship with his/my people” or “you must {send him away and} not allow him to associate/fellowship with his/my people”. The phrase “cut off from his people” is an idiom which means that the person is an outcast of society and can no longer associate closely with other people in that society. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would work well here.
he has broken
Quote: הֵפַֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{because} he has not kept/obeyed” or “{because} he has disobeyed”. This phrase has the opposite meaning of “keep” or “obey” in verse 9. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom like “broken” that means to not do what has been agreed upon or to disobey what was commanded.
my covenant
Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖י (1)“{the requirements/rules of} my covenant/agreement.” or “{what I require in} my covenant/agreement.”
Genesis 17:15
Then God said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“Later God {also} said to Abraham,” or “God {also} told Abraham,”
As for} Sarai your wife
Quote: שָׂרַ֣י אִשְׁתְּךָ֔ (1)“{As for} your wife Sarai,” This phrase is first in this quote to change the focus to Sarai and emphasize her. Consider what is the best way to do this in your language.
do not call her name Sarai
Quote: לֹא תִקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמָ֖הּ שָׂרָ֑י (1)“do not call her Sarai {anymore},” or “her name will no longer be Sarai,”
because her name {will be} Sarah
Quote: כִּ֥י שָׂרָ֖ה שְׁמָֽהּ (1)“because {from now on} her name will be Sarah.” or “Rather/Instead, her name is {now} Sarah.” or “Rather, {from now on} it will be Sarah.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 17:16
and I will also give to you a son from her
Quote: וְגַ֨ם נָתַ֧תִּי מִמֶּ֛נָּה לְךָ֖ בֵּ֑ן (1)“and I will definitely enable her to bear/have a son for you.” or “and I will definitely give you a son by her.”
Indeed I will bless her
Quote: וּבֵֽרַכְתִּ֨יהָ֙ (1)“In fact, I will bless/prosper her” or “Yes, I will bless/prosper her”
and she will become nations
Quote: וְהָֽיְתָ֣ה לְגוֹיִ֔ם (1)“so that she will become {the mother/ancestor of many} people/ethnic groups,” or “so much that she will {have many descendants that will} become/form {new/many} people/ethnic groups,” See how you translated “nations” in verses 4-6.
kings of peoples will come from her
Quote: מַלְכֵ֥י עַמִּ֖ים מִמֶּ֥נָּה יִהְיֽוּ (1)“and kings over peoples/nations will descend from her.” or “and some of her descendants will {even} be kings {who rule} over {many} people/ethnic groups.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 6.
Genesis 17:17
Then Abraham fell on his face
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֧ל אַבְרָהָ֛ם עַל־פָּנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“{When} Abraham {heard that, he} bowed with his face to the ground {before God} {to show respect},” or “Then Abraham prostrated himself {before God} {to show him respect},” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 3.
and he laughed and said in his heart
Quote: וַיִּצְחָ֑ק וַיֹּ֣אמֶר בְּלִבּ֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“but he laughed {to himself} and thought,” or “but he laughed {silently} and thought to himself,” The phrase “said in his heart” is an idiom that refers to something Abraham thought, but did not say out loud. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that fits well here.
Will {a child} be born to a son of 100 years
Quote: הַלְּבֶ֤ן מֵאָֽה שָׁנָה֙ יִוָּלֵ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“How can a hundred-year-old man {like me/myself} father a son/child?” or “Certainly it is not possible for a hundred-year-old man {like me} to father a son/child!” or “Certainly a hundred-year-old man {like myself} cannot father a son/child, can he?” Abraham uses the rhetorical questions in verse 17 to express strong disbelief. If that is not clear in your language, you could translate the rhetorical questions as statements, with or without a tag question.
And will Sarah who is a daughter of ninety years bear {a child
Quote: וְאִ֨ם שָׂרָ֔ה הֲבַת תִּשְׁעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה תֵּלֵֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“And how can Sarah who is 90 years old {still} have a baby/child?” or “And certainly it is not possible for a 90-year-old woman like Sarah to {still} bear/have a baby/child!” or “And certainly a 90-year-old woman like Sarah cannot {still} give birth to a baby/child, can she?”
Genesis 17:18
Then Abraham said to God
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֶל הָֽאֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So Abraham/he said to God,”
If only Ishmael
Quote: ל֥וּ יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל (1)“Oh, that Ishmael could/would” or “Please let Ishmael”. Consider what is the best way to express this strong wish or hope in your language.
might live before you
Quote: יִחְיֶ֥ה לְפָנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“live/prosper in your presence!” or “be the one whom you bless!” This idiom means to live under God’s care and be blessed by him.
Genesis 17:19
Then God said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“God said/replied {to him},”
No
Quote: אֲבָל֙ (1)“No, rather” or “Yes, but/however”. Consider whether it is best in your language to begin God’s response to Abraham here with a “No” or a “Yes”. Although God agrees that he will bless Ishmael (verse 20), he disagrees with Abraham’s request to allow Ishmael to be the one God establishes his covenant with.
Sarah your wife
Quote: שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתְּךָ֗ (1)“{as I said,} your wife Sarah {is the one} {who}” or “{it is} your wife Sarah {who}”. Here God emphasizes what he said in verse 16 about Sarah.
is bearing a son for you
Quote: יֹלֶ֤דֶת לְךָ֙ בֵּ֔ן (1)“will bear you a son,” or “will give birth to a son for you,”
and you will call his name Isaac
Quote: וְקָרָ֥אתָ אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ יִצְחָ֑ק (1)“and you must name him Isaac.” or “You must give him the name Isaac.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “call … name …” in verse 15.
And I will establish my covenant with him
Quote: וַהֲקִמֹתִ֨י אֶת בְּרִיתִ֥י אִתּ֛וֹ (1)“I will establish/make my covenant/agreement with him” or “He {is the one} I will establish my covenant/agreement with,” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 7.
as an eternal covenant
Quote: לִבְרִ֥ית עוֹלָ֖ם (1)“as a permanent covenant/agreement”
for his offspring after him
Quote: לְזַרְע֥וֹ אַחֲרָֽיו (1)“{that will also be} for/with {all} his offspring/descendants {who live} after him.” or “{that I will also establish/keep} with {all} his offspring/descendants {who live} after him.”
Genesis 17:20
And as for Ishmael, I have heard you
Quote: וּֽלְיִשְׁמָעֵ֘אל שְׁמַעְתִּיךָ֒ (1)“As for Ishmael, I have heard your request {for him}.” or “I also heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael.”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)“{So} behold/listen,” or “{So} here/this is what I will do:”
I will bless him
Quote: בֵּרַ֣כְתִּי אֹת֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I will {also} bless/prosper him,” See how you translated “bless” in verse 16.
and I will make him fruitful
Quote: וְהִפְרֵיתִ֥י אֹת֛וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and I will give him many children”
and multiply him very greatly
Quote: וְהִרְבֵּיתִ֥י אֹת֖וֹ בִּמְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד (1)“and greatly increase {the number of} his descendants.” or “so that he has a great many descendants.”
He will father
Quote: יוֹלִ֔יד (1)“{In fact,} he will be the father of” or “{In fact,} he will have”
twelve rulers
Quote: שְׁנֵים עָשָׂ֤ר נְשִׂיאִם֙ (1)“twelve {sons who become} chiefs,” or “twelve {sons who will be} {great/powerful} leaders,” Many translations have “princes” here, but these Ishmaelite rulers were not actually sons of a king, so it is better to use a more general term in your translation.
and I will make him into a great nation
Quote: וּנְתַתִּ֖יו לְג֥וֹי גָּדֽוֹל (1)“and I will make him {the father/ancestor of} a great/large people/ethnic group.” or “and I will make him {and his descendants} become a great/large people/ethnic group.”
Genesis 17:21
However, my covenant I will establish
Quote: וְאֶת בְּרִיתִ֖י אָקִ֣ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“But I will establish/make my covenant/agreement”. In the Hebrew text, the phrase “my covenant” is put before the verb in order to change the topic to God’s covenant. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also consider again how you translated “covenant” in verses 2, 4, 7, 9-11, 13-14, 19, 21.
with Isaac
Quote: אֶת יִצְחָ֑ק (1)“with {your son} Isaac,”
whom Sarah will bear for you
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ תֵּלֵ֨ד לְךָ֤ שָׂרָה֙ (1)“whom Sarah will give birth to for you” or “Sarah will give birth to him”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “is bearing … for you” in verse 19.
by this time in the next year
Quote: לַמּוֹעֵ֣ד הַזֶּ֔ה בַּשָּׁנָ֖ה הָאַחֶֽרֶת (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “by/at this time/season next year.” or (2) “at the appointed/set time next year.”
Genesis 17:22
Then he finished speaking with him
Quote: וַיְכַ֖ל לְדַבֵּ֣ר אִתּ֑וֹ (1)“When/After he/God had finished speaking/talking with/to Abraham,” See how you translated “spoke with him” in verse 3.
and God went up from Abraham
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַל אֱלֹהִ֔ים מֵעַ֖ל אַבְרָהָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“he went up from Abraham/him {to heaven}.” or “God/he left him and ascended {to heaven}.” or “God/he left him.” Consider whether to use a noun or a pronoun to refer to God and Abraham at each point in this verse. Do what is clear and natural in your language.
Genesis 17:23
Then Abraham took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָהָ֜ם (1)“Then Abraham gathered” or “Then Abraham brought together”
Ishmael his son
Quote: אֶת יִשְׁמָעֵ֣אל בְּנ֗וֹ (1)“his son Ishmael”
and all those born in his house
Quote: וְאֵ֨ת כָּל יְלִידֵ֤י בֵיתוֹ֙ (1)“and all the {other} males {who were} born in his household”
and everyone bought with his money
Quote: וְאֵת֙ כָּל מִקְנַ֣ת כַּסְפּ֔וֹ (1)“as well as all {the/his male slaves/servants} whom he had bought,”
every male among the men of Abraham’s house
Quote: כָּל זָכָ֕ר בְּאַנְשֵׁ֖י בֵּ֣ית אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“{yes,} every male in his household,” This phrase refers to everyone mentioned in the first half of this verse, including all males of all ages, not just men.
and he circumcised the flesh of their foreskins on that very day
Quote: וַיָּ֜מָל אֶת בְּשַׂ֣ר עָרְלָתָ֗ם בְּעֶ֨צֶם֙ הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“and on that same day he cut off their foreskins,” or “Then on that same day he circumcised them,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
just as God had told him
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אִתּ֖וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“just/exactly as God had commanded him {to do}.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “Then that very/same day, Abraham did just/exactly as God had told/commanded him {to do}: He took/gathered …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 17:24
And Abraham
Quote: וְאַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now Abraham” or “Abraham”. The information in verses 24 and 25 is background information. Many languages have a specific conjunction or transitional phrase that is used to introduce this kind of information. Do what is best in your language.
was} a son of 99 years
Quote: בֶּן תִּשְׁעִ֥ים וָתֵ֖שַׁע שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“was ninety-nine/99 years old”. See how you translated “a son of … years” in verse 1.
when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin
Quote: בְּהִמֹּל֖וֹ בְּשַׂ֥ר עָרְלָתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“when his foreskin was cut off,” or “when he was circumcised,” We do not know who circumcised Abraham. Some Jewish scholars think it was Shem and some others think Abraham did it himself. However, the Hebrew text does not say who did it, so in your translation it is best to also not specify who did it. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 17:25
and Ishmael his son
Quote: וְיִשְׁמָעֵ֣אל בְּנ֔וֹ (1)“and his son Ishmael” or “His son Ishmael”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
was} a son of thirteen years
Quote: בֶּן שְׁלֹ֥שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“was thirteen/13 years old”
when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin
Quote: בְּהִ֨מֹּל֔וֹ אֵ֖ת בְּשַׂ֥ר עָרְלָתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“when his foreskin was cut off.” or “when he was circumcised.” or “when {he/Abraham} circumcised him.” See how you translated this clause in verse 24.
Genesis 17:26
On that very day
Quote: בְּעֶ֨צֶם֙ הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“{So it was,} on that very/same day”. Verses 26 and 27 repeat what happened in verse 23 to emphasize what happened. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like Abraham and Ishmael were circumcised twice. See how you translated “on that very/same day” in verse 23.
Abraham was circumcised, and Ishmael his son
Quote: נִמּ֖וֹל אַבְרָהָ֑ם וְיִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל בְּנֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{both} Abraham and his son Ishmael were circumcised.” or “Abraham was circumcised, and {he circumcised} his son Ishmael.” Abraham is the one who circumcised his son Ishmael (verse 23). See how you translated “he was circumcised” in verse 24.
Genesis 17:27
And all the males of
Quote: וְכָל אַנְשֵׁ֤י (1)“And all the {other} males in/from his/Abraham’s household,” or “All the males in/from his/Abraham’s household,”
the one born in his house
Quote: יְלִ֣יד בָּ֔יִת (1)“{including} those {who had been} born in his household”. See how you translated this phrase in verses 12 and 23.
and the one bought with money
Quote: וּמִקְנַת־כֶּ֖סֶף (1)“as well as those {whom he had} bought {as slaves/servants}”. See how you translated a similar clause in verses 12 and 23.
from the son of a foreigner
Quote: מֵאֵ֣ת בֶּן נֵכָ֑ר (1)“from foreigners,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
were circumcised with him
Quote: נִמֹּ֖לוּ אִתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“were also circumcised.” For some languages it may be better to move this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “And all the {other} males in his/Abraham’s household were also circumcised, {including} those {who had been} born …” Do what is best in your language. Also, consider again how you translated “circumcised” in verses 10-14, 23-27.
Genesis 18
Genesis 18:1
Then Yahweh appeared to him
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֤א אֵלָיו֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)“Then {one day} Yahweh appeared/came {again} to him/Abraham” or “One day Yahweh visited Abraham {again}”. See how you translated “appeared” in Gen 12:7 and 17:1. Also, consider whether it is better to refer to Abraham here with a pronoun or with his name in your language.
by the terebinth trees of Mamre
Quote: בְּאֵלֹנֵ֖י מַמְרֵ֑א (1)“at/near Mamre’s terebinth/oak trees,” or “beside the terebinth/oak trees on Mamre’s land,” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 13:18, 14:13, and a similar phrase in Gen 12:6.
and he was sitting
Quote: וְה֛וּא יֹשֵׁ֥ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“while/as Abraham was sitting”
at} the opening of the tent
Quote: פֶּֽתַח הָאֹ֖הֶל (1)“{at/in} the entrance/doorway of his tent” or “{by} the front of his tent”. The entrance to the tent was an opening that could be closed by a large piece of cloth or animal skin. It did not have a solid wood door like a house has. See how you translated “tent” in Gen 4:20.
in the heat of the day
Quote: כְּחֹ֥ם הַיּֽוֹם (1)“during the hot/hottest time/part of the day.”
Genesis 18:2
And he lifted his eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֤א עֵינָיו֙ וַיַּ֔רְא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“He/Abraham looked up/around”. See how you translate this phrase in Gen 22:13.
and behold, three men were standing
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה אֲנָשִׁ֔ים נִצָּבִ֖ים (1)“and saw/noticed that there were three men standing” or “and was surprised to see three men standing”
nearby him
Quote: עָלָ֑יו (1)“a short distance away.” or “not too far away from him.” Translate this phrase in a way that fits with the fact that the men were far enough away from Abraham that he could run over to them (as he did in the next sentence).
And {when} he saw {them
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא (1)“When he saw {them},” or “As soon as he saw {them},”
then he ran from the entrance of the tent
Quote: וַיָּ֤רָץ & מִפֶּ֣תַח הָאֹ֔הֶל (1)“he got/jumped up from where he was and ran/hurried” or “he {jumped/got up and} ran/hurried {to them}”
to meet them
Quote: לִקְרָאתָם֙ (1)“to greet/welcome them.”
Then he bowed to the ground
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ אָֽרְצָה (1)“Then he bowed {low} {before them} {with his face/forehead} to the ground {to show respect},” or “Then he prostrated himself on the ground {in front of them} {to show respect},” Compare how you translated a phrase that has a similar meaning (“fell on his face”) in Gen 17:3, 17.
Genesis 18:3
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)“and said {to them},”
My lords
Quote: אֲדֹנָ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“My masters,” or “Sirs/Gentlemen,” Abraham uses “lords” here as a polite address to the three men. The Hebrew word “lord” can also be a reference to God, but notice that at this point Abraham probably thought he was talking to men or angels. It wasn’t until later that he realized that one of them was Yahweh (verse 14).
if I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֶ֔יךָ (1)“if you are pleased/satisfied with me,” or “if you consider me worthy {to be your host},” or “if you would favor/honor me {with your presence},” The pronoun “your” is singular here in the Hebrew text, and also in the next clause. It could be that Abraham is addressing each of the three men simultaneously, or that he is addressing their leader or spokesman.
please do not pass by your servant
Quote: אַל נָ֥א תַעֲבֹ֖ר מֵעַ֥ל עַבְדֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“please do not leave here without letting me serve you {as my guests}.” or “please stay here for a while as my guests.” Abraham refers to himself as a servant here in order to show respect to his guests.
Genesis 18:4
Please let a little water be brought
Quote: יֻקַּֽח נָ֣א מְעַט מַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Please let me bring {you} some water,” or “Let my servants bring {you} some water,” Saying “a little” was a polite way of showing generosity. Make sure your translation does not sound here like Abraham was only offering the men a tiny bit of water; he or his servants were going to bring them enough water to wash their feet.
Then you can wash your feet
Quote: וְרַחֲצ֖וּ רַגְלֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“That way you {all} can wash {the dust off} your feet”. People wore sandals and their feet would get dusty when they traveled. So it was customary to offer guests water to wash the dust off their feet. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, notice that the pronouns “you” and “your” are plural here in the Hebrew text.
and rest yourselves
Quote: וְהִֽשָּׁעֲנ֖וּ (1)“and then rest/relax {here}”
under the tree
Quote: תַּ֥חַת הָעֵֽץ (1)“under {the shade of} this tree.”
Genesis 18:5
And I will bring
Quote: וְאֶקְחָ֨ה (1)“I will also bring/get {you}” or “Let me also bring/get {you}”
a morsel of
Quote: פַת (1)“a little bit of” or “some”. Saying “a morsel” was a polite way of showing generosity. Make sure your translation does not sound here like Abraham was only offering the men a tiny bit of bread; he was going to give them plenty of food to eat.
bread
Quote: לֶ֜חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“bread/food {for you} {to eat}.” Since bread was a common staple of their diet, it is often used in the Bible to refer to food in general.
so that you can refresh your hearts
Quote: וְסַעֲד֤וּ לִבְּכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then you can be refreshed/strengthened” or “That way you can regain your strength”. Notice that the pronouns “you” and “your” are plural in this quote in the Hebrew text and refer to Abraham’s three guests.
before you go away
Quote: אַחַ֣ר תַּעֲבֹ֔רוּ (1)“and then continue on your way,” or “before you continue traveling,”
since you have come to your servant
Quote: כִּֽי־עַל־כֵּ֥ן עֲבַרְתֶּ֖ם עַֽל עַבְדְּכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“now that you have come to me.” or “since you are here with me.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause at the beginning of this verse and say, “Since you are here with me, let me {also} bring some food …” Do what is best in your language.
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So they said {to him},” or “The men replied {to him},”
Alright
Quote: כֵּ֥ן (2)“Okay,” or “Very well,” or “That is good/fine,” The word used here in the Hebrew text shows agreement or acceptance. Do what is natural in your language.
do as you have said
Quote: תַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּֽרְתָּ (1)“do what you have proposed/suggested.”
Genesis 18:6
Then Abraham hurried
Quote: וַיְמַהֵ֧ר אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)“So Abraham quickly went”
into the tent to Sarah
Quote: הָאֹ֖הֱלָה אֶל שָׂרָ֑ה (1)“to Sarah inside the/their tent”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“and said {to her},” or “and told her,”
Hurry! {Prepare
Quote: מַהֲרִ֞י (1)“Quickly {get/use}” or “Quickly {prepare}”
three seahs of
Quote: שְׁלֹ֤שׁ סְאִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“three {large} measures/scoops/batches”. It is not certain how much “three seahs” was, but it is thought that it was more than 20 quarts/liters. It was enough flour to make bread for many people, just as the calf (verse 7) provided enough meat for many people and showed generous hospitality. Besides Abraham’s guests, others in his household may have also joined in eating the feast.
fine flour
Quote: קֶ֣מַח סֹ֔לֶת (1)“of {good/high} quality flour.” or “of the/our best flour.”
Knead {it} and make loaves
Quote: ל֖וּשִׁי וַעֲשִׂ֥י עֻגֽוֹת (1)“Knead {the dough} and make it into loaves/bread.” or “and bake {some} loaves of {flat} bread.” or “and bake/make {some} bread.” The Hebrew word for “loaves” here is often translated “cakes”, which probably refers to their flat, round shape (similar to biscuits). However, make sure your translation of this word does not sound like a dessert, because this bread was not sweet. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 18:7
Then Abraham ran to the herd
Quote: וְאֶל־הַבָּקָ֖ר רָ֣ץ אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“Then Abraham/he hurriedly {left the tent and} went to his herd {of cattle}” or “Next Abraham/he quickly went/hurried {outside} to his herd {of cattle}” or “Then he ran {outside} to his herd {of cattle}”
and selected
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח (1)“and chose” or “and picked out”
a tender and choice calf
Quote: בֶּן בָּקָ֜ר רַ֤ךְ וָטוֹב֙ (1)“one of his best/choice calves that would be good/tasty to eat.”
Then he gave it
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן (1)“Then he took/brought the calf” or “Then he turned it over”. The word “gave” means Abram brought the calf to his servant and put him in charge of preparing its meat for a meal. Make sure your translation does not sound like the calf was a gift.
to a servant
Quote: אֶל הַנַּ֔עַר (1)“to one of his servants”
and he hurried to prepare it
Quote: וַיְמַהֵ֖ר לַעֲשׂ֥וֹת אֹתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and the/his servant quickly prepared it.” or “who quickly slaughtered/butchered it and cooked/roasted it.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that this clause refers to the servant, not Abraham.
Genesis 18:8
Then he took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he/Abraham brought/got”. Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Abraham, not his servant.
curds
Quote: חֶמְאָ֜ה (1)“{some} curds/yogurt/cheese”. This term refers to churned, fermented milk that has curdled.
and milk
Quote: וְחָלָ֗ב (1)“along with milk” or “as well as milk”
and the calf
Quote: וּבֶן הַבָּקָר֙ (1)“and {the meat from} the calf” or “and the meat”
that he had prepared
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֔ה (1)“that he had his servant prepare,” or “that the/his servant had prepared/cooked/roasted,”
and he set it before them
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֖ן לִפְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he served {all of} it/that to the {three} men {to eat}.” or “and he set/put it {all} before his {three} guests {to eat}.” Since verse 2 was the last time the three men were mentioned, it may be clearer and more natural to make them explicit here. Do what is best in your language.
Then he stood by them
Quote: וְהֽוּא עֹמֵ֧ד עֲלֵיהֶ֛ם (1)“Then he stood nearby them” or “Then he stood near/nearby”
under the tree
Quote: תַּ֥חַת הָעֵ֖ץ (1)“{where they were sitting} under the tree”
and they ate
Quote: וַיֹּאכֵֽלוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{and waited on them} while they ate.” or “{and served them} while they ate.” As the host, Abraham stood nearby his guests in order to wait on them and make sure they had everything that they needed.
Genesis 18:9
Then they said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵׄלָׄ֔יׄוׄ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then {one of} the men asked him/Abraham,” The Hebrew text uses a plural pronoun here (“they”) to refer to one of the three men who spoke to Abraham on behalf of them all (See verse 10). Many languages can use “they” or “the men” in the same way. Make sure your translation of this quote margin does not sound like all three of the men spoke at the same time.
Where {is} Sarah your wife
Quote: אַיֵּ֖ה שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתֶּ֑ךָ (1)“Where {is} your wife Sarah?”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“He/Abraham answered {them/him},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham is the one speaking here.
Behold, in the tent
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה בָאֹֽהֶל (1)“{She is} there in/inside the tent.”
Genesis 18:10
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“Then the/that man”. This phrase refers to the man in verse 9 who spoke on behalf of himself and the other two men. We find out in verse 13 that the man was actually Yahweh. However, at this point Abraham and Sarah probably did not yet know who he was, so it is better to not specify who he was here, in order to keep that suspense in your translation.
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“said/responded {to him/Abraham},” or “spoke again {to Abraham},”
I will surely return
Quote: שׁ֣וֹב אָשׁ֤וּב (1)“I will certainly/definitely come back”
to you
Quote: אֵלֶ֨יךָ֙ (1)“to you {here}” or “{here} to visit you”
at the time of life
Quote: כָּעֵ֣ת חַיָּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“at/about this time/season next year,” or “next year at/around this time/season,” For some languages it may be more natural to move this time phrase to the beginning of this quote and say, “Next year at this time I will surely/definitely return …” Do what is best in your language.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה (1)“and when I do,” or “When I do,” or “At that time,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Sarah your wife will have a son
Quote: בֵ֖ן לְשָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתֶּ֑ךָ (1)“your wife Sarah will have a {baby} son/boy {with her}.” or “your wife Sarah will {already} have a {baby} son/boy.” This means that Sarah would have a son with her when Yahweh returns. It does not mean that she would give birth at that time.
And Sarah was listening
Quote: וְשָׂרָ֥ה שֹׁמַ֛עַת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now Sarah was listening/eavesdropping” or “Sarah was listening/eavesdropping”. This sentence gives information about something that was happening while the man was talking. Translate this in a way that makes that clear in your language.
at} the opening of the tent
Quote: פֶּ֥תַח הָאֹ֖הֶל (1)“inside the entrance/doorway of the tent,” See how you translated “the entrance of the tent” in verse 1.
and it {was} behind him
Quote: וְה֥וּא אַחֲרָֽיו (1)“which was {right} behind”. Notice that the pronoun “it” refers to the entrance to the tent (where Sarah was).
was} behind him
Quote: אַחֲרָֽיו (1)The pronoun “him” is ambiguous here. It can refer to: (1) “the man” or (2) “Abraham”
Genesis 18:11
Now Abraham and Sarah
Quote: וְאַבְרָהָ֤ם וְשָׂרָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Abraham and Sarah/she” or “Sarah/She and Abraham”. This verse gives background information that is important to what happens next. Some languages use a conjunction such as “Now” here to introduce this kind of information, while other languages omit the conjunction, especially if “Now” is used to begin the last sentence in verse 10. Do what is best in your language.
were} old, advanced in days
Quote: זְקֵנִ֔ים בָּאִ֖ים בַּיָּמִ֑ים (1)“were {already} very/quite old/aged” or “{were} very elderly”
the way of women had ceased to be with Sarah
Quote: חָדַל֙ לִהְי֣וֹת לְשָׂרָ֔ה אֹ֖רַח כַּנָּשִֽׁים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“so that Sarah/she was much older than the normal age for bearing children.” or “so that Sarah/she was {far} past the age/time that she could bear/have children.” The Hebrew text has an idiom here that is a polite way of saying that Sarah had reached menopause and so was not able to have children. Other languages may have a similar idiom. Make sure your translation of this clause will not offend or embarrass people when it is read aloud in public.
Genesis 18:12
So Sarah laughed within herself
Quote: וַתִּצְחַ֥ק שָׂרָ֖ה בְּקִרְבָּ֣הּ (1)“So Sarah/she laughed to herself {in disbelief}”. See how you translated “laughed” in Gen 17:17 where Abraham also laughed to himself.
and said
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“and said/thought {to herself},” or “and asked {herself},”
After I am worn out
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֤י בְלֹתִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Since my body is {now} worn out,” or “Now that I am too old {to conceive},”
will I have pleasure
Quote: הָֽיְתָה לִּ֣י עֶדְנָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“will I {still} have/experience {this/that} pleasure?” or “it doesn’t seem possible that I could {still} have/experience the pleasure {of bearing/having a child}!” Sarah uses a rhetorical question to express her strong emotion and disbelief. Consider whether or not it is best to use a rhetorical question here in your language.
And my lord {is} old
Quote: וַֽאדֹנִ֖י זָקֵֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Besides that, my master/husband is {also} {very/too} old!” The phrase “my lord” is a title of respect that Sarah uses to refer to Abraham as her husband. Also, for some languages it may be better to change the order of some of the clauses in this verse and say, “I am too old {to conceive} and my husband is {also} {very/too} old! How can I {possibly} {still} have/experience the pleasure {of having a child}?” or “It doesn’t seem possible that I could have/experience the pleasure {of having a child} now that I am too old {to conceive}. Besides that, my husband is {also} {very/too} old!” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 18:13
Then Yahweh said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/But Yahweh asked Abraham,” The way you translate this quote margin will depend on whether you translate the rest of this verse as a rhetorical question or a statement.
Why {is it} that Sarah laughed, saying
Quote: לָ֣מָּה זֶּה֩ צָחֲקָ֨ה שָׂרָ֜ה לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why did Sarah laugh {to herself} and say/think,” or “Sarah should not have laughed and said/thought {to herself},” or “Sarah should not have laughed, thinking,” Yahweh uses rhetorical question in verses 13-14 to confront Sarah’s disbelief and to emphasize that nothing is too difficult for God to do. Consider whether or not it is best to use rhetorical questions here in your language.
Will I really bear {a child} when I am old
Quote: הַאַ֥ף אֻמְנָ֛ם אֵלֵ֖ד וַאֲנִ֥י זָקַֽנְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I am too old to bear/have a child!” or “that she is too old to have a child.” or “that it isn’t possible for her to have a child now that she is old.” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to make this embedded quote a direct or indirect quote. Make sure that your translation of “I” refers here to Sarah, not Yahweh.
Genesis 18:14
Is anything too hard for Yahweh
Quote: הֲיִפָּלֵ֥א מֵיְהוָ֖ה דָּבָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Is {there} anything {that is} too hard/difficult for Yahweh {to do}?” or “Nothing is too hard/difficult for Yahweh {to do}!”
At the appointed time
Quote: לַמּוֹעֵ֞ד (1)“At the time that I have set/decided,”
I will return to you
Quote: אָשׁ֥וּב אֵלֶ֛יךָ (1)“I will return to you {here}” or “I will come back {here} to visit you”. Consider how you translated this in verse 10.
at the time of life
Quote: כָּעֵ֥ת חַיָּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{Yes, I will come/return} at this time next year,” or “—{it will be} at this time next year—”. See how you translated this idiom in verse 10. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this phrase right after the first time phrase in this verse and say, “At the time that I have decided, which will be this time next year, I will return {here} to visit you,” Do what is best in your language.
and Sarah will have a son
Quote: וּלְשָׂרָ֥ה בֵֽן (1)“and Sarah will have a {baby} son/boy {with her}.” or “and Sarah will {already} have a {baby} son/boy.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 10.
Genesis 18:15
But Sarah denied it
Quote: וַתְּכַחֵ֨שׁ שָׂרָ֧ה (1)“But/Then Sarah lied {to him}”. The Hebrew verb here includes the meaning of lying or deceiving.
by saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֛ר (1)“and said,” Notice that the verbs “denied” and “saying” refer to the same event, not two separate events. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
I did not laugh,” because she was afraid
Quote: לֹ֥א צָחַ֖קְתִּי כִּ֣י יָרֵ֑אָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“that she did not laugh. {She said that,} because she was afraid.” Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, for some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “{When Sarah heard that,} she was afraid, so she lied {to him} and said, “I did not laugh.” ” Do what is best in your language.
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר (1)“But he/Yahweh replied {to her},”
No, but you did laugh
Quote: לֹ֖א כִּ֥י צָחָֽקְתְּ (1)“Yes, you did laugh.” or “That is not true. You did laugh.” Consider whether Yahweh’s reply to Sarah here should begin with “No” or “Yes” in your language.
Genesis 18:16
Then the men got up from there
Quote: וַיָּקֻ֤מוּ מִשָּׁם֙ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)“{When/After they had finished eating,} the {three} men got up {to leave}”
and looked down toward Sodom
Quote: וַיַּשְׁקִ֖פוּ עַל פְּנֵ֣י סְדֹ֑ם (1)“and started walking/heading down toward {the city of} Sodom.” This phrase reflects the fact that the city of Sodom was lower in elevation than the city of Hebron, where Abraham was living.
And Abraham went with them
Quote: וְאַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם הֹלֵ֥ךְ עִמָּ֖ם (1)“Abraham went/walked with them {for a while}” or “Abraham escorted/accompanied them {for a while}”
to send them off
Quote: לְשַׁלְּחָֽם (1)“to see them on their way.” or “as they were leaving.”
Genesis 18:17
And Yahweh said
Quote: וַֽיהֹוָ֖ה אָמָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Yahweh said/thought {to himself},” The context implies that Yahweh said this to himself, without Abraham hearing him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 11:6.
Should I hide from Abraham
Quote: הַֽמְכַסֶּ֤ה אֲנִי֙ מֵֽאַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Should I keep secret from Abraham” or “I should/will not hide/conceal from Abraham” or “I should/will tell Abraham”
what I am doing
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֲנִ֥י עֹשֶֽׂה (1)“what I am going/about to do {to the city of Sodom}”. Whether you end this sentence with a question mark or a period will depend on how you choose to translate this rhetorical question.
Genesis 18:18
And Abraham will surely become
Quote: וְאַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם הָי֧וֹ יִֽהְיֶ֛ה (1)“Abraham/he will surely/definitely be {the ancestor of}” or “After all, Abraham/he {and his descendants} will surely/definitely {multiply and} become”. Some translations begin a new sentence here. Other translations continue the rhetorical question (or statement) in verse 17 to the end of verse 18 and say, “since Abraham/he will …” or “seeing that Abraham/he will …” Do what is best in your language.
a great and mighty nation
Quote: לְג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל וְעָצ֑וּם (1)“a great/important and powerful people/ethnic group,” See how you translated “great nation” in Gen 12:2.
in him
Quote: ב֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“and through him/them” or “and because of him/them” or “and by means of him/them”. This phrase refers to Abraham and his descendants, including ultimately the Messiah. See the note about this at Gen 12:3.
and … all the nations of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְנִ֨בְרְכוּ & כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֥י הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“all the people/ethnic groups in the world will be blessed {by me}.” or “{I} will bless all the people/ethnic groups in the world.” See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 12:3.
Genesis 18:19
For
Quote: כִּ֣י (1)“Indeed” or “In fact,”
I have known him
Quote: יְדַעְתִּ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I have chosen him/Abraham”. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom that fits well here.
so that he will command his children
Quote: לְמַעַן֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר יְצַוֶּ֜ה אֶת בָּנָ֤יו (1)“so that he will train/guide/instruct his children”
and his house after him
Quote: וְאֶת בֵּיתוֹ֙ אַחֲרָ֔יו (1)“grandchildren, and other descendants {who will live} after him,” or “and his descendants,”
and they will keep the way of Yahweh
Quote: וְשָֽׁמְרוּ֙ דֶּ֣רֶךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“so that they will live the way I want them to live” or “to obey Yahweh’s/my ways/will”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is speaking about himself here.
by doing righteousness and justice
Quote: לַעֲשׂ֥וֹת צְדָקָ֖ה וּמִשְׁפָּ֑ט (1)“and do what is righteous/right and just {in my eyes}” or “and do what is righteous/right and/including treat people justly/rightly”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: לְמַ֗עַן (2)“Therefore/So”. For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
Yahweh will bring about
Quote: הָבִ֤יא יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“I will do/accomplish”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is referring to himself here.
for Abraham what he has said to him
Quote: עַל אַבְרָהָ֔ם אֵ֥ת אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֖ר עָלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“for Abraham/him what/everything I have promised him {that I will do}.” The pronoun “he” refers to Yahweh here. Make sure the way you use nouns and pronouns throughout this verse makes it clear in your language who is speaking and who is being referred to.
Genesis 18:20
Then Yahweh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Yahweh said {to Abraham},” or “Then/So Yahweh informed/told {Abraham},”
Because the outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous
Quote: זַעֲקַ֛ת סְדֹ֥ם וַעֲמֹרָ֖ה כִּי רָ֑בָּה וְחַ֨טָּאתָ֔ם כִּ֥י כָבְדָ֖ה מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“I have heard {many} serious/terrible complaints/accusations against {the people of} {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah because they are sinning so/very grievously/terribly. So” or “I have heard many people crying out against {the people of/in} {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah because they are committing/doing very evil/terrible sins/things.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the phrase “Sodom and Gomorrah” refers to the people in those cities. Also, in the Hebrew text this sentence continues into verse 21. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 18:21
I will go down now
Quote: אֵֽרֲדָה נָּ֣א (1)“I must go down {to those cities} now” or “I am going {to those cities} now”. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were both lower in elevation than the city of Hebron. See what you did for a similar case in verse 16.
and see
Quote: וְאֶרְאֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
“to investigate/determine” or “in order to find out”
whether they have done altogether according to its outcry
Quote: הַכְּצַעֲקָתָ֛הּ & עָשׂ֣וּ ׀ כָּלָ֑ה (1)“whether {or not} the people in those cities are guilty of everything” or “if the people there have done/committed all the {terrible} sins”
that has come to me
Quote: הַבָּ֥אָה אֵלַ֖י (1)“that I have heard against/about them.” or “that I have heard they are guilty of.”
And if not
Quote: וְאִם לֹ֖א (1)“If {those things are} not {true},” or “If {they are} not {guilty},”
I will know
Quote: אֵדָֽעָה (1)“{then} I will know {it} {and I will not punish them}.”
Genesis 18:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיִּפְנ֤וּ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)“Then the {other two} men”
Then the men turned away from there
Quote: וַיִּפְנ֤וּ מִשָּׁם֙ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)“Then the {other two} men left from there” or “Then the {other two} men left”
toward Sodom
Quote: סְדֹ֑מָה (1)“and continued walking/heading toward {the city of} Sodom,” or “and headed/traveled toward {the city of} Sodom,”
and Abraham was still standing
Quote: וְאַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם עוֹדֶ֥נּוּ עֹמֵ֖ד (1)“and/while Abraham stood/remained {there}”
before Yahweh
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)“with Yahweh.” or “in Yahweh’s presence.”
Genesis 18:23
Then Abraham approached {him
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֥שׁ אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“Then Abraham came/stepped closer to him/Yahweh”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said/exclaimed {to him},” or “and asked {him},”
Will you really sweep away
Quote: הַאַ֣ף תִּסְפֶּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Will/Would you indeed/actually wipe out” or “Surely/Certainly you will/would not destroy”. Abraham uses a rhetorical question here to express his strong feelings and concern about what Yahweh told him. Consider whether or not it is clear and natural to use a rhetorical question here in your language. Make sure it does not sound like Abraham is angry or being rude. See how you translated a similar idiom (“wipe away”) in Gen 6:7.
the righteous
Quote: צַדִּ֖יק (1)“the righteous/godly/good/innocent {people} {in the city}” or “righteous {people}”
with
Quote: עִם (1)“{along/together} with” or “when you destroy”
the wicked
Quote: רָשָֽׁע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“the wicked/evil/guilty {people} {there}” or “the people {there} who are wicked/evil” or “the wicked/evil {people} {there}, will/would you?” The way you translate this rhetorical question will determine what punctuation mark you end this sentence with. If you use an exclamation point here, make sure it does not sound like Abraham was angry, shouting, or being disrespectful.
Genesis 18:24
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֥י (1)“Suppose {that}” or “What {will you do} if”
there are fifty righteous in the city
Quote: יֵ֛שׁ חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים צַדִּיקִ֖ם בְּת֣וֹךְ הָעִ֑יר (1)“there are fifty/50 righteous/good {people} {living} in the city {of Sodom}?” See how you translated “the righteous” in verse 23. Also consider whether to use “fifty” or “50” here in your translation, which depends on how your translation team has decided to represent numbers.
Will you really sweep away
Quote: הַאַ֤ף תִּסְפֶּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Will/Would you really/actually {still} destroy” or “Certainly you will/would not {still} destroy”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 23.
and not spare the place
Quote: וְלֹא תִשָּׂ֣א לַמָּק֔וֹם (1)“the place/city {and all its inhabitants} rather than spare it/them” or “{all the people in} the place/city rather than let them all live”
for the sake of
Quote: לְמַ֛עַן (1)“because of” or “in order to save”
the fifty righteous
Quote: חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים הַצַּדִּיקִ֖ם (1)“the fifty/50 righteous/good {people}”
who {are} in it
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּקִרְבָּֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“who live in it” or “who live there” or “who live there, will/would you?” The way you translate this rhetorical question will determine what punctuation mark you end this sentence with.
Genesis 18:25
Far be it from you
Quote: חָלִ֨לָה לְּךָ֜ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Surely/Certainly you would never” or “It seems impossible/inconceivable that you would {ever}” or “I hope that you would never”. This idiom expresses emphatically that Abraham does not believe Yahweh would do this. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Make sure that Abraham sounds respectful in your translation.
to do something like that, killing
Quote: מֵעֲשֹׂ֣ת כַּדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֗ה לְהָמִ֤ית (1)“do such a thing as kill”
the righteous
Quote: צַדִּיק֙ (1)“righteous/godly/good/innocent {people}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 23.
with
Quote: עִם (1)“{along/together} with” or “when you destroy”
the wicked
Quote: רָשָׁ֔ע (1)“wicked/evil {people},” See how you translated “the wicked” in verse 23.
so that the righteous are like the wicked
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה כַצַּדִּ֖יק כָּרָשָׁ֑ע (1)“so that righteous/good {people} are treated/punished {by you} as if they were wicked/evil!” or “so that you are treating them both the same way!” If exclamation points are used in this chapter, make sure it does not sound like Abraham is angry, shouting, or being disrespectful
Far be it from you
Quote: חָלִ֣לָה לָּ֔ךְ (1)“Surely/Certainly you would never do such a thing!” or “It seems impossible/inconceivable that you would ever do such a thing!” or “I hope that you would never do such a thing!” See how you translated a similar phrase at the beginning of this verse.
Will the one who judges all the earth not do justice
Quote: הֲשֹׁפֵט֙ כָּל הָאָ֔רֶץ לֹ֥א יַעֲשֶׂ֖ה מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“As the judge of/over everyone on the earth, certainly/surely you will treat people justly/rightly.” or “You are the one who judges all {the people on} the earth. Certainly/Surely you will do what is just/right.” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this rhetorical question; make sure that Abraham sounds polite. Also see how you translated “justice” in verse 19.
Genesis 18:26
Then Yahweh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Yahweh answered {him/Abraham},” or “Yahweh replied {to him},” Make sure that the various quote margins in this long conversation (verses 23-32) are clear and natural in your translation.
If I find
Quote: אִם אֶמְצָ֥א (1)“If there are”
in Sodom fifty righteous in the city
Quote: בִסְדֹ֛ם חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים צַדִּיקִ֖ם בְּת֣וֹךְ הָעִ֑יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
“fifty/50 righteous/godly/good/innocent {people} {living} in the city of Sodom,”
then I will spare the whole place
Quote: וְנָשָׂ֥אתִי לְכָל הַמָּק֖וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“then I will spare the whole/entire city {and everyone who lives there}” or “then I will not destroy the city {or anyone in it}”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is referring here to the city of Sodom as well as the people who live there, not just the city.
for their sake
Quote: בַּעֲבוּרָֽם (1)“because of them.” or “for the sake/benefit of those righteous people.” or “in order to save those righteous/good people.”
Genesis 18:27
Then Abraham spoke up
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַן אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“Then Abraham spoke up {again}” or “Then Abraham responded”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“and said {to Yahweh/him},” or “and asked {Yahweh/him},”
Behold, please, I have taken it upon myself to speak to
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֤א הוֹאַ֨לְתִּי֙ לְדַבֵּ֣ר אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Listen, please, since I have been bold to speak to {you,}” or “Please excuse me for speaking to you so boldly,” The idiom “taken it upon myself” means that Abraham has decided to do something and is acting boldly. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom that fits well here.
my Lord
Quote: אֲדֹנָ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“my Master,” or “Lord/Master,” Abraham realizes by now that he is talking to Yahweh, so use a respectful term in your translation that is appropriate for him to use when he refers to Yahweh here and in the rest of this chapter. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put this phrase first in this quote and say, “My Lord/Master, please excuse me for speaking to you so boldly,” Do what is best in your language.
although I
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י (1)“even though” or “in spite of the fact that”
although I {am} dust and ashes
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י עָפָ֥ר וָאֵֽפֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“I am {as unimportant/insignificant as} dust/dirt and ashes {compared to you}.” or “I am nothing/unimportant {compared to you}.” or “I have zero/no status/importance {compared to you}.” It may be clearer to put this comparison earlier in the sentence and say, “My Lord/Master, I am {as unimportant/insignificant as} dust/dirt and ashes, so please excuse me …” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “dust” in Gen 2:7 and 3:19.
Genesis 18:28
Suppose
Quote: א֠וּלַי (1)“{But} suppose {that}” or “{But} what {will you do} if”. See how you translated this term in verse 24.
the fifty righteous lack five
Quote: יַחְסְר֞וּן חֲמִשִּׁ֤ים הַצַּדִּיקִם֙ חֲמִשָּׁ֔ה (1)“there are five fewer than fifty/50 righteous {people} {living in the city}?” or “there are only forty-five/45 righteous {people} {in the city} instead of fifty/50?”
Will you destroy the whole city
Quote: הֲתַשְׁחִ֥ית & אֶת כָּל הָעִ֑יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Will/Would you {still} destroy the whole city {and everyone in it}”. See how you translated “the whole place” in verse 26.
because of five
Quote: בַּחֲמִשָּׁ֖ה (1)“if there are five people too few {who are righteous}?” or “because the number {of righteous people} is five persons short/low?”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“And/Then Yahweh said/replied {to him/Abraham},” or “Yahweh answered {him/Abraham},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is speaking here, not Abraham.
I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there
Quote: לֹ֣א אַשְׁחִ֔ית אִם אֶמְצָ֣א שָׁ֔ם אַרְבָּעִ֖ים וַחֲמִשָּֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“I will not destroy the city if there are forty-five/45 {righteous people} {living} there.” or “if I find forty-five/45 {righteous people} {living} in the city, I will not destroy it.” Make sure it is clear in your translation what “forty-five/45” refers to.
Genesis 18:29
Then he continued again to speak to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֨סֶף ע֜וֹד לְדַבֵּ֤ר אֵלָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he/Abraham spoke again to him/Yahweh”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and asked {him},”
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)“Suppose {that}” or “What {will you do} if”
forty are found
Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּן & אַרְבָּעִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{only} forty/40 {righteous people} are found {by you}” or “you find {only} forty/40 {righteous people}” or “there are {only} forty/40 {righteous people}”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
there
Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)“{living} there?” or “{living} in the city? {Will you destroy it then?}”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“And/Then Yahweh replied,” or “He/Yahweh answered {him/Abraham},”
I will not do it
Quote: לֹ֣א אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֔ה (1)“I will not destroy the city”
for the sake of
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר (1)“because of” or “in order to save”
the forty
Quote: הָאַרְבָּעִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“the forty/40 {righteous people}.” or “those forty/40 {people}.”
Genesis 18:30
Then he said
Quote: וַ֠יֹּאמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Abraham asked {him/Yahweh},” or “Then Abraham pleaded {with him/Yahweh},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham is speaking here, not Yahweh.
Please do not let my Lord be angry
Quote: אַל נָ֞א יִ֤חַר לַֽאדֹנָי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“My Lord/Master, please do not be angry {with/at me},” Abraham addresses Yahweh using the third person and the title “Lord” to show him honor and respect. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
and let me speak
Quote: וַאֲדַבֵּ֔רָה (1)“but/rather let me say something {else}:” or “but/rather let me ask {you} {another question}:”
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)“Suppose {that}” or “What {will you do} if”
thirty are found
Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּן & שְׁלֹשִׁ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“{only} thirty/30 {righteous people} are found” or “you find {only} thirty/30 {righteous people}” or “there are {only} 30/thirty {righteous people}”. If you use the numeral “30” here in your translation, make sure that it will not get confused with the verse number.
there
Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)“{living} there?” or “{living} in the city?”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“He/Yahweh replied,” or “He/Yahweh answered {him},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is speaking here, not Abraham.
I will not do it if I find thirty there
Quote: לֹ֣א אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֔ה אִם אֶמְצָ֥א שָׁ֖ם שְׁלֹשִֽׁים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“I will not destroy {the city} if I find thirty/30 {righteous people} {living} there.” or “If I find thirty/30 {righteous people} {living} in the city, I will not destroy it.” See how you translated a similar sentence at the end of verse 28.
Genesis 18:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abraham said {to him/Yahweh},” or “Then Abraham asked {him/Yahweh},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham is speaking here, not Yahweh.
Behold, please, I have taken it upon myself to speak to my Lord
Quote: הִנֵּֽה נָ֤א הוֹאַ֨לְתִּי֙ לְדַבֵּ֣ר אֶל אֲדֹנָ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“Listen, please, since I have been bold to speak to {you,} my Lord/Master.” or “My Lord/Master, please excuse me for speaking to you so boldly.” See how you translated this clause in verse 27.
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)“Suppose {that}” or “What {will you do} if”
twenty are found
Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּן & עֶשְׂרִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“{only} twenty/20 {righteous people} are found {by you}” or “you find {only} 20/twenty {righteous people}” or “there are {only} twenty/20 {righteous people}”
there
Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)“{living} there?” or “{living} in the city?”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“He/Yahweh replied,” or “Then he/Yahweh answered {him/Abraham},”
I will not destroy it
Quote: לֹ֣א אַשְׁחִ֔ית (1)“I will not destroy the city”
for the sake of
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר (1)“because of” or “in order to save”
the twenty
Quote: הָֽעֶשְׂרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“the twenty/20 {righteous people}.” or “those twenty/20 {people}.”
Genesis 18:32
Then he said
Quote: וַ֠יֹּאמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/Finally he/Abraham said {to him},” or “Then/Finally he/Abraham asked {him/Yahweh},”
Please do not let my Lord be angry
Quote: אַל נָ֞א יִ֤חַר לַֽאדֹנָי֙ (1)“My Lord/Master, please do not be angry {with/at me},” See how you translated this sentence in verse 30. Consider again how you translated “my Lord” in verses 27, 30-32. Contrast that to verse 3, where Abraham probably used the term before he realized that he was talking to Yahweh.
and let me speak just once more
Quote: וַאֲדַבְּרָ֣ה אַךְ הַפַּ֔עַם (1)“rather, let me say one more thing:” or “and/but let me ask {you} just one more/last thing/question:”
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)“Suppose {that}” or “What {will you do} if”. Consider again how you translated the term “Suppose” in verses 24 and 28 and how you translated the sentence “Suppose {only} …{righteous people} are found there?” in verses 29-32.
ten are found
Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּן & עֲשָׂרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{only} ten {righteous people} are found” or “you find {only} ten {righteous people}” or “there are {only} ten {righteous people}”. Consider again how you translated “found” and “find” in verses 26, 28-32.
there
Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)“{living} there?” or “{living} in the city? {Will you destroy it then?}”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“And/Then Yahweh replied,” or “He/Yahweh answered {him},” Consider again how you referred to Yahweh and Abraham in your translation throughout this dialogue (verses 23-32). It is a good idea to read this conversation aloud at a regular speed and listen to make sure that all quote margins are natural and clear in your language.
I will not destroy it
Quote: לֹ֣א אַשְׁחִ֔ית (1)“I will not destroy the city”
for the sake of
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר (1)“because of” or “in order to save”. Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 24, 26, 29, 31, 32.
the ten
Quote: הָעֲשָׂרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
“the/those ten {righteous people}.” Consider again whether you used words or numerals for the numbers throughout verses 24-32. Also consider again how you translated “righteous {people}” and “{righteous people}” in verses 23-32.
Genesis 18:33
Then Yahweh left as soon as he finished speaking to Abraham
Quote: וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ יְהוָ֔ה כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר כִּלָּ֔ה לְדַבֵּ֖ר אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“Then Yahweh left {Abraham/him} as soon as he finished speaking to/with him,” or “When Yahweh had finished talking with Abraham, he left {him},”
and Abraham returned to his place
Quote: וְאַבְרָהָ֖ם שָׁ֥ב לִמְקֹמֽוֹ (1)“and Abraham returned/went home.”
Genesis 19
Genesis 19:1
Then the two angels came to Sodom in the evening
Quote: וַ֠יָּבֹאוּ שְׁנֵ֨י הַמַּלְאָכִ֤ים סְדֹ֨מָה֙ בָּעֶ֔רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“That evening {Yahweh’s/God’s} two angels/messengers arrived at {the city of} Sodom,” or “Then/Later that evening the two {men, who were} {Yahweh’s/God’s} angels/messengers arrived at {the city of} Sodom,” See how you translated “angel” in Gen 16:7-11.
and Lot was sitting
Quote: וְל֖וֹט יֹשֵׁ֣ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous
“while Lot was sitting”
at the gate of Sodom
Quote: בְּשַֽׁעַר סְדֹ֑ם (1)“at/by the gate/entrance of the city.” or “at the city gate/entrance.” Cities like Sodom had stone walls built around them, with entrance gates (that were closed at night) to protect the people in the city from enemies.
And Lot saw them, and he got up
Quote: וַיַּרְא לוֹט֙ וַיָּ֣קָם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“When Lot saw them, he got/stood up”. Some languages have a special dual pronoun that can be used throughout verses 1-19 to refer to the two angels. Do what is best in your language.
to meet them
Quote: לִקְרָאתָ֔ם (1)“to greet them” or “and greeted them”
and bowed down {with} nose to the ground
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ אַפַּ֖יִם אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and {then} bowed {before them} with his face/forehead to the ground {to show respect}.” or “and {then} kneeled {in front of them} and bowed/touched his forehead to the ground {to show them respect}.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 18:2.
Genesis 19:2
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֜אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he said {to them},”
Behold, please, my lords
Quote: הִנֶּ֣ה נָּא אֲדֹנַ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Listen {to me} please, my lords/masters:” or “Sirs/Gentlemen, please listen {to this}:” See how you translated “Behold, please” in Gen 18:27. Also see how you translated “my lord” in Gen 18:3. At this point, Lot probably did not know that these were angels, because they looked like men.
Please turn aside to
Quote: ס֣וּרוּ נָ֠א אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Please come to” or “Please stop in at”. Lot is being urgent here (using “please” twice), probably because he knows how dangerous the city is. Translate this quote in a way that communicates this urgency.
the house of your servant and spend the night
Quote: בֵּ֨ית עַבְדְּכֶ֤ם וְלִ֨ינוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“my house so that I can serve you”. Lot refers to himself as “your servant” here to show respect to the two men and to politely offer to host them as his guests.
and spend the night, and wash your feet
Quote: וְלִ֨ינוּ֙ וְרַחֲצ֣וּ רַגְלֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“and you can lodge for the night {there}. {That way} too {you can} wash {the dust off} your feet.” or “You can wash {the dust off} your feet and lodge/stay for the night {there}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “wash your feet” in Gen 18:4.
Then you can get up early
Quote: וְהִשְׁכַּמְתֶּ֖ם (1)“Then {tomorrow morning} you can get up early” or “Then early {in the morning} you can get up”
and go on your way
Quote: וַהֲלַכְתֶּ֣ם לְדַרְכְּכֶ֑ם (1)“and continue on your way.” or “and continue traveling.”
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ (1)“But the two angels replied,” or “The two angels said {to him/Lot},”
No, rather
Quote: לֹּ֔א כִּ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“No, {thank you,} rather” or “Thank you, but” or “That is kind of you, but”. The angels’ reply should sound polite and respectful in your translation, not rude or disrespectful. For example, in some cultures it is not polite to say “No” too directly.
we will spend the night in the street
Quote: בָרְח֖וֹב נָלִֽין (1)“we will {just} stay/sleep in the public/city square tonight.” or “we plan to spend/stay the night in the street/square.” This refers to a public, outdoor place inside the city, perhaps the open place inside the city gate where people would meet.
Genesis 19:3
But he urged them strongly
Quote: וַיִּפְצַר בָּ֣ם מְאֹ֔ד (1)“But he/Lot insisted urgently” or “However he/Lot continued to urge/invite them earnestly” or “However he/Lot continued to urgently invite them”
so that they turned aside with him
Quote: וַיָּסֻ֣רוּ אֵלָ֔יו (1)“until they {finally} {agreed and} went with him” or “until {he finally convinced them and} they went with him”
and entered into his house
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖אוּ אֶל בֵּית֑וֹ (1)“to his house and entered it.” or “to his house.”
Then he prepared a feast for them
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ לָהֶם֙ מִשְׁתֶּ֔ה (1)“Then/There he/Lot prepared/made a big/hearty meal for them,” or “Then/There Lot had a big/hearty meal prepared for them,” Lot probably had his wife or servants prepare the meal (as Abraham did in Gen 18:6-7). It is common in the Bible to say that a leader or head of household (as here) did something, when in reality he had it done by someone else who was under his authority.
and he baked unleavened bread
Quote: וּמַצּ֥וֹת אָפָ֖ה (1)“including {some} bread without yeast/leavening {in it},” or “including {some} flat bread,”
and they ate
Quote: וַיֹּאכֵֽלוּ (1)“and they {sat down and} ate {the meal}.”
Genesis 19:4
Before they lay down
Quote: טֶרֶם֮ יִשְׁכָּבוּ֒ (1)“{But} {after the meal,} before they could lie down {to sleep},” or “{After that,} before they could go to bed {for the night},”
then the men of the city, the men of Sodom
Quote: וְאַנְשֵׁ֨י הָעִ֜יר אַנְשֵׁ֤י סְדֹם֙ (1)“{all} the men of/in the city of Sodom”
surrounded the house
Quote: נָסַ֣בּוּ עַל הַבַּ֔יִת (1)“surrounded/encircled Lot’s house,” or “crowded around the/Lot’s house,”
from the young and to the old
Quote: מִנַּ֖עַר וְעַד זָקֵ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
“from/including the youngest to the oldest,” or “including men of all ages,” This phrase refers to all the men of the city of Sodom, including the young and the old and everyone in between. Consider what is the best way to translate this phrase in your language.
all the people from the edge{s
Quote: כָּל הָעָ֖ם מִקָּצֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“{In fact,} all the people from every section/part {of the city} {were there}.” or “{so that} people from the entire city {were there}.” or “{In fact,} everyone/people from all parts of the city {had come there}.” This phrase is hyperbole or exaggeration, to emphasize that a very large number of people from the city were there. Consider whether or not your language can do the same thing. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 19:5
Then they called
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֤וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“Then the crowd/mob {of men/people} called out to Lot/him,” or “Then the crowd/mob {of men/people} shouted to Lot/him,” Consider what is the best way to refer to these people at this point in the paragraph in your translation.
Where {are} the men
Quote: אַיֵּ֧ה הָאֲנָשִׁ֛ים (1)“Where {are} the {two} men”
who came to you tonight
Quote: אֲשֶׁר בָּ֥אוּ אֵלֶ֖יךָ הַלָּ֑יְלָה (1)“who came {to lodge} with you tonight?” or “who came to your house tonight?”
Bring them out to us
Quote: הוֹצִיאֵ֣ם אֵלֵ֔ינוּ (1)“Bring them to us out here” or “Bring them outside to us” or “{We demand that you} bring them out here to us”
so that we can know them
Quote: וְנֵדְעָ֖ה אֹתָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“so that we can have relations/sex with them!” In Hebrew the verb “know” is often used as an idiom that means “have sex with” (as in Gen 4:1, 25). Here it refers to homosexual activities and raping the two men. Translate this in a way that is not too offensive to be read aloud in public.
Genesis 19:6
Then Lot went out to them at the entrance
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֧א אֲלֵהֶ֛ם ל֖וֹט הַפֶּ֑תְחָה (1)“But Lot went outside near the entrance/doorway {to talk} to them,”
and shut the door behind him
Quote: וְהַדֶּ֖לֶת סָגַ֥ר אַחֲרָֽיו (1)“and he shut/closed the door {of the house} behind him,”
Genesis 19:7
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he said {to them},” or “and/Then he pleaded {with them},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Please, my brothers
Quote: נָ֥א אַחַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{No,} please, my brothers/friends,” or “I beg you, my brothers/friends,” or “{No,} my brothers/friends, please”. The phrase “my brothers” is used here as a polite address that implies a close relationship. Lot uses this idiom to try to get the men of Sodom to not harm his guests. The men were not his actual brothers. For some languages it is more natural to put “my brothers” (or “my friends”) first in this quote. Do what is best in your language.
do not do evil
Quote: אַל & תָּרֵֽעוּ (1)“do not do this evil!” or “do not do such an evil/wicked thing!”
Genesis 19:8
Behold, please
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֨א (1)“Listen {to me/this} please:” or “Please listen {to me/this}:” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2.
I have two daughters who
Quote: לִ֜י שְׁתֵּ֣י בָנ֗וֹת אֲשֶׁ֤ר (1)“My two daughters”
have not known a man
Quote: לֹֽא יָדְעוּ֙ אִ֔ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“have not/never had {marital/sexual} relations with a man.” or “have never slept with a man.” or “are virgins.” See how you translated the idiom “knew” in verse 5 and Gen 4:1, though it may need to be translated in different ways depending on the context.
Please let me bring them out to you, and you do to them
Quote: אוֹצִֽיאָה נָּ֤א אֶתְהֶן֙ אֲלֵיכֶ֔ם וַעֲשׂ֣וּ לָהֶ֔ן (1)“Allow me to bring them out to you {instead} so that you may/can do to/with them” or “If you will let me bring them out {here} to you, then you may/can do to/with them”
as {is} good in your eyes
Quote: כַּטּ֖וֹב בְּעֵינֵיכֶ֑ם (1)“whatever you want/like.” or “whatever pleases you.” See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 16:6.
But do not do anything to these men
Quote: רַ֠ק לָֽאֲנָשִׁ֤ים הָאֵל֙ אַל־תַּעֲשׂ֣וּ דָבָ֔ר (1)“But you must not do anything to {harm} these men,” or “But do not violate/harm these men,”
because for that {reason} they have come under the shadow of my rafters
Quote: כִּֽי עַל כֵּ֥ן בָּ֖אוּ בְּצֵ֥ל קֹרָתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“because they have come under the shelter/protection of my roof/house.” or “because they are my guests and I am responsible for their well-being/safety.”
Genesis 19:9
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But the men of Sodom responded {to him/Lot},” or “But the men of Sodom shouted {at him/Lot},”
Get back
Quote: גֶּשׁ הָ֗לְאָה (1)“Stand aside!” or “Get out of the/our way!”
Then they said
Quote: וַיֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ (1)“Then they said/exclaimed/complained {to each other},”
This one came
Quote: הָאֶחָ֤ד בָּֽא (1)“This guy came {here}”. The phrase “this one/guy” shows disdain and disrespect for Lot. If possible, use a similar term in your language here.
to sojourn
Quote: לָגוּר֙ (1)“to live temporarily,” or “as a foreigner/outsider,” See how you translated “sojourn” in Gen 12:10. Here it has the negative meaning that Lot does not belong there.
and now he is judging {us
Quote: וַיִּשְׁפֹּ֣ט שָׁפ֔וֹט עַתָּ֕ה (1)“and now he wants/dares to judge/condemn {us}!” or “and now he thinks that he can judge {us}!”
We will treat you worse than them
Quote: נָרַ֥ע לְךָ֖ מֵהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{Then they shouted at him/Lot,} “{Now} we will treat you worse than {we treat} your {two} guests!” ” or “{Then they shouted at him/Lot,} “We will do worse things to you than {we do} to your {two} guests!” ” Here the crowd switches from talking to each other to shouting at Lot. Decide whether or not that needs to be explicit in your translation.
Then they pressed hard against the man Lot
Quote: וַיִּפְצְר֨וּ בָאִ֤ישׁ בְּלוֹט֙ מְאֹ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then they started shoving/pushing hard against Lot/him”
and came near to break down the door
Quote: וַֽיִּגְּשׁ֖וּ לִשְׁבֹּ֥ר הַדָּֽלֶת (1)“and moved/surged forward to break down/through the door {of his house}.”
Genesis 19:10
But the men reached out their hand{s
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלְח֤וּ הָֽאֲנָשִׁים֙ אֶת־יָדָ֔ם (1)“But the {two} men {inside} {who were Lot’s guests} {opened the door,} reached outside” or “But Lot’s {two} guests {opened the door,} reached outside”
and brought Lot
Quote: וַיָּבִ֧יאוּ אֶת ל֛וֹט (1)“and {quickly} brought/pulled Lot/him”
into the house to them
Quote: אֲלֵיהֶ֖ם הַבָּ֑יְתָה (1)“{back} into the house with them”
and shut the door
Quote: וְאֶת הַדֶּ֖לֶת סָגָֽרוּ (1)“and closed the door.” or “and slammed the door shut.”
Genesis 19:11
Then they struck the men who {were at} the entrance of the house with blindness
Quote: וְֽאֶת־הָאֲנָשִׁ֞ים אֲשֶׁר פֶּ֣תַח הַבַּ֗יִת הִכּוּ֙ בַּסַּנְוֵרִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then those {two} men/guests {who were angels} caused the men {of Sodom} who {were at/outside} the door of the house to be blind,”
from the small and to the great
Quote: מִקָּטֹ֖ן וְעַד גָּד֑וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
“from/including the youngest to the oldest,” or “including every last one of them,” This phrase refers to all the men who were outside the house, including the young and the old and everyone in between. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 4.
so that they became weary {trying} to find the door
Quote: וַיִּלְא֖וּ לִמְצֹ֥א הַפָּֽתַח (1)“so that they wearied/exhausted themselves {groping/fumbling around} {trying} to find the door.” or “so that they {could not see} the door and gave up {trying} to find it.”
Genesis 19:12
Then the men said to Lot
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֨וּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֜ים אֶל־ל֗וֹט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then the {two} men/angels asked Lot,”
Who else {belongs} to you here
Quote: עֹ֚ד מִֽי לְךָ֣ פֹ֔ה (1)“What other family members do you have here,” or “Do you have any other relatives here in the/this city,”
a son-in-law or your sons or your daughters
Quote: חָתָן֙ וּבָנֶ֣יךָ וּבְנֹתֶ֔יךָ (1)“{such as} sons-in-law or sons or daughters” or “{If you have} sons-in-law, sons, daughters,” Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or later in this verse.
or anyone {else} who {belongs} to you
Quote: וְכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר לְךָ֖ (1)“or any {other} relatives” or “or any {other} members of your family”
in the city
Quote: בָּעִ֑יר (1)“in this city,” or “in Sodom?” or “here,” The punctuation you use here depends on whether or not you began a new sentence earlier in this quote.
Take {them} out
Quote: הוֹצֵ֖א (1)“{then} {quickly} take/get {them} out/away”. Whether or not you begin a new sentence here will depend on whether you began a new sentence earlier in this quote.
from this place
Quote: מִן הַמָּקֽוֹם (1)“from this city,” or “from here,” Make sure that the way you translate this phrase fits well with the ways that you refer to the city of Sodom earlier in this verse and in the next verse. It may help to read the entire verse aloud to make sure everything is clear and sounds natural in your language.
Genesis 19:13
because we are destroying
Quote: כִּֽי מַשְׁחִתִ֣ים אֲנַ֔חְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“because we are about/going to destroy”. The pronoun “we” refers here only to the two angels, not Lot or anyone else.
this place
Quote: אֶת הַמָּק֖וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)“this city.” or “it.” The way you translate this phrase will depend on how you translated the end of verse 12.
For their outcry before Yahweh {is} great
Quote: כִּֽי גָֽדְלָ֤ה צַעֲקָתָם֙ אֶת פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Yahweh has heard that the people of this city are guilty of serious/terrible sins,” or “Yahweh has heard serious/terrible accusations against the people who live here”. See how you translated “outcry” in Gen 18:20-21. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Also, make sure that your translation of “their outcry” refers to the people of Sodom, not Lot’s relatives who were the last ones referred to (verse 12).
so Yahweh has sent us
Quote: וַיְשַׁלְּחֵ֥נוּ יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“so he has sent/ordered/commissioned us”
to destroy it
Quote: לְשַׁחֲתָֽהּ (1)“to destroy the city.” or “to destroy them {and their city}.” Make sure the way you translate this phrase fits with how you translated the first part of this sentence.
Genesis 19:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֨א וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר אֶל (1)“Then/So Lot went and spoke to/with” or “Then/So Lot went to speak to/with” or “Then/So went to”
his sons-in-law
Quote: חֲתָנָ֣יו (1)“his {future} sons-in-law” or “his daughters’ fiancés”
who were to take his daughters
Quote: לֹקְחֵ֣י בְנֹתָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“who were {going/pledged} to marry his daughters” or “who were engaged to his daughters”. The word “take” is used here as an idiom that means to marry. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to translate this as an idiom in your language.
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“and he said {to them},” or “and he warned/urged {them},” or “He told them,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Get up
Quote: ק֤וּמוּ (1)“Hurry up {and}” or “Come on! {We must}”. This phrase communicates urgency here.
get out of
Quote: צְּאוּ֙ מִן (1)“get away from” or “flee from” or “leave”
this place
Quote: הַמָּק֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“this city,”
because Yahweh is destroying
Quote: כִּֽי מַשְׁחִ֥ית יְהוָ֖ה (1)“because Yahweh is about/going to destroy”. See how you translated “are destroying” in verse 13.
the city
Quote: אֶת הָעִ֑יר (1)“the place!” or “it!”
But it seemed like he was joking in the eyes of his sons-in-law
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י כִמְצַחֵ֖ק בְּעֵינֵ֥י חֲתָנָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“But his sons-in-law thought that he was joking, {so they ignored him}.” or “But his sons-in-law {did not listen to him, because they} thought he was joking.”
Genesis 19:15
Then when the dawn came
Quote: וּכְמוֹ֙ הַשַּׁ֣חַר עָלָ֔ה (1)“{Very} early the next morning,” Dawn is the time before sunrise when it starts getting light.
the angels urged Lot, saying
Quote: וַיָּאִ֥יצוּ הַמַּלְאָכִ֖ים בְּל֣וֹט לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“the {two} angels/messengers urged Lot,” or “the/Yahweh’s {two} angels/messengers urgently told Lot,” See how you translated “angels” in verse 1.
Get up
Quote: קוּם֩ (1)“Hurry up {and}” or “You must quickly”
take your wife and your two daughters who are here
Quote: קַ֨ח אֶֽת אִשְׁתְּךָ֜ וְאֶת שְׁתֵּ֤י בְנֹתֶ֨יךָ֙ הַנִּמְצָאֹ֔ת (1)“take/get your wife and two daughters {away from the city}” or “leave {the city} with your wife and two daughters”
so that you are not swept away
Quote: פֶּן תִּסָּפֶ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-passives
“so that you will not be destroyed” or “or else you will be destroyed” or “so that you will not die”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also, see how you translated the idiom “sweep away” in Gen 18:23-24.
in the punishment of the city
Quote: בַּעֲוֺ֥ן הָעִֽיר (1)“when {the people of/in} the city are punished {by God}.” or “when {God/Yahweh} punishes {the people of/in} the city.”
Genesis 19:16
But he lingered
Quote: וַֽיִּתְמַהְמָ֓הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“But Lot did not leave immediately,” or “Lot hesitated/delayed,” Consider what is the best way to refer to Lot at this point in the paragraph in your language.
so the men grabbed his hand and the hand of his wife and the hand{s} of his two daughters
Quote: וַיַּחֲזִ֨קוּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֜ים בְּיָד֣וֹ וּבְיַד־אִשְׁתּ֗וֹ וּבְיַד֙ שְׁתֵּ֣י בְנֹתָ֔יו (1)“so the {two} men/angels took hold of his hand and the hands of his wife and two daughters,” or “so they took him and his wife and two daughters by the hand,”
because of Yahweh’s mercy for him
Quote: בְּחֶמְלַ֥ת יְהוָ֖ה עָלָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because Yahweh was being merciful/kind to him/them,” For some languages it may be better to put this phrase last in verse 16 so that it does not interrupt the flow of the sentence. Or it may be better to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “Lot hesitated, but Yahweh was being merciful/kind to him, so the {two} men/angels took hold of Lot’s hand and the hands of his wife and two daughters and took/led them out of the city.” Do what is best in your language.
and brought him out and set him
Quote: וַיֹּצִאֻ֥הוּ וַיַּנִּחֻ֖הוּ (1)“and took/led him/them {safely}”
outside the city
Quote: מִח֥וּץ לָעִֽיר (1)“out of the city.”
Genesis 19:17
And it happened when they had brought them out to the outside
Quote: וַיְהִי֩ כְהוֹצִיאָ֨ם אֹתָ֜ם הַח֗וּצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“As {soon as} the angels had brought/taken/led them outside {the city},” See how you translated “brought” in verse 16.
then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“one of them said {to Lot/them},” or “one of the angels said {to Lot/them},”
Flee for your life
Quote: הִמָּלֵ֣ט עַל נַפְשֶׁ֔ךָ (1)“Run for your lives!” or “Flee/Run to save your lives!” or “Run away from here as fast as you can!”
Do not look behind you
Quote: אַל תַּבִּ֣יט אַחֲרֶ֔יךָ (1)“Do not look behind you {at Sodom},” or “Do not look back {at the city},”
and do not stop anywhere in the plain
Quote: וְאַֽל תַּעֲמֹ֖ד בְּכָל הַכִּכָּ֑ר (1)“and do not stop/delay anywhere in the plain/valley!” or “and do not stop/delay in the plain/valley for any reason!” This plain or valley was a wide, flat area between mountains. See how you translated “plain/valley” in Gen 13:10-12.
Escape
Quote: הִמָּלֵ֖ט (1)“Flee/Hurry” or “Go quickly” or “Run away”
to the mountain{s
Quote: הָהָ֥רָה (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “to the mountains/hills” or “to the hill country” or “to the/that mountain {range}” or (2) “to the/that mountain”. This phrase is ambiguous because often the Hebrew text uses a singular form to refer to something that is plural.
so that you are not swept away
Quote: פֶּן תִּסָּפֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“so that you will not be destroyed!” or “so that you will not die!” or “or else you will die!” See how you translated this clause in verse 15.
Genesis 19:18
Then Lot said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖וֹט אֲלֵהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But Lot replied to them,” or “But Lot pleaded with them,” Some languages have a special dual pronoun for “them” that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
Please, no, my lords
Quote: אַל נָ֖א אֲדֹנָֽי (1)“Please, my lords/masters, do not {make us go that far}!” or “I beg you, sirs, do not {make us do that}!” See how you translated “my lords/masters” in verse 2.
Genesis 19:19
Behold, please
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֠א (1)“Listen {to me/this} please:” or “Please listen {to me/this}:”
Your servant has found favor in your eyes
Quote: מָצָ֨א עַבְדְּךָ֣ חֵן֮ בְּעֵינֶיךָ֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{I,} your servant, have been treated well/kindly by you,” or “You have treated me well/kindly even though I am unimportant,” The phrase “your servant” does not mean that Lot is actually a servant for the angels, but rather, it is a humble way for Lot to refer to himself and show respect to them. See how you translated that phrase in verse 2. Also see how you translated the idiom “found favor in … eyes” in Gen 6:8 and 18:3.
and you have magnified your mercy that you have shown to me
Quote: וַתַּגְדֵּ֣ל חַסְדְּךָ֗ אֲשֶׁ֤ר עָשִׂ֨יתָ֙ עִמָּדִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“and you have shown me great mercy/kindness” or “and you have been very merciful/kind to me”. This is the first occurrence in the Bible of the important Hebrew word “khesed,” which is translated as “mercy,” “kindness,” or “lovingkindness” and often implies that it was not deserved. Compare how you translated a different word that has a similar meaning (“mercy” or “compassion”) in verse 16.
by saving my life
Quote: לְהַחֲי֖וֹת אֶת נַפְשִׁ֑י (1)“and saved my life.”
But I am not able to escape to the mountain{s
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֗י לֹ֤א אוּכַל֙ לְהִמָּלֵ֣ט הָהָ֔רָה (1)“But I am not able to flee/run {all the way} to the mountains/hills” or “But there is no way that I can make it safely {all the way} to the mountains/hills” or “But the mountains/hills are too far away for me to make it there safely”. See how you translated “the mountain{s}” in verse 17.
because the disaster will overtake me and I will die
Quote: פֶּן תִּדְבָּקַ֥נִי הָרָעָ֖ה וָמַֽתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“before the disaster catches up with me and kills me.” or “before the disaster strikes/occurs and kills me.” The word “disaster” is personified here, that is, it is talked about as if it can act in human ways. Consider whether or not it would be clear and natural to do that here in your language.
Genesis 19:20
Behold, please
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֠א (1)“{So} listen {to this} please:” Consider again how you translated “Behold, please” in verses 2, 8, 19-20. It may be necessary to translate it in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
That town there
Quote: הָעִ֨יר הַזֹּ֧את & שָׁ֖מָּה (1)“That town up ahead” or “That town over there”. The Hebrew word for “town” here (and in verses 21-23) can refer to either a city or a town, depending on the context. Many translations have “town,” or even “village,” here because the place was very small (verses 20, 22). Many other translations have “city” here instead, but that does not fit the context.
is} near to flee to
Quote: קְרֹבָ֛ה לָנ֥וּס (1)“{is} near/close {enough} to flee/run to {in time},”
and it {is} a little one
Quote: וְהִ֣יא מִצְעָ֑ר (1)“and it {is} {just/only} a little/small {town}.” or “and it {is} little/small.”
Please let me escape there
Quote: אִמָּלְטָ֨ה נָּ֜א שָׁ֗מָּה (1)“Please let us escape/flee/run there, {and do not destroy it}.”
Is it not a little one
Quote: הֲלֹ֥א מִצְעָ֛ר הִ֖וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{After all,} it is {only/just} a little/small place/town.” or “{After all,} it is very small.” This rhetorical question implies that it will not matter if such a small town like Zoar is not destroyed. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question works well here in your language.
Then my life will live
Quote: וּתְחִ֥י נַפְשִֽׁי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“Then I/we will/can stay alive.” or “{If you let us go there,} then {my family and} I will live.” or “{If you allow that,} our lives will be saved/spared.” Lot says “my life,” but he is probably also including his family who is with him.
Genesis 19:21
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“The angel said/replied”. This phrase probably refers to the same angel who spoke to Lot in verse 17. Make sure it does not sound like Lot is the one speaking here.
to him
Quote: אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“to Lot,”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּה֙ (1)“Listen,” or “Alright,” or “Here {is what I will do}:”
I have also lifted up your face concerning this thing
Quote: נָשָׂ֣אתִי פָנֶ֔יךָ גַּ֖ם לַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I will allow/grant your request,” or “I will allow/permit you to do what you have requested,” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate the idiom “lifted up your face” here.
so I will not overthrow
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֛י הָפְכִּ֥י (1)“and/so I will not overturn/destroy”
the town that you are talking about
Quote: אֶת הָעִ֖יר אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּֽרְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“the {little/small} town that you mentioned.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in the sentence and say, “I will allow you to go to the {small} town that you are talking about, and I will not destroy it.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 19:22
Hurry up
Quote: מַהֵר֙ (1)“{But} hurry up {now} {and}” or “{But} go quickly {now} {and}”
escape there
Quote: הִמָּלֵ֣ט שָׁ֔מָּה (1)“flee/run there,” or “escape/flee to that town,” Consider again how you translated “escape” in verses 17, 19-20, 22.
because I am not able to do
Quote: כִּ֣י לֹ֤א אוּכַל֙ לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת (1)“because I am not allowed to do/destroy anything” or “because I must wait to do/destroy anything” or “because {God} will not allow/permit me to do/destroy anything”. This clause implies that Yahweh will not allow the angel to destroy anything until Lot and his family arrive safely in the town of Zoar.
until you go there
Quote: עַד בֹּאֲךָ֖ שָׁ֑מָּה (1)“until you get/reach there {safely}.” or “until you are {safely} there.”
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֛ן (1)“That is why” or “Since Lot said the town was little/small,” This phrase refers back to what Lot said in verse 20, not what the angel just said.
they called the name of the town
Quote: קָרָ֥א שֵׁם הָעִ֖יר (1)“the town was called” or “they/people called that town” or “the name of the town is”. See how you translated “they called the name” in Gen 11:9 and 16:14.
Zoar
Quote: צֽוֹעַר (1)“Zoar, {which means “little/small.”}” If this implied information is included in your translation or in a footnote, be consistent here with how you translated the word “little” or “small” in verse 20.
Genesis 19:23
The sun rose over the land
Quote: הַשֶּׁ֖מֶשׁ יָצָ֣א עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“The sun was rising”. Make sure that the way verse 23 begins in your translation fits with the way verse 15 begins, which refers to the same day.
and Lot
Quote: וְל֖וֹט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous
“as/when Lot {and his family}”. In that culture the father was often the only one mentioned and the other family members were assumed to be with him.
came to Zoar
Quote: בָּ֥א צֹֽעֲרָה (1)“arrived at/in {the town of} Zoar.” or “reached{the town of} Zoar.”
Genesis 19:24
Then Yahweh rained down on Sodom and Gomorrah brimstone and fire
Quote: וַֽיהוָ֗ה הִמְטִ֧יר עַל סְדֹ֛ם וְעַל עֲמֹרָ֖ה גָּפְרִ֣ית וָאֵ֑שׁ (1)“Then Yahweh rained/poured down burning sulfur/rocks and fire on {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah” or “Then Yahweh caused fire and burning sulfur/rocks to rain/pour down on {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah”. The word “brimstone” refers to sulfur, which is a type of rock that is highly flammable. When it burns, it produces smoke, intense heat, and a bad smell like rotten eggs.
from Yahweh out of the heavens
Quote: מֵאֵ֥ת יְהוָ֖ה מִן הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“from himself in heaven,” or “from out of the heavens/sky,” Some translations omit the phrase “from Yahweh” since Yahweh is already mentioned earlier as the one doing this. Also, for some languages it may be better to change the order of phrases in this verse and say, “Then Yahweh caused fire and burning sulfur/rocks to fall/pour like {heavy} rain from the heavens/sky on {the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 19:25
and he overthrew
Quote: וַֽיַּהֲפֹךְ֙ (1)“and (so) he/Yahweh {completely} destroyed” or “In that way, he/Yahweh {completely} destroyed ” or “That is how he/Yahweh {completely} destroyed”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated a phrase with a similar meaning (“swept away”) in verses 15 and 17.
those cities
Quote: אֶת הֶעָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔ל (1)“those {two} cities”
and all of the plain
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת כָּל הַכִּכָּ֑ר (1)“and the entire/whole plain/valley,” or “and the rest of the plain/valley,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were also in the plain/valley, not separate from it.
including all the inhabitants of the cities
Quote: וְאֵת֙ כָּל יֹשְׁבֵ֣י הֶעָרִ֔ים (1)“including all the people who lived in the cities {of/in that plain/valley}” or “including everyone who lived in the cities {there}”. This phrase refers to Sodom and Gomorrah and at least two other cities in the valley (Deuteronomy 29:23).
and the vegetation
Quote: וְצֶ֖מַח (1)“and {even} {all} the vegetation/plants”
and the vegetation of the ground
Quote: וְצֶ֖מַח הָאֲדָמָֽה (1)“{that were growing} on the ground/land.” or “of/in the/that area/region.”
Genesis 19:26
But his wife from behind him looked back
Quote: וַתַּבֵּ֥ט אִשְׁתּ֖וֹ מֵאַחֲרָ֑יו (1)“But Lot’s wife, {who was} {walking} behind him, looked/glanced back {at the city},” or “… looked back {at Sodom},”
and she became
Quote: וַתְּהִ֖י (1)“and {immediately} she turned into” or “and {immediately} her body turned into” or “and {immediately} {God/Yahweh} turned her into”
a pillar of salt
Quote: נְצִ֥יב מֶֽלַח (1)“a column/statue of {solid} salt {rock} {and she died}.” or “salt {rock} that was in the shape of a pillar/column.”
Genesis 19:27
Abraham got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֥ם אַבְרָהָ֖ם בַּבֹּ֑קֶר (1)“{Meanwhile,} Abraham got up early that {same} morning” or “Early that same morning, Abraham got up”. Some translations translate this as the next morning, but it is more likely that this was the same day when Lot arrived in Zoar and Yahweh destroyed the cities in the valley (verse 23).
and went to the place
Quote: אֶל הַ֨מָּק֔וֹם (1)“and returned to the place/spot”
where he had stood before Yahweh
Quote: אֲשֶׁר עָ֥מַד & אֶת פְּנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)“where he had stood/been with Yahweh {the previous day},” or “where he had stood in Yahweh’s presence {the day before}.”
Genesis 19:28
and he looked down
Quote: וַיַּשְׁקֵ֗ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he/Abraham looked down” or “He looked down”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, make sure it is clear that Abraham, not Yahweh, is being referred to here.
toward
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֤י (1)“at” or “in the direction of”
Sodom and Gomorrah
Quote: סְדֹם֙ וַעֲמֹרָ֔ה (1)“{the cities of} Sodom and Gomorrah”
and toward all the surface of the land of the plain
Quote: וְעַֽל כָּל פְּנֵ֖י אֶ֣רֶץ הַכִּכָּ֑ר (1)“and all {the rest of} the plain/valley.”
And he saw that, behold
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)“There in front of him, he saw that” or “And he was amazed to see that”
smoke was rising from the land
Quote: עָלָה֙ קִיטֹ֣ר הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“{lots of thick} smoke was billowing up from/over the land” or “{a large amount of} smoke was …”
like smoke from a furnace
Quote: כְּקִיטֹ֖ר הַכִּבְשָֽׁן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“like smoke {that comes from the fire} in a {large} furnace/oven.” or “like smoke from a {huge} fire.” During that time period, a furnace was heated by fire.
Genesis 19:29
So it was, when God destroyed
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י בְּשַׁחֵ֤ת אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“So it was/happened {that} when God destroyed” or “When God destroyed”. See how you translated “destroyed” in verses 13-14, 17.
the cities of the plain
Quote: אֶת עָרֵ֣י הַכִּכָּ֔ר (1)“the cities on the plain,” or “the cities in the plain/valley,” Consider again how you translated “plain/valley” in Gen 13:10-12; 19:17, 25, 28, 29.
that God remembered Abraham
Quote: וַיִּזְכֹּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“he kept Abraham {and his request} in mind” or “he remembered/granted Abraham’s request”. Make sure your translation of this clause does not imply that God forgot Abraham. See how you translated “God remembered” in Gen 8:1.
and sent Lot out of the middle of
Quote: וַיְשַׁלַּ֤ח אֶת לוֹט֙ מִתּ֣וֹךְ (1)“and brought Lot {safely} away from” or “So he rescued/saved Lot from”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the overthrow
Quote: הַהֲפֵכָ֔ה (1)“the disaster/catastrophe,”
when he overthrew the cities
Quote: בַּהֲפֹךְ֙ אֶת הֶ֣עָרִ֔ים (1)“when he {completely} destroyed the cities” or “that he had caused/used to {completely} destroy the cities”
which Lot had lived in
Quote: אֲשֶׁר יָשַׁ֥ב בָּהֵ֖ן לֽוֹט (1)“where Lot had been living.”
Genesis 19:30
Then Lot went up from Zoar and settled in the mountain{s}, and his two daughters {were} with him
Quote: וַיַּעַל֩ ל֨וֹט מִצּ֜וֹעַר וַיֵּ֣שֶׁב בָּהָ֗ר וּשְׁתֵּ֤י בְנֹתָיו֙ עִמּ֔וֹ (1)“After that, Lot moved with his two daughters from {the town of} Zoar up into the mountains/hills and settled/lived there,” or “Sometime later, Lot and his two daughters left {the town of} Zoar and moved to the mountains/hills,” Be consistent here with how you translated “the mountain{s}” in verses 17 and 19.
because he was afraid to settle in Zoar
Quote: כִּ֥י יָרֵ֖א לָשֶׁ֣בֶת בְּצ֑וֹעַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because he was afraid to stay in {the town of} Zoar.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “Lot was afraid to settle/stay in {the town of} Zoar, so he and his two daughters moved from there to the mountains/hills, where they lived in a cave.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent with how you spelled “Zoar” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:10; 14:2, 8; 19:22-23, 30.
So he lived in a cave, he and his two daughters
Quote: וַיֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בַּמְּעָרָ֔ה ה֖וּא וּשְׁתֵּ֥י בְנֹתָֽיו (1)“So he/Lot and his two daughters lived in a cave {in the mountains/hills}.”
Genesis 19:31
Then the firstborn said to
Quote: וַתֹּ֧אמֶר הַבְּכִירָ֛ה אֶל (1)“Then {one day} {his} oldest/older {daughter} said/suggested to”
the younger
Quote: הַצְּעִירָ֖ה (1)“{his} younger {daughter/one},” or “her younger {sister},” or “her sister,”
Our father is old
Quote: אָבִ֣ינוּ זָקֵ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Our father is elderly,” or “Our father is getting along in years,” In some cultures, it is not polite to call someone “old”. Translate this clause in a way that is accurate and acceptable in your language area.
and there is not a man
Quote: וְאִ֨ישׁ אֵ֤ין (1)“and there is no man” or “and there are not any men”
on the earth
Quote: בָּאָ֨רֶץ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“in this land/area” or “around here”. Lot’s daughter is exaggerating here, to emphasize her point.
to come to us
Quote: לָב֣וֹא עָלֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“to be/sleep with us,” or “to marry us,” See how you translated the idiom “went to” in Gen 6:4, which is the same meaning as “come to” here.
as {is} the way of all the earth
Quote: כְּדֶ֖רֶךְ כָּל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“as {is} the way/custom of all {the people on} the earth.” or “which is normal/customary {for people} all over the earth/world.” or “which {is} the custom {that people have} everywhere else in the world.”
Genesis 19:32
Come on
Quote: לְכָ֨ה (1)“{So} come on,” or “{So} let’s do this together:” See how you translated this in Gen 14:7.
let us get our father to drink wine
Quote: נַשְׁקֶ֧ה אֶת־אָבִ֛ינוּ יַ֖יִן (1)“let’s get our father to drink wine {until he is drunk},” or “we should get our father drunk on wine,” Consider what is the best way to translate this proposal or suggestion in your language.
and let us lie with him
Quote: וְנִשְׁכְּבָ֣ה עִמּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and {then} we should/can sleep with him” or “Then we should/can have {physical/sexual} relations with him”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
so that we will give life to
Quote: וּנְחַיֶּ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“That way we will/can have descendants” or “so that we can preserve/continue our family line” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
through our father
Quote: מֵאָבִ֖ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“with/by our father.” or “through/with him.”
Genesis 19:33
So they got their father to drink wine on that night
Quote: וַתַּשְׁקֶ֧יןָ אֶת אֲבִיהֶ֛ן יַ֖יִן בַּלַּ֣יְלָה ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So they got their father drunk on wine that {very} night,” or “So that night Lot’s daughters got their father drunk on wine,” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Lot’s daughters at this point in the paragraph.
and the firstborn went
Quote: וַתָּבֹ֤א הַבְּכִירָה֙ (1)“Then the/his oldest/older {daughter} went {to him}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and lay with her father
Quote: וַתִּשְׁכַּ֣ב אֶת אָבִ֔יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and slept with him,” or “and had relations with him,” Make sure that the way you translate the euphemism “lay with” will not be too offensive to be read aloud in public.
but he did not know
Quote: וְלֹֽא יָדַ֥ע (1)“But {he was so drunk that} he did not {even} know/realize” or “But {he was so drunk that} he was not {even} aware” or “But {he was so drunk that} he was {completely} unaware”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
when she lay down or when she got up
Quote: בְּשִׁכְבָ֖הּ וּבְקׄוּמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“that she got in bed {with him} or that she left.” or “that she had been with him.”
Genesis 19:34
Then it happened on the next day
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ מִֽמָּחֳרָ֔ת (1)“The next day, this is what happened:” or “The next day”. The phrase “Then it happened” introduces and emphasizes important information which the following narrative builds on. It also creates suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what will happen next. Some translations leave this phrase out, but doing that loses some of the suspense. Do what is best in your language.
that the firstborn said to
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר הַבְּכִירָה֙ אֶל (1)“{Lot’s} oldest/older {daughter} said to”
the younger
Quote: הַצְּעִירָ֔ה (1)“{his} younger {daughter/one},” or “her younger {sister},” or “her sister,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 31.
Behold, last night
Quote: הֵן & אֶ֖מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Listen, last night”. For some languages it may be more natural to put this time phrase (“last night”) last in this sentence. Do what is best in your language.
I lay with my father
Quote: שָׁכַ֥בְתִּי & אֶת אָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“I slept with our father.” or “I had {sexual/physical} relations with our father.” See how you translated “lay with” in verse 33.
Let us get him to drink wine again tonight
Quote: נַשְׁקֶ֨נּוּ יַ֜יִן גַּם הַלַּ֗יְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Let’s get him drunk on wine again tonight.” or “Tonight we should get him drunk again.” Consider whether it is better in your language to put the time word “tonight” first or last in this clause.
Then you go
Quote: וּבֹ֨אִי֙ (1)“Then you {also} should go {and}”
lie with him
Quote: שִׁכְבִ֣י עִמּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“sleep with him” or “have relations with him”
so that we will give life
Quote: וּנְחַיֶּ֥ה (1)“so that we will/can have descendants” or “so that we will/can preserve/continue our family line”. See how you translated the last clause in verse 32, which is the same as the rest of verse 34.
through our father
Quote: מֵאָבִ֖ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“with/by our father.” or “through/with him.”
Genesis 19:35
So on that night also they got their father to drink wine
Quote: וַתַּשְׁקֶ֜יןָ גַּ֣ם בַּלַּ֧יְלָה הַה֛וּא אֶת אֲבִיהֶ֖ן יָ֑יִן (1)“So they got their father drunk on wine that night, also/too.” or “So that night Lot’s daughters got their father drunk on wine again.”
Then the younger went and lay with him
Quote: וַתָּ֤קָם הַצְּעִירָה֙ וַתִּשְׁכַּ֣ב עִמּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then the/his younger {daughter} went {to him} and slept with him,” or “Then the/his younger {daughter} went {to him} and had {sexual/physical} relations with him,”
but he did not know
Quote: וְלֹֽא יָדַ֥ע (1)“But/And {once again} {he was so drunk that} he did not {even} know/realize” or “but … he was not {even} aware” or “But … he was completely unaware”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated the last clause in verse 33, which is similar to the rest of verse 35.
when she lay down or when she got up
Quote: בְּשִׁכְבָ֖הּ וּבְקֻמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“that she got in bed {with him} or that she left.” or “that she had been with him.”
Genesis 19:36
So both of the daughters of Lot conceived
Quote: וַֽתַּהֲרֶ֛יןָ שְׁתֵּ֥י בְנֽוֹת־ל֖וֹט (1)“In that way, both of Lot’s daughters became pregnant” or “As a result …”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַֽתַּהֲרֶ֛יןָ מֵאֲבִיהֶֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“from/by {having relations with} their father.”
Genesis 19:37
Then the firstborn bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֤לֶד הַבְּכִירָה֙ בֵּ֔ן (1)“Later the/his oldest/older {daughter} gave birth to a son,” or “… had a son,” Make sure that the way you translate “Later” fits with the fact that several months have gone by.
and she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“and she called/named him” or “whom she named”. See how you translated “called his name” in Gen 5:29.
Moab
Quote: מוֹאָ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Moab, {which means “from my father.”}” You can include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote. Some translations put this implied information in parentheses. Do what is best in your language.
He {is} the father of
Quote: ה֥וּא אֲבִֽי (1)“He/Moab {was/became} the forefather/ancestor of”
the Moabites to this day
Quote: מוֹאָ֖ב עַד הַיּֽוֹם (1)“the Moabite people {who are still living} today.” or “the people/ethnic group {who are} called the Moabites today.” The phrase, “to this day” or “today” refers to the time when Moses wrote the book of Genesis, which was hundreds of years after Lot and his daughters lived and died.
Genesis 19:38
Then the younger, she also
Quote: וְהַצְּעִירָ֤ה גַם הִוא֙ (1)“Lot’s younger {daughter} also”
bore a son
Quote: יָ֣לְדָה בֵּ֔ן (1)“gave birth to a son,” or “had a son,” See how you translated the last half of verse 37, which is the same as the rest of verse 38, except for the names.
and she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“and she called/named him” or “whom she named”
Ben-Ammi
Quote: בֶּן עַמִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Ben-Ammi, {which means “son of my people.”}” You can include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote. Some translations put this implied information in parentheses. Do what is best in your language.
He {is} the father of
Quote: ה֛וּא אֲבִ֥י (1)“He/Ben-Ammi {was/became} the forefather/ancestor of”
the sons of Ammon to this day
Quote: בְנֵֽי עַמּ֖וֹן עַד הַיּֽוֹם (1)“the Ammonite people {who are still living} today.” or “the people/ethnic group {who are} called the Ammonites today.” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 37.
Genesis 20
Genesis 20:1
Then Abraham traveled
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֨ע & אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)“Then/Meanwhile Abraham {and his family} journeyed/moved/left”. Consider what is the best way to introduce this new episode in your language, where the focus shifts to Abraham.
from there
Quote: מִשָּׁ֤ם (1)“from the place where he/they were living” or “from near {the city of} Hebron”. Abraham and Sarah had been living by the trees of Mamre, near the city of Hebron (Gen 13:18; 18:1).
to the land of the Negev
Quote: אַ֣רְצָה הַנֶּ֔גֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{and went/moved south} to the Negev {Wilderness/Desert} area/region,” See how you translated “the Negev {Wilderness/Desert}” in Gen 12:9 (note); 13:1, 3.
and he settled between Kadesh and Shur
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב בֵּין קָדֵ֖שׁ וּבֵ֣ין שׁ֑וּר (1)“There he/they lived between {the cities of} Kadesh and Shur”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled “Kadesh” in Gen 14:7 and “Shur” in 16:7.
and sojourned in Gerar
Quote: וַיָּ֖גָר בִּגְרָֽר (1)“and they stayed/lived {there} for a while {as foreigners}, in {the city of} Gerar.” or “and they stayed/lived in {the city of} Gerar for a while.” See how you translated “sojourn” in Gen 12:10. Also be consistent here with how you translated “Gerar” in Gen 10:19.
Genesis 20:2
And Abraham said about Sarah his wife, “She {is} my sister
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֶל־שָׂרָ֥ה אִשְׁתּ֖וֹ אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“{While they were there,} Abraham/he told {people} that his wife Sarah {was} his sister.” or “{While they were there,} Abraham/he told {people} that Sarah {was} his sister, not his wife.” Sarah was Abraham’s younger sister (Gen 19:19). Some languages use special words for “sister” and “brother” in Gen 12:13, 19; 20:2, 5, 12-13, 16, to distinguish when someone is younger or older than his or her sibling. Do what is best in your language.
So Abimelech the king of Gerar sent for Sarah and took her
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֗ח אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ גְּרָ֔ר וַיִּקַּ֖ח אֶת־שָׂרָֽה (1)“So/Then {one day} Abimelech, {who was} the king of/over {the city of} Gerar, had {some of his servants} bring Sarah {to his home} {to be his wife}.”or “So/Then {one day} {King} Abimelech, who ruled {the Philistines} from {the city of} Gerar, had Sarah brought {to him} {to be his wife}.” The city of Gerar was the Philistines’ capital city where King Abimelech ruled from (Gen 21:2, 32; 26:1).
Genesis 20:3
But God came to Abimelech in a dream
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֧א אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶל אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ בַּחֲל֣וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“But God appeared to {King} Abimelech in a dream”. For some languages it is necessary to use an honorific title for a king each time (or most of the time) that he is referred to by name, in order to show him proper respect. Do what is best in your language throughout this chapter.
in} the night
Quote: הַלָּ֑יְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{during} the night” or “by/at night” or “that night”. It may be more natural to put this time phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “But that night God came/appeared to {King} Abimelech in a dream …” Do what is best in your language.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗וֹ (1)“and told/warned him,”
Behold, you are dead
Quote: הִנְּךָ֥ מֵת֙ (1)“Listen {to me}, you are a dead man” or “Listen {to me}, you are about to die” or “Behold, {I have sentenced} you to die”. Make sure that the way you translate this clause does not make it sound like King Abimelech is already dead. God is telling King Abimelech what is about to happen to him.
because of the woman whom you have taken, because she
Quote: עַל הָאִשָּׁ֣ה אֲשֶׁר לָקַ֔חְתָּ וְהִ֖וא (1)“because the woman whom you have taken {to be your wife}”. See how you translated “took” in verse 2.
is married to a husband
Quote: בְּעֻ֥לַת בָּֽעַל (1)“is {already} married to someone else!” or “is a married woman!” or “is another man’s wife!”
Genesis 20:4
Now Abimelech
Quote: וַאֲבִימֶ֕לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now/However {King} Abimelech”. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information.
had not gone near to her
Quote: לֹ֥א קָרַ֖ב אֵלֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“had not {yet} slept with her/Sarah,” or “had not had {marital/sexual} relations with her/Sarah,” Translate this clause in a way that will not be offensive or embarrassing in your language when it is read aloud in public. See how you translated a different phrase in Gen 19:31 (“come to us”) that has the same meaning.
so he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“so he asked {God},” The way you translate this quote margin will depend on how you translate the rhetorical question that follows it.
My Lord
Quote: אֲדֹנָ֕י (1)“My Master,” or “Lord/Master,” See how you translated this title of respect for God in Gen 18:27, 30-32.
will you kill a nation even though
Quote: הֲג֥וֹי גַּם & תַּהֲרֹֽג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“will/would you kill {me and} my people {group} even if/though” or “please do not kill/destroy {me and} my people {group}, since”. King Abimelech uses a rhetorical question here to express his desperate concern. Abimelech is saying in a dramatic way that if God kills him, he will destroy the nation that Abimelech leads as their king. Make sure in your translation that he does not sound angry or rude. Also, see how you translated “nation” in Gen 18:18.
it is} righteous
Quote: צַדִּ֖יק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{we are} innocent?” or “{we are} {actually} righteous/innocent!” Consider again how you translated the word “righteous” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 6:9, 7:1, 18:23-26, 28; 20:4. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 20:5
Did not he himself say to me, ‘She {is} my sister
Quote: הֲלֹ֨א ה֤וּא אָֽמַר לִי֙ אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“He/Abraham himself told me that she/Sarah {was} his sister.” Abimelech uses another rhetorical question here as he continues to defend his actions. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “sister” in verse 2.
And she herself also said, ‘He {is} my brother
Quote: וְהִֽיא גַם הִ֥וא אָֽמְרָ֖ה אָחִ֣י ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“And she/Sarah herself also said/claimed that he {was} her brother.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
I did this
Quote: עָשִׂ֥יתִי זֹֽאת (1)“{So} I did what I did” or “{So} I took her {to be my wife}”
in the integrity of my heart
Quote: בְּתָם לְבָבִ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“with a pure/blameless/clear conscience” or “with honorable/pure intentions/motives”
and in the innocence of my hands
Quote: וּבְנִקְיֹ֥ן כַּפַּ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and with clean/innocent hands!” or “and I did not know that I was doing anything wrong!” If you use an exclamation point here in your translation, make sure it does not mean that King Abimelech is angry or being rude; rather, he is desperate.
Genesis 20:6
Then God said to him in the dream
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֩ אֵלָ֨יו הָֽאֱלֹהִ֜ים בַּחֲלֹ֗ם (1)“God replied to him in the dream,” or “God answered {King} Abimelech in the dream,”
Yes, I know that
Quote: גַּ֣ם אָנֹכִ֤י יָדַ֨עְתִּי֙ כִּ֤י (1)“Yes, I know/realize that {it was}” or “I am aware that {it was}”
in the integrity of your heart
Quote: בְתָם לְבָבְךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“with a pure/blameless/clear conscience” or “with honorable/pure intentions/motives”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 5.
you did this
Quote: עָשִׂ֣יתָ זֹּ֔את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{that} you did this,” or “{that} you took her/Sarah {to be your wife},” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase before the previous one and say, “Yes, I know/realize {that} you did this with honorable/pure motives …” Do what is best in your language.
and indeed I kept you from sinning against me
Quote: וָאֶחְשֹׂ֧ךְ גַּם־אָנֹכִ֛י אֽוֹתְךָ֖ מֵחֲטוֹ־לִ֑י (1)“and in fact, it is I who kept/prevented you from doing this sin against me.” or “In fact, I {am the one who} kept/prevented you from sinning against me.” In the Hebrew text, “I” is an emphatic pronoun. Try to communicate that emphasis in a natural way in your translation. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֥ן (1)“That is why”
I did not allow you
Quote: לֹא נְתַתִּ֖יךָ (1)“I did not permit you to” or “I did not let you”
to touch her
Quote: לִנְגֹּ֥עַ אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“sleep with her.” or “have {marital/sexual} relations with her.” or “do anything with/to her.” See how you translated the idiom “gone/come near to her” in verse 4, which has a meaning that is similar to the idiom here. Also, for some languages it may be better to change the order of these clauses and say, “I {am the one who} did not allow/permit you to touch her so that you would not sin against me.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 20:7
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)“Now then,”
return the wife of the man
Quote: הָשֵׁ֤ב אֵֽשֶׁת הָאִישׁ֙ (1)“give back the man’s wife” or “you must give Abraham’s wife back {to him}” or “return her/Sarah to her husband {Abraham}”
because he {is} a prophet
Quote: כִּֽי נָבִ֣יא ה֔וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“He {is} a prophet/spokesman {for me},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, a prophet is someone who speaks for someone else. In this case, Abraham serves as an intercessor and speaks for God and prays what God wants him to say (verses 7,17). Avoid a translation of this term that focuses on telling the future, which is only one of the things that a prophet might do.
and he will pray for you
Quote: וְיִתְפַּלֵּ֥ל בַּֽעַדְךָ֖ (1)“and/so he will ask me to be merciful/kind to you,”
and you will live
Quote: וֶֽחְיֵ֑ה (1)“and I will let you live.” or “so that you will not die.”
But if you do not
Quote: וְאִם־אֵֽינְךָ֣ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But if you will not” or “However, if you refuse to”
return her
Quote: מֵשִׁ֗יב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“give her/Sarah back {to him/Abraham},”
know that
Quote: דַּ֚ע כִּי (1)“you need to know that” or “be aware that” or “you can be sure that”
you will surely die, you and all who {belong} to you
Quote: מ֣וֹת תָּמ֔וּת אַתָּ֖ה וְכָל אֲשֶׁר לָֽךְ (1)“you and all your people will surely/definitely die!” or “I will surely/definitely kill/destroy you and all your people!” The phrase “all who {belong} to you” refers to King Abimelech’s people, whom he referred to in verse 4. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
Genesis 20:8
So Abimelech got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)“So the next morning {King} Abimelech got up early” or “Early the next morning {King} Abimelech got up”
and called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֙ (1)“and called together” or “summoned”
for all of his servants
Quote: לְכָל עֲבָדָ֔יו (1)“all of his officials,” or “all his {officials and other} servants,”
and he told all those things in their ears
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֛ר אֶת כָּל הַדְּבָרִ֥ים הָאֵ֖לֶּה בְּאָזְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then he told/informed them about everything that God had said to him {in the dream},” or “He told told them everything that had happened,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and the men were very afraid
Quote: וַיִּֽירְא֥וּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and they were/felt terrified.” or “{When they heard that,} they were very afraid {that God would punish/kill them}.” or “{As soon as they heard that,} the men/servants/officials were very afraid {of what would/might happen next}.” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to King Abimelech’s servants at each point in this verse.
Genesis 20:9
Then Abimelech called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ (1)“Then {King} Abimelech summoned Abraham” or “Then the king called Abraham in {to see him}” or “Then he had Abraham brought to him”. Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to King Abimelech at this point in the paragraph.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר ל֜וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and asked him,” or “scolded him {by saying},” The way you translate this quote margin will depend on how you translate the rhetorical question that follows it.
What have you done to us
Quote: מֶֽה עָשִׂ֤יתָ לָּ֨נוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why have you treated us like this?” or “What you have done to us is not right!” or “You have treated us very badly!” Abimelech uses two rhetorical questions here to express his anger and to scold Abraham for what he had done. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question is the best way to communicate that in your language.
And how have I sinned against you so that
Quote: וּמֶֽה חָטָ֣אתִי לָ֔ךְ כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“What did I do wrong to you so that” or “I never did anything wrong to you, and/but yet”
you brought a great sin on me and on my kingdom
Quote: הֵבֵ֧אתָ עָלַ֛י וְעַל מַמְלַכְתִּ֖י חֲטָאָ֣ה גְדֹלָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“you brought on me and my kingdom/people the guilt of a terrible sin!” or “you have caused me and the kingdom/people that I rule to be guilty of sinning terribly!” Make sure your punctuation here fits with how you translate this rhetorical question.
You have done deeds to me that should not be done
Quote: מַעֲשִׂים֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לֹא יֵֽעָשׂ֔וּ עָשִׂ֖יתָ עִמָּדִֽי (1)“You have wronged me in ways that should never be done {to anyone}!” or “No one should ever wrong someone the way you have wronged me!”
Genesis 20:10
Then Abimelech said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Finally, {King} Abimelech asked him,” For some languages it is more natural here to omit this quote margin, because the same person is still talking to the same person. However, the words emphasize what King Abimelech says next and may indicate that there was a pause between what he said in verse 9 and in verse 10. Do what is best in your language.
What were you looking for when you did
Quote: מָ֣ה רָאִ֔יתָ כִּ֥י עָשִׂ֖יתָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“What did you expect {to benefit} from/by doing” or “What motivated you to do” or “What were your reasons/motives for doing”
this thing
Quote: אֶת הַדָּבָ֥ר הַזֶּֽה (1)“this {terrible} thing?” or “what you did?”
Genesis 20:11
And Abraham answered
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“Abraham answered {him},” or “Abraham replied {to him},”
Because
Quote: כִּ֣י (1)“{I did it} because”
I said, ‘Surely there is no fear of God in this place, so they will kill me because of my wife
Quote: אָמַ֗רְתִּי רַ֚ק אֵין יִרְאַ֣ת אֱלֹהִ֔ים בַּמָּק֖וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה וַהֲרָג֖וּנִי עַל דְּבַ֥ר אִשְׁתִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I said/thought {to myself}, ‘Surely/Certainly there is no one in this place/city who fears/reveres/respects God, so they will kill me because they want {to take} my wife.’ ” or “I thought that there was certainly no one in this place/city who feared/revered/obeyed God, so {I was afraid} that they would kill me {in order} to get/take my wife {for themselves}.” To “fear God” is an important theme in the Bible. It is a complex term that means to recognize how holy and powerful God is and to deeply respect and honor him by obeying and worshiping him. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 20:12
And also
Quote: וְגַם (1)“Besides that,” or “In addition to that,”
she truly {is} my sister
Quote: אָמְנָ֗ה אֲחֹתִ֤י & הִ֔וא (1)“it is true that she/Sarah {is} my sister/half-sister,” or “she/Sarah actually {is} my sister/half-sister,”
the daughter of my father but not the daughter of my mother
Quote: בַת אָבִי֙ & אַ֖ךְ לֹ֣א בַת אִמִּ֑י (1)“because she and I have the same father, but not the same mother,” or “We have the same father, but different mothers,”
and she became my wife
Quote: וַתְּהִי־לִ֖י לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“and {after we grew up,} we got married.” or “and {when we were old enough,} I married her.”
Genesis 20:13
And it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֞י (1)“It happened {that}” or “{Years} later,”
when God caused me to wander
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֧ר הִתְע֣וּ אֹתִ֗י אֱלֹהִים֮ (1)“when God told/commanded me to leave” or “when God led me to travel away from”
from the house of my father
Quote: מִבֵּ֣ית אָבִי֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“my father’s household/family,” or “the place where my father {and other relatives} were living,” See how you translated “house of … father” in Gen 12:1.
then I said to her
Quote: וָאֹמַ֣ר לָ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“I told/asked her/Sarah”
This {is} your kindness that you can do for me: At every place where we go, say about me, “He {is} my brother
Quote: זֶ֣ה חַסְדֵּ֔ךְ אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּעֲשִׂ֖י עִמָּדִ֑י אֶ֤ל כָּל־הַמָּקוֹם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר נָב֣וֹא שָׁ֔מָּה אִמְרִי־לִ֖י אָחִ֥י הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“ ‘This {is} how you can show kindness/loyalty to me: Wherever we go, tell people that I {am} your brother.’ ” or “ ‘{Please} be kind/loyal to me and tell people wherever we go that I {am} your brother.’ ” or “to {please} do me a {special} favor and tell people wherever we go that I {am} her brother.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate these embedded quotes as direct or indirect quotes.
Genesis 20:14
Then Abimelech took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“Then {King} Abimelech brought”
flocks and herds
Quote: צֹ֣אן וּבָקָ֗ר (1)“flocks {of sheep} and herds {of cattle}” or “many sheep and cattle”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:16.
and men slaves and women slaves
Quote: וַעֲבָדִים֙ וּשְׁפָחֹ֔ת (1)“and men and women slaves/servants {to Abraham}” or “and male and female slaves/servants {to Abraham}”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:16.
and gave them to Abraham
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֖ן לְאַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and gave them {all} to Abraham/him,”
and he returned Sarah his wife to him
Quote: וַיָּ֣שֶׁב ל֔וֹ אֵ֖ת שָׂרָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)“He also gave back to Abraham his wife Sarah.” or “And/Then he {also} gave Abraham’s wife Sarah back to him.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “return” twice in verse 7.
Genesis 20:15
Then Abimelech said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abimelech/he said {to him/Abraham},”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה (1)“Look,” or “Listen,”
my land {is} before you
Quote: אַרְצִ֖י לְפָנֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“my land {is} in front of you.” or “my land {is} available to you.” See how you translated the idiom “before your face” in Gen 13:9.
Settle
Quote: שֵֽׁב (1)“{You may} settle/live” or “{I invite you to} settle/live”. See how you translated this verb in verse 1.
wherever {is} good in your eyes
Quote: בַּטּ֥וֹב בְּעֵינֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“wherever you think/decide {is} good/best {for you}.” or “wherever you want.” See how you translated the idiom “good in your eyes” in Gen 19:8. You may need to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 20:16
And to Sarah he said
Quote: וּלְשָׂרָ֣ה אָמַ֗ר (1)“Then {King} Abimelech said to Sarah,” or “Then he {turned} to Sarah {and} said,”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֨ה (1)“Look,” or “Listen {to this}:”
I have given 1, 000 {shekels of} silver to your brother
Quote: נָתַ֜תִּי אֶ֤לֶף כֶּ֨סֶף֙ לְאָחִ֔יךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
“I have given 1,000 {pieces of} silver to your brother.” or “I have given your brother 1,000 {shekels/pieces of} silver.” Coins did not exist at that time. Rather people paid each other with shekels of silver or gold shekels, which was a weight measurement. A thousand shekels of silver was about 25 pounds (11.5 kilos) of silver. Many translation teams like to keep the same numbers that are in the Hebrew text in their translation, and then in a footnote give the equivalent amount in their own currency. Other teams put the equivalent amount in the text and put the literal phrase in a footnote.
Behold, that {is
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה הוּא (1)“I am doing this” or “The reason I am doing that is”
for you a covering of the eyes before all who {are} with you
Quote: לָךְ֙ כְּס֣וּת עֵינַ֔יִם לְכֹ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתָּ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“to show everyone that you are innocent {of any wrongdoing},” or “so that everyone knows you did nothing wrong,” or “to prove/show to everyone that you are an honorable woman,” The phrase “a covering of the eyes” is an idiom which means that King Abimelech’s payment to Abraham “covered” (that is, “protected”) Sarah’s good reputation and showed that she was innocent.
so that you are vindicated for everything
Quote: וְאֵ֥ת כֹּ֖ל וְנֹכָֽחַת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and to make it clear that you are not at fault for anything {that happened}.” or “and to compensate you for everything {that has happened to you}.”
Genesis 20:17
Then Abraham prayed to God
Quote: וַיִּתְפַּלֵּ֥ל אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֶל הָאֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“Then Abraham prayed to God {for King Abimelech},” or “asked God {to be merciful/kind to the king},” See how you translated “pray” in Gen 20:7.
and God healed Abimelech
Quote: וַיִּרְפָּ֨א אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֶת אֲבִימֶ֧לֶךְ (1)“So God healed {King} Abimelech” or “So God healed him”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and his wife and his slave women
Quote: וְאֶת אִשְׁתּ֛וֹ וְאַמְהֹתָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and his/Abimelech’s wife and his servant women,” or “as well as his/Abimelech’s wife and his female slaves/servants,” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to King Abimelech at each point in this verse.
so that they bore children
Quote: וַיֵּלֵֽדוּ (1)“so/and they were able to {conceive and} bear/have children {again},”
Genesis 20:18
because Yahweh
Quote: כִּֽי & יְהוָ֔ה (1)“because {previously} Yahweh” or “{Previously} Yahweh”. For some languages it may be more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
had completely closed up every womb in the house of Abimelech
Quote: עָצֹ֤ר עָצַר֙ & בְּעַ֥ד כָּל רֶ֖חֶם לְבֵ֣ית אֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“had made every woman in {King} Abimelech’s household barren/infertile” or “had kept/prevented all the women in {King} Abimelech’s household from conceiving,” Consider again how often you need to use the honorific title “King” with Abimelech’s name in this chapter in your language.
because of
Quote: עַל דְּבַ֥ר (1)“on account of” or “because he had taken” or “to punish him for taking”
Sarah, the wife of Abraham
Quote: שָׂרָ֖ה אֵ֥שֶׁת אַבְרָהָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
“Sarah, Abraham’s wife.” or “Abraham’s wife Sarah.” For some languages, it may be more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence (which begins in verse 17) and say, “{Before this,} Yahweh had completely closed up every womb in the household of {King} Abimelech because he had taken Abraham’s wife Sarah. Then Abraham prayed …” If the order is changed, it will be necessary to combine these two verses and to put the verse numbers “17-18” in front of the sentence. Some translation teams have decided that they will never combine verses like that. Other teams have decided that occasionally it is acceptable to do that if it makes the meaning clearer.
Genesis 21
Genesis 21:1
Then Yahweh visited Sarah as he had said
Quote: וַֽיהוָ֛ה פָּקַ֥ד אֶת שָׂרָ֖ה כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Yahweh blessed Sarah as he had said/promised {that he would},” or “Then Yahweh was gracious/kind to Sarah {just} as he had said/promised {he would be},” The word “visited” is used here as an idiom that means God blessed Sarah and was kind to her (by enabling her to have a son). The same idiom is used in 1 Samuel 2:21 and Luke 1:68.
and Yahweh did for Sarah
Quote: וַיַּ֧עַשׂ יְהוָ֛ה לְשָׂרָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Yes, Yahweh/he did for her” or “That’s right, Yahweh/he did for her”. The two halves of verse 1 form a parallelism to emphasize what God did for Sarah. In your translation it is best, if possible, to keep both parts of the parallelism, since each part has a different emphasis.
as he had said
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֵּֽר (1)“{just} as he had said {he would do}” or “{exactly} what he had promised {to do},”
Genesis 21:2
so that Sarah conceived
Quote: וַתַּהַר֩ & שָׂרָ֧ה (1)“So Sarah/she became pregnant” or “As a result, Sarah/she conceived”. Translate this clause in a way that is not offensive or awkward, especially when read aloud in public. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֨לֶד & בֵּ֖ן (1)“and gave birth to a son” or “and had a son”
for Abraham in his old age
Quote: לְאַבְרָהָ֛ם & לִזְקֻנָ֑יו (1)“for Abraham when he was old”
at the appointed time
Quote: לַמּוֹעֵ֕ד (1)“at the set/exact time” or “at the time {God had} appointed/set” or “{That happened} at the exact time”. See how you translated “appointed time” in Gen 18:14.
which God had told him
Quote: אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֹת֖וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“when/that God had told/promised him {it would happen}.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “So Sarah became pregnant, and at the time {God had} appointed/set, she gave birth to a son for Abraham when he was old, just as God had told/promised him {that she would}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 21:3
And Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶֽת שֶׁם בְּנ֧וֹ הַנּֽוֹלַד ל֛וֹ (1)“Then Abraham named/called his son,”
whom Sarah bore for him, Isaac
Quote: אֲשֶׁר יָלְדָה לּ֥וֹ שָׂרָ֖ה יִצְחָֽק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“whom Sarah had given birth to, Isaac, {which means “he laughs.”}” or “Isaac, {the son} whom Sarah had given birth to.” Many translations include the meaning of Isaac’s name, either in the text or in a footnote. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 21:4
And Abraham circumcised
Quote: וַיָּ֤מָל אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)“And Abraham/he {also} circumcised”. Abraham may have circumcised Isaac (verse 4) on the same day that he named him (verse 3). See how you translated “circumcised” in Gen 17:10-14.
his son Isaac
Quote: אֶת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“his son,” or “Isaac/him,” Consider what is the best way to refer to Isaac at this point in the paragraph, in your language.
a son of eight days
Quote: בֶּן שְׁמֹנַ֖ת יָמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“who was eight days old,” or “when he was eight days old,” For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase first in this verse and say, “Also, when Isaac was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him,” Do what is best in your language.
just as God had commanded him
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה אֹת֖וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)“which was exactly what God had commanded him {to do}.” or “He did exactly what God had commanded him {to do}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 21:5
And Abraham {was} a son of 100 years
Quote: וְאַבְרָהָ֖ם בֶּן מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Abraham {was} 100 years old”. See how you translated this clause in Gen 17:17.
when Isaac his son was born to him
Quote: בְּהִוָּ֣לֶד ל֔וֹ אֵ֖ת יִצְחָ֥ק בְּנֽוֹ (1)“when his son Isaac was born.” or “when Isaac was born.”
Genesis 21:6
And Sarah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר שָׂרָ֔ה (1)“{When he/Isaac was born,} Sarah said/exclaimed,”
God has brought laughter to me
Quote: צְחֹ֕ק עָ֥שָׂה לִ֖י אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“God has made me laugh {for joy}!” or “God has enabled me to {rejoice and} laugh!”
Everyone who hears
Quote: כָּל הַשֹּׁמֵ֖עַ (1)“Everyone who hears {about this}” or “Everyone who finds out {what he has done for me}”
will laugh with me
Quote: יִֽצְחַק לִֽי (1)“will laugh {for joy} with me!” or “will {rejoice and} laugh with me!”
Genesis 21:7
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then she added/exclaimed,” or “She also said/exclaimed,”
Who would have said to Abraham
Quote: מִ֤י מִלֵּל֙ לְאַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“No one would have {ever} told Abraham” or “No one would have {ever/even thought of} telling Abraham”. Sarah uses a rhetorical question here to express great joy and amazement. Some languages must use a statement or exclamation here instead. Do what is best in your language.
that} Sarah would nurse children
Quote: הֵינִ֥יקָה בָנִ֖ים שָׂרָ֑ה (1)“{that} Sarah/I would bear/have children.”
Yet
Quote: כִּֽי (1)“{And/But} yet” or “In spite of that,”
I have born a son
Quote: יָלַ֥דְתִּי בֵ֖ן (1)“I have had a son {for him}” or “I have given birth to a son {for him}”. See how you translated “bear” in Gen 18:13.
in his old age
Quote: לִזְקֻנָֽיו (1)“when he is old!” or “even though he is old!” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. You may need to translate it in a different way here because of the slightly different context.
Genesis 21:8
Then the child grew
Quote: וַיִּגְדַּ֥ל הַיֶּ֖לֶד (1)“The child/boy {Isaac} grew” or “Isaac grew as a child”
and was weaned
Quote: וַיִּגָּמַ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and his mother weaned him,” or “and reached the age when his mother stopped nursing/breast-feeding him,” Children in that culture were often weaned around the age of three. Translate “weaned” in a way that will not embarrass or offend people.
and Abraham made a great feast on the day Isaac was weaned
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ אַבְרָהָם֙ מִשְׁתֶּ֣ה גָד֔וֹל בְּי֖וֹם הִגָּמֵ֥ל אֶת יִצְחָֽק (1)“When that happened, Abraham held a big/elaborate feast {to celebrate}.” or “On that same day, Abraham had {his servants prepare} an elaborate feast {to celebrate}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 21:9
And Sarah saw
Quote: וַתֵּ֨רֶא שָׂרָ֜ה (1)“But {at/during the feast} Sarah saw/noticed”
that} the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had born for Abraham
Quote: אֶֽת בֶּן הָגָ֧ר הַמִּצְרִ֛ית אֲשֶׁר יָלְדָ֥ה לְאַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“{that} the son whom Hagar, {her handmaid} from {the country of} Egypt, had given birth to for Abraham” or “{that} {Ishmael,} the son of {her} Egyptian {handmaid} Hagar and Abraham,” Also see how you translated “have born” in verse 8.
was mocking
Quote: מְצַחֵֽק (1)“was mocking {Isaac}.” or “was making fun of {Isaac}.” or “was laughing at {Isaac}.”
Genesis 21:10
So she said to Abraham
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ לְאַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“So she {was angry/upset and} told Abraham,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Drive away
Quote: גָּרֵ֛שׁ (1)“Send away” or “Get rid of”
that slave woman
Quote: הָאָמָ֥ה הַזֹּ֖את (1)“that servant woman” or “that female slave/servant”. See how you translated “slave women” in Gen 20:17. Some languages may have a single word (as Hebrew does) that means this.
and her son
Quote: וְאֶת בְּנָ֑הּ (1)“{along} with her son!”
because the son of that slave woman
Quote: כִּ֣י & בֶּן הָאָמָ֣ה הַזֹּ֔את (1)“The son of that slave/servant woman” or “Her son”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
will not inherit with my son, with Isaac
Quote: לֹ֤א יִירַשׁ֙ & עִם בְּנִ֖י עִם יִצְחָֽק (1)“will/must not/never inherit/share {any part of} what my/our son Isaac inherits {from you}!” or “will/must not/never inherit/get anything {from you}! Only my/our son Isaac {will/should inherit your estate}!”
Genesis 21:11
And the matter was very distressing in the eyes of Abraham
Quote: וַיֵּ֧רַע הַדָּבָ֛ר מְאֹ֖ד בְּעֵינֵ֣י אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Abraham was/felt very distressed/upset/grieved about that” or “Sarah’s words/demands were very distressing/upsetting/painful to Abraham” or “What Sarah/she said distressed/grieved Abraham very much”
on account of his son
Quote: עַ֖ל אוֹדֹ֥ת בְּנֽוֹ (1)“because of his son {Ishmael}.” or “because he {also} cared about his son {Ishmael}.” or “because {Ishmael} was {also} his son {and he cared about him too}.”
Genesis 21:12
But God said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֶל אַבְרָהָ֗ם (1)“But/Then God said to him,” or “But/Then God told Abraham/him,”
Do not be distressed in your eyes
Quote: אַל יֵרַ֤ע בְּעֵינֶ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Do not be distressed/upset/sad” or “Do not let yourself be upset/distressed”. See how you translated “distressing” in verse 11.
because of the boy and because of your slave woman
Quote: עַל הַנַּ֣עַר וְעַל אֲמָתֶ֔ךָ (1)“about the boy/youth or your slave/servant woman.” Ishmael was about 17 years old at this time, so in verses 12-16 use terms for him in your language that fit with that fact.
All that Sarah says to you, listen to her voice
Quote: כֹּל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר תֹּאמַ֥ר אֵלֶ֛יךָ שָׂרָ֖ה שְׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“{Rather,} listen to everything/whatever Sarah tells you {to do}, {and do it,}” or “Do everything that Sarah tells/told you {to do},” The word “listen” means to hear and do what is being asked. Also, the phrase “her voice” refers to Sarah and what she said.
because in Isaac, offspring will be called yours
Quote: כִּ֣י בְיִצְחָ֔ק יִקָּרֵ֥א לְךָ֖ זָֽרַע (1)“because it is in/through Isaac that the/your descendants {I promised you} will be reckoned/traced.” or “because Isaac is the one who will be the ancestor of the/your descendants {that I promised to give you}.” or “because the offspring/descendants {that I promised to you} will come through/from Isaac.”
Genesis 21:13
And the son of the slave woman I will also make
Quote: וְגַ֥ם אֶת־בֶּן־הָאָמָ֖ה & אֲשִׂימֶ֑נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But I will also make the son of your slave/servant woman” or “However, I will also make your slave/servant woman’s son”
into a nation
Quote: לְג֣וֹי (1)“become {the ancestor of} an {important/large} people/ethnic group,”
because he {is} your offspring
Quote: כִּ֥י זַרְעֲךָ֖ הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because/since he {is} your son/descendant.” For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to put this “because …” clause earlier in this sentence and say, “And/But because/since the son of your slave/servant woman is your offspring/son, I will also make him into a {great/important/large} people/ethnic group.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 21:14
Then Abraham got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֣ם אַבְרָהָ֣ם בַּבֹּ֡קֶר (1)“So Abraham got up early the next morning,” or “Early the next morning Abraham got up,”
and took bread
Quote: וַיִּֽקַּֽח לֶחֶם֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“got/brought {some} bread/food”. This phrase may refer to bread or more generally to food.
and a skin of water
Quote: וְחֵ֨מַת מַ֜יִם (1)“and a leather bag/container {full} of water” or “and a {full} water container/bag made of {animal} hide/leather” or “and a water bag/container {full of water}”. The word “skin” refers here to an animal skin or hide.
and gave them to Hagar, putting them on her shoulder
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן אֶל הָ֠גָר שָׂ֧ם עַל שִׁכְמָ֛הּ (1)“to Hagar and put them on her shoulder/back.”
Then {he gave her} the child and sent her away
Quote: וְאֶת הַיֶּ֖לֶד וַֽיְשַׁלְּחֶ֑הָ (1)“Then he sent her and the child/boy away,” or “Then he sent her off with the boy/youth,”
and she left and wandered
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶךְ וַתֵּ֔תַע (1)“and she/they left and wandered {around}” or “and they wandered {around}”
in the wilderness of Beersheba
Quote: בְּמִדְבַּ֖ר בְּאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)“in the Beersheba Wilderness/Desert.” or “in the wilderness/desert near {the place/city that was later called} Beersheba.” Sometimes in the Bible a place is identified by the well-known name it will be called later. That is the case in this verse, since Beersheba is not given its name until verse 31.
Genesis 21:15
And when the water from the skin was gone
Quote: וַיִּכְל֥וּ הַמַּ֖יִם מִן הַחֵ֑מֶת (1)“When they had finished/drunk {all} the water {that they had} in the {water} skin/container,” or “When there was no more water in the water skin/bag,” or “When the water container/bag was empty,” See how you translated “skin” in verse 14.
then she threw
Quote: וַתַּשְׁלֵ֣ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“she/Hagar {hurriedly} put/left”. Make sure your translation of this idiom does not mean that Hagar literally threw Ishmael through the air.
the child
Quote: אֶת הַיֶּ֔לֶד (1)“the/her boy” or “her son”
under one of the bushes
Quote: תַּ֖חַת אַחַ֥ד הַשִּׂיחִֽם (1)“under {the shade of} one of the bushes {there},” or “under {the shade of} a {nearby} bush,”
Genesis 21:16
and she went and sat down by herself at a distance
Quote: וַתֵּלֶךְ֩ וַתֵּ֨שֶׁב לָ֜הּ מִנֶּ֗גֶד (1)“Then she went {away from him} and sat down by herself,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
as far away as they shoot a bow
Quote: הַרְחֵק֙ כִּמְטַחֲוֵ֣י קֶ֔שֶׁת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
“about as far away as someone can shoot a bow/arrow,” or “about a hundred meters/yards away,” If you do not translate the text literally, the literal text could be put in a footnote.
because she said
Quote: כִּ֣י אָֽמְרָ֔ה (1)“because she said/thought {to herself},” or “She said/thought {to herself},”
Do not let me look on the death of the child
Quote: אַל אֶרְאֶ֖ה בְּמ֣וֹת הַיָּ֑לֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnoun
“I cannot {bear to} watch/see my child/son die!” or “I don’t want to watch my child/son die!” Consider whether it is better to use a noun (“death”) or a verb (“die”) in your translation here. Also, see how you translated “child” in verses 14 and 15.
And {as} she sat at a distance, then she lifted her voice and sobbed
Quote: וַתֵּ֣שֶׁב מִנֶּ֔גֶד וַתִּשָּׂ֥א אֶת קֹלָ֖הּ וַתֵּֽבְךְּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“As she sat there, she started sobbing/crying loudly.” or “Then she started sobbing/crying loudly.” For some languages it may be more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse (so that the events are in the order that they actually occurred) and say, “She thought {to herself}, “I cannot {bear to} watch/see my son die.” So she went {away from him} and sat down by herself, about as far away as someone can shoot an arrow. Then she started crying loudly.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 21:17
And God heard the voice of the boy
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע אֱלֹהִים֮ אֶת ק֣וֹל הַנַּעַר֒ (1)“God {also} heard the boy/youth crying,”
so the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֩ מַלְאַ֨ךְ אֱלֹהִ֤ים אֶל הָגָר֙ מִן הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וַיֹּ֥אמֶר לָ֖הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“so one of his angels/messengers called to Hagar from heaven and said/asked,” or “so he had one of his angels/messengers call to Hagar from heaven and say/ask,” See how you translated the key term “angel” in Gen 16:7.
What {troubles} you, Hagar
Quote: מַה לָּ֣ךְ הָגָ֑ר (1)“What is the matter, Hagar?” or “What’s wrong, Hagar?” or “Hagar, why are you crying/upset?” For some languages it is necessary to put “Hagar” first in this quote. Do what is natural in your language.
Do not be afraid, because God has listened to the voice of the boy where he {is} there
Quote: אַל תִּ֣ירְאִ֔י כִּֽי שָׁמַ֧ע אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶל ק֥וֹל הַנַּ֖עַר בַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר הוּא שָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Do not be afraid, because God has heard the cries/sobs of the boy/youth where he is lying {and will take care of him}.” or “Do not be afraid. God has heard the boy/youth crying over there {and will take care of him}.” or “God has heard the boy/youth crying over there, so do not be afraid {because he will take care of you both}.” The phrase “has listened to” means that God heard the boy and that he will help him.
Genesis 21:18
Get up, lift the boy
Quote: ק֚וּמִי שְׂאִ֣י אֶת הַנַּ֔עַר (1)“{So} go help the boy/youth to get/stand up,” or “{So now,} go to your son, help him get/stand up,”
and hold on to him with your hand
Quote: וְהַחֲזִ֥יקִי אֶת יָדֵ֖ךְ בּ֑וֹ (1)“and hold/lead him by the hand {to help him walk},” or “and take care of him,”
because I will make him
Quote: כִּֽי & אֲשִׂימֶֽנּוּ (1)“because I {Yahweh} will make him become {the ancestor of}” or “because Yahweh will make his descendants become”. The pronoun “I” refers to Yahweh here. So either Yahweh had taken on the form of an angel, or the angel was representing Yahweh and speaking for him. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 16:10. Also, see how you translated “make … into a great nation” in verse 13. Also see 18:18, which is similar.
into a great nation
Quote: לְג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל (1)“an important/large people/ethnic group.” See how you translated “nation” in verse 13.
Genesis 21:19
Then God opened her eyes and she saw
Quote: וַיִּפְקַ֤ח אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶת עֵינֶ֔יהָ וַתֵּ֖רֶא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then God enabled/helped her/Hagar to see”
a well of water
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר מָ֑יִם (1)“a water well.” or “a well.” See how you translated “well” in Gen 16:14.
So she went
Quote: וַתֵּ֜לֶךְ (1)“So/Then she went/walked over {to the well},”
and filled the skin {with} water
Quote: וַתְּמַלֵּ֤א אֶת הַחֵ֨מֶת֙ מַ֔יִם (1)“filled the/her {water} container/bag {with} water,” See how you translated “skin” in verses 14-15.
and gave the boy a drink
Quote: וַתַּ֖שְׁקְ אֶת הַנָּֽעַר (1)“and gave her son some water to drink.” or “and gave Ishmael a drink {from it}.”
Genesis 21:20
And God was with the boy
Quote: וַיְהִ֧י אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶת הַנַּ֖עַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“God was with the boy/youth {and helped/blessed him},” This clause means that God guided, helped, protected, and blessed Ishmael, that is, he took care of him. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom that fits well here. Also consider again how you translated “boy/youth” in verses 12, 17-20.
and he grew up. And he lived
Quote: וַיִּגְדָּ֑ל וַיֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“as he grew up/older.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “As the boy/youth grew up/older, God was with him {and helped/blessed him}.” Do what is best in your language.
And he lived in the wilderness
Quote: וַיֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בַּמִּדְבָּ֔ר (1)“And he lived in the wilderness/desert {of Paran}” or “He lived in the {Paran} Wilderness/Desert”. For some languages it is more natural to specify here in verse 20 that the name of the wilderness is Paran, rather than wait until verse 21, so that it is clear that both verses refer to the same wilderness. See how you translated “the wilderness” in verse 14.
and became a great bowman
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י רֹבֶ֥ה קַשָּֽׁת (1)“and became a skilled/expert bowhunter/archer.” or “and learned to hunt skillfully with a bow {and arrows}.”
Genesis 21:21
And {while} he was living in the wilderness of Paran
Quote: וַיֵּ֖שֶׁב בְּמִדְבַּ֣ר פָּארָ֑ן (1)“While he was living in the Paran Wilderness/Desert,” or “While he was living in that wilderness/desert,” or “While he was there,” See how you translated “wilderness” in verse 20.
then his mother took a wife for him
Quote: וַתִּֽקַּֽח ל֥וֹ אִמּ֛וֹ אִשָּׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“his mother found/chose/got a wife for him” or “his mother arranged for him to marry a woman”
from the land of Egypt
Quote: מֵאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“{who was/came} from the country of Egypt.” or “who was Egyptian.” See how you translated “the land of Egypt” in Gen 13:10.
Genesis 21:22
And it happened at that time
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ בָּעֵ֣ת הַהִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Meanwhile, one day” or “Around that same time,” Consider what is the best way to introduce a new episode here in your language.
that Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, spoke to Abraham, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֗לֶךְ וּפִיכֹל֙ שַׂר צְבָא֔וֹ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{King} Abimelech {came/went} with his army commander/captain Phicol to Abraham {and} said to him,” or “{King} Abimelech and his army commander/captain Phicol {came/went} to Abraham {and} said to him,” For some languages it is necessary in your language to make explicit that King Abimelech and Phicol came (or went) to Abraham before they spoke to him. Do what is best in your language.
God {is} with you in all that you do
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֣ים עִמְּךָ֔ בְּכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר אַתָּ֖ה עֹשֶֽׂה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{I have noticed that} God {is} with you {and helps/blesses you} in everything that you do.” See how you translated a similar phrase (“God was with …”) in verse 20.
Genesis 21:23
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)“So now, {please}” or “Now then, {please}”. King Abimelech’s words to Abraham should sound polite and respectful in your translation, not rude or demanding. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 20:7.
swear to me here by God
Quote: הִשָּׁ֨בְעָה לִּ֤י בֵֽאלֹהִים֙ הֵ֔נָּה (1)“swear/vow to me here in God’s presence” or “solemnly promise me here with God as your witness”. To “swear … by God” means that Abraham would be accountable to God, asking him to be his witness and to punish him if he breaks his oath/vow/promise to King Abimelech. It does not mean that Abraham used swear words or other foul language. If this custom is not familiar to many people in your language area, you could put this information in a footnote. See how you translated a similar sentence in Gen 14:22.
if you will deal falsely with me or with my children or with my descendants
Quote: אִם תִּשְׁקֹ֣ר לִ֔י וּלְנִינִ֖י וּלְנֶכְדִּ֑י (1)“that you will never {again} deceive me or my children or my descendants.”
According to the kindness that I have done to you
Quote: כַּחֶ֜סֶד אֲשֶׁר עָשִׂ֤יתִי עִמְּךָ֙ (1)“{Instead/Rather,} just as I have treated you kindly,” or “{But} just as I have been kind to you,”
do to me and to the land
Quote: תַּעֲשֶׂ֣ה עִמָּדִ֔י וְעִם הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{swear/vow that} you will {also} be kind to me and {the/my people in} this land/country”. In this context, the phrase “the land” refers to the people who live in the land.
which you are sojourning in
Quote: אֲשֶׁר גַּ֥רְתָּה בָּֽהּ (1)“where you are sojourning/living.” or “where you are living/staying {as a foreigner/outsider}.”
Genesis 21:24
And Abraham said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Abraham said/replied {to him/Abimelech},”
I swear
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י אִשָּׁבֵֽעַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“I swear/vow {that I will do those things}.” or “I solemnly promise {that I will do that}.” See how you translated “swear” in verse 23.
Genesis 21:25
Then Abraham complained to
Quote: וְהוֹכִ֥חַ אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“{But} then Abraham/he confronted” or “Then Abraham/he {also} protested to”
Abimelech
Quote: אֶת אֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ (1)“{King} Abimelech”. For some languages, it is necessary to include the title “King” every time that Abimelech (or any other king) is referred to by name. For other languages, it is more natural to use the title only occasionally (especially when the focus is on him), or perhaps only the first time he is referred to in a section (so that his status is clear). Do what is best in your language throughout this section.
on account of
Quote: עַל אֹדוֹת֙ (1)“about/regarding”
the well of water
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר הַמַּ֔יִם (1)“a well of water” or “a/the water well” or “a/the well”. See how you translated “well of water” in verse 19.
that the servants of Abimelech had seized
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר גָּזְל֖וּ עַבְדֵ֥י אֲבִימֶֽלֶךְ (1)“that {King} Abimelech’s servants had seized/taken control of {from Abraham’s/his servants}.”
Genesis 21:26
Then Abimelech said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)“But Abimelech responded {to him},” or “When {King} Abimelech {heard that}, he said/responded,”
I do not know
Quote: לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְתִּי (1)“I have no idea”
who has done this thing
Quote: מִ֥י עָשָׂ֖ה אֶת הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֑ה (1)“who did that.” or “who seized/took your well from you.” or “who seized/took control of your well.”
And also
Quote: וְגַם (1)“Furthermore,” or “Besides that,” Here Abimelech is introducing an additional explanation of his innocence in this matter. Consider what it the best way to do that in your language.
you did not tell me
Quote: אַתָּ֞ה לֹא הִגַּ֣דְתָּ לִּ֗י (1)“you did not tell/inform me {about it/that} {before/previously},” or “you never told/informed me {about this/that},”
and also
Quote: וְגַ֧ם (1)“and so” or “so {as a result}”
I have not heard about it until today
Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י לֹ֥א שָׁמַ֖עְתִּי בִּלְתִּ֥י הַיּֽוֹם (1)“I knew nothing about it until today.” or “today is the first {time} that I have heard about it.”
Genesis 21:27
Then Abraham took sheep and cattle, and he gave them to Abimelech
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אַבְרָהָם֙ צֹ֣אן וּבָקָ֔ר וַיִּתֵּ֖ן לַאֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ (1)“Then Abraham brought/got {some of his} sheep and cattle, and gave them to Abimelech,” or “Then Abraham gave {some of his} sheep and cattle to Abimelech,” See how you translated “sheep and cattle” in Gen 20:14.
and the two of them cut a covenant
Quote: וַיִּכְרְת֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם בְּרִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he and Abimelech made/established a {peace} treaty/agreement {with one another}.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 15:18.
Genesis 21:28
Then Abraham set apart
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֣ב אַבְרָהָ֗ם (1)“Abraham {also} separated/isolated”
seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves
Quote: אֶת שֶׁ֛בַע כִּבְשֹׂ֥ת הַצֹּ֖אן לְבַדְּהֶֽן (1)“seven female lambs from the rest of the flock/sheep.” or “seven young female sheep from the rest of the flock/sheep.”
Genesis 21:29
So Abimelech said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Abimelech asked Abraham/him,”
What {are} they, these seven ewe lambs that you have set apart by themselves
Quote: מָ֣ה הֵ֗נָּה שֶׁ֤בַע כְּבָשֹׂת֙ הָאֵ֔לֶּה אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִצַּ֖בְתָּ לְבַדָּֽנָה (1)“What is the reason that you set apart those seven lambs?” or “Why did you put those seven lambs off by themselves?” or “Why did you isolate/separate those seven lambs {from the rest of the flock/sheep}?” See how you translated “set apart” in verse 28.
Genesis 21:30
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“Abraham replied,” or “Abraham answered {him},”
Because you must take the seven ewe lambs
Quote: כִּ֚י אֶת שֶׁ֣בַע כְּבָשֹׂ֔ת תִּקַּ֖ח (1)“These/Those seven lambs are for you to receive/accept” or “Because I want you to take/accept them”
from my hand
Quote: מִיָּדִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“from me,”
so that it can be a witness for me
Quote: בַּעֲבוּר֙ תִּֽהְיֶה לִּ֣י לְעֵדָ֔ה (1)“to show {everyone} that you agree with me” or “to testify/verify {to everyone}”
that I dug this well
Quote: כִּ֥י חָפַ֖רְתִּי אֶת הַבְּאֵ֥ר הַזֹּֽאת (1)“that I dug this well {and so it is mine}.” or “that I {am the one who} dug this well {and it belongs to me}.”
Genesis 21:31
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֗ן (1)“That is why” or “Therefore/So” or “{Abimelech accepted the lambs,} so”
he called that place
Quote: קָרָ֛א לַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא (1)“Abraham called/named that place” or “they/people call that place” or “that place was/is called”. The phrase “he called” often means that people in general gave a city or other place a certain name. Here it could be that Abraham named the place Beersheba, and then later other people called it the same name, and it became well known by that name. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 19:22.
Beersheba
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)“Beersheba, {which means “Well of the Seven” or “Well of the Vow/Oath,”}” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Beersheba” in verse 14. Also, if you include the meaning of the name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure that the way you translate “vow” or “oath” here matches the way you translate “oath” later in this verse.
because there
Quote: כִּ֛י שָׁ֥ם (1)“because it was there that” or “because that is where”
the two of them
Quote: שְׁנֵיהֶֽם (1)“they both” or “he/Abraham and Abimelech both”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 27.
swore an oath
Quote: נִשְׁבְּע֖וּ (1)“made a vow/oath {to each other}.” or “vowed {to live at peace with one another}.” or “solemnly promised {each other to live in peace}.” See how you translated “swear” in verses 23-24.
Genesis 21:32
So they cut the covenant at Beersheba
Quote: וַיִּכְרְת֥וּ בְרִ֖ית בִּבְאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“After Abraham and {King} Abimelech made/established their {peace} treaty/agreement at Beersheba,” Consider whether it is better in your language to use a pronoun or nouns here to refer to these men. Some languages have a special dual pronoun for “they” that fits well here. Also, see how you translated the idiom “cut … covenant” in verse 27.
Then Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, got up
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם אֲבִימֶ֗לֶךְ וּפִיכֹל֙ שַׂר צְבָא֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Abimelech and Phicol, his army commander/captain, left {from there}” or “Abimelech and his army commander/captain Phicol left {Abraham}”. See how you translated “got up” in verse 22.
and returned
Quote: וַיָּשֻׁ֖בוּ (1)“and went back”
to the land of the Philistines
Quote: אֶל אֶ֥רֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)“to the land/territory where the Philistines lived.” or “to {their homes in} the Philistines’ land/territory {that Abimelech ruled over}.” Abimelech and Phicol probably returned to their homes in the city of Gerar (Gen 20:2), which at that time was the Philistines’ capital city, where Abimelech ruled from. The place in the desert where Abimelech and Abraham made their covenant (Beersheba) was probably located on the border of the Philistines’ territory.
Genesis 21:33
Then he planted
Quote: וַיִּטַּ֥ע (1)“Then Abraham planted”
a tamarisk tree
Quote: אֶ֖שֶׁל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“a salt-cedar tree” or “an {evergreen} tree {called/named} tamarisk/salt-cedar”. The tamarisk tree (also known as salt-cedar) is a small-leaved evergreen tree that grows up to 30 feet (9 meters) high and provides shade. It grows well in desert areas that have salty soil. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
at Beersheba
Quote: בִּבְאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)“at {the place called} Beersheba,”
and there he called on the name of Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּ֨קְרָא שָׁ֔ם בְּשֵׁ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he worshiped/praised Yahweh by name there,” or “and he addressed Yahweh there by {his} name as he worshiped/praised him,” or “and there he worshiped/praised Yahweh,” See how you translated this clause in Gen 12:8 and a similar clause in 13:4.
the God of eternity
Quote: אֵ֥ל עוֹלָֽם (1)“{who is} the Eternal/Ever-existing God.” or “{who is} the God who lives forever.” or “{who is} the God who has always existed.” This phrase means that God has no beginning and no end. In other words, he has always existed and he will continue to exist forever.
Genesis 21:34
Then Abraham sojourned
Quote: וַיָּ֧גָר אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)“After that, Abraham/he lived/stayed {there}”. See how you translated “sojourning” in verse 23.
in the land of the Philistines
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים (1)“in the land/territory that was ruled/occupied by the Philistines” or “in the land/territory where the Philistines lived/ruled” or “in Philistines’ territory”
many days
Quote: יָמִ֥ים רַבִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“for many years.” Abraham lived in the Philistines’ territory for around 25 years, so keep that in mind as you translate this phrase. For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this time phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “… lived {there} for many years in the land …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 22
Genesis 22:1
Then it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Sometime after those things happened” or “Sometime later” or “Several years later”. This is the beginning of a new episode that takes place around twelve years after Abraham and King Abimelech made their treaty (chapter 21). See how you translated “after those events” in Gen 15:1; it may be necessary to translate this phrase in a slightly different way here because of the different context.
that God tested Abraham
Quote: וְהָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים נִסָּ֖ה אֶת אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“God {wanted/decided to} test Abraham.” Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like the test was over. Rather it introduces what the following episode is about.
And he said to him, “Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“So {one day} he called to him, “Abraham!” ” or “He called to him, “Abraham!” ” or “{This is what happened:} He/God called to him, “Abraham!” ”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Abraham replied/responded {to him},” Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking here.
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I’m listening, {Lord/Master}.” or “Yes, {Lord/Master}?” or “What is it, {Lord/Master}?” Abraham’s reply is respectful and means that he is listening and ready to do what God wants him to do. Consider what is the best way to say this phrase in your language.
Genesis 22:2
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֡אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God said {to him},” or “Then God commanded/told {him},” Translate this quote margin in a way that fits this context well.
Please take your son
Quote: קַח נָ֠א אֶת בִּנְךָ֨ (1)“Take your son {with you},” See how you translated “please” when God is talking to a person in Gen 13:14; 15:5. Your translation of “take” here should not imply the use of force. See how you translated “took” in Gen 11:31 and 12:5.
your only {son} whom you love, Isaac
Quote: אֶת יְחִֽידְךָ֤ אֲשֶׁר אָהַ֨בְתָּ֙ אֶת יִצְחָ֔ק (1)“{yes/indeed,} your only {son} Isaac whom you love,” This phrase repeats part of the previous phrase in order to emphasize it. Do what is natural in your language.
and go yourself
Quote: וְלֶךְ לְךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and go/travel {with him}”. It is understood that he was to take Isaac with him. If this is not clear in your language, you could make that information explicit.
to the land of Moriah
Quote: אֶל אֶ֖רֶץ הַמֹּרִיָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“to the region of/called Moriah,” or “to the Moriah Region,”
and sacrifice him there as a burnt offering
Quote: וְהַעֲלֵ֤הוּ שָׁם֙ לְעֹלָ֔ה (1)“and sacrifice/offer him there {to me} as a burnt offering” or “There you are to burn him up {on an altar} as a sacrifice/offering {to me},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 8:20.
on one of the mountains
Quote: עַ֚ל אַחַ֣ד הֶֽהָרִ֔ים (1)“on {top of} one of the mountains” or “on {top of} a mountain”
that I will tell to you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)“that I will show to you.” or “that I will point out to you.”
Genesis 22:3
So Abraham got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם אַבְרָהָ֜ם בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)“So the next morning, Abraham got up early” or “Early the next morning Abraham got up”. See how you translated “got up early in the morning” in Gen 20:8.
and saddled his donkey
Quote: וַֽיַּחֲבֹשׁ֙ אֶת חֲמֹר֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“and put a {pack} saddle on his donkey {to get it ready} {for the trip}.” or “and got his donkey ready {for the trip}.” A donkey is like a small horse that people used to carry loads (as here).
Then he took two of his young men with him and Isaac his son
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח אֶת שְׁנֵ֤י נְעָרָיו֙ אִתּ֔וֹ וְאֵ֖ת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֑וֹ (1)“He took/brought two of his servants with him and his son Isaac,” or “Then he took/got his son Isaac and two of his servants,”
and he cut wood
Quote: וַיְבַקַּע֙ עֲצֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and he chopped/split {some} {fire}wood {with them}” or “and they chopped {some} {fire}wood {together}”. The reason Abraham is the only one mentioned in this clause and in the next sentence is that he is in focus. He did not travel alone and he probably did not chop the wood alone. Decide whether or not you need to make that explicit in your translation.
for the burnt offering
Quote: עֹלָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“{to use} for the burnt offering {and loaded it on the donkey}.” or “that they would use to burn the sacrifice/offering {and loaded it on the donkey}.” Some languages must translate this noun phrase using a verb. Do what is natural in your language. See what you did in verse 2.
Then he got up and left for the place
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם וַיֵּ֔לֶךְ אֶל הַמָּק֖וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then he set out {with them} for/toward the place/mountain” or “Then they started traveling toward/to the place/mountain”. In this context, “got up” is used as an idiom that means Abraham started an activity. It does not mean that he was sitting down and literally stood up.
that God had told to him
Quote: אֲשֶׁר אָֽמַר ל֥וֹ הָאֱלֹהִֽים (1)“that God had told/commanded him/Abraham {to go to}.”
Genesis 22:4
On the third day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֗י (1)“Three days later,” or “After walking/traveling for three days,”
Abraham lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א אַבְרָהָ֧ם אֶת עֵינָ֛יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Abraham/he looked up/ahead”. See how you translated the idiom “lifted his eyes” in Gen 18:2. It may be necessary to translate it differently here, because of the different context.
and he saw the place from a distance
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֶת הַמָּק֖וֹם מֵרָחֹֽק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and he could see the place/mountain {where they were headed} in the distance.” or “and in the distance he could see the place/mountain {where they were headed/going}.” Consider where it is best in your language to put the location phrase “from a distance” or “in the distance”.
Genesis 22:5
Then Abraham said to his young men
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶל נְעָרָ֗יו (1)“Then Abraham/he told his servants,” Be consistent here with how you translated “young men” in verse 3.
Stay here by yourselves with the donkey
Quote: שְׁבוּ לָכֶ֥ם פֹּה֙ עִֽם הַחֲמ֔וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“You {two} stay here with the donkey,” Some languages have special dual pronouns (that refer to only two people) that can be used in verse 5 to refer to Abraham’s two servants.
and I and the boy will go
Quote: וַאֲנִ֣י וְהַנַּ֔עַר נֵלְכָ֖ה (1)“while the young man and I go” or “while my son and I go”. See how you translated “the boy” in Gen 21:12, 17-20. We do not know for sure how old Isaac was at this time, but estimates range between 18 and 37 years old. Make sure your translation of “boy” allows for that fact.
over there
Quote: עַד כֹּ֑ה (1)“over there {to that mountain}” or “{to the mountain} over there”
and bow down
Quote: וְנִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and bow down {to worship God}.” or “and worship {God}.” In that culture, people had the custom of bowing down to worship God. Make sure it is clear in your translation why Abraham and Isaac would bow down.
Then we will come back to you
Quote: וְנָשׁ֥וּבָה אֲלֵיכֶֽם (1)“Then we will return to you {here}.” or “After that, we will come back {here} to you.”
Genesis 22:6
Then Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת עֲצֵ֣י הָעֹלָ֗ה (1)“Then Abraham/he took the {fire}wood for the burnt offering {off the donkey},” or “Then Abraham/he took the {fire}wood that they would use to burn the/their sacrifice/offering,” See how you translated “{fire}wood” and “burnt offering” in verse 3.
and put {it} on Isaac his son
Quote: וַיָּ֨שֶׂם֙ עַל יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and loaded/put {it} on his son Isaac{’s shoulder/back} {to carry},” or “and gave {it} to his son Isaac to carry,” The Hebrew text does not specify exactly where Abraham put the wood on Isaac. Only specify that in a translation if it is necessary in your language.
and he took in his hand{s
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח בְּיָד֔וֹ (1)“and/while he himself carried” or “He himself carried”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
the fire {pot
Quote: אֶת הָאֵ֖שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“a fire {pot} {with hot coals/embers in it}” or “the {other} things to make/start a fire”. The “fire” can either refer to hot coals (in a pot) or to a flint stone and wood chips that they would use to start the fire on the altar. Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not mean that Abraham was holding fire or hot coals in his bare hands.
and the knife
Quote: וְאֶת הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶת (1)“and a knife {to kill the sacrifice}.” or “and a {sacrifice} knife.”
Then the two of them went on together
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם יַחְדָּֽו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual
“Then Abraham and Isaac walked on together,” or “Then they continued walking/heading {toward the mountain},” Some languages have a dual pronoun that could be used here.
Genesis 22:7
and Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יִצְחָ֜ק אֶל־אַבְרָהָ֤ם אָבִיו֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and {as they went/walked,} Isaac said to his father Abraham,” or “{As they walked,} Isaac said to Abraham,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
My father
Quote: אָבִ֔י (1)“Father.”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Abraham said/replied {to him},” Consider what is the best way to refer to Abraham at this point in the paragraph in your language.
Behold me, my son
Quote: הִנֶּ֣נִּֽי בְנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I’m listening, my son.” or “Yes, my son?” or “What is it, my son?” See how you translated the idiom “Behold me” in verse 1.
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Isaac asked {him},” or “Isaac asked {him},” Make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits well with what Isaac says next.
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)“Here is/are” or “I see {that we have}”
the fire and the wood
Quote: הָאֵשׁ֙ וְהָ֣עֵצִ֔ים (1)“the fire {pot/coals} and the {fire}wood,” or “what/everything we need to make a fire {to burn the sacrifice},”
but where {is} the lamb
Quote: וְאַיֵּ֥ה הַשֶּׂ֖ה (1)“but where {is} the lamb/sheep” or “but why is there no lamb/sheep” or “but why don’t we have a lamb”
for the burnt offering
Quote: לְעֹלָֽה (1)“{for us} to use as the burnt offering?” or “{for us} to burn as the/our sacrifice {to God}?” or “that we will burn as a/our sacrifice/offering {to God}?”
Genesis 22:8
And Abraham said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abraham said {to him},” or “Abraham answered {him},”
God will see for himself
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֞ים יִרְאֶה לּ֥וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“God himself will see {to it that there is}” or “God himself will provide”. This is an idiom that means God will provide the lamb. Make sure this meaning is clear in your translation.
the lamb for the burnt offering
Quote: הַשֶּׂ֛ה לְעֹלָ֖ה (1)“a lamb/sheep for the burnt offering,” or “a lamb/sheep for us to burn as a/our sacrifice/offering {to him},” See how you translated this phrase in verse 7.
my son
Quote: בְּנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to put this address first in this quote and say, “My son, God himself will …”
Then the two of them went on
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual
“Then/So the two of them walked on together.” or “Then/So they continued walking together {toward the mountain}.”. See how you translated “the two of them” in verse 6.
Genesis 22:9
Then they came to
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֗אוּ אֶֽל (1)“When/After they got to” or “When/After they arrived at” or “When/After they reached”
the place that God had told to him
Quote: הַמָּקוֹם֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָֽמַר ל֣וֹ הָאֱלֹהִים֒ (1)“the place/mountain that God had told him {to go to}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
and there Abraham built the altar
Quote: וַיִּ֨בֶן שָׁ֤ם אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶת הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)“Abraham built/made a {stone} altar there”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “altar” in Gen 13:4, 18.
and arranged the wood
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲרֹ֖ךְ אֶת הָעֵצִ֑ים (1)“and laid/put the wood {on top of it}.” Abraham arranged the wood on top of the altar so that it would burn well. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like he lit the fire yet; he did not do that until verse 13 when he sacrificed the ram.
Then he bound Isaac his son
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲקֹד֙ אֶת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then he bound/tied his son Isaac{’s arms and legs} {with rope}”.
and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood
Quote: וַיָּ֤שֶׂם אֹתוֹ֙ עַל הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ מִמַּ֖עַל לָעֵצִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and put him on top of the wood {that was} on the altar.” Consider which order of these phrases is the clearest and most natural in your language.
Genesis 22:10
Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶת־יָד֔וֹ וַיִּקַּ֖ח אֶת־הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he took the knife in his hand” or “Then he picked up the knife”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a noun or a pronoun to refer to Abraham here. See how you translated “knife” in verse 6.
to kill his son
Quote: לִשְׁחֹ֖ט אֶת בְּנֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{in order} to kill his son {before sacrificing/burning his body on the altar}.” In the process of sacrificing, the first step was to kill the sacrifice and then burn up the body on the altar. If necessary, you could make that information explicit in your translation or in a footnote.
Genesis 22:11
But an angel of Yahweh called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א & מַלְאַ֤ךְ יְהוָה֙ (1)“But {before he/Abraham could use the knife,} an angel from Yahweh called/shouted” or “But {just then} one of Yahweh’s angels called/shouted”. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like Abraham killed Isaac. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 21:17.
to him from heaven and said, “Abraham! Abraham
Quote: אֵלָ֜יו & מִן הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֣ם אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“to him/Abraham from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” ” The angel repeats Abraham’s name to communicate urgency and that he wants him to stop and listen. Make sure your translation does not sound like the angel was angry or criticizing Abraham.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Abraham replied {to the angel},”
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I’m listening, {Lord/Master}.” or “What is it, {Lord/Master}?” or “Yes, {Lord/Master}?” See how you translated “Behold me” in verse 1.
Genesis 22:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then the angel said,” or “Then the angel told him,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the angel is speaking here, not Abraham.
Do not reach out your hand against
Quote: אַל תִּשְׁלַ֤ח יָֽדְךָ֙ אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Do not lay your hands on” or “Do not harm/kill”. Consider whether your language has an idiom that has the same meaning as the Hebrew idiom here.
the boy
Quote: הַנַּ֔עַר (1)“the young man” or “your son”. See how you translated this in verse 5.
And {do} not do anything to him
Quote: וְאַל תַּ֥עַשׂ ל֖וֹ מְא֑וּמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Do not do anything to {harm} him” or “You must not do anything to {harm} him” or “You must not harm him in any way”. The angel repeats the previous command (using different words) in order to emphasize that Abraham should not hurt Isaac. Most languages can do something similar. Do what is natural in your language.
because now I know
Quote: כִּ֣י עַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֗עְתִּי (1)“Now I know/see” or “You have shown me”. Yahweh is the one talking here, represented by the angel who speaks on his behalf, or perhaps God is appearing to Abraham as an angel.
that you fear God
Quote: כִּֽי יְרֵ֤א אֱלֹהִים֙ אַ֔תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“that you fear/revere me” or “that you deeply respect me”. See how you translated “fear” in Gen 20:11.
since you have not withheld your son, your only {son}, from me
Quote: וְלֹ֥א חָשַׂ֛כְתָּ אֶת בִּנְךָ֥ אֶת יְחִידְךָ֖ מִמֶּֽנִּי (1)“since/because you {obeyed me and} did not hold back your son from me, {yes/indeed,} your only son.” or “since/because you {obeyed me and} did not refuse to sacrifice your son to me, {even though he is} your only son.”
Genesis 22:13
Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּרְא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Abraham looked around”. See how you translated “lifted his eyes and looked” in Gen 18:2.
and behold, a ram {was} behind {him
Quote: וְהִנֵּה אַ֔יִל אַחַ֕ר (1)“and suddenly he saw a ram behind {him}” or “and there behind {him} he saw a ram”. A ram is an adult male sheep or goat. See how you translated this term in Gen 15:9.
caught in the thicket by its horns
Quote: נֶאֱחַ֥ז בַּסְּבַ֖ךְ בְּקַרְנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“that had caught/tangled its horns in the thicket/bushes.” or “that had its horns caught/stuck in a bush.”
So Abraham went and took the ram
Quote: וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ אַבְרָהָם֙ וַיִּקַּ֣ח אֶת־הָאַ֔יִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So/Then {after releasing Isaac,} Abraham/he took/untangled the ram {from the thicket/bush}.” or “So/Then Abraham/he {released/untied Isaac,} went {over to the ram} and untangled it.” For some languages it may be necessary to explicitly state that Abraham untied Isaac and took him off the altar before he sacrificed the ram. Do what is best in your language.
and sacrificed it as a burnt offering
Quote: וַיַּעֲלֵ֥הוּ לְעֹלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{Then he killed/slaughtered the ram} and burned it on the altar as a sacrifice/offering {to God}”. Animals that were sacrificed to God as burnt offerings were killed first before they were burned on an altar. Make sure your translation does not sound like the ram was burned alive. If that is not clear, you could make some of the above implied information explicit in your translation.
instead of his son
Quote: תַּ֥חַת בְּנֽוֹ (1)“in place of his son.” or “as a substitute for his son.”
Genesis 22:14
So Abraham called the name of that place
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א אַבְרָהָ֛ם שֵֽׁם־הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא (1)“That is why Abraham called/named that place” or “{Because God provided the ram,} Abraham called/named that place”. Make sure it is clear that what Yahweh did in verse 13 is the reason that Abraham gave that place the name “Yahweh-Yireh” in verse 14.
Yahweh-Yireh
Quote: יְהוָ֣ה יִרְאֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Yahweh-Yireh, {which means “Yahweh will see/provide,”}” or “Yahweh Will See/Provide,” If you include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote, be consistent with how you translate the verb “see/provide” in verse 8 (and later in verse 14), which the name is based on.
as it is said {to} this day
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ יֵאָמֵ֣ר הַיּ֔וֹם (1)“{Even} today/now people {still} say,” This refers to the time period when Moses was writing this book. If that is not clear, you could put that information in a footnote.
On the mountain of Yahweh
Quote: בְּהַ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה (1)“On Yahweh’s mountain”
it will be seen
Quote: יֵרָאֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“it will be provided {by him}.” or “he will see to it {that we have what we need}.” or “he will provide what we/you need.” See how you translated this idiom in verse 8.
Genesis 22:15
Then the angel of Yahweh called to Abraham a second {time} from heaven
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א מַלְאַ֥ךְ יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־אַבְרָהָ֑ם שֵׁנִ֖ית מִן־הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)“Then Yahweh’s angel called/spoke to Abraham from heaven again.” See how you translated “called … from heaven” in verse 11, and how you translated “angel” in verses 11-12.
Genesis 22:16
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“He said,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
I swear by myself, a declaration of Yahweh
Quote: בִּ֥י נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּי נְאֻם יְהוָ֑ה (1)“This is what Yahweh declares/says {to you}: ‘I swear by my own name” or “These are Yahweh’s own words: ‘With myself {as my own witness}, I vow/promise {to you}”. See how you translated “swear” in Gen 21:23-24.
that it is because you have done this thing
Quote: כִּ֗י יַ֚עַן אֲשֶׁ֤ר עָשִׂ֨יתָ֙ אֶת הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“that because/since you have done what I said/commanded” or “that since you obeyed me”
and have not withheld your son
Quote: וְלֹ֥א חָשַׂ֖כְתָּ אֶת בִּנְךָ֥ (1)“and did not hold back your son {from me},” or “and did not refuse to sacrifice your son {to me},” or “were willing to give/sacrifice your son {to me}”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 12.
your only {son
Quote: אֶת יְחִידֶֽךָ (1)“{yes,} your only {son}” or “{even though he is} your only {son}”. See how you translated this in verse 12.
Genesis 22:17
that I will greatly bless you
Quote: כִּֽי בָרֵ֣ךְ אֲבָרֶכְךָ֗ (1)“I will abundantly/surely bless you,” or “I will {surely} cause you to prosper greatly,”
and I will greatly multiply your offspring
Quote: וְהַרְבָּ֨ה אַרְבֶּ֤ה אֶֽת זַרְעֲךָ֙ (1)“I will greatly multiply/increase {the number of} your offspring/descendants {so that they will be}” or “In fact, I will give you so many offspring/descendants {that they will be}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
as the stars of the heavens
Quote: כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“{as many/numerous} as the stars in the heavens/sky”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is comparing the number of stars and grains of sand to the number of descendants Abraham will have. There will be so many that no one can count them all (as in Gen 13:16 and 15:6).
and as the sand that {is} on the shore of the sea
Quote: וְכַח֕וֹל אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל שְׂפַ֣ת הַיָּ֑ם (1)“and {as many/numerous} as the {grains of} sand on the seashore,”
and your offspring will possess the gate{s} of their enemies
Quote: וְיִרַ֣שׁ זַרְעֲךָ֔ אֵ֖ת שַׁ֥עַר אֹיְבָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and they will conquer the cities of {all} their enemies.” or “They will conquer/defeat {all} their enemies and rule over them.” or “Your offspring/descendants will …” Cities often had high stone walls surrounding them to protect the people inside. The gates in the walls were the only way to go in or out of a city. The idiom “possess the gates of … enemies” refers to taking control of the cities and conquering the people living there. Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language.
Genesis 22:18
in your offspring
Quote: בְזַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)“In/Through your offspring/descendants” or “Because of your offspring/descendants” or “By means of your offspring/descendants”. See how you translated “offspring” in verse 17.
And … all the nations of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּ & כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֣י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“all the nations/peoples of/on the earth will be blessed {by me},” or “{I} will bless all the people/ethnic groups {that live} on the earth,” See how you translated a similar sentence (“in/through … all the … of/on the earth will be blessed”) in Gen 12:3 and 18:18.
because you listened to my voice
Quote: עֵ֕קֶב אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁמַ֖עְתָּ בְּקֹלִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“because you heeded/obeyed my command.” or “{I will do that} because you obeyed me.” Make sure your translation of “my voice” refers to what God commanded Abraham. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 22:19
Then Abraham returned
Quote: וַיָּ֤שָׁב אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“After that, Abraham returned {with Isaac}” or “Afterwards/Then Abraham {and Isaac} went back”. Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham returned alone (without Isaac).
to his young men
Quote: אֶל נְעָרָ֔יו (1)“to his/the {two} servants”. Be consistent here with how you translated “young men” in verses 3 and 5.
and they got up and went together to Beersheba
Quote: וַיָּקֻ֛מוּ וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ יַחְדָּ֖ו אֶל בְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then they returned {home} together to {the city of} Beersheba,” or “Then together they {all} traveled {back} {home} to {the city of} Beersheba,” At that time, Abraham and his family were living in Beersheba (Gen 21:31-34). So in your translation, it should not sound like Beersheba was a new destination; they were returning home.
And Abraham stayed at Beersheba
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב אַבְרָהָ֖ם בִּבְאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and Abraham {and his family} stayed there.” or “and Abraham continued to live there {with his family}.” or “where Abraham {and his family} continued to live.” Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham was living alone in Beersheba apart from his family.
Genesis 22:20
Then it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחֲרֵי֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Sometime after that” or “Sometime later”. This phrase introduces a new topic. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
that it was told to Abraham, saying
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְאַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“someone told Abraham,” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Behold
Quote: הִ֠נֵּה (1)“Listen,” or “I have {some} news {for you}:”
Milcah, she too, has born sons for Nahor your brother
Quote: יָלְדָ֨ה מִלְכָּ֥ה גַם הִ֛וא בָּנִ֖ים לְנָח֥וֹר אָחִֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“Milcah the wife of your brother Nahor has born {some} sons for him,” or “your brother Nahor and his wife Milcah also have {some} sons,” For some languages it may be better to use an indirect quote in this verse and say, “Sometime later Abraham found out that his brother Nahor and {Nahor’s wife} Milcah had some sons,” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 22:21
Uz his firstborn and Buz his brother and Kemuel
Quote: אֶת ע֥וּץ בְּכֹר֖וֹ וְאֶת בּ֣וּז אָחִ֑יו וְאֶת קְמוּאֵ֖ל (1)“{including} their firstborn/oldest son Uz, then Buz and Kemuel,” or “The first/oldest son/one {is} Uz, {the second is} Buz, and {the third is} Kemuel,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the father of Aram
Quote: אֲבִ֥י אֲרָֽם (1)“{who is} the father of Aram.” or “who fathered Aram.” or “whose son is Aram.”
Genesis 22:22
and
Quote: וְאֶת (1)“{They} also {have sons named}”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that the people listed in verse 22 were sons of Nahor and Milcah, not sons of Kemuel (verse 21). Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Kesed and Hazo and Pildash and Jidlaph and Bethuel
Quote: כֶּ֣שֶׂד וְאֶת חֲז֔וֹ וְאֶת פִּלְדָּ֖שׁ וְאֶת יִדְלָ֑ף וְאֵ֖ת בְּתוּאֵֽל (1)“Kesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and Bethuel.” Consider whether it is best in your language to use a conjunction between each name in this list (like Hebrew does), or only before the last name in the list. See what you did for a similar list of names in Gen 10:26-29.
Genesis 22:23
And Bethuel fathered Rebekah
Quote: וּבְתוּאֵ֖ל יָלַ֣ד אֶת רִבְקָ֑ה (1)“Bethuel was the father of Rebekah.” or “Bethuel had {a daughter named} Rebekah.” Some translations put this sentence in parentheses to show that it is a separate comment by the author and not part of the previous quote. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “fathered” in Gen 11:27.
Those {are} the eight {sons} Milcah bore for Nahor, the brother of Abraham
Quote: שְׁמֹנָ֥ה אֵ֨לֶּה֙ יָלְדָ֣ה מִלְכָּ֔ה לְנָח֖וֹר אֲחִ֥י אַבְרָהָֽם (1)“Those {are} the eight {sons} {that} Milcah had for Abraham’s brother Nahor.” or “Those {are} {the names of} the eight {sons} whom Abraham’s brother Nahor and {his wife} Milcah had together.” or “{Altogether} Milcah bore/had eight sons for Abraham’s brother Nahor.”
Genesis 22:24
And his concubine, and her name {was} Reumah, and she also bore
Quote: וּפִֽילַגְשׁ֖וֹ וּשְׁמָ֣הּ רְאוּמָ֑ה וַתֵּ֤לֶד גַּם הִוא֙ (1)“Besides that, Nahor’s concubine/servant-wife Reumah also bore/had {some sons, whom they named}” or “In addition to that, Nahor and his concubine/servant-wife Reumah also had {some sons, including}”
Tebah and Gaham and Tahash and Maacah
Quote: אֶת טֶ֣בַח וְאֶת גַּ֔חַם וְאֶת תַּ֖חַשׁ וְאֶֽת מַעֲכָֽה (1)“Tebah, Gaham, Tahash, and Maacah.” See how you connected the list of names in verse 22.
Genesis 23
Genesis 23:1
Now the life of Sarah was 127 years
Quote: וַיִּהְיוּ֙ חַיֵּ֣י שָׂרָ֔ה מֵאָ֥ה שָׁנָ֛ה וְעֶשְׂרִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְשֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)“Sarah lived 127 years” or “Sarah lived to be 127 years old”
the years of the life of Sarah
Quote: שְׁנֵ֖י חַיֵּ֥י שָׂרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{Yes,} that is how long she lived” or “That is how old she lived to be”. Consider whether it is better in your language to combine the last part of verse 1 with the beginning of verse 2 and say, “That is how old she was when she died in Kiriath Arba …”
Genesis 23:2
Then Sarah died
Quote: וַתָּ֣מָת שָׂרָ֗ה (1)“Then she died” or “before she died”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence.
in Kiriath Arba
Quote: בְּקִרְיַ֥ת אַרְבַּ֛ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“in {the city of} Kiriath Arba,” or “in {the city of} Kiriath-arba,” You can spell this name as two words, as in the Hebrew text, or combine them into one word with or without a hyphen. Be consistent with how you spell this name throughout the Bible.
which {is} Hebron
Quote: הִ֥וא חֶבְר֖וֹן (1)“which {is also/now called/named} Hebron,” or “also/now known as Hebron,” or “that is, Hebron,” The city of Kiriath Arba was later named Hebron (Joshua 14:15).
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“in the land/region of/called Canaan.” For some languages it is more natural to put a general location before a specific location and say, “in the land of Canaan, in {the city of} Kiriath Arba, which {is} Hebron.” Do what is best in your language.
And Abraham went
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“Then Abraham went/came {to her}” or “Abraham went/came {to her side}”
to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her
Quote: לִסְפֹּ֥ד לְשָׂרָ֖ה וְלִבְכֹּתָֽהּ (1)“to mourn and weep/cry for her.” or “and cried and mourned for her.” For some languages it is necessary to translate this sentence using a verb form that expresses completion or past tense so that it is clear that Abraham actually did this. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 23:3
Then Abraham got up from beside
Quote: וַיָּ֨קָם֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם מֵעַ֖ל פְּנֵ֣י (1)“Later he got/stood up from {mourning} beside” or “After a while, Abraham/he left”
his dead one
Quote: מֵת֑וֹ (1)“her body,” or “her,” or “his wife’s body,”
and he spoke to the sons of Heth, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר אֶל־בְּנֵי חֵ֖ת לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and he {went} to {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites {at the city gates} {and} said to them,” The phrase “sons of Heth” refers to the descendants of Canaan’s son Heth (Genesis 10:15; 15:20) who are also known as the Hittites. Consider what is the best way to refer to them here in your language. Also, for some languages it is necessary to make it explicit here in verse 3 that Abraham went to the city gates to meet with the Hittites, rather than wait until verse 10 for that information. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 23:4
I {am
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“I {am coming to you as}” or “{As you know,} I {am}” or “{Since} I {am}”. The leaders of the city already knew that Abraham was a foreigner, so make sure your translation of this sentence does not sound like he is telling them something that they did not know.
a foreigner and a sojourner
Quote: גֵּר וְתוֹשָׁ֥ב (1)“a foreigner/outsider who has settled” or “a foreigner/outsider who is living”. See how you translated “foreigner” in Gen 15:13.
among you
Quote: עִמָּכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“among you {and I have no land/property of my own}.” or “in your land {and/so I do not own any property here}.” It is implied by Abraham and understood by the Hittites that Abraham’s status as a foreigner means he owns no property. Consider whether or not to make this implied information explicit in your translation.
Give to me
Quote: תְּנ֨וּ לִ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} give/sell me” or “{Please} let me buy”. Make sure that the way you translate this phrase sounds polite, not rude or demanding.
property for a burial place among you
Quote: אֲחֻזַּת קֶ֨בֶר֙ עִמָּכֶ֔ם (1)“{some} property/land among you” or “some of your land/property”
so that I can bury my dead from before me
Quote: וְאֶקְבְּרָ֥ה מֵתִ֖י מִלְּפָנָֽי (1)“so I have a place to take my dead/deceased {wife} and bury her.” or “where I can bury {the body of} my wife who has died.” or “so that I can give my deceased {wife} a proper/decent burial.” Translate this clause in a way that shows respect for the person who has died.
Genesis 23:5
Then the sons of Heth replied to Abraham, saying to him
Quote: וַיַּעֲנ֧וּ בְנֵי־חֵ֛ת אֶת־אַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֥ר לֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“{The leaders/elders of} the Hittites replied/responded to Abraham/him,” or “When {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites {heard that}, they replied/responded,” See how you translated “the sons of Heth” in verse 3.
Genesis 23:6
Listen to us, my lord
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֣נוּ אֲדֹנִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“{Please} listen to our proposal, my/our lord/master.” or “Sir, {please} listen to what we propose:” Abraham was not their actual lord or master. Rather, the Hittites are addressing him in a respectful manner. Also, for some languages it is more natural or respectful to put the form of address “My lord” or “Sir” first in this quote. Do what is best in your language.
You {are} a mighty prince
Quote: נְשִׂ֨יא אֱלֹהִ֤ים אַתָּה֙ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “You {are} a powerful/important leader/man” or (2) “You {are} a leader/man of/from God”. The interpretation that you do not follow in your translation could be put in a footnote.
among us
Quote: בְּתוֹכֵ֔נוּ (1)“{living} among us.” or “{who lives} among our people.”
Bury
Quote: קְבֹ֖ר (1)“{So} {you may} bury/put”. Make sure that the reply of the Hittites sounds polite here in your translation.
your dead
Quote: אֶת מֵתֶ֑ךָ (1)“your dead/deceased {wife}” or “{the body of} your wife who has died”
in the choicest of our burial places
Quote: בְּמִבְחַ֣ר קְבָרֵ֔ינוּ (1)“in {any} one of our best”
our burial places
Quote: קְבָרֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“burial sites.” or “places to bury {people who have died}.” or “tombs.” For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “{So please choose} {any} one of our best burial sites and bury/put your dead/deceased {wife} there.” Do what is best in your language.
Each of us will not withhold from you his burial place to bury
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ אֶת קִבְר֛וֹ לֹֽא יִכְלֶ֥ה מִמְּךָ֖ מִקְּבֹ֥ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
“Each of us is willing/happy to give you {some of} his land where you can bury” or “All of us are willing/happy for you to use {any of} our burial sites to bury”
your dead
Quote: מֵתֶֽךָ (1)“your dead/deceased {wife}.” or “{the body of} your wife who has died.” or “her.” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Sarah’s dead body here since it was just mentioned in the previous sentence.
Genesis 23:7
Then Abraham got up
Quote: וַיָּ֧קָם אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)“So Abraham got/stood up” or “Abraham got/stood up”. The verb “got up” reflects the fact that Abraham and the leaders/elders of the Hittites were all sitting as they talked to each other.
and bowed
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and bowed {in respect}” or “and bowed down/low {to the ground} {in respect}” or “and kneeled and touched his forehead to the ground {in respect}”. We do not know how far Abraham bowed down. He may have bowed his upper body from a standing position, or he may have knelt down and touched his forehead to the ground with his arms outstretched.
to the people of the land, to the sons of Heth
Quote: לְעַם הָאָ֖רֶץ לִבְנֵי חֵֽת (1)“in front of {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites, who owned the land {in the area}” or “before the leaders/elders over the Hittites”. The phrase “people of the land” is a term that refers to the leaders of that region who owned land in the area and were the ones to decide whether a foreigner could acquire land.
Genesis 23:8
and he said to them, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר אִתָּ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said to them,” or “Then he said to them,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to have two verbs or just one verb in this quote margin. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
If it is your will
Quote: אִם יֵ֣שׁ אֶֽת נַפְשְׁכֶ֗ם (1)“If you are willing”
to bury my dead from before me
Quote: לִקְבֹּ֤ר אֶת מֵתִי֙ מִלְּפָנַ֔י (1)“{for me} to bury my dead/deceased {wife} {here},” or “{to allow me} to bury {the body of} my wife who has died,” or “to {help/let me} give my deceased {wife} a proper/decent burial {here},” See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
listen to me and intercede for me with Ephron, the son of Zohar
Quote: שְׁמָע֕וּנִי וּפִגְעוּ לִ֖י בְּעֶפְר֥וֹן בֶּן צֹֽחַר (1)“{please} appeal to Ephron the son of Zohar on my behalf” or “{please} help me by asking Zohar’s son Ephron”
Genesis 23:9
so that he will give to me
Quote: וְיִתֶּן לִ֗י (1)“to give/sell to me”
the cave of Machpelah, which {belongs} to him, which {is} at the end of his field
Quote: אֶת מְעָרַ֤ת הַמַּכְפֵּלָה֙ אֲשֶׁר ל֔וֹ אֲשֶׁ֖ר בִּקְצֵ֣ה שָׂדֵ֑הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“his cave that is at the end/edge of his field in the Machpelah {area}.” Machpelah is the name of the area or neighborhood where Ephron’s cave and field were located (verse 17).
For full price let him give it to me
Quote: בְּכֶ֨סֶף מָלֵ֜א יִתְּנֶ֥נָּה לִ֛י (1)“Ask him to give/sell it to me for its full price/value” or “Ask him to sell it to me and I will pay him the full amount that it is worth”
among you
Quote: בְּתוֹכְכֶ֖ם (1)“in front of you {all}” or “with all of you {present/here} to witness the sale”
as property for a burial place
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּת קָֽבֶר (1)“so that I will have land/property to bury {the body of my deceased wife}.” or “That way I will have a place {here} where I can bury {the body of my wife who has died}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 23:10
Now Ephron was sitting among the sons of Heth
Quote: וְעֶפְר֥וֹן יֹשֵׁ֖ב בְּת֣וֹךְ בְּנֵי חֵ֑ת (1)“Now Ephron the Hittite was sitting {there} {at the meeting} among the {other} Hittite leaders/elders,” or “Ephron was one of the Hittite leaders/elders who had gathered {there} {at the meeting},”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיַּעַן֩ אֶת אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“so/and he replied to Abraham”
in the ears of the sons of Heth
Quote: בְּאָזְנֵ֣י בְנֵי חֵ֔ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“in the hearing/presence of {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites,” or “as/while the {other} leaders/elders listened,”
for everyone who had come {to} the gate of his city
Quote: לְכֹ֛ל בָּאֵ֥י שַֽׁעַר־עִיר֖וֹ (1)“including everyone who had gathered {there} at their/the city gate,” The pronoun “his” refers back to “everyone” who had gathered at the city gate, not just one person. Also, in that culture, the leaders of a city would hold their meetings at the city gates, where they would make decisions on important matters such as the one Abraham brought before them. You could include that information in a footnote.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“He said,” or “This is what he said:” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 23:11
No, my lord
Quote: לֹֽא אֲדֹנִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“That is not necessary, sir.” or “Sir, there is no need for that.” Make sure your translation of this phase sounds polite. In some cultures it is rude to say “No” too directly.
Listen to me
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֔נִי (1)“{Please} listen to this/my proposal:” or “{Please} accept this offer/proposal:” or “{Please} listen to what I am proposing:”
I give to you the field
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶה֙ נָתַ֣תִּי לָ֔ךְ (1)“I {hereby} give/offer you the {entire} field,” Ephron is making a formal proposal or offer. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
and I give to you the cave that {is} in it
Quote: וְהַמְּעָרָ֥ה אֲשֶׁר בּ֖וֹ לְךָ֣ נְתַתִּ֑יהָ (1)“including the cave that {is} in it.” or “as well as the cave that {is} in it.”
I give it to you
Quote: נְתַתִּ֥יהָ לָּ֖ךְ (1)“I’m giving it/them to you {now/here}”
before the eyes of the sons of my people
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֧י בְנֵי עַמִּ֛י (1)“in the sight/presence of the leaders/elders of my people.” or “as/while the leaders/elders of my people watch/listen {as witnesses}.” or “and {all} the leaders/elders of my people here are witnesses of this.”
Bury your dead
Quote: קְבֹ֥ר מֵתֶֽךָ (1)“{You may/can} bury your dead/deceased {wife} {there}.” or “{Please go ahead and} bury your dead/deceased {wife} {on that land}.”
Genesis 23:12
Then Abraham bowed
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֨חוּ֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then Abraham bowed {again}” or “{Once again,} Abraham bowed”. See how you translated “bowed” in verse 7.
the people of the land
Quote: עַ֥ם הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“in front of the people/leaders/elders who owned the land {in the area},” or “before/to the leaders/elders {of/over the Hittites},” See how you translated this phrase in verse 7. You could translate this in a slightly different way here since these people have been referred to repeatedly before this.
Genesis 23:13
and he spoke to Ephron in the ears of the people of the land, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֨ר אֶל עֶפְר֜וֹן בְּאָזְנֵ֤י עַם הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and he said to Ephron while the {rest of} the leaders/elders listened,” or “As/While they {all} listened, he/Abraham said to Ephron,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “in the ears of” in verse 10.
But
Quote: אַ֛ךְ (1)“Rather {than that},” or “Instead {of doing that},”
if you would, please
Quote: אִם אַתָּ֥ה ל֖וּ (1)“if you are willing,” or “since you are willing {to let me have the field},” In verses 9-15, Abraham and Ephron are bargaining indirectly with each other according to the customs of that culture and time. Keep that in mind as you translate their conversation.
listen to me
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֑נִי (1)“please accept my proposal/offer.” or “please listen to what I am offering/proposing.”
I will give the price of the field
Quote: נָתַ֜תִּי כֶּ֤סֶף הַשָּׂדֶה֙ (1)“I will give/pay you the {full} price of what the field is worth.” or “I want to give/pay you the {full} price of/for the field.”
Take it from me
Quote: קַ֣ח מִמֶּ֔נִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} take/accept my money/payment,” or “{Please} let me buy it from you,”
and I will bury my dead there
Quote: וְאֶקְבְּרָ֥ה אֶת מֵתִ֖י שָֽׁמָּה (1)“so that I can bury {the body of} my dead/deceased {wife} there.” or “so that {the field will be mine and} I can bury {my wife} there who has died.” or “then I will have a place to bury {the body of} my dead/deceased {wife}.”
Genesis 23:14
Then Ephron answered Abraham, saying to him
Quote: וַיַּ֧עַן עֶפְר֛וֹן אֶת אַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֥ר לֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Ephron said to Abraham,” or “Ephron responded to Abraham,”
Genesis 23:15
My lord
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“Sir,” See how you translated this respectful form of address in verses 6 and 11.
listen to me
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֔נִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{please} listen to me.” See how you translated this clause in verse 13. Make sure Ephron sounds polite here in your translation.
Land {worth} 400 shekels of silver
Quote: אֶרֶץ֩ אַרְבַּ֨ע מֵאֹ֧ת שֶֽׁקֶל כֶּ֛סֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
“The land/field {is worth} 400 shekels of silver.” or “If I were selling that land, it would cost 400 shekels of silver.” Coins did not exist at that time. Rather people paid each other with shekels of silver or gold, which was a weight measurement. Four hundred shekels of silver was about 10 pounds (4.5 kilos) of silver. Many translation teams like to keep the same numbers that are in the Hebrew text in their translation, and then in a footnote give the equivalent amount in their own currency. Other teams put the equivalent amount in the text and put the literal phrase in a footnote. See how you translated “shekels of silver” in Gen 20:16.
between me and you
Quote: בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵֽינְךָ֖ (1)“{However,} since you and I are friends,” or “{But} as far as you and I are concerned,”
what {is} that
Quote: מַה הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“what {significance} {is} that?” or “that {is} not important.” or “I would not ask you to pay that.” or “there is no need for that.” Decide whether or not a rhetorical question fits here well in your language.
So bury your dead
Quote: וְאֶת מֵתְךָ֖ קְבֹֽר (1)“So {go ahead and} bury your dead/deceased {wife} {there}.” Consider again how you translated “bury … dead” in verses 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, and 15.
Genesis 23:16
So Abraham listened to Ephron
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע אַבְרָהָם֮ אֶל עֶפְרוֹן֒ (1)“Abraham accepted Ephron’s price/offer,” or “Abraham agreed with Ephron’s price/offer,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham did not just hear what Ephron said, but also acted on it.
and Abraham weighed out to Ephron
Quote: וַיִּשְׁקֹ֤ל אַבְרָהָם֙ לְעֶפְרֹ֔ן (1)“and/so he paid Ephron/him”
the price that he had mentioned
Quote: אֶת הַכֶּ֕סֶף אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֶּ֖ר (1)“the {amount of} silver that he/Ephron had stated/suggested”
in the ears of the sons of Heth
Quote: בְּאָזְנֵ֣י בְנֵי חֵ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“in the hearing/presence of the {other} Hittite leaders/elders” or “as/while {the rest of} {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites {watched and} listened”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 10. You might need to translate it differently here because of the different context.
400 shekels of silver
Quote: אַרְבַּ֤ע מֵאוֹת֙ שֶׁ֣קֶל כֶּ֔סֶף (1)“{which was} 400 shekels of silver,” or “{Abraham weighed the} 400 shekels of silver”
the currency among the merchants
Quote: עֹבֵ֖ר לַסֹּחֵֽר (1)“using/with the same kind of weights/scale that merchants used {to accurately weigh silver/things}.” or “using the standard shekel/weights that sellers/traders used {at that time}.”
Genesis 23:17
So the field of Ephron … was deeded
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם שְׂדֵ֣ה עֶפְר֗וֹן (1)“So Ephron’s field” or “That is how the field that belonged to Ephron”. Verses 17-18 are a summary of the transaction between Ephron and Abraham. Make sure your translation of these verses does not sound like this was a second time that the field was sold.
that {was} in Machpelah
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ בַּמַּכְפֵּלָ֔ה (1)“that {was} in the Machpelah {area}”
which {was} before Mamre
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר לִפְנֵ֣י מַמְרֵ֑א (1)“east of {the city of} Mamre,” or “near {the city of} Mamre,” Mamre was another name for the city of Hebron (verse 19). The name probably came from Abraham’s friend and ally who lived there (Gen 13:18; 14:13).
the field and the cave that {was} in it
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶה֙ וְהַמְּעָרָ֣ה אֲשֶׁר בּ֔וֹ (1)“{including both} the field and the cave that {was} in it,” or “including the cave that {was} in the field,”
and every tree that {was
Quote: וְכָל הָעֵץ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר (1)“as well as all the trees that {were}”
in the field, that {was} within all of its surrounding borders
Quote: בַּשָּׂדֶ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּכָל גְּבֻל֖וֹ סָבִֽיב (1)“in the field, {whatever was} inside its borders,” or “anywhere inside the borders/boundaries of the field,”
So … was deeded
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“was {officially/legally} deeded/sold {by Ephron}” or “Ephron deeded/sold {all of that}”. For some languages it may be better to break up this long sentence, change the order of the phrases in this verse, and say, “So Ephron sold his field {to Abraham}, including the cave that was in the field, as well as all the trees that were inside its boundaries. The field was in the Machpelah {area} near {the city of} Mamre. {Ephron sold the/that field} …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 23:18
to Abraham as his possession
Quote: לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם לְמִקְנָ֖ה (1)“to Abraham as his property” or “to Abraham, and it became his possession/property”
before the eyes of the sons of Heth
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֣י בְנֵי חֵ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“in the sight/presence of {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites” or “while {the leaders/elders of} the Hittites watched {as witnesses}”. See how you translated the idiom “before the eyes of” in verse 11.
before everyone who had come to the gate of his city
Quote: בְּכֹ֖ל בָּאֵ֥י שַֽׁעַר־עִירֽוֹ (1)“including everyone who had gathered at their/the city gate/gates.” or “That included everyone who had met together at their/the city gate/gates.” For some languages it may be more natural to change the order of some of the clauses in this verse and say, “… to Abraham in front of {the leaders of} the Hittites who had gathered at the city gates, so that they all witnessed that the land was now Abraham’s property.” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated a similar clause in verse 10.
Genesis 23:19
Then after that
Quote: וְאַחֲרֵי כֵן֩ (1)“After that,” or “After Abraham/he bought the field,”
Abraham buried Sarah his wife
Quote: קָבַ֨ר אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֗וֹ (1)“Abraham/he put/placed {the body of} his wife Sarah”
in the cave of the field of Machpelah
Quote: אֶל מְעָרַ֞ת שְׂדֵ֧ה הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“in the cave in the field in the Machpelah {area},” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Machpelah” in verses 9 and 17.
before Mamre
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י מַמְרֵ֖א (1)“east of {the city of} Mamre,” or “near {the city of} Mamre,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 17. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled this name in verse 17 and in Gen 14:13, 24; 18:1.
which {is} Hebron
Quote: הִ֣וא חֶבְר֑וֹן (1)“which {is also called/named} Hebron,” or “also known as Hebron,” or “that is, Hebron,”
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֖רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)“in the land/region called Canaan.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2.
Genesis 23:20
So the field and the cave that {was} in it were deeded to Abraham
Quote: וַיָּ֨קָם הַשָּׂדֶ֜ה וְהַמְּעָרָ֧ה אֲשֶׁר־בּ֛וֹ לְאַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“So {that is how} that field, including the cave that {was} in the field, was/were {officially/legally} sold to Abraham” or “So {in that way,} the field {of Ephron}, including …” Verse 20 is a concluding summary of chapter 23 and repeats parts of verses 17-18. Make sure that the way you translate this does not sound like Abraham bought another property from the Hittites.
as property for a burial place from the sons of Heth
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּת קָ֑בֶר מֵאֵ֖ת בְּנֵי חֵֽת (1)“by the Hittites as a burial place/site.” or “by the Hittites, so that he had a place where he could bury {his wife who had died}.” Consider again how you translated “a burial place” in verses 4, 9, and 20, and how you translated “the sons of Heth” in verses 3, 5, 7, 10, 16, 18, and 20.
Genesis 24
Genesis 24:1
Now Abraham was old, advanced in days
Quote: וְאַבְרָהָ֣ם זָקֵ֔ן בָּ֖א בַּיָּמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
“Abraham had lived a long time and was {now} {very} old,” or “Abraham was very old now. He had lived many years,” or “Now Abraham had become very old,” Verse 1 gives the setting for the new episode and begins with a doublet that emphasizes how old Abraham was. Try to preserve this emphasis in a way that is natural in your translation.
and Yahweh had blessed Abraham
Quote: וַֽיהוָ֛ה בֵּרַ֥ךְ אֶת אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“and Yahweh had blessed him” or “and Yahweh had caused him to prosper”. See how you translated “bless” in Gen 12:2-3.
in all {things
Quote: בַּכֹּֽל (1)“in everything {he had done}.” or “in every way.”
Genesis 24:2
Then Abraham said to
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֗ם אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“{One day} Abraham/he told”. Consider what is the best way to introduce the first event in this episode in your language.
his oldest servant of his house
Quote: עַבְדּוֹ֙ זְקַ֣ן בֵּית֔וֹ (1)“the oldest servant in his household,” or “his senior/chief household servant,”
who was in charge of everything
Quote: הַמֹּשֵׁ֖ל בְּכָל (1)“who managed everything that he owned,” or “who took care of his entire estate for him,”
Please put your hand under my thigh
Quote: שִֽׂים נָ֥א יָדְךָ֖ תַּ֥חַת יְרֵכִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Please put your hand under my thigh/leg {to show that you will do what I ask}”. You can make the meaning of this custom explicit in your translation, or you can put that information in a footnote. What Abraham asks his servant to do here is part of the vow-making process in verse 3.
Genesis 24:3
and I will have you swear
Quote: וְאַשְׁבִּ֣יעֲךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
“I want you to vow {to me}” or “and swear/vow {to me}” or “and make an unbreakable promise {to me}”. Decide the best way to translate this command in your language. Also, see how you translated “swear” in Gen 21:23, and see the note about that there.
by Yahweh, the God of the heavens and the God of the earth
Quote: בַּֽיהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וֵֽאלֹהֵ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“with Yahweh as your witness, the God who rules/created the heavens and the earth,” See how you translated “the heavens and the earth” in Gen 1:1.
that you will not take a wife for my son
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר לֹֽא תִקַּ֤ח אִשָּׁה֙ לִבְנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“that you will not get/find/choose a wife/woman for my son {Isaac} {to marry} from {among}” or “that you will not arrange for my son {Isaac} to marry”. For some languages it is clearer and more natural to make “Isaac” explicit here in verse 3 rather than wait until the end of verse 4. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated the idiom “took a wife for” in Gen 21:21.
from the daughters of the Canaanites whom I am living among
Quote: מִבְּנוֹת֙ הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֔י אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָנֹכִ֖י יוֹשֵׁ֥ב בְּקִרְבּֽוֹ (1)“the Canaanite women whom we live among” or “{any of} the Canaanite women who live around us here”. Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham was living by himself among the Canaanites; his family and servants also lived among them with him.
Genesis 24:4
but you will go
Quote: כִּ֧י & תֵּלֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
“Rather/Instead, you must go” or “Rather/Instead, I want you to go”
to my country
Quote: אֶל אַרְצִ֛י (1)“to my {home} country” or “to the country/region where I grew up” or “to the country that I came from”
and to my relatives
Quote: וְאֶל מוֹלַדְתִּ֖י (1)“to my relatives/family/kinfolk {who live there},”
and take a wife for my son, for Isaac
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ אִשָּׁ֖ה לִבְנִ֥י לְיִצְחָֽק (1)“and find/choose a wife/woman {from there} for my son Isaac {to marry}.” or “and get/choose a wife/woman {from among them} for him {to marry}.” or “and arrange for him to marry one of their daughters.” The way you refer to Isaac here will depend on how you referred to him in verse 3.
Genesis 24:5
Then the servant said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ הָעֶ֔בֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then the servant asked Abraham,” or “But {Abraham’s} servant asked him,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language so that it fits the context well.
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“Suppose {that}” or “What {should I do} if”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 18:24, 28, 29.
the woman
Quote: הָֽאִשָּׁ֔ה (1)“the {young} woman {I find/choose}” or “{when I find} that {young} woman, she”
is not willing
Quote: לֹא תֹאבֶ֣ה (1)“does not want/agree” or “refuses”
to come with me
Quote: לָלֶ֥כֶת אַחֲרַ֖י (1)“to come/go {back} with me” or “to follow me {back}”
to this land
Quote: אֶל הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֑את (1)“to this land {to live}?” or “to {live in} this land?”
Should I take your son back
Quote: הֶֽהָשֵׁ֤ב אָשִׁיב֙ אֶת בִּנְךָ֔ (1)“{In that case,} should I take your son” or “Do you want me to {then} take your son back {there}”
to the country that you came from
Quote: אֶל הָאָ֖רֶץ אֲשֶׁר יָצָ֥אתָ מִשָּֽׁם (1)“to your {home} country {to marry her} {and live there}?” or “{to live} in your {home} country?”
Genesis 24:6
Then Abraham said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abraham said/replied to his servant,” or “Abraham answered him,” or “Abraham replied,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin at this point in the conversation.
Be sure that you do not take my son back
Quote: הִשָּׁ֣מֶר לְךָ֔ פֶּן תָּשִׁ֥יב אֶת בְּנִ֖י (1)“{No,} be/make sure that you never take my son back” or “{No,} you must definitely not/never take my son back”
there
Quote: שָֽׁמָּה (1)“there {to live}” or “to my home country/land {to live}”
Genesis 24:7
Yahweh, the God of the heavens
Quote: יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֗יִם (1)“{because} Yahweh, the God who rules/created the heavens,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that verse 7 gives the reason for verse 6. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here, and see how you translated “the God of the heavens” in verse 3.
who took me from the house of my father
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר לְקָחַ֜נִי מִבֵּ֣ית אָבִי֮ (1)“brought/led me {here} from my father’s household”
and from the land of my relatives
Quote: וּמֵאֶ֣רֶץ מֽוֹלַדְתִּי֒ (1)“and from the land where {the rest of} my relatives/family live,”
and who spoke to me and who swore to me, saying
Quote: וַאֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּר לִ֜י וַאֲשֶׁ֤ר נִֽשְׁבַּֽע לִי֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“and he vowed to me,” or “and he made an oath/vow to me and said,” or “and he made an unbreakable promise to me and said,”
To your offspring I will give this land
Quote: לְזַ֨רְעֲךָ֔ אֶתֵּ֖ן אֶת הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I will give this land to your offspring/descendants” or “that he would/will give this land {where we live} to my descendants”. The phrase “this land” refers to the land of Canaan here, not the land where Abraham’s relatives lived. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct quote or an indirect quote.
he will send his angel before you
Quote: ה֗וּא יִשְׁלַ֤ח מַלְאָכוֹ֙ לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)“He will send one of his angels ahead of you {to guide/help you},” If you begin a new sentence here, make sure that the previous sentence is well-formed and complete in your language. Also, see how you translated “angel” in Gen 22:11, 15.
and you will take
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ (1)“so that you will {be able to} find/choose” or “so that you can find/get”
a wife for my son from there
Quote: אִשָּׁ֛ה לִבְנִ֖י מִשָּֽׁם (1)“a wife/woman from there for my son {to marry}” or “a wife/woman from my home country/land for my son {to marry}.” See how you translated “take/find a wife for” in verses 3-4.
Genesis 24:8
But if the woman
Quote: וְאִם & הָֽאִשָּׁה֙ (1)“However, if the woman {you find/choose}”
is not willing
Quote: לֹ֨א תֹאבֶ֤ה (1)“does not want” or “refuses”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 5.
to come with you
Quote: לָלֶ֣כֶת אַחֲרֶ֔יךָ (1)“to come {back} {here} with you,” or “to follow you {back} {here},” See how you translated a similar phrase (“to come with me”) in verse 5.
from this oath of mine
Quote: מִשְּׁבֻעָתִ֖י זֹ֑את (1)“then you will be released/free from {keeping} this oath/vow that I am asking/requesting you to swear/make {today/now}.” or “then you will not have to keep/fulfill this binding/unbreakable promise that you are swearing/making to me {today/now}.” An oath is a serious, unbreakable promise or vow that is made before God to guarantee that it will be fulfilled. See how you translated the verb form of this word (“swear” or “vow”) in verse 3.
Only
Quote: רַ֣ק (1)“Just” or “But {no matter what happens,}”
do not take my son back there
Quote: אֶת בְּנִ֔י לֹ֥א תָשֵׁ֖ב שָֽׁמָּה (1)“you must not/never take my son back to my home country/land!” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 6.
Genesis 24:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיָּ֤שֶׂם אֶת יָד֔וֹ תַּ֛חַת יֶ֥רֶךְ אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֲדֹנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“So the/Abraham’s servant put his hand under his master/owner Abraham’s thigh/leg”. See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2. Also, in that culture, people owned servants and had complete authority over them. Make sure your translation of “master” and “servant” does not imply that the servant was mistreated. Servants were treated well, could hold important positions and were often considered as members of the master’s family. See how you translated a related term “mistress/owner” in Gen 16:4, 8-9.
and swore to him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁ֣בַֽע ל֔וֹ (1)“and vowed to him” or “and made an oath/vow to him” or “and made an unbreakable promise to him”. See how you translated “swore” in verse 7 and “swear” in verse 3.
concerning this matter
Quote: עַל הַדָּבָ֖ר הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that he would do what he/Abraham had requested/told him to do.” or “that he would go get/find a wife/woman for Isaac.” Some languages need to make explicit what “this matter” refers to. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 24:10
Then the servant took ten camels from the camels of his master
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח הָ֠עֶבֶד עֲשָׂרָ֨ה גְמַלִּ֜ים מִגְּמַלֵּ֤י אֲדֹנָיו֙ (1)“Then/Next he got ten of his master’s camels ready {for the trip}”. Make sure that your translation of “took” does not imply that the servant stole the camels or valuable things from Abraham. Rather, the “good things” that he loaded on the camels included things that he would give as gifts to Isaac’s relatives (verse 53). Also, see how you translated “camels” in Gen 12:16.
and left, and all {kinds of} good {things} from his master {were} in his hand, and he got up
Quote: וַיֵּ֔לֶךְ וְכָל ט֥וּב אֲדֹנָ֖יו בְּיָד֑וֹ וַיָּ֗קָם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and left {with some other servants}, taking with him many of his master’s valuable things {to give as gifts}. Then he” or “and after he loaded them with all kinds of valuable things from his master {to use as gifts}, he left {with some other servants} and”. For some languages, it is best to make it explicit here in verse 10 that other servants went with Abraham’s chief servant, rather than have them appear suddenly in verse 32. Do what is best in your language.
and went to
Quote: וַיֵּ֛לֶךְ אֶל (1)“and made the {long} journey/trip to” or “Then he traveled to”. This was about a 800 kilometer (500 mile) trip and would take camels about seventeen days to complete. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Aram Naharaim
Quote: אֲרַ֥ם נַֽהֲרַ֖יִם (1)“{the region of} Aram Naharaim,”
to the city of Nahor
Quote: אֶל עִ֥יר נָחֽוֹר (1)“to Nahor’s city.” or “to the city where Nahor lived.” Nahor lived in the city of Haran (Gen 11:31-32). That information could be put in a footnote. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like Nahor owned the city.
Genesis 24:11
Then he made the camels kneel down outside the city
Quote: וַיַּבְרֵ֧ךְ הַגְּמַלִּ֛ים מִח֥וּץ לָעִ֖יר (1)“{When they arrived there,} Abraham’s servant had the camels kneel/lie down {to rest} outside the city”
by the well of water
Quote: אֶל בְּאֵ֣ר הַמָּ֑יִם (1)“near its well” or “by/near the {community/public} well {that was there}”. Each town or city had a well where people from the city came to get their water. See how you translated “well of water” in Gen 21:19. You might need to translate this in a slightly different way here because of the different context.
at evening time
Quote: לְעֵ֣ת עֶ֔רֶב (1)“It was evening time,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
at the time the women who draw water come out
Quote: לְעֵ֖ת צֵ֥את הַשֹּׁאֲבֹֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“the time when the {young} women {of the city} came out to draw/get water {from the well} {for their families/homes}.” or “when the {young} women {of the city} were starting to come out {to the well} to draw/get water {for their families/homes}.” In that time and culture, there was no running water in homes so people had to come out to the city well to get water for their families.
Genesis 24:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֓ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abraham’s servant said/prayed,” Consider what is the best way to begin this paragraph in your language.
Yahweh
Quote: יְהוָ֗ה (1)“{Dear/Oh} Yahweh,” Consider what is the best way to begin this prayer in your language.
God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“{who is} the God {who takes care} of my master Abraham,” or “{who is} the God whom my master Abraham worships/serves,”
please cause it to happen before me today that you show kindness toward my master Abraham
Quote: הַקְרֵה נָ֥א לְפָנַ֖י הַיּ֑וֹם וַעֲשֵׂה חֶ֕סֶד עִ֖ם אֲדֹנִ֥י אַבְרָהָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Please be kind/gracious to my master by helping me succeed today.” or “Please show your kindness to my master today by helping me {find a wife/woman for his son to marry}.” Do what is best in your language.
please cause it to happen before me today
Quote: הַקְרֵה נָ֥א לְפָנַ֖י הַיּ֑וֹם (1)“please help me do what I have come here to do today” or “please help me succeed today”
that you show kindness toward
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה חֶ֕סֶד עִ֖ם (1)“and {in that way} show kindness to” or “and be kind to”
my master Abraham
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֥י אַבְרָהָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“my master.” or “him.”
Genesis 24:13
Behold, I am standing by
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אָנֹכִ֥י נִצָּ֖ב עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Look/See, {here} I am, standing beside/near” or “As you see/know, I am standing {here} beside/near”. Make sure in your translation that what Abraham’s servant says here to Yahweh sounds polite and respectful, not rude, demanding, or complaining. Also, he is not telling God something that God did not already know.
this spring of water
Quote: עֵ֣ין הַמָּ֑יִם (1)“this spring/well,” or “this spring-fed well,” The phrase “spring of water” (here and in verse 16) refers to the same well that is referred to in verses 11 and 20, which means that this was probably a spring-fed well. Some translation teams use only one term to refer to this spring or well throughout this chapter in order to prevent confusion. Decide what is best in your language.
and the daughters of the people of the city
Quote: וּבְנוֹת֙ אַנְשֵׁ֣י הָעִ֔יר (1)“and the daughters of the townspeople” or “and the young women of/from the city”
are coming out to draw water
Quote: יֹצְאֹ֖ת לִשְׁאֹ֥ב מָֽיִם (1)“are coming out {here} to draw/get water.” See how you translated “draw/get water” in verse 11.
Genesis 24:14
And let it be {that
Quote: וְהָיָ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} make it happen {that}”. Make sure that your translation of the servant’s request to God sounds polite.
the young woman whom I say to her
Quote: הַֽנַּעֲרָ֗ אֲשֶׁ֨ר אֹמַ֤ר אֵלֶ֨יהָ֙ (1)“when I say to one of the young women,” The phrase “young woman” is actually a single word in Hebrew (like the old English words “damsel” and “maiden”) and refers to a young woman who is old enough to get married, but has never been married before. Some languages have a single word for this; other languages prefer a phrase.
Please let down your jar
Quote: הַטִּי נָ֤א כַדֵּךְ֙ (1)“Please lower your {water} jar/jug/pot”. The water containers that people used were usually made out of clay.
so that I may drink
Quote: וְאֶשְׁתֶּ֔ה (1)“so that I can drink {some water},” or “so that I can have/take a drink {of water},”
and she says
Quote: וְאָמְרָ֣ה (1)“and/if she says/replies {to me},” or “she will say {to me},”
Drink and I will also water your camels
Quote: שְׁתֵ֔ה וְגַם גְּמַלֶּ֖יךָ אַשְׁקֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Have/Take a drink, and I will also draw/get water for your camels”. For some languages it is clearer and more natural to make one or both of the two embedded direct quotes in this verse into indirect quotes. For example you could say, “{Please} make it happen that when I ask one of the young women to lower her jug so that I can have a drink {of water}, she will offer me a drink and will also offer to draw water for my camels.” Do what is best in your language.
let} her {be the one} you have appointed
Quote: אֹתָ֤הּ הֹכַ֨חְתָּ֙ (1)“{Then I will know that} she {is the one} you have chosen”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for your servant, for Isaac
Quote: לְעַבְדְּךָ֣ לְיִצְחָ֔ק (1)“{as a wife} for your servant Isaac.” or “to be the wife of Isaac who serves you,”
And by her I will know that you have shown kindness toward my master
Quote: וּבָ֣הּ אֵדַ֔ע כִּי עָשִׂ֥יתָ חֶ֖סֶד עִם אֲדֹנִֽי (1)“and that you have been kind/gracious to my master {Abraham}.” See how you translated “show kindness toward” in verse 12.
Genesis 24:15
Then it happened before he had finished speaking
Quote: וַֽיְהִי ה֗וּא טֶרֶם֮ כִּלָּ֣ה לְדַבֵּר֒ (1)“Before Abraham’s servant had {even} finished speaking/praying {to God},” Many translations omit the phrase “Then it happened”, but this phrase emphasizes the events that follow it and adds suspense, so that the audience wonders what the outcome will be. Do what is natural in your language.
then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה (1)“just then {he saw}” or “suddenly {he saw}”. This phrase spotlights Rebekah and shows that she is the center of attention. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Rebekah was coming out
Quote: רִבְקָ֣ה יֹצֵ֗את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
“{a young woman named} Rebekah coming out {of the city}”. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce Rebekah here for the first time in this episode. Some translations use an exclamation point to help show the excitement.
who was born to Bethuel
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר יֻלְּדָה֙ לִבְתוּאֵ֣ל (1)“She was the daughter of Bethuel,” or “Her father was Bethuel,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, the brother of Abraham
Quote: בֶּן מִלְכָּ֔ה אֵ֥שֶׁת נָח֖וֹר אֲחִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“{who was} the son of Milcah and Abraham’s brother Nahor.” or “and his/Bethuel’s parents were Abraham’s brother Nahor and Milcah.”
And her water jar {was} on her shoulder
Quote: וְכַדָּ֖הּ עַל שִׁכְמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“She was carrying her/a water jug on her shoulder.” or “She had her/a water jar/jug on her shoulder.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “Rebekah was coming out {of the city} with/carrying her/a water jar/jug on her shoulder.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 24:16
And the young woman {was} a very beautiful-looking virgin
Quote: וְהַֽנַּעֲרָ֗ טֹבַ֤ת מַרְאֶה֙ מְאֹ֔ד בְּתוּלָ֕ה (1)“She/Rebekah was a very beautiful unmarried young woman,” See how you translated “young woman” in verses 14 and 15.
and a man had not known her
Quote: וְאִ֖ישׁ לֹ֣א יְדָעָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“whom no man had ever slept with.” or “who had never slept with a man.” or “who had never had {marital/sexual} relations with a man.” See how you translated the idiom “not known a man” in Gen 19:8.
And she went down
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶד (1)“She went/walked down”. Notice that the spring or well was at a place that was lower than the place where Abraham’s servant was standing.
to the spring
Quote: הָעַ֔יְנָה (1)“to the spring/well” or “to the spring-fed well,” See how you translated “spring” in verse 13.
and filled her jar
Quote: וַתְּמַלֵּ֥א כַדָּ֖הּ (1)“filled her jar/jug {with water},”
and came up
Quote: וַתָּֽעַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and came/walked {back} up {with/carrying it on her shoulder}.” If it is not clear, you may need to make it explicit in your translation that Rebekah still had the jar with her when she came up from the well or spring, especially since she lowers it from her shoulder in verse 18.
Genesis 24:17
Then the servant ran to meet her
Quote: וַיָּ֥רָץ הָעֶ֖בֶד לִקְרָאתָ֑הּ (1)“Then {Abraham’s} servant ran/hurried to meet the young woman” or “Then the servant ran up to her”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to her},” or “and requested,”
Please let me drink a little water from your jar
Quote: הַגְמִיאִ֥ינִי נָ֛א מְעַט מַ֖יִם מִכַּדֵּֽךְ (1)“Please let me have a little water to drink from your jar/jug.” or “Please give me a little drink/water from your jar/jug.”
Genesis 24:18
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“She replied,”
Drink, my lord
Quote: שְׁתֵ֣ה אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“{Please} have a drink, sir.” or “{Certainly,} sir, {you may} have a drink.” Make sure that Rebekah’s reply is polite and respectful in your language, though the way she addresses Abraham’s servant should not make it sound like she is his slave. Also see how you translated “my lord” in Gen 23:6, 11, 15.
Then she hurried and lowered her jar to her hand{s
Quote: וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר וַתֹּ֧רֶד כַּדָּ֛הּ עַל יָדָ֖הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then she quickly lowered her jar/jug {from her shoulder} to her hands”
and gave him a drink
Quote: וַתַּשְׁקֵֽהוּ (1)“and let him drink {some water} {from it}.” or “and let him have a drink.”
Genesis 24:19
And {after} she finished giving him a drink
Quote: וַתְּכַ֖ל לְהַשְׁקֹת֑וֹ (1)“After he finished drinking,” or “After that,”
then she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“she said/offered {to him},”
I will also draw water for your camels
Quote: גַּ֤ם לִגְמַלֶּ֨יךָ֙ אֶשְׁאָ֔ב (1)“Let me also draw/get water for {all} your camels”
until they have finished drinking
Quote: עַ֥ד אִם כִּלּ֖וּ לִשְׁתֹּֽת (1)“until they have had enough to drink.” or “until they are done.”
Genesis 24:20
Then she hurried and emptied her jar
Quote: וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר וַתְּעַ֤ר כַּדָּהּ֙ (1)“Then/So she quickly emptied/poured {the rest of the water from} her jar/jug”. See how you translated “Then she hurried and” in verse 18.
into the trough
Quote: אֶל הַשֹּׁ֔קֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“into the {animal} {drinking} trough/place {that was there}” or “into the {stone} trough/container/thing {that was there for animals to drink out of}”. The drinking trough was a long, open stone container that several animals could drink from at the same time.
and ran back to the well to draw water
Quote: וַתָּ֥רָץ ע֛וֹד אֶֽל הַבְּאֵ֖ר לִשְׁאֹ֑ב (1)“and ran back {and forth} to the well to draw/get {more water},”
and she drew water for all his camels
Quote: וַתִּשְׁאַ֖ב לְכָל גְּמַלָּֽיו (1)“until she had drawn/brought {enough} for all of the camels.”
Genesis 24:21
And the man watched her silently
Quote: וְהָאִ֥ישׁ מִשְׁתָּאֵ֖ה לָ֑הּ מַחֲרִ֕ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
“Meanwhile the/Abraham’s servant silently watched her/Rebekah {and waited}” or “While she/Rebekah was doing that, the/Abraham’s servant silently watched her”. Starting in verse 21 the Hebrew text takes Rebekah and Laban’s perspective and refers to Abraham’s servant as “the man”. This continues until verse 34, when the servant tells everyone that he is Abraham’s servant. For some languages this is confusing (because it sounds like two different people), so for those languages it is necessary to refer to him as “Abraham’s servant” or “the servant” throughout this chapter.
to know whether Yahweh had made his journey succeed or not
Quote: לָדַ֗עַת הַֽהִצְלִ֧יחַ יְהוָ֛ה דַּרְכּ֖וֹ אִם לֹֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“to find out whether or not Yahweh had made him successful on his journey/trip {to find a wife for Isaac}.” or “to know/see for sure whether/if Yahweh had given him success on his journey/trip.”
Genesis 24:22
Then it happened, when the camels had finished drinking
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר כִּלּ֤וּ הַגְּמַלִּים֙ לִשְׁתּ֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Finally, when the camels had finished drinking,” or “After {all} the camels had drunk as much water as they wanted {and Rebekah had stopped drawing/fetching water},”
then the man took out a gold nose ring, its weight a beka
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח הָאִישׁ֙ נֶ֣זֶם זָהָ֔ב בֶּ֖קַע מִשְׁקָל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
“the/Abraham's servant brought out a gold nose ring weighing one beka {and gave it to Rebekah/her}” or “the/Abraham's servant gave {Rebekah/her} a gold nose ring that weighed one beka”. Many translation teams keep the numbers and the names of weights that are used in the Bible text in their translation, and they may or may not put the modern equivalents in pounds or grams in a footnote. Other teams do the opposite. One beka was about 1/5 of an ounce (5.5 grams), and ten shekels (See below) was about 4 ounces (110 grams).
and two gold bracelets
Quote: וּשְׁנֵ֤י צְמִידִים֙ & זָהָ֖ב (1)“He also gave her two gold bracelets”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for her arms
Quote: עַל יָדֶ֔יהָ (1)“for her wrists”. The Hebrew term is ambiguous here; it can refer to hands, arms, or wrists. However in this context, the bracelets would have been put on the arms or the wrists.
their weight ten shekels
Quote: עֲשָׂרָ֥ה & מִשְׁקָלָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
“that weighed ten shekels {each}.” or “Each bracelet weighed ten shekels.”
Genesis 24:23
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he said {to her/Rebekah},” or “Then he asked {her/Rebekah},”
Whose daughter {are} you? Please tell me
Quote: בַּת מִ֣י אַ֔תְּ הַגִּ֥ידִי נָ֖א לִ֑י (1)“Please tell me who your father {is}.” The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. The phrase “Please tell me” can go: (1) with the previous question (“Whose daughter {are} you?”); or (2) with the following question (“Is there a place...to lodge?”). Since Abraham’s servant’s goal was to find a wife for Isaac who was one of Abraham’s relatives, the first interpretation seems most likely.
Is there a place at the house of your father
Quote: הֲיֵ֧שׁ בֵּית אָבִ֛יךְ מָק֥וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{Also,} is there {enough} room/space at/in his house” or “{Also,} does your father have enough/any room in/at his house”. If you made “your father” explicit in the previous sentence, it may be more natural to refer to him with the pronoun “his” in this sentence.
for us
Quote: לָ֖נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“for me and my men”. The pronoun “us” includes other servants who came with Abraham’s chief servant (as verse 32 shows). If your language has inclusive and exclusive forms of this pronoun, you should use the exclusive form here.
to lodge
Quote: לָלִֽין (1)“to spend the night {there}?” or “to stay {there} tonight?”
Genesis 24:24
Then she said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“She/Rebekah answered him,” or “She/Rebekah replied,”
I {am} the daughter of Bethuel
Quote: בַּת בְּתוּאֵ֖ל אָנֹ֑כִי (1)“My father {is} Bethuel,” or “Bethuel {is} my father,” or “My father’s name {is} Bethuel,”
the son of Milcah, whom she bore for Nahor
Quote: בֶּן מִלְכָּ֕ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָלְדָ֖ה לְנָחֽוֹר (1)“{who is} a son of Milcah and Nahor.” or “{and he is} one of Nahor and Milcah’s sons.” or “and his parents are Nahor and Milcah.” Make sure the way you translate this does not sound like Bethuel was the only son of Milcah and Nahor; they had eight sons (Gen 22: 21-22). Also, in some cultures the father’s name is normally given first; in other cultures the mother’s name is normally first.
Genesis 24:25
Then she said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then she added/continued,” Some languages leave this quote margin implied here, because the same person is still talking to the same person. Other languages can keep the quote margin (like the Hebrew text does), to emphasize what Rebekah says next. The quote margin may also indicate that Rebekah paused before she said what she says in verse 25.
Plenty of both straw and fodder {are} with us
Quote: גַּם תֶּ֥בֶן גַּם מִסְפּ֖וֹא רַ֣ב עִמָּ֑נוּ (1)“We have plenty of both straw and {other} feed {at our house} {for the/your camels to eat},” The term “fodder” refers to dry feed that is prepared for animals to eat; it can include chopped hay and grains such as oats and barley.
There is} also a place
Quote: גַּם מָק֖וֹם (1)“{and there is} also {enough} room {at/in his/our house} {for all of you}”
to lodge
Quote: לָלֽוּן (1)“to spend the night {there}.” or “to stay {there} tonight.” See how you translated this in verse 23.
Genesis 24:26
Then the man bowed down and prostrated himself before Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּקֹּ֣ד הָאִ֔ישׁ וַיִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ לַֽיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then the/Abraham’s servant bowed to the ground and worshiped/thanked Yahweh,” See how you translated “bowed” in Gen 18:2; 19:1. The word “prostrated” means he bowed low to the ground and touched his face or forehead to the ground with outstretched arms, in an act of worship. When combined with “bowed down” as in this verse, it is usually translated as “worshiped”.
Genesis 24:27
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“by saying,” or “He said,” The servant is worshiping God by bowing down and by what he says in verse 27.
Praised be Yahweh
Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ יְהוָה֙ (1)“Praise Yahweh,” or “I praise Yahweh,” See how you translated this in Gen 9:26.
the God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“the God {who takes care} of my master Abraham” or “{who is} the God whom my master Abraham worships/serves”. See how you translated “God of my master Abraham” in verse 12.
who has not abandoned his kindness and his faithfulness toward my master
Quote: אֲ֠שֶׁר לֹֽא עָזַ֥ב חַסְדּ֛וֹ וַאֲמִתּ֖וֹ מֵעִ֣ם אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
“He has never stopped being kind and faithful to my master,” or “He has always been kind and faithful to my master,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “kindness” in verses 12 and 14. The phrase “not abandoned” is a way of emphasizing that Yahweh had always been kind and faithful to Abraham.
As for} me, Yahweh has led me on the road
Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י בַּדֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ נָחַ֣נִי יְהוָ֔ה (1)“and he has guided me on the road/journey {here}” or “{Yes,} Yahweh/he guided me on the/my journey/trip {here}”. The last part of verse 27 is what Abraham’s servant is praising God for; it is an example of how God has been kind and faithful to Abraham. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to} the home of the relatives of my master
Quote: בֵּ֖ית אֲחֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{to} the home of my master’s relatives/family!” or “{to} the home where my master’s relatives/family live!” or “to my master’s relatives.”
Genesis 24:28
Then the young woman ran
Quote: וַתָּ֨רָץ֙ הַֽנַּעֲרָ֔ (1)“Then Rebekah ran/hurried {home}”. See how you translated “young woman” previously in this chapter, and consider what is the best way to refer to Rebekah here.
and announced
Quote: וַתַּגֵּ֖ד (1)“and reported to” or “and told” or “and shared the news with”
to the household of her mother
Quote: לְבֵ֣ית אִמָּ֑הּ (1)“{the people in} her mother’s household/family”
about those things
Quote: כַּדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)“about what had happened.” or “about what the man/servant had said to her.”
Genesis 24:29
Now Rebekah had a brother
Quote: וּלְרִבְקָ֥ה אָ֖ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now {it so happened that} Rebekah had a brother” or “Rebekah had a brother”. Laban was Rebekah’s older brother. Some languages have a specific term for “older brother” that fits well here. Also, consider what is the best way to introduce this background information in your language.
and his name {was} Laban
Quote: וּשְׁמ֣וֹ לָבָ֑ן (1)“whose name {was} Laban,” or “named Laban,”
and Laban ran
Quote: וַיָּ֨רָץ לָבָ֧ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he ran/hurried/rushed” or “Laban/He ran/hurried” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider what is the best way to refer to Laban here in your language.
to the man outside at the spring
Quote: אֶל הָאִ֛ישׁ הַח֖וּצָה אֶל הָעָֽיִן (1)“out to the spring/well where the man/servant was.” or “to where the man/servant was standing beside the spring/well.”
Genesis 24:30
And it was when he had seen
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כִּרְאֹ֣ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
“This is how it was/happened: When he/Laban had seen” or “As soon as he/Laban had seen”. Verse 30 is a flashback of what had happened before Laban ran to the well (verse 29). Consider what is the best way to express this in your language. For some languages it may be necessary to combine verses 29-30 and put the sentences in the order that things actually happened. For example, “Now Rebekah had a brother named Laban. When he saw the nose ring and the bracelets she was wearing and heard her tell what the man had said to her, he hurried out to meet the man. He found/saw him standing with his camels beside the well.” If you do this, you would mark these combined verses as 29-30.
the nose ring and the bracelets on the arms of his sister
Quote: אֶת הַנֶּ֗זֶם וְֽאֶת הַצְּמִדִים֮ עַל יְדֵ֣י אֲחֹתוֹ֒ (1)“the nose ring that his sister was wearing and the bracelets on her arms” or “the nose ring and the bracelets that his sister was wearing”. Some languages have a specific term for “younger sister” that fits well here. Also see how you translated “nose ring” and “bracelets” in verse 22.
and when he had heard the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, “This {is} what the man said to me
Quote: וּכְשָׁמְע֗וֹ אֶת דִּבְרֵ֞י רִבְקָ֤ה אֲחֹתוֹ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר כֹּֽה דִבֶּ֥ר אֵלַ֖י הָאִ֑ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“and had heard her announce/tell/report what the man {at the well} had said to her,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct quote or indirect quote here. If you want to make it clear who “the man” refers to, you should still translate it generally, for example, “the man {I met at the well}” because when Rebekah said this, she did not yet know who he was.
then he went to the man
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ אֶל הָאִ֔ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“he went {out} to {where} the man/servant {was},” or “he went {out} to meet him,”
and behold, he was standing
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֛ה עֹמֵ֥ד (1)“and there he was, standing” or “He found/saw him standing”. The word “behold” emphasizes what follows it. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
by the camels at the spring
Quote: עַל הַגְּמַלִּ֖ים עַל הָעָֽיִן (1)“with {his} camels at/beside the spring/well.” or “beside/near the spring/well with {his} camels.”
Genesis 24:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Laban said {to him},” or “Then Laban said {to the man/servant},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Laban is the one talking here. Consider whether or not to include whom he is speaking to in this quote margin.
Come
Quote: בּ֖וֹא (1)“Come {with me},” or “{Please} come {stay with us},”
blessed of Yahweh
Quote: בְּר֣וּךְ יְהוָ֑ה (1)“{you who are} blessed by Yahweh.” or “you whom Yahweh has blessed.”
Why are you standing out here
Quote: לָ֤מָּה תַעֲמֹד֙ בַּח֔וּץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“There is no need for you to stand out here.” Laban is being polite here, not accusing or critical. For some languages a rhetorical question does not fit here. Do what is best in your language.
For I have prepared the house
Quote: וְאָנֹכִי֙ פִּנִּ֣יתִי הַבַּ֔יִת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“I have gotten our house ready {for you and your men to stay with us}” or “because the house is prepared/ready {for you and your men to lodge/stay there}”. Consider whether or not it is necessary in your translation to make any implied information explicit in this sentence.
and a place
Quote: וּמָק֖וֹם (1)“and {there is also} a place” or “and {we also have} room/space {there}”
for the camels
Quote: לַגְּמַלִּֽים (1)“for {your} camels {to stay}.” or “where your camels can stay.”
Genesis 24:32
So the man went to the house
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֤א הָאִישׁ֙ הַבַּ֔יְתָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“Then the man/servant went/came home {with Laban}.” or “So Abraham’s servant went/came to Laban’s house.” The Hebrew verb can be translated “went” or “came”, depending on the perspective that is taken. Do what is most natural in your language.
Then he unloaded the camels
Quote: וַיְפַתַּ֖ח הַגְּמַלִּ֑ים (1)“{When they arrived there,} Laban unloaded the camels” or “There Laban took the loads off the camels”. The Hebrew text (“he”) is ambiguous here, but since Laban was the host it is most likely that he (or some of his servants) took care of the camels for his guests.
and gave straw and fodder to the camels
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן תֶּ֤בֶן וּמִסְפּוֹא֙ לַגְּמַלִּ֔ים (1)“and he gave straw and {other} feed to them {to eat}.” or “and fed them straw and {other} fodder/feed.” See how you translated “straw and fodder” in verse 25.
and water to wash his feet and the feet of the men who {were} with him
Quote: וּמַ֨יִם֙ לִרְחֹ֣ץ רַגְלָ֔יו וְרַגְלֵ֥י הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{He} also {gave/brought} water to the/Abraham’s servant and the men who {were} with him, to wash {the dust/dirt off} their feet.” or “{He} also {brought} water for the/Abraham’s servant and his men to wash {the road dust/dirt off} their feet.” Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham’s chief servant washed the feet of the other servants who were with him; each person washed off his own feet. See how you translated “wash {the dust off} your feet” in Gen 19:2.
Genesis 24:33
Then food was set before him to eat
Quote: ויישם לְפָנָיו֙ לֶאֱכֹ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Then they served/brought the servant {and his men} some food,” or “After that, {Laban’s family} served/provided them a meal to eat,” Consider whether it is best in your language to use a passive or active construction here.
but he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“but the man/servant said {to them},” or “but the man/servant said {to Laban’s family},”
I will not eat until I have spoken my words
Quote: לֹ֣א אֹכַ֔ל עַ֥ד אִם דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי דְּבָרָ֑י (1)“I will/must not eat {anything} until I have told you my message.” or “Before I will/can eat {anything}, I need to tell {you} why I am here.”
So he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So/Then Laban replied,” or “Laban responded {to him},”
Speak
Quote: דַּבֵּֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} tell {us} {what you have/want to say}.” or “{Go ahead and} tell {us} {your message}.” Make sure the way you translate this sounds polite.
Genesis 24:34
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So the man/servant told {them},” Consider again how you referred to “the man” in verses 21, 22, 26, 29-34, and see the note about that at verse 21.
I {am} a servant of Abraham
Quote: עֶ֥בֶד אַבְרָהָ֖ם אָנֹֽכִי (1)“I {am} Abraham’s {chief/head} servant.”
Genesis 24:35
And Yahweh has greatly blessed my master
Quote: וַיהוָ֞ה בֵּרַ֧ךְ אֶת אֲדֹנִ֛י מְאֹ֖ד (1)“Yahweh has abundantly blessed/prospered my master,”
so that he has become great
Quote: וַיִּגְדָּ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“so that he is wealthy.” or “and as a result, he is {very} wealthy.”
And he has given him flock{s} and herd{s
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן ל֞וֹ צֹ֤אן וּבָקָר֙ (1)“Yahweh has given him {many} sheep and cattle,” This is the beginning of a list of what Yahweh had given Abraham. Consider the most natural way to list items in your language. Also, see how you translated “flocks and herds” in Gen 13:5.
and silver and gold
Quote: וְכֶ֣סֶף וְזָהָ֔ב (1)“{much} silver and gold,” See how you translated “silver and gold” in Gen 13:2.
and men slaves and women slaves
Quote: וַעֲבָדִם֙ וּשְׁפָחֹ֔ת (1)“{many} men and women slaves/servants” or “{many} male and female slaves/servants,” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 20:14.
and camels and donkeys
Quote: וּגְמַלִּ֖ים וַחֲמֹרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“and {many} camels and donkeys.” See how you translated “donkeys” in Gen 22:3.
Genesis 24:36
And Sarah, the wife of my master, bore a son for my master
Quote: וַתֵּ֡לֶד שָׂרָה֩ אֵ֨שֶׁת אֲדֹנִ֥י בֵן֙ לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)“Besides that, my master’s wife Sarah bore him a son” or “Also, my master’s wife Sarah gave birth to a son for him”
after her old age
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֖י זִקְנָתָ֑הּ (1)“in her old age,” or “after/when she was {very} old,”
and he has given to him
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן לּ֖וֹ (1)“and my master has given him” or “and my master has given his/that son”
everything that {belongs} to him
Quote: אֶת כָּל אֲשֶׁר לֽוֹ (1)“everything that he owns.” or “all of his possessions/property.”
Genesis 24:37
And my master made me swear
Quote: וַיַּשְׁבִּעֵ֥נִי אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)“{Before I came here,} my master made/had me vow {to do something for him},” or “{Before I came here,} my master asked me to make an unbreakable promise to him,” See how you translated “swear” in verse 3, and “swore” in verses 7 and 9.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and he said {to me},” or “He said,” or “This is what he said {to me}:” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
You must not take a wife for my son
Quote: לֹא תִקַּ֤ח אִשָּׁה֙ לִבְנִ֔י (1)“You must not get/find/choose a wife/woman for my son {to marry}” or “You must not arrange for my son {Isaac} to marry {any of}”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 3.
from the daughters of the Canaanites
Quote: מִבְּנוֹת֙ הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֔י (1)“from {among} the Canaanite women” or “{any of} the Canaanite women”
whose land I am living in
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י יֹשֵׁ֥ב בְּאַרְצֽוֹ (1)“whose land we have been living in” or “whom we live among in this land”. As in verse 3, make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham lived by himself among the Canaanites; his family and servants also lived among them with him.
Genesis 24:38
but rather
Quote: אִם לֹ֧א (1)“Rather/Instead,” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. After you translate a section, it is a good habit to read through it at normal speed as you pay attention to where it is best to begin new sentences so that sentences and paragraphs flow well and it is easy for people to read.
you must go to the house of my father
Quote: אֶל בֵּית אָבִ֛י תֵּלֵ֖ךְ (1)“go to my father’s household/family,” or “go to where my father’s family lives,” See how you translated “house of my father” in verse 7.
and to my clan
Quote: וְאֶל מִשְׁפַּחְתִּ֑י (1)“to my {own} relatives,”
and take a wife for my son
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ אִשָּׁ֖ה לִבְנִֽי (1)“and get/find/choose a wife/woman {from among them} for my son {to marry}.”
Genesis 24:39
Then I said to my master
Quote: וָאֹמַ֖ר אֶל אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)“So I asked my master,”
Suppose
Quote: אֻלַ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“Suppose {that}” or “What {should I do} if”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 5.
the woman
Quote: הָאִשָּׁ֖ה (1)“the {young} woman {I find/choose}” or “when I find that {young} woman, she”
will not come with me
Quote: לֹא תֵלֵ֥ךְ & אַחֲרָֽי (1)“does not {want/agree to} come/go {back/home} with me?” or “refuses to come {back} {here} with me?” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 5.
Genesis 24:40
And he said to me
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֵלָ֑י (1)“He answered/told me,” or “He replied to me,”
Yahweh, whom I walk before
Quote: יְהוָ֞ה אֲשֶׁר הִתְהַלַּ֣כְתִּי לְפָנָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Yahweh, whose presence I walk/live in,” or “Yahweh whom I serve/obey,” See how you translated “walk/live before” in Gen 17:1. This idiom implies that Abraham lived according to God’s will.
will send his angel
Quote: יִשְׁלַ֨ח מַלְאָכ֤וֹ (1)“will send one of his angels”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 7.
with you
Quote: אִתָּךְ֙ (1)“{to go} with you” or “to accompany you”
and make … succeed
Quote: וְהִצְלִ֣יחַ (1)“to make your journey successful,” or “He will make you succeed on your journey,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
so that you will take a wife for my son from my clan
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֤ אִשָּׁה֙ לִבְנִ֔י מִמִּשְׁפַּחְתִּ֖י (1)“so that you will/can get/find/choose a wife for my son from {among} my relatives,” or “so that you can arrange for my son to marry a woman who is one of my relatives,” See how you translated “clan” in verse 38, and consider again how you translated “take a wife for my son” in verses 3, 4, 7, 37-38.
and from the house of my father
Quote: וּמִבֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי (1)“{someone} {who is} from my father’s family.” See how you translated “house of my father” in verse 38.
Genesis 24:41
Then
Quote: אָ֤ז (1)“At that/this time” or “But if this happens,” or “There is a situation/circumstance when”. The word “Then” is a special Hebrew word that can mean “at that time” and implies here that the servant’s question (in verse 39) is now being addressed specifically.
you will be clear from my oath
Quote: תִּנָּקֶה֙ מֵאָ֣לָתִ֔י (1)“you will be released/free from {keeping} the/your oath/vow {you are making} to me:” or “you will not have/need to fulfill the/your vow to me:”
When you go to my clan, and if they will not give her to you
Quote: כִּ֥י תָב֖וֹא אֶל מִשְׁפַּחְתִּ֑י וְאִם לֹ֤א יִתְּנוּ֙ לָ֔ךְ (1)“When/After you go to my clan/family {and find a wife/woman for Isaac}, if they are not willing to let her go with you,” or “If you find a wife for Isaac but my family refuses to let the woman {you have found/chosen} leave with you,”
then you will be clear from my oath
Quote: וְהָיִ֥יתָ נָקִ֖י מֵאָלָתִֽי (1)“you will be released/free from {keeping} the/your oath/vow {that you are making} to me.” or “you will not have/need to keep/fulfill the unbreakable promise {you are making} to me.” See how you translated “clear from” earlier in this verse and in verse 8.
Genesis 24:42
Then today I came to the spring
Quote: וָאָבֹ֥א הַיּ֖וֹם אֶל הָעָ֑יִן (1)“Then today when I arrived at {your city’s} spring/well,” or “{Abraham’s servant said/continued,} “Then today when I arrived at {your city’s} spring/well,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the servant is now talking about himself. He is no longer quoting Abraham (whose words ended in verse 41).
and I said, ‘Yahweh
Quote: וָאֹמַ֗ר יְהוָה֙ (1)“I prayed, ‘{Oh/Dear} Yahweh,” See how you began the prayer in verse 12.
God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“{who is} the God {who takes care} of my master Abraham,” or “{who is} the God whom my master Abraham serves/worships,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
if it is your will
Quote: אִם יֶשְׁךָ (1)“if you are willing,” or “if you agree,”
please make my journey succeed
Quote: נָּא֙ מַצְלִ֣יחַ דַּרְכִּ֔י (1)“please give me success on/during this journey/trip” or “please make me successful on this journey/trip”. See how you translated this clause in verses 21 and 40.
that I have come on
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָנֹכִ֖י הֹלֵ֥ךְ עָלֶֽיהָ (1)“that I have made/undertaken.”
Genesis 24:43
Behold, I am standing by
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אָנֹכִ֥י נִצָּ֖ב עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Look/See, {here} I am, standing beside/near” or “As you see/know, I am standing {here} beside/near”. See how you translated this in verse 13.
this} spring of water
Quote: עֵ֣ין הַמָּ֑יִם (1)“{this} spring/well.” or “{this} spring-fed well.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 13.
And let it be {that
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} make it happen {that}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 14.
the young woman who comes out to draw {water
Quote: הָֽעַלְמָה֙ הַיֹּצֵ֣את לִשְׁאֹ֔ב (1)“when a young woman comes out {of the city} to draw water”
and I say to her, “Please give me a little water to drink from your jar
Quote: וְאָמַרְתִּ֣י אֵלֶ֔יהָ הַשְׁקִֽינִי נָ֥א מְעַט מַ֖יִם מִכַּדֵּֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“and I ask her, “Please let me drink a little water from your jar/jug,” or “and I ask her to let me drink some water from her {water} jar/jug/pot,” This direct quote is within a direct quote that is within another direct quote. For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to use an indirect quote here. Decide what is best in your language.
Genesis 24:44
and she says to me, “Both you drink and I will also draw water for your camels
Quote: וְאָמְרָ֤ה אֵלַי֙ גַּם אַתָּ֣ה שְׁתֵ֔ה וְגַ֥ם לִגְמַלֶּ֖יךָ אֶשְׁאָ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“if she says/replies, “{Yes,} have a drink and I will also draw/get water for your camels,” or “if she gives me a drink and also offers to draw/get water for my camels,” See how you translated the embedded direct quote in verse 43.
let} her {be} the wife whom Yahweh has chosen for the son of my master
Quote: הִ֣וא הָֽאִשָּׁ֔ה אֲשֶׁר הֹכִ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה לְבֶן אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{then} {let} her {be} the woman/one whom {you} Yahweh have chosen to be the wife of my master’s son.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham’s servant is still talking directly to Yahweh in this clause. For example, you could make “you” explicit in this clause.
Genesis 24:45
Before I had finished
Quote: אֲנִי֩ טֶ֨רֶם אֲכַלֶּ֜ה (1)“Before I had {even} finished” or “Before I could {even} finish”
speaking in my heart
Quote: לְדַבֵּ֣ר אֶל לִבִּ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“praying {to God} in my heart,” or “praying {to God} silently/quietly,”
then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)“just then I saw” or “suddenly I saw” or “there was”
Rebekah was coming out
Quote: רִבְקָ֤ה יֹצֵאת֙ (1)“Rebekah coming out {of the city}”. See how you translated the first half of verse 15, which is very similar to the first half of verse 45.
and her jar {was} on her shoulder
Quote: וְכַדָּ֣הּ עַל שִׁכְמָ֔הּ (1)“carrying/with her {empty} {water} jar/jug on her shoulder.”
And she went down to the spring and drew water
Quote: וַתֵּ֥רֶד הָעַ֖יְנָה וַתִּשְׁאָ֑ב (1)“She walked down to the spring/well and filled up her jar/jug with water,” Consider again how you translated “spring” (verses 13, 16, 29-30, 42-43 and 45) and “well” (verses 11 and 20) in this chapter. Both terms refer to the same source of water. See the note about this at verse 13.
and I said to her, ‘Please give me a drink
Quote: וָאֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶ֖יהָ הַשְׁקִ֥ינִי נָֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“so I said to her, ‘Please let me have a drink.’ ” or “so I asked her, ‘May I please have a drink {of water}?’ ” or “so I asked her to please give me a drink.” Consider what is the best way to translate this embedded quote in your language.
Genesis 24:46
And she hurried and lowered her jar
Quote: וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר וַתּ֤וֹרֶד כַּדָּהּ֙ (1)“She quickly/immediately lowered her jar/jug” or “She quickly/immediately brought her jar/jug down”. Consider again how you translated “jar” in verses 14-18, 20, 43, 45-46.
from her
Quote: מֵֽעָלֶ֔יהָ (1)“from/off her {shoulder}”
and said, ‘Drink
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר שְׁתֵ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“and said {to me}, ‘Have/Take a drink,” Make sure Rebekah sounds polite here in your translation.
and I will also water your camels
Quote: וְגַם גְּמַלֶּ֖יךָ אַשְׁקֶ֑ה (1)“and I will also give water to your camels.” or “and I will also draw/get water for your camels.” See how you translated this clause in verse 14. Also see verse 18, which is similar.
So I drank
Quote: וָאֵ֕שְׁתְּ (1)“So I drank {some water} {from her jar/jug},” or “So I took a drink {from her jar/jug},”
and she also watered the camels
Quote: וְגַ֥ם הַגְּמַלִּ֖ים הִשְׁקָֽתָה (1)“and she also drew/gave water to my camels.”
Genesis 24:47
Then I asked her and said
Quote: וָאֶשְׁאַ֣ל אֹתָ֗הּ וָאֹמַר֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then I asked her,”
Whose daughter {are} you
Quote: בַּת מִ֣י אַתְּ֒ (1)“Who {is} your father?” See how you translated this question in verse 23.
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“She answered {me},” or “She replied,”
The daughter of Bethuel
Quote: בַּת בְּתוּאֵל֙ (1)“{I am} the daughter of Bethuel,” or “My father is Bethuel,” or “My father’s name is Bethuel,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 24.
a son of Nahor whom Milcah bore for him
Quote: בֶּן נָח֔וֹר אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָֽלְדָה לּ֖וֹ מִלְכָּ֑ה (1)“{who is} a son of Nahor and {his wife} Milcah.” or “{and he is} one of Nahor and Milcah’s sons.” or “and his parents are Nahor and Milcah.”
Then I put the ring on her nose and the bracelets on her arms
Quote: וָאָשִׂ֤ם הַנֶּ֨זֶם֙ עַל אַפָּ֔הּ וְהַצְּמִידִ֖ים עַל יָדֶֽיהָ (1)“Then/So I put the nose ring on her nose and the bracelets on her arms/wrists.” or “After that I gave her a/the nose ring and bracelets to wear.” See how you translated “nose ring”, “bracelets”, and “arms” in verse 22.
Genesis 24:48
And I bowed down and prostrated myself before Yahweh, and I praised Yahweh
Quote: וָאֶקֹּ֥ד וָֽאֶשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה לַיהוָ֑ה וָאֲבָרֵ֗ךְ אֶת יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then/Next I bowed to the ground and worshiped and praised Yahweh,” See how you translated “bowed down and prostrated himself” in verse 26, and see the note about that there.
the God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“the God {who takes care} of my master Abraham,” or “the God whom my master Abraham serves/worships,” See how you translated this phrase in verses 12 and 42.
who led me
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר הִנְחַ֨נִי֙ (1)“because he led/guided me”
on the right way
Quote: בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ אֱמֶ֔ת (1)“the right way/direction” or “right/exactly where I should go”
to take
Quote: לָקַ֛חַת (1)“to get/find”
the daughter of my master’s brother
Quote: אֶת בַּת אֲחִ֥י אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the granddaughter of my master’s brother”, which refers to Nahor's granddaughter; or (2) “the daughter of my master’s relative”, which refers to Bethuel's daughter. Abraham’s brother Nahor was the father of Bethuel and the grandfather of Rebekah (Genesis 11:26; 22:20-23).
for his son
Quote: לִבְנֽוֹ (1)“{to be the wife} for my master’s son.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that this refers to Abraham’s son, not Nahor’s or Bethuel’s son.
Genesis 24:49
And now if it is your will
Quote: וְ֠עַתָּה אִם יֶשְׁכֶ֨ם (1)“So now/then, if you are willing”. Throughout this verse “you” is plural.
to show kindness and faithfulness to my master
Quote: עֹשִׂ֜ים חֶ֧סֶד וֶֽאֱמֶ֛ת אֶת אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“to {let her come with me, and in that way} show {your} kindness and faithfulness to my master,” or “to be kind and faithful to my master {by sending her with me},” See how you translated “kindness” and “faithfulness” in verse 27. If necessary in your translation, you can make it explicit how they would show kindness and faithfulness to Abraham.
tell me. But if not, tell me
Quote: הַגִּ֣ידוּ לִ֑י וְאִם לֹ֕א הַגִּ֣ידוּ לִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{please} tell me, or if you are not willing, tell me,” It may be clearer or more natural to put this information near the beginning of the sentence and say, “So now, please tell me whether or not you are willing to {let her come with me, and in that way} show {your} kindness and faithfulness to my master,” or “So now, please tell me whether or not you are willing to be kind and faithful to my master {by letting her come with me},” Do what is best in your language.
so that I will turn to the right or to the left
Quote: וְאֶפְנֶ֥ה עַל יָמִ֖ין א֥וֹ עַל שְׂמֹֽאל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so that I will/can know/decide which way to turn/go.” or “so that I can decide/know what to do {next}.” Consider whether your language has the same idiom that Hebrew has here, or a similar idiom, with the same meaning, or whether you need to say this without an idiom.
Genesis 24:50
Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן לָבָ֤ן וּבְתוּאֵל֙ וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Laban and {his father} Bethuel answered {Abraham’s servant},”
The thing has come from Yahweh
Quote: מֵיְהוָ֖ה יָצָ֣א הַדָּבָ֑ר (1)“{We can clearly see that} Yahweh has made {all} this happen,” or “{It is clear/obvious that} {all} this is the will of Yahweh,”
we are not able
Quote: לֹ֥א נוּכַ֛ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual
“{so} it is not our place/right” or “{so} we have no right”. Some languages have a dual pronoun that is used here.
to tell you bad or good
Quote: דַּבֵּ֥ר אֵלֶ֖יךָ רַ֥ע אוֹ טֽוֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“to tell you anything different {from what he has done/decided}.” or “to say/decide anything against what he has decided.”
Genesis 24:51
Behold, Rebekah {is} before you
Quote: הִנֵּֽה רִבְקָ֥ה לְפָנֶ֖יךָ (1)“See/Here, Rebekah {is} in front of you.” or “Look, here {is} Rebekah.”
Take her and go
Quote: קַ֣ח וָלֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{You may} take her {with you} and go/return {home}”
and let her be the wife of the son of your master
Quote: וּתְהִ֤י אִשָּׁה֙ לְבֶן אֲדֹנֶ֔יךָ (1)“so that she will be the wife of your master’s son” or “so that she can marry your master’s son”
as Yahweh has spoken
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה (1)“as Yahweh has guided.” or “just as Yahweh has decided/determined {it should be}.”
Genesis 24:52
Then it happened, when the servant of Abraham heard their words
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁמַ֛ע עֶ֥בֶד אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֶת דִּבְרֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“When Abraham’s servant heard what they said,” The phrase “Then it happened” introduces the climax of the chapter, when the servant responds to hearing that Yahweh has fulfilled his prayer to find a wife for Isaac. Do what is natural in your language.
then he bowed down to the ground before Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ אַ֖רְצָה לַֽיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“he bowed low to the ground and praised/thanked Yahweh.” See how you translated “bowed down” in verse 48. Notice that here in verse 52, the phrase “to the ground” is explicit and emphasized.
Genesis 24:53
Then the servant brought out
Quote: וַיּוֹצֵ֨א הָעֶ֜בֶד (1)“Then he brought/took out”
jewelry of silver and jewelry of gold, and clothing, and gave them to Rebekah
Quote: כְּלֵי כֶ֨סֶף וּכְלֵ֤י זָהָב֙ וּבְגָדִ֔ים וַיִּתֵּ֖ן לְרִבְקָ֑ה (1)“silver and gold jewelry and {other expensive/valuable gifts, including} {beautiful} clothing, and gave them to Rebekah.” or “{expensive/valuable gifts, including} silver and gold jewelry, and {also} {beautiful} clothing, and gave them to Rebekah.”
And he gave valuable things
Quote: וּמִ֨גְדָּנֹ֔ת נָתַ֥ן (1)“He {also} gave valuable/expensive gifts”
to her brother and to her mother
Quote: לְאָחִ֖יהָ וּלְאִמָּֽהּ (1)“to her brother and mother.” or “to her mother and brother.”
Genesis 24:54
Then he and the men who {were} with him ate and drank and lodged
Quote: וַיֹּאכְל֣וּ וַיִּשְׁתּ֗וּ ה֛וּא וְהָאֲנָשִׁ֥ים אֲשֶׁר־עִמּ֖וֹ וַיָּלִ֑ינוּ (1)“Then Abraham’s servant and his men ate {supper} and stayed/slept {there} that night.” See how you translated “lodged” in verses 23, 25, and 31.
Then in the morning they got up, and he said
Quote: וַיָּק֣וּמוּ בַבֹּ֔קֶר וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)“{Early} the next morning after everyone got/was up, he said {to Rebekah’s family},” or “{Early} the next morning when everyone {in Rebekah’s family} was up, Abraham’s servant said {to them},”
Send me to my master
Quote: שַׁלְּחֻ֥נִי לַֽאדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} let me/us return {home} {now} to my master.” Make sure that what Abraham’s servant says here sounds polite in your translation, not rude or demanding.
Genesis 24:55
But her brother and her mother said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אָחִ֨יהָ֙ וְאִמָּ֔הּ (1)“But her/Rebekah’s brother and mother said/replied {to him},”
Let the young woman stay with us
Quote: תֵּשֵׁ֨ב הַנַּעֲרָ֥ אִתָּ֛נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} let the young woman stay/remain {here} with us” or “{Please} let Rebekah stay/remain {here} with us”
a few days, at least ten
Quote: יָמִ֖ים א֣וֹ עָשׂ֑וֹר (1)“{for another} ten days or so.” or “around ten more days.”
After that she will go
Quote: אַחַ֖ר תֵּלֵֽךְ (1)“Then she can go {with you}.” or “Then you can go/leave and take her {with you}.”
Genesis 24:56
But he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual
“But the/Abraham’s servant said/responded to them,” Some languages have a dual pronoun that could be used here. However the servant is probably still addressing the whole family.
Do not detain me, since Yahweh has made my journey succeed. Send me off
Quote: אַל תְּאַחֲר֣וּ אֹתִ֔י וַֽיהוָ֖ה הִצְלִ֣יחַ דַּרְכִּ֑י שַׁלְּח֕וּנִי (1)“{Please} do not detain/delay me. Since Yahweh has made me successful on my journey, send me/us off” or “{Please} do not detain/delay me, now that Yahweh has given me success on my journey. Let me/us leave”. There are two different places where you could begin a new sentence here. Consider what is the most clear and natural way to do this in your language. Also, see how you translated “make my journey succeed” in verse 42.
so that I will go to my master
Quote: וְאֵלְכָ֖ה לַֽאדֹנִֽי (1)“so that I can go/return {home} to my master.”
Genesis 24:57
Then they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So they replied,” or “They replied {to him},”
Let’s call for the young woman
Quote: נִקְרָ֣א לַֽנַּעֲרָ֑ (1)“Let’s call/summon Rebekah” or “Let’s ask Rebekah to come here”. Consider again how you translated “young woman” in verses 14-16, 28, 43, 55, and 57, and see the note about this at verse 14. You may need to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and ask her mouth
Quote: וְנִשְׁאֲלָ֖ה אֶת פִּֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and ask her to tell us {what she wants to do}.” or “and ask her what she wants to do.” or “and ask her if she is willing to go now.”
Genesis 24:58
So they called for Rebekah
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֤וּ לְרִבְקָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So they called for her” or “So/Then they summoned her”. Consider whether it is better to use a name or a pronoun to refer to Rebekah here in your language, especially considering how you referred to her in verses 53, 55, and 57.
and said to her
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלֶ֔יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and asked her,”
Will you go with this man
Quote: הֲתֵלְכִ֖י עִם הָאִ֣ישׁ הַזֶּ֑ה (1)“Are you willing to go {now} with this man?” or “Do you want to go {now} with this man?”
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“She answered {them},”
I will go
Quote: אֵלֵֽךְ (1)“{Yes,} I will go {now}.” or “{Yes,} I am willing to go {now}.”
Genesis 24:59
Then they sent off Rebekah their sister
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּח֛וּ אֶת רִבְקָ֥ה אֲחֹתָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So they {agreed/decided to} send their sister Rebekah”. Notice that Rebekah does not actually leave until verse 61. If this is not clear in your translation, you could include the implied information that they agreed or decided to send her with Abraham’s servant.
and her nurse
Quote: וְאֶת מֵנִקְתָּ֑הּ (1)“and her {personal} servant {who had helped raise her},” The term “nurse” refers here to a servant woman who probably nursed Rebekah as a baby, took care of her as she was growing up, and still served her now.
and the servant of Abraham and his men
Quote: וְאֶת עֶ֥בֶד אַבְרָהָ֖ם וְאֶת אֲנָשָֽׁיו (1)“with Abraham's servant and his men/companions.”
Genesis 24:60
And they blessed Rebekah and said to her
Quote: וַיְבָרֲכ֤וּ אֶת רִבְקָה֙ וַיֹּ֣אמְרוּ לָ֔הּ (1)“They blessed Rebekah by saying to her,” Make sure your translation of “blessed … and said” refers to the same event, not two separate events.
Our sister
Quote: אֲחֹתֵ֕נוּ (1)“{Dear} {little} sister,” This is a term of endearment that family members used to refer to Rebekah even though she was not the actual sister of all of them. This practice is common in many cultures. Do what is natural in your language.
may you become
Quote: אַ֥תְּ הֲיִ֖י (1)“may you become {the mother/ancestor of}” or “we pray that you will have” or “we pray that God will give you”
thousands of myriads
Quote: לְאַלְפֵ֣י רְבָבָ֑ה (1)“thousands and thousands {of descendants},” or “countless/many thousands {of descendants},”
and may your offspring possess
Quote: וְיִירַ֣שׁ זַרְעֵ֔ךְ (1)“and we pray that your/those descendants will conquer/defeat” or “and we pray that God will help them conquer/defeat”
the gates of {those} hating them
Quote: אֵ֖ת שַׁ֥עַר שֹׂנְאָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“the cities of {all} their enemies!” or “{all} their enemies and rule over them!” See how you translated the phrase “possess the gates” in Gen 22:17.
Genesis 24:61
Then Rebekah got up and her maids
Quote: וַתָּ֨קָם רִבְקָ֜ה וְנַעֲרֹתֶ֗יהָ (1)“Then Rebekah and her maids/servants {who were going with her} got ready {to go}, and” or “After Rebekah and her maids/servants {who were going with her} packed their things,”
and they mounted the camels
Quote: וַתִּרְכַּ֨בְנָה֙ עַל הַגְּמַלִּ֔ים (1)“they got up on the camels {they were going to ride}”
and went with the man
Quote: וַתֵּלַ֖כְנָה אַחֲרֵ֣י הָאִ֑ישׁ (1)“and went with Abraham’s servant.” Consider again how you translated “the man” in verses 21, 22, 26, 29, 30, 32, 61. See the note about this at verse 21.
So the servant took Rebekah
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֥ח הָעֶ֛בֶד אֶת רִבְקָ֖ה (1)“So the/Abraham’s servant took Rebekah {with him}” or “So he took her {with him}”
and left
Quote: וַיֵּלַֽךְ (1)“and left {to return home}.” or “and started the journey {back} home.”
Genesis 24:62
Meanwhile Isaac came from going to
Quote: וְיִצְחָק֙ בָּ֣א מִבּ֔וֹא (1)“Meanwhile Isaac returned {home} from visiting” or “{While they were traveling,} Isaac returned {home} from a trip/visit {he had made} to”
Beer Lahai Roi
Quote: בְּאֵ֥ר לַחַ֖י רֹאִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{the place/well called} Beer Lahai Roi”. See how you translated the name of this place in Gen 16:14.
and he was living
Quote: וְה֥וּא יוֹשֵׁ֖ב (1)“{At that time} he was living” or “and/so he was {back home} where he lived”
in the land of the Negev
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ הַנֶּֽגֶב (1)“in the Negev {Wilderness/Desert} region/area.” or “in the Negev {Wilderness/Desert}.” See how you translated “the land of the Negev” in Gen 20:1, and “the Negev” in Gen 12:9; 13:1, 3.
Genesis 24:63
And Isaac went to meditate in the field
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א יִצְחָ֛ק לָשׂ֥וּחַ בַּשָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)“{One day} Isaac/he went out in/to the field/countryside to meditate/pray” or “{After Isaac/he had returned home, one day} he was meditating/praying out in the fields/countryside”. What Isaac does in verse 63 happened sometime after he returned from Beer Lahai Roi, but the Hebrew text does not say exactly when. So introduce this new event in a general way that is not too specific.
as it was turning toward evening
Quote: לִפְנ֣וֹת עָ֑רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“as it was becoming evening/dusk” or “late in the afternoon”. For some languages it is more natural to put this time phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “{One day} as it was becoming evening, Isaac/he went …” or “One evening, Isaac/he went …” Do what is best in your language.
and he lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֤א עֵינָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{As he was praying,} he looked up”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and saw that, behold
Quote: וַיַּ֔רְא וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)“and saw {in the distance} that there were” or “and suddenly he saw {in the distance}”
camels were coming
Quote: גְמַלִּ֖ים בָּאִֽים (1)“{some} camels coming/heading {toward him}.” or “{some} camels approaching {him}.”
Genesis 24:64
And Rebekah lifted her eyes and saw Isaac
Quote: וַתִּשָּׂ֤א רִבְקָה֙ אֶת עֵינֶ֔יהָ וַתֵּ֖רֶא אֶת יִצְחָ֑ק (1)“Rebekah {also} looked up and saw Isaac.” or “Then Rebekah, as she looked ahead {of her}, saw Isaac.”
Then she dismounted
Quote: וַתִּפֹּ֖ל (1)“Then she {quickly} jumped/got down” or “Immediately she got down”
from the camel
Quote: מֵעַ֥ל הַגָּמָֽל (1)“from/off the camel {that she was riding},” Consider again how you translated “camel” throughout chapter 24.
Genesis 24:65
and she said to the servant
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל הָעֶ֗בֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and asked {Abraham’s} servant,”
Who {is} that man in the field who is coming to meet us
Quote: מִֽי הָאִ֤ישׁ הַלָּזֶה֙ הַהֹלֵ֤ךְ בַּשָּׂדֶה֙ לִקְרָאתֵ֔נוּ (1)“Who {is} that man in the field who is walking {this way} to greet us?” or “Who {is} that man walking towards us in the field?”
And the servant said, “He {is} my master
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר הָעֶ֖בֶד ה֣וּא אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)“The servant answered {her}, “He {is} my master {Isaac}.” ” Abraham and Isaac were both the servant’s masters, especially since Abraham had already given Isaac all of his possessions (verse 36), which included his servants. Consider again how you translated “master/owner” throughout chapter 24.
So she took the veil and covered herself
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֥ח הַצָּעִ֖יף וַתִּתְכָּֽס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“So she took the/her veil and covered her face with it {to show modesty}.” or “So she covered herself with a/her veil {to show modesty}.” In that culture a bride-to-be wore a large veil to cover her entire body, especially her face, to show modesty and submission to her husband.
Genesis 24:66
Then the servant reported to Isaac
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֥ר הָעֶ֖בֶד לְיִצְחָ֑ק (1)“Then the servant told Isaac” or “{When they reached Isaac,} the servant told him”
all the things that he had done
Quote: אֵ֥ת כָּל הַדְּבָרִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָֽׂה (1)“everything/all that he had done {on/during the journey/trip}.” or “everything/all that had happened {on/during his journey}.”
Genesis 24:67
Then Isaac brought her
Quote: וַיְבִאֶ֣הָ יִצְחָ֗ק (1)“Then/So Isaac brought/took Rebekah”
into the tent of Sarah his mother
Quote: הָאֹ֨הֱלָה֙ שָׂרָ֣ה אִמּ֔וֹ (1)“into the tent where his mother Sarah had lived {before she died},” Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like Sarah still lived there; she had died three years previously (Gen 23:1-2).
and he took Rebekah
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֧ח אֶת רִבְקָ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he married her,”
and she became a wife to him
Quote: וַתְּהִי ל֥וֹ לְאִשָּׁ֖ה (1)“so that she became his wife.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהָבֶ֑הָ יִצְחָ֖ק (1)“Isaac loved her/Rebekah,” or “Isaac was/fell in love with her/Rebekah,”
and he was comforted
Quote: וַיִּנָּחֵ֥ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and he was consoled {by her}” or “and he was happy again” or “and she made him happy again”
after his mother
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֥י אִמּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“after {mourning for} his mother {who had died}.” or “after {the sadness of} his mother’s {death}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation here why Isaac needed comforting.
Genesis 25
Genesis 25:1
Then Abraham added and took a wife, and her name {was} Keturah
Quote: וַיֹּ֧סֶף אַבְרָהָ֛ם וַיִּקַּ֥ח אִשָּׁ֖ה וּשְׁמָ֥הּ קְטוּרָֽה (1)“Then Abraham married another wife/woman, who was named Keturah.” or “Then Abraham got married again, and his wife’s name {was} Keturah.” Abraham probably married Keturah after Sarah died (Gen 23:1-2) and after Isaac married Rebekah (Gen 24:67). Make sure your translation of this verse does not sound like Abraham had two wives named Keturah.
Genesis 25:2
And she bore for him
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד ל֗וֹ (1)“She/Keturah gave birth to sons for him/Abraham {whose names were}” or “She bore/had {sons} for/with him {whom they named}” or “They had sons together {whom they named}”. See how you translated “bore for him” in Gen 21:3; 24:47.
Zimran and Jokshan and Medan and Midian and Ishbak and Shuah
Quote: אֶת זִמְרָן֙ וְאֶת יָקְשָׁ֔ן וְאֶת מְדָ֖ן וְאֶת מִדְיָ֑ן וְאֶת יִשְׁבָּ֖ק וְאֶת שֽׁוּחַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah.” See how you used commas and conjunctions in similar lists of names in Gen 22:22, 24.
Genesis 25:3
And Jokshan fathered
Quote: וְיָקְשָׁ֣ן יָלַ֔ד (1)“Jokshan was the father of” or “{Her/Keturah’s son} Jokshan had”. See how you translated “fathered” in Gen 11:27.
Sheba and Dedan
Quote: אֶת שְׁבָ֖א וְאֶת דְּדָ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{sons named} Sheba and Dedan.” or “{sons whom they named} Sheba and Dedan.”
And the descendants of Dedan were the Asshurim and the Letushim and the Leummim
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י דְדָ֔ן הָי֛וּ אַשּׁוּרִ֥ם וּלְטוּשִׁ֖ים וּלְאֻמִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Dedan’s descendants were/became {people/ethnic groups named} the Asshurites, Letushites, and Leummites.” See how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10:4, 13-14, 16-18, and see the note about that at 10:4.
Genesis 25:4
And the sons of Midian {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י מִדְיָ֗ן (1)“{Keturah’s son} Midian fathered/had sons {named}”
Ephah and Epher and Hanoch and Abida and Eldaah
Quote: עֵיפָ֤ה וָעֵ֨פֶר֙ וַחֲנֹ֔ךְ וַאֲבִידָ֖ע וְאֶלְדָּעָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah.” Consider what is the best way to connect the names in this list in your language.
All of those {were} the descendants of Keturah
Quote: כָּל אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י קְטוּרָֽה (1)“All of those {were} Keturah’s descendants {whom she had with Abraham}.” or “All those {were} the descendants of Keturah {and Abraham}.” This phrase refers back to all the people listed in verses 2-4, which includes Keturah’s six sons, seven grandsons and three great grandsons. Make sure you spelled “Keturah” consistently in verses 1-4.
Genesis 25:5
And Abraham gave everything that {belonged} to him to Isaac
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֧ן אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֶת כָּל אֲשֶׁר ל֖וֹ לְיִצְחָֽק (1)“Abraham left/willed everything that he owned to Isaac.” or “And Isaac inherited all/everything that Abraham owned/possessed.” Some languages have a specific word such as “left” or “willed” that means to give something as an inheritance. In that time and culture, a father would give his children their inheritance before he died.
Genesis 25:6
And to the sons of the concubines who {belonged} to Abraham, Abraham gave gifts
Quote: וְלִבְנֵ֤י הַפִּֽילַגְשִׁים֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאַבְרָהָ֔ם נָתַ֥ן אַבְרָהָ֖ם מַתָּנֹ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Abraham/He also gave {valuable} gifts to the sons he had with his concubines,” or “Abraham/He also gave (valuable gifts) to the sons that his servant wives had {for/with him},” See how you translated “concubine” in Gen 22:24. The word “gifts” in this clause is very general and can include domestic animals, servants, gold, silver, and other things.
and while he was still alive he sent them eastward to the land of Kedem
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּחֵ֞ם & בְּעוֹדֶ֣נּוּ חַ֔י קֵ֖דְמָה אֶל־אֶ֥רֶץ קֶֽדֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“then while he was still alive he sent them eastward to the land/region in the East” or “and/but after that he sent them to the east country” or “and/but after that he made them move away to the east country”. The Hebrew word “Kedem” means “east” and refers to the region east of Canaan and the Dead Sea. Consider whether it is best in your language to transliterate (copy) the Hebrew name or to translate the meaning.
away from Isaac his son
Quote: מֵעַ֨ל יִצְחָ֤ק בְּנוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{to be/live} {far} away from his son Isaac.” or “{so that they would live/be} {far} away from his son Isaac.”
Genesis 25:7
And these {are} the days of the years of the life of Abraham that he lived: 175 years
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה יְמֵ֛י שְׁנֵֽי חַיֵּ֥י אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֲשֶׁר חָ֑י מְאַ֥ת שָׁנָ֛ה וְשִׁבְעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְחָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִֽים (1)“The length of Abraham’s life that he lived was 175 years.” or “Abraham lived a total of 175 years.” or “Abraham lived to be 175 years old.”
Genesis 25:8
Then Abraham exhaled
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֨ע & אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)“Then Abraham/he breathed out {for the last time}” or “Then he breathed/took his last/final breath”
and died at a good old age
Quote: וַיָּ֧מָת & בְּשֵׂיבָ֥ה טוֹבָ֖ה (1)“and died at a ripe/very old age,” or “and died when he was very old,”
elderly and full
Quote: זָקֵ֣ן וְשָׂבֵ֑עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“an elderly/old man who had lived a full life, and” or “After he had lived a long and satisfying/blessed life,” The idiom “full” refers to a long life that was blessed by God. Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and he was gathered to
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֖סֶף אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“he was gathered/taken {by God} to be with” or “{God} took his spirit to be with” or “he joined”. The phrase “gathered to his people” is a euphemism that refers to dying but also implies that God took his spirit to be with his ancestors who had already died. It is best to translate this phrase fairly literally since it teaches about life after death.
his people
Quote: עַמָּֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“his ancestors/relatives {who had already died}.” or “his ancestors/relatives {who had gone/died before him}.” or “his {deceased} ancestors/relatives.” Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like these ancestors were still alive. They had already died before Abraham died.
Genesis 25:9
Then Isaac and Ishmael his sons buried him
Quote: וַיִּקְבְּר֨וּ אֹת֜וֹ יִצְחָ֤ק וְיִשְׁמָעֵאל֙ בָּנָ֔יו (1)“His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried/put/placed his body”
in the cave of Machpelah
Quote: אֶל מְעָרַ֖ת הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֑ה (1)“in the cave of/in the Machpelah {area}”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 23:9, and see the note about that there. Also see how you translated similar phrases in Gen 23:17, 19.
in the field of Ephron the son of Zohar the Hittite
Quote: אֶל שְׂדֵ֞ה עֶפְרֹ֤ן בֶּן צֹ֨חַר֙ הַֽחִתִּ֔י (1)“{which was} in the field that had belonged to Ephron the son of Zohar the Hittite,” Ephron no longer owned the field (See: verse 10).
which {was} before Mamre
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל פְּנֵ֥י מַמְרֵֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“east of {the city of} Mamre.” or “near {the city of} Mamre.” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “before Mamre” in Gen 23:17, 19.
Genesis 25:10
the field that Abraham had bought
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶ֛ה אֲשֶׁר קָנָ֥ה אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)“{That is} the {same} field that Abraham had bought”
from the sons of Heth
Quote: מֵאֵ֣ת בְּנֵי חֵ֑ת (1)“from the Hittites.” The Hebrew text has two different ways to refer to the Hittites; compare the phrase here with verse 9 where a single Hebrew word is used to refer to this people group. See how you translated “the sons of Heth” in Gen 23:20.
There Abraham was buried, and Sarah his wife
Quote: שָׁ֛מָּה קֻבַּ֥ר אַבְרָהָ֖ם וְשָׂרָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Abraham was buried in that cave, where his wife Sarah had also been buried.” or “That is {the cave} where his/Abraham’s sons buried/put/placed his body next to {the body of} his wife Sarah {whom he had buried there before}.” or “That is where Sarah had been buried, and they buried Abraham {next to her}.” Abraham had already buried Sarah’s body in the cave (Gen 23:19). Make sure your translation of this sentence does not sound like Sarah was buried there a second time.
Genesis 25:11
And it happened after the death of Abraham
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחֲרֵי֙ מ֣וֹת אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)“After Abraham died,”
then God blessed Isaac his son
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-order
“God blessed his son Isaac”. Use the phrase order in your language that is most natural in this context.
And Isaac lived near
Quote: וַיֵּ֣שֶׁב יִצְחָ֔ק עִם (1)“who lived/settled near” or “Isaac lived {in the region} near”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Beer Lahai Roi
Quote: בְּאֵ֥ר לַחַ֖י רֹאִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{the place/well called} Beer Lahai Roi.” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Beer Lahai Roi” in Gen 24:62.
Genesis 25:12
Now these {are} the generations of
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תֹּלְדֹ֥ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“This/Here {is} the genealogy/family-line of” or “This/Here {is} the list/record of the descendants of” or “What follows {is} the/a record of the descendants of”. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce the new topic that begins here. See how you translated this clause in Gen 11:10.
Ishmael the son of Abraham
Quote: יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל בֶּן אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-order
“of Abraham’s son Ishmael,”
whom Hagar the Egyptian, the maidservant of Sarah, had born for Abraham
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָלְדָ֜ה הָגָ֧ר הַמִּצְרִ֛ית שִׁפְחַ֥ת שָׂרָ֖ה לְאַבְרָהָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-order
“whom Sarah’s Egyptian maidservant Hagar gave birth to for Abraham.” or “whom Abraham had with Sarah’s Egyptian slave woman Hagar.”
Genesis 25:13
And these {are} the names of the sons of Ishmael
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה שְׁמוֹת֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׁמָעֵ֔אל (1)“These/Here {are} the names of Ishmael’s sons,” or “Here {is} {a list/record of} the names of Ishmael’s sons,”
by their names according to their births
Quote: בִּשְׁמֹתָ֖ם לְתוֹלְדֹתָ֑ם (1)“{listed/given} in the order that they were born:”
the firstborn of Ishmael {was} Nebaioth
Quote: בְּכֹ֤ר יִשְׁמָעֵאל֙ נְבָיֹ֔ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“His oldest {son/child} {was} Nebaioth,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
then Kedar and Adbeel and Mibsam
Quote: וְקֵדָ֥ר וְאַדְבְּאֵ֖ל וּמִבְשָֽׂם (1)“followed by Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam,” or “After him came Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 25:14
and Mishma and Dumah and Massa
Quote: וּמִשְׁמָ֥ע וְדוּמָ֖ה וּמַשָּֽׂא (1)“Mishma, Dumah, Massa,”
Genesis 25:15
Hadad and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedermah
Quote: חֲדַ֣ד וְתֵימָ֔א יְט֥וּר נָפִ֖ישׁ וָקֵֽדְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedermah.” See how you translated a similar list of names in verses 2-4.
Genesis 25:16
Those {were} the sons of Ishmael
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה הֵ֞ם בְּנֵ֤י יִשְׁמָעֵאל֙ (1)“Those/They {were} Ishmael’s {twelve} sons,”
and those {are} their names by their settlements and by their camps, twelve rulers according to their tribes
Quote: וְאֵ֣לֶּה שְׁמֹתָ֔ם בְּחַצְרֵיהֶ֖ם וּבְטִֽירֹתָ֑ם שְׁנֵים עָשָׂ֥ר נְשִׂיאִ֖ם לְאֻמֹּתָֽם (1)“who became the rulers/leaders of twelve tribes that were named after them, and each tribe lived in its {own} settlements/towns and camps/villages.” or “Each of them became the ruler/leader of a tribe that was named after him, and each tribe had its own towns/villages and {tent} camps/settlements.” The Hebrew words for “settlements” and “camps” overlap in meaning. Both refer to temporary or permanent places where people settled, surrounded by some sort of wall or fence. Also, many translations have “princes” here instead of “rulers,” but these Ishmaelite rulers were not actually sons of a king. See how you translated “rulers” in Gen 17:20.
Genesis 25:17
And these {are} the years of the life of Ishmael: 137 years
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה שְׁנֵי֙ חַיֵּ֣י יִשְׁמָעֵ֔אל מְאַ֥ת שָׁנָ֛ה וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְשֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)“The length of Ishmael’s life that he lived was 137 years.” or “Ishmael lived a total of 137 years.” “Ishmael lived to be 137 years old.” See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 7.
Then he exhaled and died
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֣ע וַיָּ֔מָת (1)“Then he/Ishmael breathed out {for the last time} and died,” or “Then he/Ishmael breathed/took his last/final breath and died,” See how you translated “exhaled” in verse 8.
and he was gathered to
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֖סֶף אֶל (1)“and he was gathered/taken {by God} to be with” or “and {God} took his spirit to be with {the spirits of}” or “and he joined”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 8.
his people
Quote: עַמָּֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“his ancestors/relatives {who had already died}.” or “his ancestors/relatives {who had gone/died before him}.” or “his {deceased} ancestors/relatives.”
Genesis 25:18
And they settled
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכְּנ֨וּ (1)“His/Ishmael’s descendants settled/lived”
from Havilah to Shur
Quote: מֵֽחֲוִילָ֜ה עַד שׁ֗וּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{throughout the area that extended} from {the region of} Havilah to {the wilderness/desert of} Shur”. Be consistent here with how you spelled “Havilah” in Gen 2:11; 10:7, 29 and “Shur” in Gen 16:7; 20:1. The name “Shur” means “wall”. The Wilderness of Shur may have been named after a city or fortification named Shur that was located near the eastern border of Egypt (Gen 16:7).
that {is} near Egypt
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל פְּנֵ֣י מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“that {is} east of {the country/land of} Egypt”
as you go
Quote: בֹּאֲכָ֖ה (1)“as you go/head {from there}” or “as one goes/travels”
toward Asshur
Quote: אַשּׁ֑וּרָה (1)“to {the city of} Asshur {in Assyria}.” or “in the direction of {the land/country of} Assyria.” Assyria and its capital city Asshur were far east of Shur. Consider again how you spelled “Asshur” in Gen 2:14; 10:11, 22, and 25:3, 18.
He fell in the face of all his brothers
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י כָל אֶחָ֖יו נָפָֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text has an idiom here that is ambiguous in this context. It could mean: (1) “He/They lived in hostility toward/against all his/their brothers/relatives.” or “They lived as enemies against all their brothers/relatives.” See how you translated a different idiom in 16:12 that probably has this meaning. Or it could mean: (2) “They settled/lived in the presence of all their brothers/relatives.” or “They settled/lived among/near all their brothers/relatives.” or (3) “He/Ishmael died in the presence of all his brothers/relatives.” or “He/Ishmael died when/while all his brothers were still alive.”
Genesis 25:19
And these {are} the generations of Isaac the son of Abraham
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תּוֹלְדֹ֥ת יִצְחָ֖ק בֶּן אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“This/Here {is} {more of} the record/history of/about Abraham’s son Isaac and his descendants/family:” or “What follows tells {more} about Abraham’s son Isaac and his descendants/family:” We have already heard about much of Isaac’s history in previous chapters; now we are told even more. See how you translated “these are the generations of” in verse 12 and Gen 6:9.
Abraham fathered Isaac
Quote: אַבְרָהָ֖ם הוֹלִ֥יד אֶת יִצְחָֽק (1)“{After} Abraham fathered/had {his son} Isaac,” See how you translated “fathered” in verse 3.
Genesis 25:20
then Isaac was a son of forty years when he took Rebekah for himself as a wife
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יִצְחָק֙ בֶּן אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה בְּקַחְתּ֣וֹ אֶת רִבְקָ֗ה & ל֥וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“Isaac {grew up and} married Rebekah when he was forty/40 years old.” See how you translated “was a son of … years” in Gen 21:5.
the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan Aram
Quote: בַּת בְּתוּאֵל֙ הָֽאֲרַמִּ֔י מִפַּדַּ֖ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)“{She/Rebekah was} the/a daughter of Bethuel, {who was} an Aramean from {the land/region of} Paddan Aram,”
the sister of Laban
Quote: אֲח֛וֹת לָבָ֥ן (1)“and {she was} a sister of Laban” or “and her brother was Laban”
the Aramean
Quote: הָאֲרַמִּ֖י (1)“{who was also} an Aramean.”
Genesis 25:21
And Isaac entreated Yahweh on behalf of his wife because she {was} barren
Quote: וַיֶּעְתַּ֨ר יִצְחָ֤ק לַֽיהוָה֙ לְנֹ֣כַח אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ כִּ֥י עֲקָרָ֖ה הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Isaac prayed {earnestly} to Yahweh for his wife {to have children} because she {was} barren/infertile.” or “But/However {for many years} Rebekah was not able to become/get pregnant, so Isaac prayed that Yahweh would give her children.” Isaac and Rebekah had been married for almost 20 years and they still had no children. See how you translated “barren” in Gen 11:30. Also, it may be clearer to change the order of the clauses in this sentence to put them in the order in which they happened. Do what is best in your language.
So Yahweh was entreated by him
Quote: וַיֵּעָ֤תֶר לוֹ֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)“Yahweh answered his/Isaac’s prayer,” or “Yahweh did what he/Isaac prayed for,”
and Rebekah his wife conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֖הַר רִבְקָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“so that Rebekah/she became pregnant {with twins}.” For some languages it is clearer to include here the fact that Rebekah was pregnant with two babies, rather than wait until verse 22. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 25:22
And the children struggled against each other inside her
Quote: וַיִּתְרֹֽצֲצ֤וּ הַבָּנִים֙ בְּקִרְבָּ֔הּ (1)“And/But the {two} babies inside her kept/started pushing/shoving against each other,” or “After a while the twins wrestled with each other inside her,”
so she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“so she/Rebekah asked,”
Why {is this} so? Why {am} I {like} this
Quote: אִם כֵּ֔ן לָ֥מָּה זֶּ֖ה אָנֹ֑כִי (1)“Why is this happening to me?” or “What is happening inside me?”
And she went to inquire of Yahweh
Quote: וַתֵּ֖לֶךְ לִדְרֹ֥שׁ אֶת יְהוָֽה (1)“Then she went/turned to Yahweh to ask him {what was happening}.” or “Then she prayed to Yahweh about it.”
Genesis 25:23
And Yahweh said to her
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה לָ֗הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Yahweh/He answered her,”
Two nations {are} inside your womb
Quote: שְׁנֵ֤י גוֹיִם֙ בְּבִטְנֵ֔ךְ (1)“{The ancestors of} two {future} people groups {are} inside you.” or “Inside you {are} {the ancestors of} two people groups.” or “{The two babies} inside your womb will become {the fathers/ancestors of} two nations.” Many translations put Yahweh’s words in poetry format in this verse. If your translation team decides to do this, look at a Bible version that does this to know where to divide the clauses.
and two peoples
Quote: וּשְׁנֵ֣י לְאֻמִּ֔ים (1)“Those two people groups” or “Those two ancestors” or “They”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
will be divided
Quote: יִפָּרֵ֑דוּ (1)“will be divided/hostile {against each other}” or “will be rivals/enemies”
from inside your womb
Quote: מִמֵּעַ֖יִךְ (1)“{starting now} even while they are {still} inside you.” or “{starting now} even before they are born.”
And one people will be stronger than the other people
Quote: וּלְאֹם֙ מִלְאֹ֣ם יֶֽאֱמָ֔ץ (1)“One of them will be more powerful than the other,”
and the older will serve the younger
Quote: וְרַ֖ב יַעֲבֹ֥ד צָעִֽיר (1)“so that the older {son’s descendants} will serve the younger {son’s descendants}.”
Genesis 25:24
Then her days were fulfilled to deliver
Quote: וַיִּמְלְא֥וּ יָמֶ֖יהָ לָלֶ֑דֶת (1)“Later when it was time for her/Rebekah to give birth,”
and behold, twins {were} inside her womb
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה תוֹמִ֖ם בְּבִטְנָֽהּ (1)“sure enough, {there were} twin boys/sons inside her!”
Genesis 25:25
And the first came out red; all of him {was} like a garment of hair
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֤א הָרִאשׁוֹן֙ אַדְמוֹנִ֔י כֻּלּ֖וֹ כְּאַדֶּ֣רֶת שֵׂעָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“When the first one/baby came out, he was covered with thick red hair so that he was as hairy as a fur coat/robe.” or “The first {one/baby} who was born was completely covered with thick red hair.”
so they called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֥וּ שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So his parents named him” or “So he was called/named”. The Hebrew text has “they” here, which probably refers to Esau’s parents and may include people in general after his parents named him.
Esau
Quote: עֵשָֽׂו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Esau, {which means “hairy.”}” Consider whether or not to include the meaning of Esau’s name in the text or in a footnote.
Genesis 25:26
Then after that
Quote: וְאַֽחֲרֵי כֵ֞ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-sequential
“Next”
his brother came out
Quote: יָצָ֣א אָחִ֗יו (1)“his brother was born,” Some languages have a specific term for a younger brother that fits here. See what you did in Gen 4:2.
and his hand was grabbing on to the heel of Esau
Quote: וְיָד֤וֹ אֹחֶ֨זֶת֙ בַּעֲקֵ֣ב עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)“with his hand holding on {tightly} to Esau’s heel.” or “gripping Esau’s heel {tightly} with his hand.”
so he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So they called/named him” or “So he was called/named”. See how you translated a similar clause in verse 25 that probably has the same meaning.
Jacob
Quote: יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Jacob, {which means “heel-grabber.”}” If you decide to include the meaning of Jacob’s name in the text or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate “grabbing” earlier in this sentence.
And Isaac {was} a son of sixty years
Quote: וְיִצְחָ֛ק בֶּן שִׁשִּׁ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Isaac {was} sixty years old”. See how you translated the idiom “was a son of … years” in verse 20.
when she bore them
Quote: בְּלֶ֥דֶת אֹתָֽם (1)“when Rebekah gave birth to them.” or “when Esau and Jacob were born.”
Genesis 25:27
Then the boys grew up
Quote: וַֽיִּגְדְּלוּ֙ הַנְּעָרִ֔ים (1)“When/As the boys grew up/older,”
and Esau became a man who knew hunting
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י עֵשָׂ֗ו אִ֛ישׁ יֹדֵ֥עַ צַ֖יִד (1)“Esau became a skilled/expert hunter,” or “Esau became good at hunting animals {for food},” See how you translated a similar phrase (“mighty hunter”) in Gen 10:9.
a man of the field
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ שָׂדֶ֑ה (1)“and he enjoyed/preferred {being/working in} the open country,” or “and he was an outdoorsman,”
and Jacob {was} a quiet man
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹב֙ אִ֣ישׁ תָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“but/whereas Jacob {was} a quiet/mild-mannered man/person” or “Jacob, on the other hand, had a quiet/mild-mannered personality/character”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, make sure that it is clear in your translation that Esau and Jacob are being contrasted.
who stayed among the tents
Quote: יֹשֵׁ֖ב אֹהָלִֽים (1)“and stayed/worked close to home.” or “and {liked/preferred} to be/work at/near home.”
Genesis 25:28
And Isaac loved Esau
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֥ב יִצְחָ֛ק אֶת עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)“Isaac loved Esau {most},” or “Isaac’s favorite son was Esau,” Your translation should not sound like Isaac and Rebekah did not love both of their sons. Rather, they each had their favorite son.
because {he liked} game meat in his mouth
Quote: כִּי צַ֣יִד בְּפִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because he liked to eat the meat of wild animals/deer {that he/Esau hunted},” Make sure your translation of “he liked” refers here to Isaac, not Esau. For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “Isaac liked to eat wild animal/deer meat, so his favorite son was Esau”. Do what is best your language.
but Rebekah loved Jacob
Quote: וְרִבְקָ֖ה אֹהֶ֥בֶת אֶֽת יַעֲקֹֽב (1)“but/whereas Rebekah loved Jacob {most}.” or “but/whereas Rebekah’s favorite son was Jacob.” See how you translated a similar clause earlier in this verse.
Genesis 25:29
Now Jacob was cooking stew
Quote: וַיָּ֥זֶד יַעֲקֹ֖ב נָזִ֑יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“{Once} Jacob was making/cooking {some} stew/soup,” or “{One day} when Jacob was making {some} stew/soup,” According to verse 34, this stew (or thick soup) was made out of lentils, which are a type of bean; it may also have had pieces of meat in it. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce the first event in this episode (following the background information in verses 27-28).
and Esau came in from the field
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א עֵשָׂ֛ו מִן הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)“Esau came home from {hunting/working out in} the fields/country”. See how you translated “field” in verse 27.
and he {was} exhausted
Quote: וְה֥וּא עָיֵֽף (1)“and he {was/felt} exhausted/weak {from hunger}.” or “and he {was/felt} exhausted/weak {and hungry}.” or “extremely/very tired {and hungry}.” The Hebrew word for “exhausted” means Esau was very tired (perhaps even feeling faint) from his hunting or work, as well as hungry and thirsty from lack of food. Some languages have an idiom for this that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 25:30
Then Esau said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר עֵשָׂ֜ו אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Esau asked Jacob,” or “So Esau requested from Jacob,” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Please let me devour
Quote: הַלְעִיטֵ֤נִי נָא֙ (1)“Please let me eat/have”
some of that very red stuff
Quote: מִן הָאָדֹ֤ם הָאָדֹם֙ הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“some of that very/dark red stew/soup {you are making}”
because I {am} exhausted
Quote: כִּ֥י עָיֵ֖ף אָנֹ֑כִי (1)“because I {am/feel} exhausted/weak {from hunger}!” or “because I {am/feel} {hungry and} exhausted/weak!” See how you translated “exhausted” in verse 29.
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֥ן (1)“That is why” or “Because he/Esau said that,”
they called his name
Quote: קָרָֽא שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“he/Esau was/is {also} called/nicknamed” or “his/Esau’s nickname was” or “they/people called/nicknamed him”. Frequently in the Hebrew text, this phrase has a general meaning and does not refer to someone specific. Do what is best in your language.
Edom
Quote: אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Edom, {which means “red.”}” You could include the meaning of “Edom” in your translation or in a footnote so that it is clear why Esau was given that name.
Genesis 25:31
But Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Jacob said/replied {to him},” or “Jacob replied,”
On this day
Quote: כַיּ֛וֹם (1)“Today {right now}” or “Right now” or “First”
sell your birthright to me
Quote: מִכְרָ֥ה & אֶת בְּכֹֽרָתְךָ֖ לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“give your birthright to me in exchange {for some stew/soup}.” or “trade your rights as the firstborn/oldest son to me {for the/some stew/soup,} {then I will give you some}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob was offering the stew as payment for Esau’s birthright as the firstborn son. In Hebrew culture the firstborn son inherited twice as much as the rest of the children in the family (Deuteronomy 21:15-17). That information could be put in a footnote so that people understand what Esau was selling for a bowl of stew.
Genesis 25:32
And Esau said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Esau said/responded {to him},”
Behold, I am about to die
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אָנֹכִ֥י הוֹלֵ֖ךְ לָמ֑וּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“Look, I am about to die {from hunger}!” or “Look/Listen, {I am so hungry that I feel like} I am about/going to die!” Esau is using hyperbole or exaggeration here to emphasize how hungry he is. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
So for what use {is} that to me, a birthright
Quote: וְלָמָּה זֶּ֥ה לִ֖י בְּכֹרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“So how will my birthright benefit me {if I die}?” or “So my birthright is of no use/value/benefit to me {right now}!” Esau uses a rhetorical question to emphasize his point about how hungry he is. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question works well here in your language.
Genesis 25:33
But Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob insisted,”
Swear to me on this day
Quote: הִשָּׁ֤בְעָה לִּי֙ כַּיּ֔וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{First} make an oath/vow to me today {before God} {that your rights are now mine}!” or “{You must first} vow/promise to me right now {that you sell/give your rights to me}.” See how you translated “swear to me by God” in Gen 21:23.
So he swore to him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבַ֖ע ל֑וֹ (1)“So he/Esau swore/vowed to him/Jacob” or “So Esau made an unbreakable promise/vow to him/Jacob”. Make sure the way you translate this clause fits well with what Jacob just said.
and sold his birthright to Jacob
Quote: וַיִּמְכֹּ֥ר אֶת בְּכֹרָת֖וֹ לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)“that he had sold/traded his rights as the firstborn/oldest son to Jacob/him {for the stew/soup}.” or “that he was selling/giving his firstborn-son-rights to Jacob/him {in exchange for the stew/soup}.” See how you translated “sell your birthright” in verse 31. Also see how Hebrews 12:16 is translated, which refers to the same event.
Genesis 25:34
Then Jacob gave to Esau bread and lentil stew
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֞ב נָתַ֣ן לְעֵשָׂ֗ו לֶ֚חֶם וּנְזִ֣יד עֲדָשִׁ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“Then Jacob gave Esau {some} bread and {some of the} lentil stew/soup,” or “Then Jacob gave Esau {some of the} lentil stew/soup and/with {some} bread,” Consider again how you translated “stew/soup” in verses 29 and 34. Lentils are small, round, flat, reddish-brown legume seeds that grow inside a pod (similar to peas or beans). If lentils are not known in your area, you could describe them as “a type of legume/bean called lentils”.
and he ate and drank, and got up and left
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אכַל וַיֵּ֔שְׁתְּ וַיָּ֖קָם וַיֵּלַ֑ךְ (1)“and Esau ate, drank, got/stood up, and left.” or “and Esau {quickly/hurriedly} ate the meal and left.” Consider what is the most natural way to translate this series of actions that happened quickly one after the other and shows how carelessly Esau treated his birthright.
So Esau despised his birthright
Quote: וַיִּ֥בֶז עֵשָׂ֖ו אֶת הַבְּכֹרָֽה (1)“So Esau showed that he did not value his rights as the firstborn/oldest son.” or “In that way, Esau treated his birthright {carelessly/flippantly} as if it had no/little value.” See how you translated “birthright” in verses 31-33.
Genesis 26
Genesis 26:1
Then there was
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Now there was”. Consider what is the best way in your language to begin this new episode.
a famine
Quote: רָעָב֙ (1)“{another} famine” or “{another} extreme/serious shortage/lack of food” or “{another} {time of} extreme/severe food shortage”. See how you translated “famine” in Gen 12:10.
besides the earlier famine that was
Quote: מִלְּבַד֙ הָרָעָ֣ב הָרִאשׁ֔וֹן אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיָ֖ה (1)“in addition to the previous famine/one/shortage that occurred/happened” or “{This was} a different famine/shortage from the one that had happened {years} earlier/before,”
in the days of Abraham
Quote: בִּימֵ֣י אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)“during Abraham’s lifetime.” or “while Abraham was still alive.”
So Isaac went
Quote: וַיֵּ֧לֶךְ יִצְחָ֛ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So Isaac {and his family} went”. In your translation it should not sound like Isaac went alone to the city of Gerar; the rest of his family lived with him.
to Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, to Gerar
Quote: אֶל אֲבִימֶּ֥לֶךְ מֶֽלֶךְ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים גְּרָֽרָה (1)“went {for help} to the Philistine king Abimelech, {who lived} in {the city of} Gerar.” or “went to {the city of} Gerar to {ask for help from} King Abimelech, who ruled over the Philistines.” Be consistent here with how you translated “{the city of} Gerar” in Gen 10:19; 20:1-2 and “Philistines” in Gen 10:14; 21:32, 34.
Genesis 26:2
Then Yahweh appeared to him
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֤א אֵלָיו֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Yahweh came to Isaac”. See how you translated “appeared” in Gen 12:7. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to refer to Isaac here with his name or a pronoun.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to him},” or “and told/commanded {him},” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Do not go down
Quote: אַל תֵּרֵ֣ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Do not go/travel south” or “Do not go/travel”. Egypt was lower in elevation and also south of the land of the Philistines. Many translations leave that information implied. Do what is best in your language.
to Egypt
Quote: מִצְרָ֑יְמָה (1)“to {the land/country of} Egypt,”
live in the land that I tell you
Quote: שְׁכֹ֣ן בָּאָ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)“{but rather} live/stay/reside in the/this land where/wherever I tell you {to live}.” or “{but rather} live where/wherever I tell you to live.”
Genesis 26:3
Sojourn
Quote: גּ֚וּר (1)“You must live/stay/reside for a while” or “Live/Stay/Reside temporarily {as a foreigner/outsider}”. See how you translated this term in Gen 12:10 and 19:9. You may need to translate it in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
in this land
Quote: בָּאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֔את (1)“in this region,”
and I will be with you
Quote: וְאֶֽהְיֶ֥ה עִמְּךָ֖ (1)“and I will stay with you” or “and I will be/stay {right} beside you”. This clause means that God will guide, help, and protect Isaac and provide for his needs.
and bless you
Quote: וַאֲבָרְכֶ֑ךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-keyterms
“and prosper you.” or “cause you {and your family} to prosper.”
For to you and to your offspring I will give all these lands
Quote: כִּֽי לְךָ֣ וּֽלְזַרְעֲךָ֗ אֶתֵּן֙ אֶת כָּל הָֽאֲרָצֹ֣ת הָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“In fact, I will give all the {surrounding} lands/regions to you and your offspring/descendants,” Starting here (and continuing through verse 4) Yahweh explains how he will bless Isaac. Begin this sentence in a way that makes that clear in your translation.
and I will confirm
Quote: וַהֲקִֽמֹתִי֙ (1)“and I will continue to keep/fulfill”
the oath that I swore to Abraham your father
Quote: אֶת הַשְּׁבֻעָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּי לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם אָבִֽיךָ (1)“the vow/promise that I made to your father Abraham.” Consider again how you translated “oath” in Gen 24:8. It may be necessary to translate this word differently in different contexts.
Genesis 26:4
And I will multiply
Quote: וְהִרְבֵּיתִ֤י (1)“Yes, I will multiply” or “that I will multiply”. Verse 4 gives the details of the oath that is referred to in verse 3. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 3.
your offspring as the stars of
Quote: אֶֽת זַרְעֲךָ֙ כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“multiply/increase {the number of} your offspring/descendants {so that they are as numerous/countless} as” or “make your offspring/descendants as numerous/many/countless as” or “give you so many offspring that they will be as numerous as”. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 22:17.
as the stars of the heavens
Quote: כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)“as the {number of} stars in the sky,”
and I will give
Quote: וְנָתַתִּ֣י (1)“I will also give”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to your offspring
Quote: לְזַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)“to your descendants” or “to them”
all these lands
Quote: אֵ֥ת כָּל הָאֲרָצֹ֖ת הָאֵ֑ל (1)“all these regions.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
in your offspring
Quote: בְזַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)“In fact, through your offspring/descendants” or “And because of your offspring/descendants” or “In fact, by means of your offspring/descendants”. See how you translated this phrase and the following clause in Gen 22:18.
And … all the nations of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּ & כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֥י הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“all the people/ethnic groups on earth will be blessed {by me},” or “{I} will bless all the people/ethnic groups on the earth,” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this passive clause.
Genesis 26:5
because
Quote: עֵ֕קֶב אֲשֶׁר (1)“{all} because” or “{I will do all that} because”. Verse 5 gives the reason that Yahweh will do everything that he says in verses 3 and 4. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Abraham obeyed my voice
Quote: שָׁמַ֥ע אַבְרָהָ֖ם בְּקֹלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Abraham obeyed me” or “Abraham {always} obeyed/did what I told him”. The phrase “my voice” stands for what Yahweh said to Abraham and also represents Yahweh himself.
and kept my requirements, my commands, my decrees, and my laws
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמֹר֙ מִשְׁמַרְתִּ֔י מִצְוֺתַ֖י חֻקּוֹתַ֥י וְתוֹרֹתָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Yes, he kept/obeyed all my requirements, {including} {all} my commands, decrees, and laws.” or “and did everything that I ever commanded {him} {to do}.” This clause is another way of saying “obeyed my voice” (found in the previous clause), and emphasizes that Abraham always obeyed God in everything. Notice that the terms in this clause have much overlap in meaning.
Genesis 26:6
So Isaac stayed in Gerar
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב יִצְחָ֖ק בִּגְרָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So/Then Isaac {did/obeyed what God said/commanded and} stayed/settled {with his family} in {the city of} Gerar.” In your translation it should not sound like Isaac lived alone; the rest of his family lived with him.
Genesis 26:7
Then the men of the place asked about his wife
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁאֲל֞וּ אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמָּקוֹם֙ לְאִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)“After a while the men of/from that place/city started asking {Isaac/him} about Rebekah,” or “When the men from there started asking {Isaac/him} about Rebekah,”
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“he said/replied {to them}” or “he {lied and} told {them}” or “he {deceived them by} saying”
She {is} my sister
Quote: אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“that she {was} his sister”. Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct quote or an indirect quote here.
because he was afraid to say, “{She is} my wife
Quote: כִּ֤י יָרֵא֙ לֵאמֹ֣ר אִשְׁתִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“He was afraid to say/admit that she was his wife,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you handled the previous quote in this sentence.
He thought,} “Lest the men of the place kill me
Quote: פֶּן יַֽהַרְגֻ֜נִי אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמָּקוֹם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“He thought that the men of the/that city might kill him” or “He was afraid that the men in that place/city would kill him”. See how you translated “the men of the place” earlier in this verse. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here, and see what you did earlier in this verse.
on account of Rebekah
Quote: עַל רִבְקָ֔ה (1)“because of Rebekah,” or “so that they could take/have Rebekah,”
because she {is} beautiful of appearance
Quote: כִּֽי טוֹבַ֥ת מַרְאֶ֖ה הִֽיא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because she {is/was} very/so beautiful.” For some languages it may be better to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Now Rebekah {was} very beautiful, so the men in that city started asking {Isaac} about her. Isaac was afraid they might kill him in order to take/have her, so he {lied and} told {them} she {was} his sister.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 26:8
Then it happened, when the days had been long for him there
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י כִּ֣י אָֽרְכוּ ל֥וֹ שָׁם֙ הַיָּמִ֔ים (1)“{One day} when/after he/Isaac {and his family} had been/lived there a long time,”
then Abimelech the king of the Philistines looked down
Quote: וַיַּשְׁקֵ֗ף אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)“Abimelech {who was} king over the Philistines looked down/out” or “the Philistines’ King Abimelech looked down/out” or “King Abimelech looked down/out”
from a window
Quote: בְּעַ֖ד הַֽחַלּ֑וֹן (1)“from a window {of his house/palace}”
and saw that, behold
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)“and saw to his surprise” or “and was surprised to see”. In this context, “behold” means that King Abimelech was surprised at what he saw.
Isaac was laughing with Rebekah his wife
Quote: יִצְחָק֙ מְצַחֵ֔ק אֵ֖ת רִבְקָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)“that Isaac was flirting with his wife Rebekah.” or “that Isaac was showing affection to his wife Rebekah.” There is a word play here in Hebrew (since “Isaac” and “laughing” come from the same root word). Isaac may have been laughing or flirting with Rebekah or physically touching her in an affectionate or intimate way, as a husband would do with his wife.
Genesis 26:9
So Abimelech called for Isaac
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ לְיִצְחָ֗ק (1)“So/Then {King} Abimelech summoned Isaac” or “So/Then {King} Abimelech sent someone to bring Isaac to him”. King Abimelech probably sent a servant to tell Isaac to come talk to him.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to him},” or “and scolded {him} {by saying},” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
Behold, she {is} really your wife
Quote: אַ֣ךְ הִנֵּ֤ה אִשְׁתְּךָ֙ הִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-keyterms
“It is clear/obvious that she/Rebekah {is} actually your wife!” The word “behold” emphasizes what follows it. Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this term in this context.
So how could you say, ‘She {is} my sister
Quote: וְאֵ֥יךְ אָמַ֖רְתָּ אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“So why did you tell us that she {is} your sister?” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded direct quote (“She is my sister”) as a direct or indirect quote.
And Isaac said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Isaac answered him,” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Because I said, ‘I might die because of her
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔רְתִּי פֶּן אָמ֖וּת עָלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Because I thought that I might die because of her.” or “{I said that} because I was afraid that someone might kill me in order to take/have her {as a wife}.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 26:10
Then Abimelech said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Abimelech scolded {him} {further},” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language to fit this context.
What {is} this you have done to us
Quote: מַה זֹּ֖את עָשִׂ֣יתָ לָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why did you treat us this way?” or “You have treated us very badly!” or “You should not have done this to us!” King Abimelech uses a rhetorical question here to show strong emotion and to emphasize that what Isaac did was wrong and should not have been done. Do what is best in your language.
One of the people might easily have lain with your wife
Quote: כִּ֠מְעַט שָׁכַ֞ב אַחַ֤ד הָעָם֙ אֶת אִשְׁתֶּ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Sooner or later, one of the people/men {whom I rule} could/might have slept with your wife,” or “... had {physical/sexual} relations with your wife,” or “... committed adultery with your wife,” See how you translated the idiom “lay with” in Gen 19:32-35. It may be necessary to translate this in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
and you would have brought guilt on us
Quote: וְהֵבֵאתָ֥ עָלֵ֖ינוּ אָשָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“and you would have caused us to be guilty {of adultery}!” or “with the result that you would have brought guilt/punishment on us!” The pronoun “us” in this verse refers to King Abimelech and the Philistines whom he ruled; it does not include Isaac.
Genesis 26:11
Then Abimelech ordered all the people by saying
Quote: וַיְצַ֣ו אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ אֶת כָּל הָעָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“Then {King} Abimelech warned/told all {his} people,”
Whoever touches this man or his wife will surely be killed
Quote: הַנֹּגֵ֜עַ בָּאִ֥ישׁ הַזֶּ֛ה וּבְאִשְׁתּ֖וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“If anyone harms this man {Isaac} or his wife {in any way}, I will surely/definitely have that person killed/executed!” or “I will surely/definitely execute anyone who harms Isaac or his wife {in any way}!” In this context “touches” is used as an idiom that means “harms {in any way}.” Many languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 26:12
Then Isaac sowed seeds in that land
Quote: וַיִּזְרַ֤ע יִצְחָק֙ בָּאָ֣רֶץ הַהִ֔וא (1)“Isaac planted seeds/crops in that land/area,” The phrase “sow seeds” means to plant seeds by scattering them by hand on the ground in order to grow crops. If this method of planting is not known in your language area, you could translate this more generally and say, “planted seeds/crops” or “planted {large} fields {with seeds/crops}”.
and in that year he obtained a hundredfold
Quote: וַיִּמְצָ֛א בַּשָּׁנָ֥ה הַהִ֖וא מֵאָ֣ה שְׁעָרִ֑ים (1)“and during that year he gathered/reaped {a huge harvest that was} a hundred times {more than what he had planted}” or “and that year he harvested a very large crop/harvest”
and Yahweh blessed him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרֲכֵ֖הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)“because Yahweh blessed him.” or “Yahweh continued to bless him,” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 13.
Genesis 26:13
And the man became great, and he continued to become even greater
Quote: וַיִּגְדַּ֖ל הָאִ֑ישׁ וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ הָלוֹךְ֙ וְגָדֵ֔ל (1)“In that way he/Isaac kept getting more and more wealthy” or “so that he grew/became richer and richer”
until he was exceedingly great
Quote: עַ֥ד כִּֽי גָדַ֖ל מְאֹֽד (1)“until {eventually} he was extremely/very wealthy/rich.”
Genesis 26:14
And he had possession of flocks and possession of herds
Quote: וַֽיְהִי ל֤וֹ מִקְנֵה צֹאן֙ וּמִקְנֵ֣ה בָקָ֔ר (1)“He had/owned many flocks {of sheep} and herds {of cattle}” or “He had/owned many sheep and cattle”. See how you translated “flocks” and “herds” in Gen 24:35.
and many servants
Quote: וַעֲבֻדָּ֖ה רַבָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“and {he also had/owned} many servants/slaves.” or “He also had/owned many servants/slaves.” The same Hebrew word is used for both “servant” or “slave”. Slaves and servants were owned by their masters but often they were treated as respected members of the family. An example of this was Abraham’s head servant who was sent to find a wife for Isaac (Gen 24). Keep this information in mind as you translate “servants” into your language.
So the Philistines envied him
Quote: וַיְקַנְא֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“Because of that, the Philistines envied him/Isaac,” or “As a result, the Philistines were envious/jealous of him/Isaac,”
Genesis 26:15
and the Philistines stopped up all the wells that the servants of his father had dug in the days of Abraham his father and filled them with dirt
Quote: וְכָל הַבְּאֵרֹ֗ת אֲשֶׁ֤ר חָֽפְרוּ֙ עַבְדֵ֣י אָבִ֔יו בִּימֵ֖י אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֑יו סִתְּמ֣וּם פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים וַיְמַלְא֖וּם עָפָֽר (1)“and/so they stopped/plugged up all his father Abraham’s wells by filling them with dirt.” or “So they filled up with dirt all the wells that the servants of his father Abraham had dug while he was {still} alive.” or “and/so they filled up all his/Isaac’s wells with dirt {so that no one could use them anymore}. Those were the wells that Abraham’s servants had dug while he was still alive.” See how you translated “well” in Gen 21:30-31.
Genesis 26:16
Then Abimelech said to Isaac
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ אֶל יִצְחָ֑ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/Finally {King} Abimelech said to Isaac/him,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
Go away from us
Quote: לֵ֚ךְ מֵֽעִמָּ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
“{Please} move away from us,” or “{We want you to} move {somewhere else} away from us,” Although King Abimelech is asking Isaac to leave, he is still trying to be polite.
because you are more powerful than we {are
Quote: כִּֽי עָצַֽמְתָּ מִמֶּ֖נּוּ מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because you are too powerful for us.” or “because you are so powerful {that you are a threat} to us.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “You are so powerful that we {are afraid of you and} want you to move away from us.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 26:17
So Isaac went from there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ מִשָּׁ֖ם יִצְחָ֑ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So Isaac moved {away} from {the city of} Gerar {with his family}”. In your translation it should not sound like Isaac moved by himself from the city of Gerar; his family moved with him. See what you did for similar cases in verses 1 and 6.
and camped
Quote: וַיִּ֥חַן (1)“and pitched his tents” or “and set up his tents”
in the Valley of Gerar
Quote: בְּנַֽחַל גְּרָ֖ר (1)“in the Gerar Valley” or “in the valley near Gerar”
and settled there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב שָֽׁם (1)“and stayed/lived there {for a while}.”
Genesis 26:18
Then Isaac returned and dug out the water wells that they had dug in the days of Abraham his father
Quote: וַיָּ֨שָׁב יִצְחָ֜ק וַיַּחְפֹּ֣ר אֶת בְּאֵרֹ֣ת הַמַּ֗יִם אֲשֶׁ֤ר חָֽפְרוּ֙ בִּימֵי֙ אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Then Isaac {had his servants} dig the dirt out of the wells that Abraham’s servants had dug and” or “Then Isaac’s servants re-dug his father Abraham’s wells”. Isaac had his servants re-dig the wells; he did not do that work by himself.
and {that} the Philistines had stopped up after the death of Abraham
Quote: וַיְסַתְּמ֣וּם פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים אַחֲרֵ֖י מ֣וֹת אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{that} the Philistines had plugged up with dirt after Abraham had died,” or “{that} the Philistines had {just} filled {with dirt},” Be consistent with how you spelled or translated “Philistines” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:14; 21:32, 34; 26:1, 8, 14-15, 18.
and he called them names like the names
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א לָהֶן֙ שֵׁמ֔וֹת כַּשֵּׁמֹ֕ת (1)“He/Isaac gave the/those wells the same names” or “He/Isaac named the/those wells with the same names”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
that his father had called them
Quote: אֲשֶׁר קָרָ֥א לָהֶ֖ן אָבִֽיו (1)“that his father had named/given them.”
Genesis 26:19
Then the servants of Isaac dug in the valley
Quote: וַיַּחְפְּר֥וּ עַבְדֵֽי יִצְחָ֖ק בַּנָּ֑חַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Next Isaac’s servants dug {at/in a new place} in the valley {of Gerar}”
and found a well of living water there
Quote: וַיִּ֨מְצְאוּ שָׁ֔ם בְּאֵ֖ר מַ֥יִם חַיִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and discovered/struck/reached a source/spring of fresh/flowing water there.” The phrase “living water” is an idiom that means the well was spring fed and was a source of continually flowing, fresh water to drink.
Genesis 26:20
But the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with the herdsmen of Isaac, saying
Quote: וַיָּרִ֜יבוּ רֹעֵ֣י גְרָ֗ר עִם־רֹעֵ֥י יִצְחָ֛ק לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)“But the herdsmen from {the city of} Gerar argued/disputed with Isaac’s herdsmen and said/claimed,”
The water {belongs} to us
Quote: לָ֣נוּ הַמָּ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“That water/well is ours!” or “that the water/well belonged to them.” or “that they owned that water/well.” Consider whether it is best in your language to use a direct quote or an indirect quote here.
So he called the name of the well
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א שֵֽׁם הַבְּאֵר֙ (1)“So Isaac named/called the/that well”
Esek
Quote: עֵ֔שֶׂק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Esek, {which means “dispute/argument,”}” If you include the meaning of this well’s name in your translation text or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translate “disputed” in the next clause. This word is different from the word for “quarreled” used earlier in verse 20, but it has the same meaning.
because they disputed with him
Quote: כִּ֥י הִֽתְעַשְּׂק֖וּ עִמּֽוֹ (1)“because they argued with him {about it}.” or “because they disputed/argued with his herdsmen {about it}.” The herdsmen from Gerar disputed with Isaac indirectly (verse 20b) when they quarreled with his herdsmen (verse 20a). Make sure in your translation that the two halves of this verse do not contradict each other.
Genesis 26:21
Then they dug another well
Quote: וַֽיַּחְפְּרוּ֙ בְּאֵ֣ר אַחֶ֔רֶת (1)“Then Isaac’s servants dug another well,”
but they quarreled over it too
Quote: וַיָּרִ֖יבוּ גַּם עָלֶ֑יהָ (1)“but {once again} the herdsmen from Gerar argued/disputed {with them} about that one/well too,” Be consistent here with how you translated “quarreled” in the first part of verse 20.
so he called its name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמָ֖הּ (1)“so he/Isaac named it” or “So he/Isaac named the/that well”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Sitnah
Quote: שִׂטְנָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Sitnah, {which means “hostility/strife.”}”
Genesis 26:22
Then he moved from there
Quote: וַיַּעְתֵּ֣ק מִשָּׁ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then Isaac {and his family} moved from there”. In your translation it should not sound like Isaac moved by himself.
and he dug
Quote: וַיַּחְפֹּר֙ (1)“and he {had his servants/men} dig” or “and his servants dug”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 18.
another well
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר אַחֶ֔רֶת (1)“a new/third well,”
and they did not quarrel over it
Quote: וְלֹ֥א רָב֖וּ עָלֶ֑יהָ (1)“but {this time} the herdsmen of/from Gerar did not quarrel/argue about it,” or “{This time} Gerar's herdsmen did not quarrel/argue about it,”
so he called its name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א שְׁמָהּ֙ (1)“so he called/named it” or “so he called/named the/that well” or “so he gave it the name”. See how you translated this clause in verses 20 and 21.
Rehoboth
Quote: רְחֹב֔וֹת (1)“Rehoboth, {which means “space/room,”}” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Rehoboth” in Gen 10:11.
and he said, “Because now Yahweh
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר כִּֽי עַתָּ֞ה & יְהוָ֛ה (1)“because he said, “Now/Finally Yahweh”
has made space for us
Quote: הִרְחִ֧יב & לָ֖נוּ (1)“has provided space/room for us,” or “given our/my family {enough} space/room {to live},”
and we will be fruitful in the land
Quote: וּפָרִ֥ינוּ בָאָֽרֶץ (1)“so that we will prosper/flourish {here} in the/this land.”
Genesis 26:23
Then from there he went up to Beersheba
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל מִשָּׁ֖ם בְּאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)“From there he/Isaac {and his family} went/moved south to {the city of} Beersheba.” or “{One day} he/Isaac {and his family} went/moved from there to {the city of} Beersheba.” The word “up” refers to the fact that Beersheba is higher in elevation from where they were; it is also south in direction. Some translations leave that information implied. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 26:24
And Yahweh appeared to him during that night and said
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֨א אֵלָ֤יו יְהוָה֙ בַּלַּ֣יְלָה הַה֔וּא וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“That night Yahweh appeared/came to him and said {to him},” See how you translated “Yahweh appeared to him” in verse 2.
I {am} the God of Abraham your father
Quote: אָנֹכִ֕י אֱלֹהֵ֖י אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֑יךָ (1)“I {am} the God whom your father Abraham serves/worships.” or “I {am} the God {who takes care} of your father Abraham.”
Do not be afraid, because I {am} with you
Quote: אַל תִּירָא֙ כִּֽי אִתְּךָ֣ אָנֹ֔כִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“I {will always be} with you, so do not be afraid.” Some languages can do as the Hebrew text does and put the result clause (“do not be afraid”) before the reason (“I am with you”). Other languages prefer to put the reason before the result. Do what is best in your language.
And I will bless you
Quote: וּבֵֽרַכְתִּ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“I will bless/prosper you”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
and multiply your offspring
Quote: וְהִרְבֵּיתִ֣י אֶֽת זַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)“and multiply/increase {the number of} your offspring/descendants” or “and make your offspring/descendants numerous” or “and give you many/countless offspring/descendants”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
for the sake of
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר (1)“because of {my promise/relationship to}” or “just as I promised to” or “in order to keep my promise to”
Abraham my servant
Quote: אַבְרָהָ֥ם עַבְדִּֽי (1)“my servant Abraham.” or “Abraham, who serves me.”
Genesis 26:25
Then he built an altar there
Quote: וַיִּ֧בֶן שָׁ֣ם מִזְבֵּ֗חַ (1)“Then/So Isaac built an altar there {at Beersheba}”. See how you translated “altar” in Gen 22:9.
and called on the name of Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֙ בְּשֵׁ֣ם יְהוָ֔ה (1)“and {offered/burned sacrifices on it to Yahweh as he} worshiped/praised Yahweh/him by name.” Consider again how you translated the idiom “called on the name of Yahweh” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:26, 12:8, 13:4, 21:33, 26:25, and see the note about this at 4:26.
And he pitched his tents there
Quote: וַיֶּט שָׁ֖ם אָהֳל֑וֹ (1)“He also set up his tents/camp there,” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 17.
and the servants of Isaac dug a well there
Quote: וַיִּכְרוּ שָׁ֥ם עַבְדֵי יִצְחָ֖ק בְּאֵֽר (1)“and his servants started digging {another} well there {too}.” Notice that they did not finish digging this well until verse 32. Keep that in mind as you translate this clause.
Genesis 26:26
Then Abimelech came to him from Gerar
Quote: וַאֲבִימֶ֕לֶךְ הָלַ֥ךְ אֵלָ֖יו מִגְּרָ֑ר (1)“Then {King} Abimelech came/went to him/Isaac from {the city of} Gerar”
and Ahuzzath his friend
Quote: וַאֲחֻזַּת֙ מֵֽרֵעֵ֔הוּ (1)“with his adviser Ahuzzath”. King Abimelech’s friend Ahuzzath was probably his adviser.
and Phicol the commander of his army
Quote: וּפִיכֹ֖ל שַׂר צְבָאֽוֹ (1)“and Phicol {who was} the commander/leader of his/Abimelech’s army/soldiers.” or “and his army/military commander/captain Phicol.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 21:22, 32.
Genesis 26:27
And Isaac said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Isaac asked them,”
Why have you come to me
Quote: מַדּ֖וּעַ בָּאתֶ֣ם אֵלָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why did you come here,” or “I don’t understand why you came to see me,” Isaac probably wants to know why King Abimelech and his men are there, but this may also be a rhetorical question that shows his strong emotion.
since you hate me
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ שְׂנֵאתֶ֣ם אֹתִ֔י (1)“{especially} since you have treated me hatefully/meanly” or “{especially} since you have been hateful/unfriendly/hostile toward me”
and you sent me away from you
Quote: וַתְּשַׁלְּח֖וּנִי מֵאִתְּכֶֽם (1)“and forced me to move/go away from you!”
Genesis 26:28
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They answered {him},” or “They responded/replied,”
We have clearly seen
Quote: רָא֣וֹ רָאִינוּ֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“It is very obvious/clear to us”. Make sure your translation of the pronoun “we” does not include Isaac here.
that Yahweh has been with you
Quote: כִּֽי הָיָ֣ה יְהוָ֣ה עִמָּךְ֒ (1)“that Yahweh is with you {and blessing/prospering you},” See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 3 and 24.
so we said
Quote: וַנֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“so we said {to each other}” or “so/and we decided”
There should be an oath between us’—between us and you
Quote: תְּהִ֨י נָ֥א אָלָ֛ה בֵּינוֹתֵ֖ינוּ בֵּינֵ֣ינוּ וּבֵינֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“that there should be an oath/vow between us and you.” or “that we should make a vow with you {to live in peace with one another}.” or “that we should make a vow to each other.” In the Hebrew text, the first “us” in this sentence includes Isaac, but the second “us” excludes him. Notice that in the first two alternate translations, the pronouns “us” and “we” exclude him, but in the third alternate, the pronoun “we” includes him.
So let us cut a covenant
Quote: וְנִכְרְתָ֥ה בְרִ֖ית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“So {please} let us make/establish a {peace} treaty/agreement”. See how you translated “cut a covenant” in Gen 21:27, 32. Notice that the pronoun “us” in this phrase either excludes Isaac or includes him, depending on whether you use “with you” or “with each other” for the following phrase.
with you
Quote: עִמָּֽךְ (1)“with each other,”
Genesis 26:29
that you will not do evil against us
Quote: אִם תַּעֲשֵׂ֨ה עִמָּ֜נוּ רָעָ֗ה (1)“that you will never harm us,” Verse 29 specifies the details of the covenant or treaty that they want Isaac to vow or promise.
just as we did not touch you
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א נְגַֽעֲנ֔וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“just as we never harmed you {in any way},” See how you translated “touch” or “harm” in verse 11.
and just as we did only good to you
Quote: וְכַאֲשֶׁ֨ר עָשִׂ֤ינוּ עִמְּךָ֙ רַק ט֔וֹב (1)“but only treated you well/kindly”
and sent you away in peace
Quote: וַנְּשַׁלֵּֽחֲךָ֖ בְּשָׁל֑וֹם (1)“and sent you away peacefully.” or “and in a peaceful manner asked you to leave.”
Now you are blessed by Yahweh
Quote: אַתָּ֥ה עַתָּ֖ה בְּר֥וּךְ יְהוָֽה (1)“Now {because of that,} Yahweh has {greatly} blessed/prospered you.” or “{As a result,} Yahweh has now {greatly} blessed/prospered you.”
Genesis 26:30
Then he made a feast for them
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ לָהֶם֙ מִשְׁתֶּ֔ה (1)“Then Isaac prepared a feast,”
and they ate and drank
Quote: וַיֹּאכְל֖וּ וַיִּשְׁתּֽוּ (1)“and they {all} ate and drank {together}.” In your translation it should not sound like the feast was only for King Abimelech and his men; Isaac ate with them.
Genesis 26:31
Then they got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכִּ֣ימוּ בַבֹּ֔קֶר (1)“Early the next morning they got up”. See how you translated “got up early in the morning” in Gen 20:8; 21:14, 22:3.
and swore to each other
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבְע֖וּ אִ֣ישׁ לְאָחִ֑יו (1)“and made unbreakable oaths/promises to each other {to keep their covenant/treaty}.” or “and made vows/oaths to one another {that they would keep their treaty/agreement}.” See how you translated “swore” in Gen 25:33. Also, if you make the implied information explicit, it should match the way you translate “covenant” or “treaty” in verse 28.
Then Isaac sent them on their way
Quote: וַיְשַׁלְּחֵ֣ם יִצְחָ֔ק (1)“Then Isaac said goodbye to them,” or “Then Isaac told them goodbye,”
and they left from him in peace
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ מֵאִתּ֖וֹ בְּשָׁלֽוֹם (1)“and they went home from him in peace.” or “and they left him on peaceful terms and went/returned home.”
Genesis 26:32
Then it happened on that day
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֗וּא (1)“On that {same} day” or “{Later} that {same} day”
the servants of Isaac came and told him
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ עַבְדֵ֣י יִצְחָ֔ק וַיַּגִּ֣דוּ ל֔וֹ (1)“Isaac’s servants came {to him} to tell/inform him”
about the matter of the well that they had dug
Quote: עַל אֹד֥וֹת הַבְּאֵ֖ר אֲשֶׁ֣ר חָפָ֑רוּ (1)“about the well that they had been digging”. This is the same well that Isaac’s servants started digging in verse 25.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמְרוּ ל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and announced,” Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
We have found water
Quote: מָצָ֥אנוּ מָֽיִם (1)“We have discovered/struck/reached water!” See how you translated “found” in verse 19.
Genesis 26:33
So he called it Shibah
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֹתָ֖הּ שִׁבְעָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Isaac named the well Shibah/Shebah, {which means “oath/vow.”}” The name of this well can be spelled “Shibah” or “Shebah.”
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֤ן (1)“That is why”
the name of the city {is} Beersheba to this day
Quote: שֵׁם הָעִיר֙ בְּאֵ֣ר שֶׁ֔בַע עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)“{even} today the name of that city {is} still Beersheba, {which means “well of the oath/vow.”}” See how you translated “Beersheba” and its meaning in Gen 21:31.
Genesis 26:34
And Esau was a son of forty years
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י עֵשָׂו֙ בֶּן אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה (1)“Now Esau was forty/40 years old, and” or “When Esau was forty/40 years old,” Consider again how you translated “a son of … years” in the book of Genesis. See 5:32; 11:10; 12:4; 16:16; 17:1, 17, 24-25; 25:20-21 and 26:34.
and he took {as} a wife Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Basemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אִשָּׁה֙ אֶת יְהוּדִ֔ית בַּת בְּאֵרִ֖י הַֽחִתִּ֑י וְאֶת בָּ֣שְׂמַ֔ת בַּת אֵילֹ֖ן הַֽחִתִּֽי (1)“he married {a woman named} Judith, {who was} the/a daughter of a Hittite {man} named Beeri, and {he also married} {a woman named} Basemath, {who was} the/a daughter of a Hittite {man} named Elon.” or “he married {two} Hittite women: Judith, whose father was Beeri, and Basemath, whose father was Elon.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Basemath was Esau’s second wife, not Beeri’s wife.
Genesis 26:35
And they were a grief of mind to Isaac and Rebekah
Quote: וַתִּהְיֶ֖יןָ מֹ֣רַת ר֑וּחַ לְיִצְחָ֖ק וּלְרִבְקָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Those {foreign} women caused Isaac and Rebekah to be very distressed/upset.” or “Isaac and Rebekah were very distressed/upset that their son had married foreign women {rather than a woman from their own religion and people group}.”
Genesis 27
Genesis 27:1
Then it happened, when
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“One day when” or “Now when”. The events in chapter 27 happened about 23 years after the end of chapter 26. Make sure your translation begins this verse in a way that fits with that fact.
Isaac was old
Quote: זָקֵ֣ן יִצְחָ֔ק (1)“Isaac was {very} old” or “Isaac was an old man”
and his eyes were too dim to see
Quote: וַתִּכְהֶ֥יןָ עֵינָ֖יו מֵרְאֹ֑ת (1)“and his eyes were so weak that he could not see,” or “and he could no longer see,” or “and he was almost blind,” Isaac was either totally blind or so blind that he could not recognize people anymore (See: verses 18-27, 32-33).
then he called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֞א (1)“he called/sent for” or “he summoned”. Isaac probably told a servant to go and tell Esau to come to him.
Esau, his older son, and said to him, “My son
Quote: אֶת עֵשָׂ֣ו בְּנ֣וֹ הַגָּדֹ֗ל וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ בְּנִ֔י (1)“his older son Esau and said, “Son.” ”
And he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Esau answered him,” or “Esau replied,” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)“Here I am.” or “Yes, {sir/Father,} {what is it}?” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 22:1,7,11.
Genesis 27:2
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Isaac told {him},” Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Behold, please
Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֖א (1)“Listen {closely/carefully}, please:” or “Please listen {closely/carefully}:”
I am old
Quote: זָקַ֑נְתִּי (1)“I am {very} old” or “I am an old man {now}”. See how you translated “old” or “an old man” in verse 1.
I do not know the day of my death
Quote: לֹ֥א יָדַ֖עְתִּי י֥וֹם מוֹתִֽי (1)“{and} I do not know when I will die.” or “{and} I might die soon.” or “{and} I might not live much longer.”
Genesis 27:3
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“So then,” or “So”
please take your weapons, your quiver, and your bow
Quote: שָׂא נָ֣א כֵלֶ֔יךָ תֶּלְיְךָ֖ וְקַשְׁתֶּ֑ךָ (1)“take/get your hunting gear, your quiver {of arrows}, and your bow,” or “take/get your bow and arrows”. Consider what is the most natural way to refer to a bow and arrows in your language.
and go out
Quote: וְצֵא֙ (1)“then go out” or “go out”
in} the field
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)“into/to the fields” or “into/to the open country”. See how you translated “the field” in Gen 25:27.
and hunt game for me
Quote: וְצ֥וּדָה לִּ֖י צידה (1)“and hunt/get {some} {wild} animal/deer {meat} for me.” or “and go hunting for me.” See how you translated “game” in Gen 25:28.
Genesis 27:4
Then prepare
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Next/Then {use the meat to} cook/make” or “Next/Then {butcher the animal/deer and} cook/make”. For some languages it may be necessary to make explicit more of the steps that Esau needs to take to prepare the meal, so that it does not sound like the animal would be eaten alive or uncooked. Do what is best in your language.
tasty food for me
Quote: לִ֨י מַטְעַמִּ֜ים (1)“{some} tasty/savory food for me” or “a tasty/delicious meal for me”
such as I love
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר אָהַ֛בְתִּי (1)“the kind I like best,” or “{just} the way that I like it,”
and bring it to me so I can eat it, so that
Quote: וְהָבִ֥יאָה לִּ֖י וְאֹכֵ֑לָה בַּעֲב֛וּר (1)“and bring it to me to eat so that”
my soul can bless you before I die
Quote: תְּבָרֶכְךָ֥ נַפְשִׁ֖י בְּטֶ֥רֶם אָמֽוּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“I can bless you before I die.” or “before I die I can ask God to bless/prosper you.” Isaac uses the phrase “my soul” to refer to himself.
Genesis 27:5
And Rebekah was listening while Isaac spoke to Esau his son
Quote: וְרִבְקָ֣ה שֹׁמַ֔עַת בְּדַבֵּ֣ר יִצְחָ֔ק אֶל עֵשָׂ֖ו בְּנ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Rebekah overheard what Isaac said to his/their son Esau.” or “Now while Isaac was speaking to his son Esau, Rebekah was listening/eavesdropping.” The phrase “his son” probably recalls the fact that Esau was Isaac’s favorite son (Gen 25:28). However make sure that your translation of this phrase does not sound like Esau was not also Rebekah’s son.
Then Esau went {to} the field to hunt game to bring it back
Quote: וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ עֵשָׂו֙ הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה לָצ֥וּד צַ֖יִד לְהָבִֽיא (1)“So after Esau went out to the fields/country to hunt/get {wild} animal/deer {meat},” or “So after Esau had left to go hunting in the open country,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 6. Also see how you translated “the field” and “hunt game” in verse 3.
Genesis 27:6
Then Rebekah said to Jacob her son, saying
Quote: וְרִבְקָה֙ אָֽמְרָ֔ה אֶל יַעֲקֹ֥ב בְּנָ֖הּ לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“Rebekah/she said to her/their son Jacob,” The phrase “her son” probably recalls the fact that Jacob was Rebekah’s favorite son (Gen 25:28). See how you translated “his son” in verse 5.
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)“Listen,” or “Listen to this:”
I heard your father
Quote: שָׁמַ֨עְתִּי֙ אֶת אָבִ֔יךָ (1)“I {just} heard/overheard your father”
speaking to Esau your brother, saying
Quote: מְדַבֵּ֛ר אֶל עֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִ֖יךָ לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“tell your brother Esau” or “say to your brother Esau,” Some languages have a special term for “older brother” that is used here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 27:7
Bring game for me
Quote: הָבִ֨יאָה לִּ֥י צַ֛יִד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“to bring/get him {some} {wild} animal/deer {meat}”. Consider whether it is best in your language to translate Rebekah’s quote of Isaac in verse 7 as a direct quote or an indirect quote.
and prepare tasty food for me so that I can eat it
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה לִ֥י מַטְעַמִּ֖ים וְאֹכֵ֑לָה (1)“and {use it to} cook a tasty/delicious meal for him to eat.” See how you translated this clause in verse 4.
and I can bless you in the presence of Yahweh, before my death
Quote: וַאֲבָרֶכְכָ֛ה לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה לִפְנֵ֥י מוֹתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“Then before he dies, he wants to bless Esau with Yahweh as his witness.” or “Then before he dies, he will ask Yahweh to bless/prosper Esau.” Be consistent in translating the parts of verse 7 as either a direct quote (using first person pronouns) or an indirect quote (using third person pronouns).
Genesis 27:8
So now, my son
Quote: וְעַתָּ֥ה בְנִ֖י (1)“So then, my son,” or “Now son,” See how you translated “So now” in verse 3. Also, make sure it is clear that Rebekah is no longer quoting Isaac’s words (whether directly or indirectly). If necessary, you could begin this verse with: “Rebekah continued,” or “Then Rebekah said {to Jacob},”
listen to my voice
Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“listen to me” or “listen to what I’m saying”. See how you translated “my voice” in Gen 26:5.
to what I command you
Quote: לַאֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲנִ֖י מְצַוָּ֥ה אֹתָֽךְ (1)“and do what I tell you {to do}.” or “so that you do what I’m telling you.” or “and obey me.”
Genesis 27:9
Please go to the flock
Quote: לֶךְ נָא֙ אֶל הַצֹּ֔אן (1)“Please go {out} to our flock {of goats}” or “Go to our flock {of goats}”
and bring to me from there
Quote: וְקַֽח לִ֣י מִשָּׁ֗ם (1)“and bring me” or “and get for me”
two good kids of the goats
Quote: שְׁנֵ֛י גְּדָיֵ֥י עִזִּ֖ים טֹבִ֑ים (1)“two fine/choice kid/young goats” or “two of the/our best kid/young goats”
so that I will prepare from them
Quote: וְאֶֽעֱשֶׂ֨ה אֹתָ֧ם (1)“so that I can {use the meat from them to} prepare/cook” or “I will {use their meat to} cook/make”. Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
tasty food for your father
Quote: מַטְעַמִּ֛ים לְאָבִ֖יךָ (1)“{some} savory food for your father” or “a tasty/delicious meal for your father”. See how you translated “prepare some tasty food for” in verses 4 and 7.
such as he loves
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר אָהֵֽב (1)“the kind he likes best/most.” or “{just} the way that he likes it.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.
Genesis 27:10
Then you take it to your father
Quote: וְהֵבֵאתָ֥ לְאָבִ֖יךָ (1)“Then you can take the meal/food to your father”
and he will eat {it}, so that he will bless you before his death
Quote: וְאָכָ֑ל בַּעֲבֻ֛ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר יְבָרֶכְךָ֖ לִפְנֵ֥י מוֹתֽוֹ (1)“to eat, so that he will bless you before he dies.” or “so that he will eat {it}, and {then} before he dies, he will ask Yahweh to bless/prosper you.” See how you translated “will bless” in verses 4 and 7.
Genesis 27:11
Then Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/But Jacob replied/responded”
to Rebekah his mother
Quote: אֶל רִבְקָ֖ה אִמּ֑וֹ (1)“to his mother,” or “to her,”
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)“Look/Listen,” or “Remember that” or “As you know,”
Esau my brother
Quote: עֵשָׂ֤ו אָחִי֙ (1)“my brother Esau”. See how you translated “brother” in verse 11.
is} a hairy man
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ שָׂעִ֔ר (1)“has hairy skin” or “has a lot of hair on his skin/body”. See how you talked about Esau’s hairy body in Gen 25:25.
but I {am} a smooth man
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י אִ֥ישׁ חָלָֽק (1)“but I have smooth/non-hairy skin.” or “but I am not hairy.”
Genesis 27:12
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֤י (1)“What if” or “What will/would happen if” or “{I am afraid of} what will happen if”
my father touches me
Quote: יְמֻשֵּׁ֨נִי֙ אָבִ֔י (1)“my father touches/feels my skin/arms”. If this sentence is translated as a statement, you could end it with a period or an exclamation point to show that Jacob is worried.
Then I will be in his eyes as a deceiver
Quote: וְהָיִ֥יתִי בְעֵינָ֖יו כִּמְתַעְתֵּ֑עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“{Certainly} he will/would {recognize me and} know/realize that I am trying to deceive/trick him.” Make sure that your translation of verse 12 describes a hypothetical situation, not something that had happened yet. Some languages have a special verb form (such as “would”) to communicate this.
and I will bring a curse on me and not a blessing
Quote: וְהֵבֵאתִ֥י עָלַ֛י קְלָלָ֖ה וְלֹ֥א בְרָכָֽה (1)“Then I will/would cause myself to be cursed instead of blessed.” or “Then he will curse me instead of blessing me.”
Genesis 27:13
But his mother said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ אִמּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But his mother replied/responded,”
Let your curse be on me, my son
Quote: עָלַ֥י קִלְלָתְךָ֖ בְּנִ֑י (1)“My son, {if your father curses you,} may that curse be/fall on me {and not on you}.” or “{If that happens,} may God curse me instead of you, my son.” Make sure that your translation of “your curse” refers to the curse Jacob fears his father might say against him and does not sound like Jacob cursed someone. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put an address like “my son” first in this quote. Do what is best in your language.
Just listen to my voice
Quote: אַ֛ךְ שְׁמַ֥ע בְּקֹלִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{Please} just do/obey what I say,” or “Just listen to me,”
and go get {them} for me
Quote: וְלֵ֥ךְ קַֽח לִֽי (1)“and go get {two goats} for me.” or “and go and bring {two goats} to me.”
Genesis 27:14
So he went
Quote: וַיֵּ֨לֶךְ֙ (1)“So Jacob went {to the/their flock}”
and got {them
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֔ח (1)“and got {the goats}” or “chose/selected {two goats}”
and brought {them} to his mother
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֖א לְאִמּ֑וֹ (1)“and brought/took {them} to her.”
Then his mother prepared
Quote: וַתַּ֤עַשׂ אִמּוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then she {had them butchered and she} prepared/cooked/made” or “Then she {used the butchered meat from the goats to} prepare/cook”. In some languages it is necessary to specify that the animal was killed and cut up before being cooked. Do what is best in your language. See what you did for a similar case in verse 4.
tasty food
Quote: מַטְעַמִּ֔ים (1)“{some} tasty/savory food” or “a tasty/delicious meal”. See how you translated this phrase in verses 4, 7 and 9.
such as his father loved
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר אָהֵ֥ב אָבִֽיו (1)“{just} the way that his father liked it.” See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 4 and 9.
Genesis 27:15
Then Rebekah took
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֣ח רִ֠בְקָה (1)“Rebekah/She also took/got {out}”
the best clothes of Esau her older son
Quote: אֶת בִּגְדֵ֨י עֵשָׂ֜ו בְּנָ֤הּ הַגָּדֹל֙ הַחֲמֻדֹ֔ת (1)“her older son Esau’s best/finest clothes”
that {were} with her in the house
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתָּ֖הּ בַּבָּ֑יִת (1)“that she had in the house”
and put them on Jacob her younger son
Quote: וַתַּלְבֵּ֥שׁ אֶֽת יַעֲקֹ֖ב בְּנָ֥הּ הַקָּטָֽן (1)“and had her younger son Jacob put them on.” or “and gave them to her younger son Jacob to put on.” Your translation should not sound like Rebekah dressed Jacob herself as if he were a little child. She probably gave him the clothes and asked him to put them on himself.
Genesis 27:16
And she put the skins of the kid goats over his hands and over
Quote: וְאֵ֗ת עֹרֹת֙ גְּדָיֵ֣י הָֽעִזִּ֔ים הִלְבִּ֖ישָׁה עַל יָדָ֑יו וְעַ֖ל (1)“Then she used the goat skins to cover his/Jacob’s arms and”. See how you translated “skins” in Gen 3:21. The skins still had the goat hair or fur on them.
the smooth part of his neck
Quote: חֶלְקַ֥ת צַוָּארָֽיו (1)“the non-hairy part of his neck.” or “the part of his neck that had no hair {on it}.” See how you translated “smooth” in verse 11.
Genesis 27:17
Then she gave the tasty food and the bread that she had made into the hand{s} of Jacob her son
Quote: וַתִּתֵּ֧ן אֶת הַמַּטְעַמִּ֛ים וְאֶת הַלֶּ֖חֶם אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑תָה בְּיַ֖ד יַעֲקֹ֥ב בְּנָֽהּ (1)“Then she/Rebekah gave/handed to Jacob/him the tasty/savory goat meat dish and some bread she had baked/made.” or “Then she gave/handed the tasty/delicious food/meal to Jacob/him, including some bread that she had baked/made.”
Genesis 27:18
and he went to his father
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֶל אָבִ֖יו (1)“He/Jacob took the meal to his father”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and said, “My father.” And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אָבִ֑י וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said, “Father.” His father answered/replied,”
Behold me. Who {are} you, my son
Quote: הִנֶּ֔נִּי מִ֥י אַתָּ֖ה בְּנִֽי (1)“Here I am, my son. Who {are} you?” or “Yes? Which {one} of my sons {are} you?” See how you translated “Behold me” in verse 1. It may be necessary to translate this in a different way here because the context is different.
Genesis 27:19
Then Jacob said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶל אָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob replied/lied to his father,”
I {am} Esau, your firstborn
Quote: אָנֹכִי֙ עֵשָׂ֣ו בְּכֹרֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“I {am} Esau, your firstborn/oldest son.” The term “firstborn” is a key term in the Bible because the firstborn son had special rights, including the fact that he inherited his father’s authority and the largest portion of his father’s estate. Jacob is claiming those rights by using this term. See how you translated this term in Gen 25:13.
I have done as you told me
Quote: עָשִׂ֕יתִי כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ אֵלָ֑י (1)“I have done what you told/requested me {to do}.”
Please get up, sit and eat some of my game
Quote: קֽוּם נָ֣א שְׁבָ֗ה וְאָכְלָה֙ מִצֵּידִ֔י (1)“{So now,} please sit up and eat some of the game/deer {meat} that I have prepared/cooked {for you},” See how you translated “game {meat}” in verses 3, 5 and 7.
so that your soul will bless me
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר תְּבָרֲכַ֥נִּי נַפְשֶֽׁךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“so that you can bless me.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 4.
Genesis 27:20
Then Isaac said to his son
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יִצְחָק֙ אֶל בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Isaac asked him,”
How {is} this you were quick to find {it}, my son
Quote: מַה זֶּ֛ה מִהַ֥רְתָּ לִמְצֹ֖א בְּנִ֑י (1)“How were you able to find/get {the deer/animal} so quickly, my son?” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to put the address “my son” first in this quote.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“Jacob answered {him},”
Because Yahweh your God
Quote: כִּ֥י & יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ (1)“{I was successful} because Yahweh, the God you worship/serve,” or “Yahweh, {who is} the God who takes care of you,”
caused {it} to happen before me
Quote: הִקְרָ֛ה & לְפָנָֽי (1)“helped me to hunt/find it.” or “helped me to succeed.” or “brought it to me.” See how you translated this clause in Gen 24:12.
Genesis 27:21
Then Isaac said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יִצְחָק֙ אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“Then/But Isaac said to him,”
Please come close, so that I can touch you, my son
Quote: גְּשָׁה נָּ֥א וַאֲמֻֽשְׁךָ֖ בְּנִ֑י (1)“Please come close/closer {to me}, my son, so that I can touch/feel you” or “My son, please come here so that I can touch/feel you”. Consider whether it is more natural in your language to put the address “my son” first or earlier in this quote. Also see what you did in verses 13 and 20.
and know} whether you are really my son Esau or not
Quote: הַֽאַתָּ֥ה זֶ֛ה בְּנִ֥י עֵשָׂ֖ו אִם לֹֽא (1)“and make/be sure/certain that you are really my son Esau.” or “{I want to know} {for sure} whether or not you really are my son Esau.” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 27:22
So Jacob went close to Isaac his father
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֧שׁ יַעֲקֹ֛ב אֶל יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו (1)“So/Then Jacob came/stepped close/closer to his father Isaac,”
and he touched him
Quote: וַיְמֻשֵּׁ֑הוּ (1)“and his father touched/felt him” or “and his father touched/felt his hands/arms”. See how you translated “touch” or “feel” in verses 12 and 21.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“and said/thought {to himself},”
The voice {is} the voice of Jacob
Quote: הַקֹּל֙ ק֣וֹל יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{Hmm,} the/his voice {sounds like} Jacob’s voice,” or “{Hmm,} he sounds/talks like Jacob,”
but the hands {are} the hands of Esau
Quote: וְהַיָּדַ֖יִם יְדֵ֥י עֵשָֽׂו (1)“but the/his hands/arms {feel like} Esau’s hands/arms.” or “but he feels like Esau.” In Hebrew, the word for “hand” is the same word as for “arm”. Isaac probably felt Esau’s hands and arms.
Genesis 27:23
So he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like the hands of Esau his brother
Quote: וְלֹ֣א הִכִּיר֔וֹ כִּֽי הָי֣וּ יָדָ֗יו כִּידֵ֛י עֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִ֖יו שְׂעִרֹ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“So Isaac was not able to recognize/identify who he/Jacob was because his/Jacob’s hand/arms were/felt hairy like his brother Esau’s.” or “Since Jacob’s hands/arms were/felt hairy like the hands/arms of his brother Esau, Isaac did not recognize him.” Be consistent here with how you translated “hands” or “arms” in verses 16 and 22. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to change the original order of clauses in this sentence, as in the second alternate translation above.
and he was about to bless him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרְכֵֽהוּ (1)“Then Isaac was about/prepared to bless him/Jacob,” or “Isaac was getting ready to bless him/Jacob,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 24.
Genesis 27:24
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“But {he still was not sure/certain, so} he asked {him},” or “but {first} {he wanted to be completely sure/certain, so} he asked {him},”
Are} you really my son Esau
Quote: אַתָּ֥ה זֶ֖ה בְּנִ֣י עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)“Are you really/truly/actually my son Esau?”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob answered {him},”
I {am
Quote: אָֽנִי (1)“{Yes,} I am {Esau}.” or “{Yes, Father/sir,} I am.”
Genesis 27:25
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Isaac said {to him},” or “So his father said {to him},”
Bring {the food} to me
Quote: הַגִּ֤שָׁה לִּי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
“{Please} bring/serve me {the food/meal}” Your translation of Isaac’s request should sound polite, not rude or demanding. It should also not sound like he was begging or pleading.
and I will eat some of my son’s game, so that my soul will bless you
Quote: וְאֹֽכְלָה֙ מִצֵּ֣יד בְּנִ֔י לְמַ֥עַן תְּבָֽרֶכְךָ֖ נַפְשִׁ֑י (1)“so that I can eat some of your {wild} animal/deer {meat} and bless you.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 19.
Then he brought {it} to him, and he ate
Quote: וַיַּגֶּשׁ לוֹ֙ וַיֹּאכַ֔ל (1)“Then/So Jacob brought/served {the meal} to his father, and he ate {it}.”
and he brought wine to him, and he drank
Quote: וַיָּ֧בֵא ל֦וֹ יַ֖יִן וַיֵּֽשְׁתְּ (1)“Jacob also brought/served him wine, and he drank {it}.” Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, see how you translated “wine” in Gen 19:32-35.
Genesis 27:26
Then Isaac his father said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו יִצְחָ֣ק אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then his/Jacob’s father said to him,” or “Then Isaac said to him/Jacob,”
Please come close
Quote: גְּשָׁה נָּ֥א (1)“Come here” or “Come closer/near {to me}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 21.
and kiss me, my son
Quote: וּשְׁקָה לִּ֖י בְּנִֽי (1)It was a Hebrew custom for relatives and close friends to greet each other with a kiss on each cheek. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to put the address “my son” first in this quote.
Genesis 27:27
So he went close
Quote: וַיִּגַּשׁ֙ (1)“So/Then he/Jacob came/stepped close/closer {to his father}”. See how you translated “went close” in verse 22.
and kissed him
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁק ל֔וֹ (1)“and kissed him {on the/his cheek/cheeks}.”
And he smelled the smell of his clothes
Quote: וַיָּ֛רַח אֶת רֵ֥יחַ בְּגָדָ֖יו (1)“Then Isaac smelled/recognized the fragrance/scent of Esau’s clothes {that Jacob was wearing}” or “{As he/Jacob did that,} his father smelled/recognized the fragrance/scent of Esau’s clothes”
so he blessed him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרֲכֵ֑הוּ (1)“Then he/Isaac blessed him/Jacob”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“by saying {to/about him},” or “He said {to/about him},”
See, the smell of my son is
Quote: רְאֵה֙ רֵ֣יחַ בְּנִ֔י (1)“Ahh, my son smells” or “Ahh, my son, you smell”. Some translations put the words of Isaac’s blessing in poetry format (beginning here and through verse 29). Be consistent here with how your translation team decides to format passages like this.
like the smell of a field
Quote: כְּרֵ֣יחַ שָׂדֶ֔ה (1)“{wonderful} like the fragrance of a {green/productive} field” or “{wonderful} the way a {green/productive} field smells”
that Yahweh has blessed
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בֵּרֲכ֖וֹ יְהוָֽה (1)“that Yahweh has caused to flourish!” or “that Yahweh has caused to be very productive!”
Genesis 27:28
And may God give to you
Quote: וְיִֽתֶּן לְךָ֙ הָאֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“May God give/provide you {and your descendants}” or “I ask God to provide you {and your descendants}” or “I pray that God will give/provide you {and your descendants}”. In the Hebrew text, “you” is singular in verses 28-29 and refers to both Jacob and his descendants. If necessary, you could make that explicit in your translation.
from the dew of the heavens and from the fatness of the earth
Quote: מִטַּל֙ הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וּמִשְׁמַנֵּ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{plenty of} dew/rain from the heavens/sky {for your crops and animals} and riches from the earth/land/soil” or “{plenty of} rain and rich/fertile land/soil,”
and an abundance of grain and wine
Quote: וְרֹ֥ב דָּגָ֖ן וְתִירֹֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“including an abundance of grain/food and wine/drink.” or “so that {you have} abundant harvests/food and {much} wine.”
Genesis 27:29
May peoples serve you, and may nations bow down to you
Quote: יַֽעַבְד֣וּךָ עַמִּ֗ים וְיִֽשְׁתַּחֲו֤וּ לְךָ֙ לְאֻמִּ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“May people groups serve you {and your descendants}, and may they bow down to you {in respect/submission}.” or “I also ask God to cause nations to serve and honor you {and your descendants}.” If possible in your language, it is best to keep both halves of this parallelism, which is used to emphasize what Isaac is saying to Jacob.
Be master
Quote: הֱוֵ֤ה גְבִיר֙ (1)“May you rule” or “You will {even} rule”
over your brothers
Quote: לְאַחֶ֔יךָ (1)“over your brother and his descendants,” Jacob only had one brother, so this phrase refers here to Esau and his descendants.
and may the sons of your mother bow down to you
Quote: וְיִשְׁתַּחֲוּ֥וּ לְךָ֖ בְּנֵ֣י אִמֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Yes, may your mother’s descendants show you complete submission/respect.” or “and they will bow down to you {in submission}.” or “Yes, they {too} will {submit to you and} bow down to you.” This clause is another way of referring to Jacob's authority over Esau and his descendants. Consider again how you translated the singular “you” in verses 28-29. You could use a plural “you” here or you could say “you {and your descendants}”.
May} those {who} curse you be cursed, and {may} those {who} bless you be blessed
Quote: אֹרְרֶ֣יךָ אָר֔וּר וּֽמְבָרֲכֶ֖יךָ בָּרֽוּךְ (1)“Whoever curses you will be cursed {by God}, and/but whoever blesses you will be blessed {by him}.” or “Whoever curses you {God} will curse, but whoever blesses you {he} will bless.” or “I ask {God} to curse those who curse you, and/but I ask {him} to bless those who bless you.” See how you translated “curse” in Gen 12:3.
Genesis 27:30
Then it happened, just as Isaac finished blessing Jacob
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר כִּלָּ֣ה יִצְחָק֮ לְבָרֵ֣ךְ אֶֽת יַעֲקֹב֒ (1)“Just as Isaac finished blessing Jacob,” or “As soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob,”
and it happened, scarcely had Jacob just left from the presence of Isaac his father, then Esau his brother
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַ֣ךְ יָצֹ֤א יָצָא֙ יַעֲקֹ֔ב מֵאֵ֥ת פְּנֵ֖י יִצְחָ֣ק אָבִ֑יו וְעֵשָׂ֣ו אָחִ֔יו (1)“and right after Jacob had left his father’s presence/tent, his/Jacob’s brother Esau” or “and no sooner had Jacob left his father than his/Jacob’s brother Esau”
came in from his hunt
Quote: בָּ֖א מִצֵּידֽוֹ (1)“came back from hunting.” or “returned {home} from hunting.”
Genesis 27:31
Then he too prepared tasty food
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ גַּם הוּא֙ מַטְעַמִּ֔ים (1)“Then he/Esau also prepared/cooked a tasty/delicious meal {with/from the meat he had hunted},” Consider again how you translated “prepared tasty food” in verses 4, 7, 9, 14, 31 and “tasty” in verse 17.
and he brought {it} to his father
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֖א לְאָבִ֑יו (1)“and he took/carried {it} to his father {Isaac}”
and said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְאָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said to him,” or “and requested,”
Let my father get up
Quote: יָקֻ֤ם אָבִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“Father, {please} sit up”. Esau’s request to his father should sound polite in your translation, not rude or demanding.
and eat from his son’s game
Quote: וְיֹאכַל֙ מִצֵּ֣יד בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“and eat some of your son’s {wild} animal/deer meat” or “and eat some of my {wild} animal/deer meat”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Esau is referring to himself in this phrase.
so that your soul can bless me
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר תְּבָרֲכַ֥נִּי נַפְשֶֽׁךָ (1)“so that you can bless me.” or “and then you can bless me.” See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 4, 19, 25 and 31.
Genesis 27:32
But Isaac his father said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֛וֹ יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו (1)“But/Then his father asked him,” or “But his father responded/asked/exclaimed,” For some languages it is more natural to make “Isaac” explicit in verse 31 and leave it implied here in verse 32. Do what is best in your language.
Who {are} you
Quote: מִי אָ֑תָּה (1)“Which son {are} you?!” or “Which of my sons {are} you?!” Isaac knew from what Esau just said in verse 31 that one of his sons was talking to him. Also, Isaac is very upset, so some translations add an exclamation point after the question mark to help communicate that. Do what is best in your language.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Esau answered {him},” or “Esau replied,”
I {am} your son, your firstborn Esau
Quote: אֲנִ֛י בִּנְךָ֥ בְכֹֽרְךָ֖ עֵשָֽׂו (1)“I {am} your firstborn/oldest son Esau.” or “I {am} Esau, your firstborn/oldest son.” See how you translated “firstborn” in verse 19.
Genesis 27:33
Then Isaac trembled a very great tremble
Quote: וַיֶּחֱרַ֨ד יִצְחָ֣ק חֲרָדָה֮ גְּדֹלָ֣ה עַד מְאֹד֒ (1)“Then Isaac {became so upset that he} trembled/shook very violently/noticeably,” or “Then Isaac {was very upset, so that he} began to tremble/shake all over,”
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֡אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and he asked {Esau},”
Then who {was} it
Quote: מִֽי אֵפ֡וֹא ה֣וּא (1)“Who {was} it then” or “Then where {is} the one”
that hunted game and brought {it} to me
Quote: הַצָּֽד צַיִד֩ וַיָּ֨בֵא לִ֜י (1)“that/who hunted game/deer meat and brought a meal to me?” or “that/who brought to me a meal made from wild animal/deer meat?” Consider again how you translated “game” in Gen 27:3, 5, 7, 19, 25, 31 and 33. It may be necessary to translate it in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
And I ate from {it} all just before you came
Quote: וָאֹכַ֥ל מִכֹּ֛ל בְּטֶ֥רֶם תָּב֖וֹא (1)“Just before you came {to me}, I finished eating the meal” or “I finished eating it just before you came {here}”
and I blessed him. Indeed, he will be blessed
Quote: וָאֲבָרֲכֵ֑הוּ גַּם בָּר֖וּךְ יִהְיֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and then I blessed him. And/So {God} will surely/definitely bless him.” or “Then I asked God to bless him, and/so God will definitely bless him.” Consider where it is most natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 27:34
When Esau heard the words of his father
Quote: כִּשְׁמֹ֤עַ עֵשָׂו֙ אֶת דִּבְרֵ֣י אָבִ֔יו (1)“When Esau heard what his father said {to him},”
then he cried out a great and exceedingly bitter cry
Quote: וַיִּצְעַ֣ק צְעָקָ֔ה גְּדֹלָ֥ה וּמָרָ֖ה עַד מְאֹ֑ד (1)“he shouted/burst out with an extremely/very loud and bitter/distressed cry/shout” or “he was so distressed/upset that he cried/yelled out loudly/bitterly”
and said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְאָבִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and begged his father,” or “and begged him,”
Bless me, me too, my father
Quote: בָּרֲכֵ֥נִי גַם אָ֖נִי אָבִֽי (1)“{Please} bless me too, father!” or “Father, {please} bless me too!” For some languages it is more natural to put the address “My father” or “Father” first in this sentence. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 27:35
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But his father responded/replied {to him},”
Your brother came in deceit and took your blessing
Quote: בָּ֥א אָחִ֖יךָ בְּמִרְמָ֑ה וַיִּקַּ֖ח בִּרְכָתֶֽךָ (1)“Your brother came {to me} and deceived/tricked {me} and stole the blessing that I was planning to give you.” or “Your brother deceived/tricked me so that I blessed him instead of you!”
Genesis 27:36
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֡אמֶר (1)“Then Esau exclaimed {bitterly/angrily},” or “{When Esau heard that,} he said/exclaimed {bitterly/angrily},”
Is it because his name is called Jacob that he has defrauded me these two times
Quote: הֲכִי֩ קָרָ֨א שְׁמ֜וֹ יַעֲקֹ֗ב וַֽיַּעְקְבֵ֨נִי֙ זֶ֣ה פַעֲמַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“It is no wonder that he is called Jacob, since he has cheated me two times!” or “The name Jacob fits him exactly, because he has tricked me like this two times {now}!” Esau uses a rhetorical question here to show his strong emotion. Do what is most natural in your language. Also, in order to help readers understand why Esau said this about Jacob, some translations include a footnote like the following: The name “Jacob” means “heel-grabber” and can imply deception. He was given that name because when he was born, he was grabbing hold of Esau’s heel (Genesis 25:26).
He took my birthright, and behold, now
Quote: אֶת בְּכֹרָתִ֣י לָקָ֔ח וְהִנֵּ֥ה עַתָּ֖ה (1)“{First} he stole my rights as the oldest son, and now look/see {what he has done}:” or “Not only did he take/steal my birthright, but now look/see {what he has done}:”
he has taken my blessing
Quote: לָקַ֣ח בִּרְכָתִ֑י (1)“he has {also} stolen my blessing!” or “he has tricked/deceived you into blessing him instead of me!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (2)“Then he/Esau begged {his father},” or “Then he/Esau pleaded {with his father},”
Have you not reserved a blessing for me
Quote: הֲלֹא אָצַ֥לְתָּ לִּ֖י בְּרָכָֽה (1)“Don’t you still have at least one blessing left for me?” or “Is there still a/some way you can {ask God to} bless me?”
Genesis 27:37
But Isaac responded and said to Esau
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן יִצְחָ֜ק וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְעֵשָׂ֗ו (1)“Isaac responded/replied to Esau/him,” or “Isaac answered him,”
Behold, I have made him master over you
Quote: הֵ֣ן גְּבִ֞יר שַׂמְתִּ֥יו לָךְ֙ (1)“Look/Listen, I have {already} appointed Jacob to be your master,” See how you translated “master” in verse 29.
and I have given all his brothers to him as servants
Quote: וְאֶת כָּל אֶחָ֗יו נָתַ֤תִּי לוֹ֙ לַעֲבָדִ֔ים (1)“In fact, I said that you and all your descendants will serve him.” or “In fact, I have asked {God to make it so} that you and your descendants will serve him {and his descendants}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “brothers” in verse 29.
And I have sustained him with grain and wine
Quote: וְדָגָ֥ן וְתִירֹ֖שׁ סְמַכְתִּ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Besides that, I have {also} supplied/blessed him with {abundant} harvests/food and wine/drink.” or “I have also asked God to provide/supply/bless him with {plenty of} food and wine/drink.” See how you translated “grain and wine” in verse 28.
So then, what can I do for you, my son
Quote: וּלְכָ֣ה אֵפ֔וֹא מָ֥ה אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֖ה בְּנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“So then, there is no way left for me to bless you, my son!” or “So my son, there is no blessing left for you!” Isaac uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no blessing left for Esau.
Genesis 27:38
But Esau said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר עֵשָׂ֜ו אֶל אָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Esau continued to beg his father {and say/said},” or “But again Esau begged/pleaded/asked,”
Is there one blessing that you have, my father
Quote: הַֽבְרָכָ֨ה אַחַ֤ת הִֽוא לְךָ֙ אָבִ֔י (1)“Father, isn’t there {just/even} one way that you can bless {me}?” or “Father, don’t you have at least one blessing left to give me?” It may be more natural to put “my father” or “Father” first in this quote. See what you did in verse 34.
Bless me, me too, my father
Quote: בָּרֲכֵ֥נִי גַם אָ֖נִי אָבִ֑י (1)“{Please} bless me too, father!” or “Father, {please} bless me too!” See how you translated this sentence in verse 34.
Then Esau lifted his voice and sobbed
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֥א עֵשָׂ֛ו קֹל֖וֹ וַיֵּֽבְךְּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then/And Esau started sobbing/crying loudly.” See how you translated “lifted … voice and sobbed” in Gen 21:16.
Genesis 27:39
Then Isaac his father responded and said to him
Quote: וַיַּ֛עַן יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Finally/So his father Isaac responded/said to him,” or “His father replied,”
Behold, your dwelling will be
Quote: הִנֵּ֞ה & יִהְיֶ֣ה מֽוֹשָׁבֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Listen, you {and your descendants} will live”. What Isaac says in verses 39-40 applies to Esau and his descendants. See what you did for a similar case in verses 28-29.
away from the fatness of the earth and away from the dew of the heavens from above
Quote: מִשְׁמַנֵּ֤י הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ & וּמִטַּ֥ל הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם מֵעָֽל (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “away from the fatness of the earth and away from the dew of the heavens from above.” or “in a place/region where the earth/land/ground is not rich/fertile and where there is very little dew/rain.” or “in a place/region where the land/soil is not good {for farming} and where there is not much rain.” or (2) “of the fatness of the earth and of the dew of the heavens from above.” or “in a place where the land is good/fertile {for farming} and where there is {plenty of} dew/rain.” See how you translated “fatness of the earth” and “dew of the heavens” in verse 28.
Genesis 27:40
And you will live by your sword
Quote: וְעַל חַרְבְּךָ֣ תִֽחְיֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“You {and your descendants} will survive by using your swords {to protect yourselves},” or “You {and your descendants} will have to fight battles to stay alive,” or “You {and your descendants} will continually be fighting battles {with other peoples/nations},” The phrase “live by your sword” is an idiom that means Esau and his descendants will have violent conflict with others, often in order to survive.
and you will serve your brother
Quote: וְאֶת אָחִ֖יךָ תַּעֲבֹ֑ד (1)“and you {and your descendants} will serve your brother {and his descendants}.” or “and you {and your descendants} will be servants/slaves for your brother {and his descendants}.”
But it will happen when you become restless
Quote: וְהָיָה֙ כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר תָּרִ֔יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“But when you rebel/revolt {against him/them},” Consider again how you translated the singular “you” in verses 39-40. You could use a plural “you” here or you could say “you {and your descendants}”. See what you did for a similar case in verses 28-29.
then you will break his yoke off of your neck
Quote: וּפָרַקְתָּ֥ עֻלּ֖וֹ מֵעַ֥ל צַוָּארֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“you will break/get free from his/their control/rule over you.” or “you will no longer be under his/their control/rule.” The metaphor “break his yoke off of your neck” means Esau and his descendants will be free from the control of Jacob and his descendants. A yoke is a wooden collar that is placed around the necks of work animals to control them as they pull a plow or cart.
Genesis 27:41
Then Esau hated Jacob
Quote: וַיִּשְׂטֹ֤ם עֵשָׂו֙ אֶֽת יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“After that, Esau held a grudge against Jacob” or “Esau continued to be very angry with/at Jacob”
because of the blessing that his father had blessed him with
Quote: עַל הַ֨בְּרָכָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר בֵּרֲכ֖וֹ אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“because his/their father had given his blessing to Jacob.” or “because their father had blessed Jacob {instead of him}.” Consider again how you translated the terms “bless” and “blessing” in chapter 27. See verses 4, 7, 10, 19, 23, 25, 27, 29-31, 33-36, 38 and 41.
and Esau said in his heart
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר עֵשָׂ֜ו בְּלִבּ֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Esau said/thought to himself,”
The days of the mourning of my father are near
Quote: יִקְרְבוּ֙ יְמֵי֙ אֵ֣בֶל אָבִ֔י (1)“Soon my father will die, and we will have a time of mourning for him, then” or “Soon my father will die; then after we {bury him and} mourn for him,” In that culture, they had the custom of mourning the death of a loved one for a certain period of time, anywhere from a week to a month or more. See how you translated “mourn” in Gen 23:2.
then I will kill
Quote: וְאַֽהַרְגָ֖ה (1)“I am going to kill” or “I plan to kill”
Jacob my brother
Quote: אֶת יַעֲקֹ֥ב אָחִֽי (1)“my brother Jacob.” or “Jacob.”
Genesis 27:42
But the words of Esau her older son were told to Rebekah
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֣ד לְרִבְקָ֔ה אֶת דִּבְרֵ֥י עֵשָׂ֖ו בְּנָ֣הּ הַגָּדֹ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“But/Then someone told Rebekah what Esau was saying/planning, so” or “But/Then Rebekah heard about what her older/oldest son Esau was planning, so” or “When Rebekah heard what Esau was planning {to do},” It was probably a servant who told Rebekah about Esau’s plan to kill Jacob.
so she sent and called for Jacob her younger son
Quote: וַתִּשְׁלַ֞ח וַתִּקְרָ֤א לְיַעֲקֹב֙ בְּנָ֣הּ הַקָּטָ֔ן (1)“she sent for her younger/youngest son Jacob {to come to her}” or “she sent a messenger to tell Jacob {to come to her}” or “she summoned her son Jacob”
and said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and told/warned him,”
Behold, Esau your brother is consoling himself about you, planning to kill you
Quote: הִנֵּה֙ עֵשָׂ֣ו אָחִ֔יךָ מִתְנַחֵ֥ם לְךָ֖ לְהָרְגֶֽךָ (1)“Look/Listen, your brother Esau is making himself feel better by planning to kill you.” or “Listen, your brother Esau is planning to take revenge on you and kill you.”
Genesis 27:43
So now, my son
Quote: וְעַתָּ֥ה בְנִ֖י (1)“So then, my son,” or “Now son,” See how you translated “So now” in verses 3 and 8.
listen to my voice
Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“listen to me:” or “do/obey what I tell you:” See how you translated this phrase in verses 8 and 13. It may be necessary to translate it differently here because of the context.
and get up, flee for yourself
Quote: וְק֧וּם בְּרַח לְךָ֛ (1)“get ready immediately and flee/escape” or “Hurry {and} flee/escape” or “Flee/Escape immediately”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to Laban my brother in Haran
Quote: אֶל לָבָ֥ן אָחִ֖י חָרָֽנָה (1)“to my brother Laban {who lives} in {the city of} Haran!” or “to {the city of} Haran, to {the house of} my brother Laban!” For some languages, it is more natural to put the location (Haran) before the person who lives there (Laban). Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 27:44
And stay with him for a few days
Quote: וְיָשַׁבְתָּ֥ עִמּ֖וֹ יָמִ֣ים אֲחָדִ֑ים (1)“Stay/Live with him for a short time”
until the fury of your brother turns away
Quote: עַ֥ד אֲשֶׁר תָּשׁ֖וּב חֲמַ֥ת אָחִֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“until your brother’s fury/anger subsides/stops” or “until your brother is no longer furious/angry {with you}”. Consider whether it is more natural in your language to end this sentence here or to continue the sentence into verse 45. Also, the phrase “turns away” is used here as an idiom that means “becomes less” or “goes away”.
Genesis 27:45
until the anger of your brother turns away from you
Quote: עַד שׁ֨וּב אַף אָחִ֜יךָ מִמְּךָ֗ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“until his anger against you is gone” or “When he is not angry with you anymore” or “After a while, when your brother is no longer angry with you”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, notice that the Hebrew word for “anger” here is different from the stronger word (“fury”) in verse 44.
and he forgets what you have done to him
Quote: וְשָׁכַח֙ אֵ֣ת אֲשֶׁר עָשִׂ֣יתָ לּ֔וֹ (1)“and he forgets what you did to him” or “and he no longer thinks about what you did” or “and he doesn’t hold a grudge against you anymore”. Rebekah is not saying that Esau would totally forget what Jacob did, but that at some point he would not hold it against him anymore.
Then I will send and get you from there
Quote: וְשָׁלַחְתִּ֖י וּלְקַחְתִּ֣יךָ מִשָּׁ֑ם (1)“I will send word that it is safe for you to come {back home} from there.” or “I will send someone to tell you when/that it is safe to come back {home}.”
Why should I also lose both of you {in} one day
Quote: לָמָ֥ה אֶשְׁכַּ֛ל גַּם שְׁנֵיכֶ֖ם י֥וֹם אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“I do not want to lose both of you {on} the same day!” or “I do not want both my sons to be killed!” Rebekah knew that if Esau were to kill Jacob, he himself would have been killed for that crime. Consider whether it is best in your language to use a rhetorical question or an exclamation to emphasize Rebekah’s concern.
Genesis 27:46
Then Rebekah said to Isaac
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר רִבְקָה֙ אֶל יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Rebekah complained to Isaac,” or “{Soon} after that, Rebekah said/complained to Isaac,”
I am disgusted with my life
Quote: קַ֣צְתִּי בְחַיַּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“My life is {very} miserable” or “I do not enjoy living” or “I am very upset”. Rebekah is exaggerating how she feels to influence Isaac to do what she wants.
because of the daughters of Heth
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י בְּנ֣וֹת חֵ֑ת (1)“because of the Hittite women {whom Esau married}!” or “because of our Hittite daughters-in-law {whom Esau married}!” To show that Rebekah is speaking with strong emotion, you could use an exclamation point at the end of this sentence and the following one.
If Jacob takes a wife from the daughters of Heth like these, from daughters of the land
Quote: אִם לֹקֵ֣חַ יַ֠עֲקֹב אִשָּׁ֨ה מִבְּנֽוֹת חֵ֤ת כָּאֵ֨לֶּה֙ מִבְּנ֣וֹת הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“If Jacob {also} marries a Hittite woman from around here,” or “If Jacob were to {also} marry a local Hittite woman like that,”
what {would} life {be} to me
Quote: לָ֥מָּה לִּ֖י חַיִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“my life will/would not be worth living!” or “I would not want to keep on living!” Rebekah uses a rhetorical question and hyperbole to emphasize how upset she would be if Jacob married a Hittite woman.
Genesis 28
Genesis 28:1
Then Isaac called for Jacob
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א יִצְחָ֛ק אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)“So Isaac called/sent for Jacob {to come to him}” or “{Because of what Rebekah said,} Isaac summoned Jacob”
and blessed him
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“blessed him,” or “Then he blessed him” or “{When/After Jacob/he came,} Isaac blessed him”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, for some languages it may be necessary to make it explicit that Jacob arrived. Do what is best in your language.
and commanded him and said to him
Quote: וַיְצַוֵּ֨הוּ֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and told/instructed him,” or “and said to him,”
Do not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan
Quote: לֹֽא־תִקַּ֥ח אִשָּׁ֖ה מִבְּנ֥וֹת כְּנָֽעַן (1)“Do not take/marry a woman who is a descendant of Canaan.” or “You must not take/choose a wife from among the Canaanite women.” or “Do not marry a Canaanite woman.” If the word “woman” is used here in your translation, make sure it refers to a virgin woman who has never been married, or is general enough to include that.
Genesis 28:2
Get up, go
Quote: ק֥וּם לֵךְ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“{Rather} get up/ready and go” or “{Instead} you must go right away”. See how you translated “get up” in Gen 27:43.
to Paddan Aram
Quote: פַּדֶּ֣נָֽה אֲרָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“to {the land/region of} Paddan Aram,” Be consistent here with how you translated “Paddan Aram” in Gen 25:20.
to the home of Bethuel the father of your mother
Quote: בֵּ֥יתָה בְתוּאֵ֖ל אֲבִ֣י אִמֶּ֑ךָ (1)“to the home/family of your mother’s father Bethuel,” or “to your grandfather Bethuel’s home/family,”
and take a wife for yourself from there
Quote: וְקַח לְךָ֤ מִשָּׁם֙ אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)“and choose/find a woman from there to marry” or “and marry”
from the daughters of Laban the brother of your mother
Quote: מִבְּנ֥וֹת לָבָ֖ן אֲחִ֥י אִמֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“from among the daughters of your mother’s brother Laban.” or “one of your uncle Laban’s daughters.” Laban was Rebekah’s older brother. Some languages have a special term for this that is used here.
Genesis 28:3
And may God Almighty bless you
Quote: וְאֵ֤ל שַׁדַּי֙ יְבָרֵ֣ךְ אֹֽתְךָ֔ (1)“I pray that Almighty God will bless/prosper you” or “I ask God, {who is} all-powerful, to bless/prosper you” or “I pray that God, {who is} all-powerful, will bless/prosper you”. Most translation teams translate the meaning of God’s title here (“God Almighty”). A few teams transliterate the title as “El Shaddai” as if it were a personal name (which it is not). See how you handled “God Almighty” in Gen 17:1.
and make you fruitful
Quote: וְיַפְרְךָ֖ (1)“and give you many children” or “and enable you to have many children”
and multiply you
Quote: וְיַרְבֶּ֑ךָ (1)“and increase {the number of} your descendants” or “so that you have many descendants and”. See how you translated “fruitful and multiply” in Gen 17:20. It may need to be translated in different ways, depending on the context.
so that you become a community of peoples
Quote: וְהָיִ֖יתָ לִקְהַ֥ל עַמִּֽים (1)“so that you become {the ancestor of} many people/ethnic groups.” or “so that many people/ethnic groups will descend/come from you.” or “so that they become many people/ethnic groups.”
Genesis 28:4
And may he give the blessing of Abraham to you, to you and to your offspring with you
Quote: וְיִֽתֶּן לְךָ֙ אֶת בִּרְכַּ֣ת אַבְרָהָ֔ם לְךָ֖ וּלְזַרְעֲךָ֣ אִתָּ֑ךְ (1)“I {also} pray that he/God will give Abraham’s blessing to you and your descendants,” or “I {also} ask him/God to bless you and your descendants the same way that he blessed Abraham,”
so that you possess the land of
Quote: לְרִשְׁתְּךָ֙ אֶת אֶ֣רֶץ (1)“so that you will own the/this land” or “so that you will take possession of the/this land”
your sojournings
Quote: מְגֻרֶ֔יךָ (1)“where you have been living/residing as a foreigner/outsider,” or “where you {and your ancestors} have been living as foreigners/outsiders,” See how you translated “land of your sojournings” in Gen 17:8; it may be necessary to translate this differently here because of the different context.
which God gave to Abraham
Quote: אֲשֶׁר נָתַ֥ן אֱלֹהִ֖ים לְאַבְרָהָֽם (1)“{the same land} which God gave/promised to Abraham/him.”
Genesis 28:5
Then Isaac sent Jacob
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח יִצְחָק֙ אֶֽת יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“Then Isaac sent Jacob {on his way},” or “Then Isaac said good-bye to Jacob,”
and he went
Quote: וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ (1)“and he/Jacob left to go/travel” or “and/so Jacob started traveling”. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like Jacob had already arrived at Paddan Aram.
to Paddan Aram, to Laban
Quote: פַּדֶּ֣נָֽה אֲרָ֑ם אֶל לָבָ֤ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“to/toward {the land/region of} Paddan Aram, to Laban” or “to/toward {his uncle} Laban{’s house} {which was} in {the land/region of} Paddan Aram.” Consider whether is more natural in your language to refer to Paddan Aram first or to Laban first in this sentence. Also see how you translated “to Paddan Aram” in verses 2 and 5.
the son of Bethuel the Aramean
Quote: בֶּן בְּתוּאֵל֙ הָֽאֲרַמִּ֔י (1)“{who/Laban was} the son of Bethuel the Aramean”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, be consistent with how you spelled the name “Bethuel” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 22:22-23; 24:15, 24, 47, 50; 25:20; 28:2, 5.
and the brother of Rebekah, the mother of Jacob and Esau
Quote: אֲחִ֣י רִבְקָ֔ה אֵ֥ם יַעֲקֹ֖ב וְעֵשָֽׂו (1)“and {also} the brother of Rebekah, {who was} Jacob and Esau’s mother.”
Genesis 28:6
Now Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and had sent him to Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא עֵשָׂ֗ו כִּֽי בֵרַ֣ךְ יִצְחָק֮ אֶֽת יַעֲקֹב֒ וְשִׁלַּ֤ח אֹתוֹ֙ פַּדֶּ֣נָֽה אֲרָ֔ם (1)“Now Esau had seen/observed Isaac bless Jacob and send him to {the land/region of} Paddan Aram”
to take a wife for himself from there
Quote: לָקַֽחַת ל֥וֹ מִשָּׁ֖ם אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)“to choose/marry a wife from {among his relatives} there” or “to marry a woman from there”
and that} when he blessed him, then he commanded him, saying
Quote: בְּבָרֲכ֣וֹ אֹת֔וֹ וַיְצַ֤ו עָלָיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“{and that} when/as Isaac was blessing him/Jacob, he told/instructed him/Jacob” or “When/As Isaac was blessing him/Jacob, {Esau heard} him tell/instruct him/Jacob”. Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “commanded” in verse 1.
Do not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan
Quote: לֹֽא־תִקַּ֥ח אִשָּׁ֖ה מִבְּנ֥וֹת כְּנָֽעַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“You must not take/marry a woman who is a descendant of Canaan,” or “that he must not take/choose a wife from among the Canaanite women,” or “to not marry a Canaanite woman,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this direct quote as an indirect quote.
Genesis 28:7
and {that} Jacob listened
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“and {he also saw/observed that} Jacob” or “{Esau also saw/noticed that} Jacob”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע אֶל אָבִ֖יו וְאֶל אִמּ֑וֹ (1)“obeyed his/their father and mother” or “obeyed his/their parents”
and went to Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ פַּדֶּ֥נָֽה אֲרָֽם (1)“and {immediately} left to go to Paddan Aram.” or “and started traveling to Paddan Aram.”
Genesis 28:8
Then Esau saw that
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא עֵשָׂ֔ו כִּ֥י (1)“That is when/how Esau realized/understood that”
the daughters of Canaan were displeasing in the eyes of Isaac his father
Quote: רָע֖וֹת בְּנ֣וֹת כְּנָ֑עַן בְּעֵינֵ֖י יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִֽיו (1)“his father Isaac did not approve of {his sons marrying} Canaanite women.” or “his father Isaac did not want {his sons to marry} Canaanite women.”
Genesis 28:9
So Esau went to Ishmael
Quote: וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ עֵשָׂ֖ו אֶל יִשְׁמָעֵ֑אל (1)“So/Then Esau went/traveled to {the family/clan of} Ishmael” or “So/Then Esau went to {the region where} Ishmael’s descendants were living”. Most likely Ishmael was already dead by this time, so that Esau went to the region where Ishmael’s children and other descendants were living.
and he took as a wife Mahalath, the daughter of Ishmael, Abraham’s son
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֡ח אֶֽת מָחֲלַ֣ת בַּת יִשְׁמָעֵ֨אל בֶּן אַבְרָהָ֜ם & לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“and married Abraham’s granddaughter Mahalath, who was Ishmael’s daughter” or “and married Mahalath, who was the daughter of Abraham’s son Ishmael”
the sister of Nebaioth
Quote: אֲח֧וֹת נְבָי֛וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“and {who was} the {younger} sister of Nebaioth,” or “and whose {older} brother was Nebaioth,” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Nebaioth” in Gen 25:13. Since Nebaioth was Ishmael’s oldest child, Mahalath was his younger sister, probably from the same mother. Use a kinship term here in your language for “sister” or “brother” that fits with those facts.
in addition to his wives {who belonged} to him
Quote: עַל נָשָׁ֖יו ל֥וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“besides the {two} wives he already had.” For some languages it may be better to change the order of some of the clauses in this sentence and say, “So, in addition to the {two} wives he already had, Esau went to {the family of} Abraham’s son Ishmael and married Ishmael’s daughter Mahalath, whose brother was Nebaioth.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 28:10
And Jacob left from Beersheba and set out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִבְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{After} Jacob left from {his family’s home in} {the city of} Beersheba, he started traveling” or “{Meanwhile} Jacob had left {the city of} Beersheba and was traveling”. Verse 10 refers back to verse 5, where Jacob had left his parents’ home in Beersheba to go to Paddan Aram. Make sure your translation does not sound like he left a second time here in verse 10.
for Haran
Quote: חָרָֽנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“to/toward {the city of} Haran {in the region/land of Paddan Aram}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob was heading toward the same place that his father had told him to go to in verse 2. The author assumed here that his audience knew that Haran was a city located in the Paddan Aram region. It may be helpful to include a map in your translation that shows the locations of the city of Haran and the region of Paddan Aram.
Genesis 28:11
Then he reached a {certain} place, and he stopped there
Quote: וַיִּפְגַּ֨ע בַּמָּק֜וֹם וַיָּ֤לֶן שָׁם֙ (1)“{That evening} he reached a {good} place {to camp/sleep}, so he stayed/spent the night there” or “{Late that evening} he came to a place where he stopped/stayed {for the night}”
because the sun had gone
Quote: כִּי בָ֣א הַשֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because the sun had gone {down}.” or “because the sun had set.” For some languages it is more natural to put the information in this clause first in this sentence and say, “After the sun went down, he reached a good place {to camp/sleep}, so he stopped/stayed there {for the night}.” Do what is best in your language.
And he took {one} of the stones of the place
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֙ מֵאַבְנֵ֣י הַמָּק֔וֹם (1)“He chose {one} of the stones that was there” or “He picked out a large {flat} stone {that he found} there”. The way you translate “stone” should refer to something that would be large enough to support Jacob’s head, but not so large that it would be too heavy for him to lift. For example in English, a pebble is too small and a boulder is too big.
and put it under his head
Quote: וַיָּ֖שֶׂם מְרַֽאֲשֹׁתָ֑יו (1)“and rested his head on it {as a headrest/pillow},” or “and used it as a headrest/pillow,” or “to use as a headrest/pillow,”
and he lay down in that place
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכַּ֖ב בַּמָּק֥וֹם הַהֽוּא (1)“then he lay down there {and went to sleep}.” or “Then he lay down there {on the ground} {and went to sleep}.” or “then he went to sleep there.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 28:12
And he dreamed
Quote: וַֽיַּחֲלֹ֗ם (1)“And {as} he dreamed,” or “{As/While he slept,} he had a dream and” or “While he was dreaming,”
and behold, a stairway was set up on the earth
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה סֻלָּם֙ מֻצָּ֣ב אַ֔רְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“he saw a stairway/staircase whose base was resting on the ground” or “he saw a stairway/staircase. The bottom/base of the stairway was/rested on the ground”. This stairway was wide enough for there to be angels moving up and down on it at the same time.
and its top reached to the heavens
Quote: וְרֹאשׁ֖וֹ מַגִּ֣יעַ הַשָּׁמָ֑יְמָה (1)“and its top reached up to heaven,” or “and the top of it went/reached {all the way} up into the heavens/sky,”
and behold, angels of God were ascending and descending on it
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ מַלְאֲכֵ֣י אֱלֹהִ֔ים עֹלִ֥ים וְיֹרְדִ֖ים בּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“and there were angels of/from God who were going up and down on the stairway.” or “and he saw God’s angels going up and coming down on the stairway.” See how you translated “angel” in Gen 24:7, 40.
Genesis 28:13
And behold, Yahweh was standing above it
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה יְהוָ֜ה נִצָּ֣ב עָלָיו֮ (1)“Then suddenly Yahweh was standing at the top {of the stairway},” or “And there standing at the top {of the stairway} was Yahweh,” or “And Yahweh was {also} there, standing at the top {of the stairway}”. The phrase for “above it” in the Hebrew text is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “above it” or “at the top {of the stairway}” or (2) “above/beside him/Jacob”. The interpretation that is not followed in your translation could be put in a footnote.
and he said, “I {am} Yahweh
Quote: וַיֹּאמַר֒ אֲנִ֣י יְהוָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and he/Yahweh said {to him/Jacob}, “I {am} Yahweh,”
the God of Abraham your grandfather and the God of Isaac
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֔יךָ וֵאלֹהֵ֖י יִצְחָ֑ק (1)“the God whom your forefathers/ancestors Abraham and Isaac serve/worship.” or “the God {who takes care} of your forefathers/ancestors Abraham and Isaac.” Abraham was Jacob’s grandfather and ancestor.
The land that you are lying on I will give to you and to your offspring
Quote: הָאָ֗רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֤ר אַתָּה֙ שֹׁכֵ֣ב עָלֶ֔יהָ לְךָ֥ אֶתְּנֶ֖נָּה וּלְזַרְעֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“The/This land where you are lying/sleeping I am giving to you and your descendants.” or “I will give you and your descendants this land that you are lying/sleeping on.” In the Hebrew text, “the land that you are lying on” comes first in this sentence in order to emphasize it and show its importance. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 28:14
And your offspring will be
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה זַרְעֲךָ֙ (1)“And your descendants will be” or “They will be” or “You will have so many descendants that they will be”
like the dust of the earth
Quote: כַּעֲפַ֣ר הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“{as numerous/many} as the dust {specks} on the ground,” See how you translated “dust” in Gen 13:16.
and you will spread out
Quote: וּפָרַצְתָּ֛ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“and your descendants/people will spread out” or “so that they expand {their territory}” or “so that they live throughout this land”. In this clause “you” refers to Jacob’s descendants. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south
Quote: יָ֥מָּה וָקֵ֖דְמָה וְצָפֹ֣נָה וָנֶ֑גְבָּה (1)“to the west, east, north, and south.” or “to the north, south, east, and west.” or “in every direction.” See how you translated the names of the directions “west,” “east,” “north,” and “south” in Gen 13:14. Notice that they are in a different order there.
in you and in your offspring
Quote: בְךָ֛ & וּבְזַרְעֶֽךָ (1)“In/Through you and your offspring/descendants” or “Because of you and your offspring/descendants” or “By means of you and your offspring/descendants”. Be consistent here with how you translated “your offspring” in Gen 22:18 and 26:4.
And … all the families of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְנִבְרֲכ֥וּ & כָּל מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת הָאֲדָמָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“all the families/people on the earth will be blessed {by me}.” or “{I} will bless all the families/clans/people in the world.” For some languages it may be better to change the order of phrases in this sentence and say, “And {I} will bless all the families in the world through you and your offspring/descendants.” or “I will use you and your offspring/descendants to bless all the families on earth.” See how you translated similar Messianic blessings in Gen 12:3, 18:18, 22:18, and 26:4.
Genesis 28:15
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)“Listen to this:” or “Remember that”
I {am} with you
Quote: אָנֹכִ֜י עִמָּ֗ךְ (1)“I {will always be/stay} with you.” or “I {promise to always be/stay} with you {and help you}.” See how you translated “I {am} with you” in Gen 26:24 and “I will be with you” in Gen 26:3.
and I will watch over you
Quote: וּשְׁמַרְתִּ֨יךָ֙ (1)“I will protect/guard you” or “I will take care of you”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
in every {place} that you go
Quote: בְּכֹ֣ל אֲשֶׁר תֵּלֵ֔ךְ (1)“everywhere that you go/live,” or “wherever you go/live,”
and I will bring you back to this land
Quote: וַהֲשִׁ֣בֹתִ֔יךָ אֶל הָאֲדָמָ֖ה הַזֹּ֑את (1)“and I will lead/guide you back to this land.”
For I will not leave you
Quote: כִּ֚י לֹ֣א אֶֽעֱזָבְךָ֔ (1)“In fact, I will never leave/abandon you”
until I have done what I have spoken to you
Quote: עַ֚ד אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִם־עָשִׂ֔יתִי אֵ֥ת אֲשֶׁר דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי לָֽךְ (1)“and I will do everything that I have promised you {that I will do}.” Make sure your translation of “until” does not sound like God will only be with Jacob up to the time that he fulfills his promises. Rather the focus is on the period of time between now when God is speaking to Jacob and the time later on when Jacob would see the fulfillment of God’s promises to him.
Genesis 28:16
Then Jacob woke up from his sleep and said
Quote: וַיִּיקַ֣ץ יַעֲקֹב֮ מִשְּׁנָתוֹ֒ וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“Suddenly Jacob woke up from his dream and said/exclaimed {to himself},” or “When Jacob woke up from his dream, he said/exclaimed {to himself},”
Surely Yahweh is in this place
Quote: אָכֵן֙ יֵ֣שׁ יְהוָ֔ה בַּמָּק֖וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)“Certainly Yahweh is/lives {here} in this place,” or “Yahweh definitely lives here,”
but I did not know {it
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י לֹ֥א יָדָֽעְתִּי (1)“but I did not know/realize {it} {before now}!” or “but I was not aware of {that} {before}!”
Genesis 28:17
So he was afraid and said
Quote: וַיִּירָא֙ וַיֹּאמַ֔ר (1)“He was afraid, so he {also} said/exclaimed,”
How awesome this place is
Quote: מַה נּוֹרָ֖א הַמָּק֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)“This is an awesome/terrifying place!” or “This place is terrifying!” The word “awesome” refers here to the terror that Jacob was feeling from being in the holy presence of Almighty God.
This is nothing other than the house of God
Quote: אֵ֣ין זֶ֗ה כִּ֚י אִם בֵּ֣ית אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“This/It can only be God’s house!” or “This/It must be the house/place where God himself lives!”
and this {is} the gateway of heaven
Quote: וְזֶ֖ה שַׁ֥עַר הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)“This/It {can only be} the gateway/entrance to heaven!” or “This/It {must be} the gateway/entrance to heaven!” Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 28:18
Then in the morning Jacob got up early
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם יַעֲקֹ֜ב בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)“Early the next morning Jacob got up,” or “Jacob got up early the next morning,”
and he took the stone that he had put under his head
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אֶת הָאֶ֨בֶן֙ אֲשֶׁר שָׂ֣ם מְרַֽאֲשֹׁתָ֔יו (1)“took the stone that he had used as a headrest/pillow”. See how you translated “stone” and “under his head” in verse 11.
and stood it up
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם אֹתָ֖הּ (1)“and stood/set it up {on its end}”
as} a pillar
Quote: מַצֵּבָ֑ה (1)“{as} a monument/marker,” or “{as} a memorial stone,” or “to commemorate/mark the/that place {where God had appeared to him}.” The word “pillar” refers here to a stone that is used to commemorate something. In this case, Jacob used a stone to mark and help him remember the place where God had appeared to him.
and he poured oil on its top
Quote: וַיִּצֹ֥ק שֶׁ֖מֶן עַל רֹאשָֽׁהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then he poured {some} {olive} oil on top of the stone/pillar {to dedicate the place to God}.” In Bible times people poured olive oil on a person’s head or on objects (as here) to dedicate that person or object to God. Make sure that the way you translate “oil” does not refer to motor oil. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 28:19
And he called the name of that place Bethel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א אֶת שֵֽׁם הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא בֵּֽית אֵ֑ל (1)“He named that place Bethel, {which means “God’s house,”}” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Bethel” in Gen 12:8 and 13:3.
even though Luz {had been} the name of the town at first
Quote: וְאוּלָ֛ם ל֥וּז שֵׁם הָעִ֖יר לָרִאשֹׁנָֽה (1)“even though originally/previously that town was named/called Luz.” or “Originally/Previously the name of that town {had been} Luz.” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 28:20
Then Jacob vowed a vow, saying
Quote: וַיִּדַּ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב נֶ֣דֶר לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“Then Jacob/he made a vow/pledge/promise {to God} and said,” See how you translated a clause that has a similar meaning (“swear to …”) in Gen 21:23, 31.
If God will be with me
Quote: אִם יִהְיֶ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים עִמָּדִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“God, if {you} will be/stay with me”. Since Jacob is making this vow to God, for some languages it is more natural to address God directly (as “you”) throughout verses 20-22, rather than only in the last half of verse 22 (as the Hebrew text does). Do what is best in your language.
and watch over me
Quote: וּשְׁמָרַ֨נִי֙ (1)“and protect/guard me” or “and take care of me”. See how you translated “watch over” in verse 15.
on this road that I am walking on
Quote: בַּדֶּ֤רֶךְ הַזֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָנֹכִ֣י הוֹלֵ֔ךְ (1)“on/during this {long} journey I am taking” or “as I travel on this {long} journey”. The way you translate this phrase should reflect that fact that Jacob’s journey from his home to the city of Haran was about 725 kilometers (450 miles) long.
and give to me bread to eat and clothes to wear
Quote: וְנָֽתַן לִ֥י לֶ֛חֶם לֶאֱכֹ֖ל וּבֶ֥גֶד לִלְבֹּֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“and if you give/provide me food to eat and clothes to wear,” or “and if you provide me with food and clothes,” In this context “bread” refers to food in general, not just bread.
Genesis 28:21
and {if} I return in peace
Quote: וְשַׁבְתִּ֥י בְשָׁל֖וֹם (1)“and {if} I come back safely” or “so that I return safely”
to the home of my father
Quote: אֶל בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“to my father’s/family’s home,” or “to my family,” This phrase especially refers to Jacob's father's family members, not just the physical home.
then Yahweh will be God to me
Quote: וְהָיָ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה לִ֖י לֵאלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“then Yahweh, {you} will be the God whom I serve/worship,” or “then I will serve/worship {you} Yahweh as my God,”
Genesis 28:22
and this stone that I have stood up {as} a pillar will be the house of God
Quote: וְהָאֶ֣בֶן הַזֹּ֗את אֲשֶׁר שַׂ֨מְתִּי֙ מַצֵּבָ֔ה יִהְיֶ֖ה בֵּ֣ית אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“This stone that I have set up will be your house and will mark the/this place {where you appeared to me},” or “and this memorial stone that I set up will remind people that you live here,” See how you translated “as a pillar” in verse 18. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and all that you give to me I will tithe a tenth to you
Quote: וְכֹל֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּתֶּן לִ֔י עַשֵּׂ֖ר אֲעַשְּׂרֶ֥נּוּ לָֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“and everything that you give to me, I will give a tenth of it back to you.” or “and I will give back to you ten percent of everything that you give to me.” Consider again how you translated the way Jacob refers to Yahweh in verses 20-22; see the note about this at verse 20. Also see how you translated “tithe” in Gen 14:20.
Genesis 29
Genesis 29:1
Then Jacob lifted his feet and went
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב רַגְלָ֑יו וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ (1)“Then Jacob left {Bethel} and continued traveling {until he came}” or “Then Jacob continued traveling until he came”
to the land of the sons of the east
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה בְנֵי קֶֽדֶם (1)“to the land in the east where various people/ethnic groups lived.” or “to the land/region that was east {of the land of Canaan} where the eastern people/ethnic groups lived.” This land was located east of the land of Canaan and included the region of Paddan Aram where Jacob’s uncle Laban lived in the city of Haran (Gen 27:43; 28:5). See how you translated “east” in Gen 28:14.
Genesis 29:2
And he looked
Quote: וַיַּ֞רְא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then he looked {around},” or “{When he arrived/got there,} he looked {around},” or “{When he arrived at a place near the city of Haran,} he looked {around},” Jacob was now near the city of Haran (verse 4), which was in the land east of Canaan (verse 1).
and behold, a well {was} in the field
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה בְאֵ֣ר בַּשָּׂדֶ֗ה (1)“and he saw a well in an {open} field/area” or “and there in an {open} field/area {was} a well”. The word “field” refers to an open area of land, not a fenced-in area. See how you translated this term in Gen 25:27, 29.
and behold, three flocks of sheep were lying there
Quote: וְהִנֵּה שָׁ֞ם שְׁלֹשָׁ֤ה עֶדְרֵי צֹאן֙ רֹבְצִ֣ים (1)“He saw three flocks of sheep that were lying {down}” or “There were three flocks of sheep lying {down}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
near it
Quote: עָלֶ֔יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“beside it,” or “near/beside the well {waiting for water},”
because from that well the flocks were watered
Quote: כִּ֚י מִן הַבְּאֵ֣ר הַהִ֔וא יַשְׁק֖וּ הָעֲדָרִ֑ים (1)“because that was the well where the shepherds drew/got water for the sheep/flocks,” or “That was the well that flocks/sheep drank water from,” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and the stone over the mouth of the well {was} large
Quote: וְהָאֶ֥בֶן גְּדֹלָ֖ה עַל פִּ֥י הַבְּאֵֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“but the stone covering the opening/top of the well {was} large {and heavy}.” or “but there was a {heavy} large stone over/covering the opening/top of the well.” This stone would have been very large and heavy and probably had been cut into a circular shape to cover the round opening of the well. You could include here in your translation a picture of a well with a round, flat stone covering it.
Genesis 29:3
And all the flocks would be gathered there, then they would roll the stone
Quote: וְנֶאֶסְפוּ שָׁ֣מָּה כָל הָעֲדָרִ֗ים וְגָלֲל֤וּ אֶת־הָאֶ֨בֶן֙ (1)“{Every day} shepherds would bring all the/their flocks {of sheep} there. They would {work together to} roll/take the stone” or “{Whenever/After} all the shepherds brought their flocks there, {together} they would remove the stone”. Verse 3 tells what happened regularly every day. Consider what is the best way to communicate this in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translated “stone” in verse 2.
from over the mouth of the well
Quote: מֵעַל֙ פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֔ר (1)“from/off the opening/top of the well”
and water the sheep
Quote: וְהִשְׁק֖וּ אֶת הַצֹּ֑אן (1)“and draw water for the sheep.” or “and get water {from it} for the sheep {to drink}.” See how you translated “watered” in verse 2, and how you translated a different word that has a similar meaning (“draw water”) in Gen 24:19-20.
Then they would return the stone to its place
Quote: וְהֵשִׁ֧יבוּ אֶת הָאֶ֛בֶן & לִמְקֹמָֽהּ (1)“Then they would put/roll/position the stone back”
over the mouth of the well
Quote: עַל־פִּ֥י הַבְּאֵ֖ר (1)“over the opening/top of the well.”
Genesis 29:4
Then Jacob said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהֶם֙ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob asked/greeted the shepherds,”
My brothers
Quote: אַחַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“My friends,” or “Friends,” This is a polite, friendly idiom used as a greeting; it does not mean that the shepherds were actually Jacob’s relatives. Many languages have a similar greeting.
where {are} you from
Quote: מֵאַ֣יִן אַתֶּ֑ם (1)“where do you live?”
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They replied {to him},” or “They answered {him},”
We {are} from Haran
Quote: מֵחָרָ֖ן אֲנָֽחְנוּ (1)“We {are} from {the city of} Haran.” or “We live in {the city of} Haran.” Your translation should not sound like the city of Haran was far away from there; it was nearby.
Genesis 29:5
Then he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“So Jacob asked them,” or “So Jacob asked,” Consider what is the most natural way in your language to translate quote margins in a conversation that goes back and forth quickly like the one in verses 4-8. After the conversation gets started, it often sounds more life-like and natural to shorten the quote margins and leave implied some of the references to the people who are being talked to (as long as it is still clear who is talking to whom).
Do you know Laban, the grandson of Nahor
Quote: הַיְדַעְתֶּ֖ם אֶת לָבָ֣ן בֶּן נָח֑וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Do you know Laban, Nahor’s grandson?” or “Do you know Nahor’s grandson Laban?” Consider what is the best way to order this question in your language.
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They answered/replied,”
We know him
Quote: יָדָֽעְנוּ (1)“{Yes,} we know him.” or “{Yes,} we do.” Hebrew does not have a single word for “Yes”, but rather repeats words from what was asked. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 29:6
Then he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר לָהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So Jacob asked,”
Are {things} well for him
Quote: הֲשָׁל֣וֹם ל֑וֹ (1)“Are {things} going well for him?” or “Is he doing well?” Jacob is asking about Laban’s general well-being, not just his health.
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ (1)“They answered {him},”
Things are} well
Quote: שָׁל֔וֹם (1)“{Yes,} {things are} well/good {for him}.” or “{Yes,} {he is} well.”
And behold, Rachel his daughter is coming with the sheep
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ רָחֵ֣ל בִּתּ֔וֹ בָּאָ֖ה עִם הַצֹּֽאן (1)“Look, there/here is his/Laban’s daughter Rachel {now} with {his} sheep.” or “In fact, here comes his/Laban’s daughter Rachel {now}, bringing {his} sheep.”
Genesis 29:7
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Jacob said {to them},” or “Then Jacob urged {them},”
Behold, the day {is} still large
Quote: הֵ֥ן עוֹד֙ הַיּ֣וֹם גָּד֔וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Look, it is still the middle of the day” or “Look, the sun is still high/bright {in the sky}” or “There is still a lot of daylight/sunlight left”. This is an idiom that means there are still many more hours of daytime left. Consider whether your language has an idiom for this.
It is} not time for the livestock to be gathered
Quote: לֹא עֵ֖ת הֵאָסֵ֣ף הַמִּקְנֶ֑ה (1)“and/so {it is} too early/soon to gather the livestock/flocks {for the night}.”
Water the sheep
Quote: הַשְׁק֥וּ הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{You ought to} draw/get water for them” or “{It seems like you should} water the/your sheep” or “So why not water the/your sheep”. For some languages it sounds too rude for Jacob to make a direct command here, so it is better to make this a suggestion or even a rhetorical question. Do what is best in your language.
and go pasture {them
Quote: וּלְכ֥וּ רְעֽוּ (1)“and/then take {them} {back} out {to the fields} to graze {some more}.” or “then you can take them out to eat {more} grass.”
Genesis 29:8
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְרוּ֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But they said {to him},” or “But they replied,”
We cannot
Quote: לֹ֣א נוּכַל֒ (1)“We can’t {do that}” or “We have to wait”
until all the flocks are gathered
Quote: עַ֣ד אֲשֶׁ֤ר יֵאָֽסְפוּ֙ כָּל הָ֣עֲדָרִ֔ים (1)“until all the shepherds are here with their flocks” or “until all the shepherds have brought their flocks here”
and they roll the stone
Quote: וְגָֽלֲלוּ֙ אֶת־הָאֶ֔בֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“and they/we {all} remove the stone”, or “Then {together} they/we will roll/move the stone”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that the ones who are talking here are also shepherds. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.” Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
from over the mouth of the well
Quote: מֵעַ֖ל פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֑ר (1)“off/from the opening/top of the well” See how you translated this phrase in verses 2 and 3.
Then we will water the sheep
Quote: וְהִשְׁקִ֖ינוּ הַצֹּֽאן (1)“and draw/get water for the sheep/flocks.”
Genesis 29:9
He was still talking with them
Quote: עוֹדֶ֖נּוּ מְדַבֵּ֣ר עִמָּ֑ם (1)“While Jacob was still talking with/to the shepherds,”
when Rachel came with the sheep that {belonged} to her father
Quote: וְרָחֵ֣ל בָּ֗אָה עִם הַצֹּאן֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאָבִ֔יהָ (1)“Rachel arrived {at the well} with her father {Laban}’s sheep;”
because she was tending them
Quote: כִּ֥י רֹעָ֖ה הִֽוא (1)“because she was the one who shepherded/tended them.” or “it was her job to take care of them.”
Genesis 29:10
Then it happened, when
Quote: וַיְהִ֡י כַּאֲשֶׁר֩ (1)“As soon as” or “When”
Jacob saw Rachel, the daughter of Laban his mother’s brother
Quote: רָאָ֨ה יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶת רָחֵ֗ל בַּת לָבָן֙ אֲחִ֣י אִמּ֔וֹ (1)“Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of his uncle Laban”
and the sheep of Laban his mother’s brother
Quote: וְאֶת צֹ֥אן לָבָ֖ן אֲחִ֣י אִמּ֑וֹ (1)“with his uncle Laban’s sheep,” or “with his uncle’s sheep,” or “with her father’s sheep,”
then Jacob went over
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֣שׁ יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)“he went/walked over {to the well}”
and rolled the stone from over the mouth of the well
Quote: וַיָּ֤גֶל אֶת הָאֶ֨בֶן֙ מֵעַל֙ פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֔ר (1)“and rolled/took the stone off the opening/top of the well,” or “removed the stone that was covering it,”
and watered
Quote: וַיַּ֕שְׁקְ (1)“and drew/got water for”. See how you translated “watered” in verses 2-3, 7-8, and in 24:14, 20.
the sheep of Laban his mother’s brother
Quote: צֹ֥אן לָבָ֖ן אֲחִ֣י אִמּ֑וֹ (1)“his uncle Laban’s sheep.” or “his uncle’s sheep.”
Genesis 29:11
Then Jacob kissed Rachel
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁ֥ק יַעֲקֹ֖ב לְרָחֵ֑ל (1)“Then he kissed Rachel {on the/her cheek}” or “Then he greeted Rachel warmly/enthusiastically {as one of his relatives}”. In that culture it was common to greet a relative with a kiss on the cheek (or both cheeks). However, if it would be offensive in your culture for Jacob to kiss Rachel here, you could translate this more generally (See: the second alternate translation above). Also see how you translated “kiss” in Gen 27:26-27.
and lifted his voice and cried
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֥א אֶת קֹל֖וֹ וַיֵּֽבְךְּ (1)“and he started crying aloud/loudly {because he was so happy}.” or “and {he was so happy that} he started crying.” See how you translated the idiom “lifted his voice” in Gen 27:38. However, here Jacob is crying because he is happy, not upset. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
Genesis 29:12
Then Jacob told Rachel
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֨ד יַעֲקֹ֜ב לְרָחֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then he told her”. Consider what is the most natural way in your language to refer to Jacob and Rachel in this context.
that he {was} a relative of her father and that he {was} a son of Rebekah
Quote: כִּ֣י אֲחִ֤י אָבִ֨יהָ֙ ה֔וּא וְכִ֥י בֶן רִבְקָ֖ה ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“that he {was} her father’s relative/nephew, the son of {her aunt} Rebekah.” or “that her father {Laban} was his uncle and that {her aunt} Rebekah was his mother.” or “I am your father’s nephew, the son of {your aunt} Rebekah.” Consider whether it is best in your language to use an indirect quote here or a direct quote.
Then she ran and told her father
Quote: וַתָּ֖רָץ וַתַּגֵּ֥ד לְאָבִֽיהָ (1)“Then/So she ran {home} and told her father {the news}.” or “Then/So she ran {home} to her father and told/informed him {about Jacob}.”
Genesis 29:13
And it happened, when Laban heard
Quote: וַיְהִי֩ כִשְׁמֹ֨עַ לָבָ֜ן (1)“When Laban found out” or “As soon as Laban heard”
the news about Jacob the son of his sister
Quote: אֶת שֵׁ֣מַע יַעֲקֹ֣ב בֶּן אֲחֹת֗וֹ (1)“about his sister’s son Jacob,” or “that his nephew Jacob was there,”
then he ran to meet him
Quote: וַיָּ֤רָץ לִקְרָאתוֹ֙ (1)“he ran {out} to meet/greet him.”
Then he embraced him
Quote: וַיְחַבֶּק לוֹ֙ (1)“Then he embraced/hugged him/Jacob” or “He gave him/Jacob a hug”
and kissed him
Quote: וַיְנַשֶּׁק ל֔וֹ (1)“and kissed him {on the/his cheeks}” or “and greeted him warmly/enthusiastically {as one of his relatives}”. See how you translated “kissed” in verse 11.
and brought him to his house
Quote: וַיְבִיאֵ֖הוּ אֶל בֵּית֑וֹ (1)“and brought/took him {back} to his house.” or “and took him home.”
Then he told Laban all these things
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֣ר לְלָבָ֔ן אֵ֥ת כָּל הַדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then he/Jacob told Laban {about himself and} everything that had happened,” Laban’s response in verse 14 implies that Jacob told him about himself here in verse 13.
Genesis 29:14
and Laban said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and Laban responded/exclaimed,”
You {are} indeed my bone and my flesh
Quote: אַ֛ךְ עַצְמִ֥י וּבְשָׂרִ֖י אָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“You {are} definitely my own flesh and blood!” or “You {are} definitely my close relative!” or “There is no doubt that you {are} a close relative of my family!” This is an idiom that means Jacob is a close, biological relative of Laban. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom.
Then he stayed with him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב עִמּ֖וֹ (1)“Then Jacob stayed {and served/worked} with/for him/Laban” or “After Jacob had stayed with Laban {and worked for him}”. Your choice here in verse 14 will determine whether or not this sentence continues into verse 15. Do what is best in your language.
a month of days
Quote: חֹ֥דֶשׁ יָמִֽים (1)“{for} an entire month” or “for thirty days”
Genesis 29:15
Then Laban said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָבָן֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Laban said to him,” or “Laban asked him,”
Because you {are} my relative, should you then serve me for nothing
Quote: הֲכִי אָחִ֣י אַ֔תָּה וַעֲבַדְתַּ֖נִי חִנָּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{Just} because you are my relative/nephew, {does that mean that} you should work for me without pay?” or “Even though you are my relative/nephew, {that does not mean that} you should {have to} work for me for free!” or “You should not {have to} work for me for nothing/free {just} because you are my relative/nephew!” See how you translated “relative” in verse 12. This rhetorical question expects the implied answer “No, of course not!” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a statement here instead.
Tell me, what {are} your wages
Quote: הַגִּ֥ידָה לִּ֖י מַה מַּשְׂכֻּרְתֶּֽךָ (1)“{So} tell me what your wages/pay {should be}.” or “{So} tell me what you want me to pay you {for your work}.”
Genesis 29:16
Now Laban had two daughters
Quote: וּלְלָבָ֖ן שְׁתֵּ֣י בָנ֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“Now {it so happened that} Laban had two daughters:” or “Laban had two daughters:” Verses 16-17 introduce background information for what happens in the verses that follow that. Translate this in a way that is natural and clear in your language.
The name of the older {was} Leah, and the name of the younger {was} Rachel
Quote: שֵׁ֤ם הַגְּדֹלָה֙ לֵאָ֔ה וְשֵׁ֥ם הַקְּטַנָּ֖ה רָחֵֽל (1)“The name of the older {one/daughter} {was} Leah, and the younger {one/daughter} {was} Rachel.” or “The older {one/daughter} was named Leah and the younger {one/daughter} was named Rachel.”
Genesis 29:17
And the eyes of Leah {were} delicate
Quote: וְעֵינֵ֥י לֵאָ֖ה רַכּ֑וֹת (1)“Leah’s eyes {were} delicate/pretty/weak,” or “Leah had pretty eyes,” The Hebrew word for “delicate” is ambiguous in this context. It can have: (1) a positive meaning of “pretty” or “lovely” or (2) a negative meaning of “weak”, which implies that Leah’s eyes were plain, dull, or unattractive.
but Rachel was lovely of form and beautiful of appearance
Quote: וְרָחֵל֙ הָֽיְתָ֔ה יְפַת תֹּ֖אַר וִיפַ֥ת מַרְאֶֽה (1)“but/whereas Rachel’s face and figure/shape were lovely/beautiful.” or “but/whereas Rachel was extremely beautiful in every way.”
Genesis 29:18
And Jacob loved Rachel
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֥ב יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶת רָחֵ֑ל (1)“Jacob was in love with Rachel,” or “Jacob had fallen in love with Rachel,”
so he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“so he said/responded {to Laban},”
I will serve you seven years
Quote: אֶֽעֱבָדְךָ֙ שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֔ים (1)“I will work seven years for you”. Jacob is offering seven years of work as the dowry or bride-price for Rachel. Translate this sentence in a way that reflects that.
for Rachel your younger daughter
Quote: בְּרָחֵ֥ל בִּתְּךָ֖ הַקְּטַנָּֽה (1)“{in exchange} for your younger daughter Rachel {as my wife}.” or “if you will give me your younger daughter Rachel {to be my wife}.” or “if you will let me marry your younger daughter Rachel.”
Genesis 29:19
And Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָבָ֗ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Laban replied,”
It is} better for me to give her to you than for me to give her to … man
Quote: ט֚וֹב תִּתִּ֣י אֹתָ֣הּ לָ֔ךְ מִתִּתִּ֥י אֹתָ֖הּ לְאִ֣ישׁ (1)“{I agree to your terms.} I would {much} rather give her to you {to marry} than give her to some/any other man.” or “{Alright/Okay, that’s fine.} I prefer that she marry you rather than someone else.”
Stay with me
Quote: שְׁבָ֖ה עִמָּדִֽי (1)“{So} stay {and work} with me.” or “{So} stay here {and work for me}.”
Genesis 29:20
So Jacob served seven years for Rachel
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֹ֧ד יַעֲקֹ֛ב בְּרָחֵ֖ל שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)“So/Then Jacob worked seven years {for Laban} so that he could marry/have Rachel,”
but in his eyes they were like a few days because of his love for her
Quote: וַיִּהְי֤וּ בְעֵינָיו֙ כְּיָמִ֣ים אֲחָדִ֔ים בְּאַהֲבָת֖וֹ אֹתָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“but to him it seemed like {only} a few days {had passed} because he loved her {so much}.” or “but he loved her so {much} that to him the time/years seemed {to pass quickly} like {only} a few days.” For some languages it is more natural to switch the order of the clauses in this sentence so that the cause is mentioned before the effect (See: the second alternate translation above). Do what is most clear and natural in your language.
Genesis 29:21
Then Jacob said to Laban
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֤ב אֶל לָבָן֙ (1)“{When the seven years were over,} Jacob said to Laban,” or “After that, Jacob requested of Laban,”
Give {me} my wife, because my days are completed, so that I may go to her
Quote: הָבָ֣ה אֶת אִשְׁתִּ֔י כִּ֥י מָלְא֖וּ יָמָ֑י וְאָב֖וֹאָה אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{Please} let me marry {your daughter} {Rachel} {now} so that I can live with her {as} my wife, because I have finished/completed my {seven} years {of work/service} {for you}.” or “I have fulfilled/finished the {seven} years of work/service {that we agreed on}, so {please} let me have {your daughter} {Rachel} so that I can marry her and live with her.” Consider what is the best order for the clauses in this sentence in your language. Also make sure that Jacob’s request here sounds polite in your translation, not rude or demanding. It should also not sound like he was begging or pleading.
Genesis 29:22
Then Laban gathered all the people of the place and made a feast
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ף לָבָ֛ן אֶת כָּל אַנְשֵׁ֥י הַמָּק֖וֹם וַיַּ֥עַשׂ מִשְׁתֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Then/So Laban gathered/invited all the local people and held a {wedding} feast.” or “Then/So Laban prepared a wedding/marriage feast and gathered/invited everyone who lived in town {to attend}.” Consider what is the best way to order these events in your language.
Genesis 29:23
But it happened in the evening
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י בָעֶ֔רֶב (1)“But that evening” or “But/However this is what happened that evening:”
that he took Leah his daughter and brought her to him
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֙ אֶת לֵאָ֣ה בִתּ֔וֹ וַיָּבֵ֥א אֹתָ֖הּ אֵלָ֑יו (1)“Laban {deceived/tricked Jacob and} took/brought his daughter Leah {to Jacob’s tent} {instead of Rachel},” or “Laban took/brought Leah to Jacob {instead of Rachel},”
and he went
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and/so he/Jacob” or “so that he/Jacob”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that “he” refers here to Jacob, not Laban.
and he went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“so that he/Jacob had marital/sexual relations with her/Leah.” or “and/so he/Jacob slept with her/Leah.” or “spent the night with her/Leah.” Make sure that your translation of “he” refers here to Jacob, not Laban. See how you translated the euphemism “went to” in Gen 16:4 (and “go to” in Gen 16:2 and 29:21). Translate this in a way that is natural, clear, and acceptable for reading in public.
Genesis 29:24
And Laban gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֤ן לָבָן֙ (1)“Laban also gave” or “In addition, Laban gave”. It is not clear in the Hebrew text when Laban gave Zilpah to Leah, so it is probably best to keep it that way in your translation. Some translations say that Laban “had {already} given” Zilpah to Leah before the wedding night. However according to Jewish history (outside the Bible), it was on the wedding night that Laban did this as part of his plan to deceive Jacob: Zilpah was younger than Bilhah, so everyone would expect her to be given to Rachel as the younger sister; seeing Zilpah (instead of Bilhah) would help Jacob think that his veiled bride was Rachel. Since we do not know for sure which interpretation is right, it is probably best to be like the Hebrew text and not specify when Laban gave Zilpah to Leah. Some translations put this verse in parentheses because it seems to interrupt the telling of the main events.
to her Zilpah his maidservant, to Leah his daughter
Quote: לָ֔הּ אֶת זִלְפָּ֖ה שִׁפְחָת֑וֹ לְלֵאָ֥ה בִתּ֖וֹ (1)“his female servant Zilpah to Leah” or “to Leah a female servant named Zilpah”
to be} a maidservant
Quote: שִׁפְחָֽה (1)“{to be} {her} {personal} servant/attendant.” or “to serve {her}.” or “to attend to her.”
Genesis 29:25
Then it happened in the morning
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י בַבֹּ֔קֶר (1)“But the next morning” or “The next morning”
that behold, she {was} Leah
Quote: וְהִנֵּה הִ֖וא לֵאָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{Jacob} saw/found that his {new} wife was Leah!” or “{Jacob was shocked to} see/discover that it was Leah {he had married}!” Translate “behold” in a way that shows Jacob’s surprise at finding out that he had married Leah instead of Rachel. Also, make sure that your translation of “she” refers here to Leah, not Zilpah (who was mentioned in verse 24).
So he said to Laban
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל לָבָ֗ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“So/Then he/Jacob complained to {his father-in-law} Laban,” or “So/Then he/Jacob rebuked/confronted Laban and said,” Some languages use an honorific title such as “his father-in-law” here now that Jacob is married. Do what is best in your language.
What {is} this you have done to me
Quote: מַה זֹּאת֙ עָשִׂ֣יתָ לִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why have you treated me like this?” or “You have treated me very badly!” In this verse, Jacob uses rhetorical questions to communicate how angry and upset he is. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also see how you translated this question in Gen 12:18, 20:9, 26:10.
Was {it} not for Rachel that I served with you
Quote: הֲלֹ֤א בְרָחֵל֙ עָבַ֣דְתִּי עִמָּ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{You know that} Rachel is the one I served you for!” or “You know very well that I worked for you in order to marry Rachel!”
So why have you deceived me
Quote: וְלָ֖מָּה רִמִּיתָֽנִי (1)“So why did you deceive/trick me?” or “Tell me why you deceived/tricked me!” See how you translated a different word (“deceit”) that has a similar meaning in Gen 27:35.
Genesis 29:26
But Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Laban said/replied {to him},” or “Laban replied/responded,”
It is not done so in our place
Quote: לֹא יֵעָשֶׂ֥ה כֵ֖ן בִּמְקוֹמֵ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“It is not customary In our/this land/region” or “It is not the/our custom/tradition/practice here”. For some languages it is necessary to say what the custom is, rather than what it is not. For example, you could say, “Our custom/practice here is to wait until the firstborn/oldest daughter is married before we let the younger daughter{s}/one{s} get married.” Do what is best in your language.
to give the younger
Quote: לָתֵ֥ת הַצְּעִירָ֖ה (1)“to give the younger {daughter} {in marriage}” or “to marry off the younger {daughter}” or “for the younger {daughter} to marry”
before the firstborn
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י הַבְּכִירָֽה (1)“before the oldest/older {daughter/one} {marries}.”
Genesis 29:27
Fulfill the week of this {one
Quote: מַלֵּ֖א שְׁבֻ֣עַ זֹ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{So} fulfill/finish this daughter’s bridal/wedding week {and she will remain your wife},” or “{So then,} finish/complete this week of celebrating your marriage/wedding to my daughter {Leah},” or “{So then,} {keep Leah as your wife and} finish this week of celebrating your marriage to her,” For some languages it may be necessary to make explicit the fact that it is assumed that Leah would still remain his wife. Only make this information explicit if it is necessary to avoid wrong meaning.
then we will also give you this {one
Quote: וְנִתְּנָ֨ה לְךָ֜ גַּם אֶת זֹ֗את (1)“Then our family will also give you {my} other/younger daughter {to marry}” or “Then you may also marry {my} other/younger daughter”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for service that you will serve with me
Quote: בַּעֲבֹדָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תַּעֲבֹ֣ד עִמָּדִ֔י (1)“if you will work for me” or “in exchange for working for me”. See how you translated “serve” in verses 15, 18, 20, 21 and 25.
for another seven years
Quote: ע֖וֹד שֶֽׁבַע שָׁנִ֥ים אֲחֵרֽוֹת (1)“for seven more years.”
Genesis 29:28
So Jacob did so
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ יַעֲקֹב֙ כֵּ֔ן (1)“So that is what Jacob did:” or “So Jacob {agreed with Laban and} did what he said:”
and he fulfilled the week {for} that {one
Quote: וַיְמַלֵּ֖א שְׁבֻ֣עַ זֹ֑את (1)“he fulfilled/completed Leah’s bridal/wedding week.” or “he finished/completed his wedding week with Leah.” or “he finished celebrating his marriage to Leah that week.” See how you translated “fulfill” in verse 27.
Then he gave to him Rachel his daughter as a wife for him
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן ל֛וֹ אֶת רָחֵ֥ל בִּתּ֖וֹ ל֥וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“Then Laban gave him/Jacob his daughter Rachel to marry.” or “Then Laban gave his daughter Rachel to Jacob to be his wife.”
Genesis 29:29
And Laban gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֤ן לָבָן֙ (1)“Laban/he also gave” or “In addition, Laban/he gave”. See how you translated verse 24, which is similar to verse 29.
Bilhah his maidservant to Rachel his daughter
Quote: לְרָחֵ֣ל בִּתּ֔וֹ אֶת בִּלְהָ֖ה שִׁפְחָת֑וֹ (1)“his female servant Bilhah to his daughter Rachel” or “Rachel a female servant named Bilhah”
as a maidservant for her
Quote: לָ֖הּ לְשִׁפְחָֽה (1)“to be her {personal} maidservant/servant.” or “to serve her.”
Genesis 29:30
Then he also went to Rachel
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ גַּ֣ם אֶל רָחֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then Jacob had marital relations with Rachel,” or “Then Jacob slept with Rachel,” See how you translated “went to” in verse 23.
and he … loved Rachel more than Leah
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֥ב & אֶת רָחֵ֖ל מִלֵּאָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he loved her more than {he loved} Leah.”
And he served him
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֹ֣ד עִמּ֔וֹ (1)“Then he worked for Laban” or “Then he {started} working for Laban”. At this point Jacob begins another seven years of work, but he does not finish the work until Gen 30:25-26.
for another seven years
Quote: ע֖וֹד שֶֽׁבַע שָׁנִ֥ים אֲחֵרֽוֹת (1)“for seven more years.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 27.
Genesis 29:31
Now Yahweh saw
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא יְהוָה֙ (1)“Now/Meanwhile Yahweh knew” or “{During that time,} Yahweh saw/knew”
that Leah was hated
Quote: כִּֽי שְׂנוּאָ֣ה לֵאָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“that Leah was loved less {than Rachel},” or “that Jacob did not love Leah {very much},” Jacob did not actually hate Leah. Rather, this is hyperbole that emphasizes how much he loved Rachel compared to Leah (verse 30).
so he opened her womb
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֖ח אֶת רַחְמָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so he made it so that she could conceive,” or “so he made it possible for her to have children,”
but Rachel {was} barren
Quote: וְרָחֵ֖ל עֲקָרָֽה (1)“but Rachel was not able to conceive.” or “but he did not enable Rachel to have children.” See how you translated “barren” in Gen 11:30 and 25:21.
Genesis 29:32
Then Leah conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֤הַר לֵאָה֙ (1)“Then Leah became pregnant”
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֔ן (1)“and had a son” or “and gave birth to a son”
and she called his name Reuben
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ רְאוּבֵ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“She named him Reuben, {which means “Look/See, a son!”}” You could include the meaning of Reuben’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), so that people understand why Leah gave him that name. If you do that, make sure the meaning of Reuben’s name matches the way you translate “looked/seen” later in this verse.
because she said
Quote: כִּ֣י אָֽמְרָ֗ה (1)“because {when he was born} she had said/exclaimed,”
Because Yahweh has looked on my misery, surely now my husband will love me
Quote: כִּֽי רָאָ֤ה יְהוָה֙ בְּעָנְיִ֔י כִּ֥י עַתָּ֖ה יֶאֱהָבַ֥נִי אִישִֽׁי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Now that Yahweh has seen that I am suffering {and has helped me}, surely my husband will love me!” or “Surely my husband will love me now, since Yahweh has seen that I am suffering {and has helped me}.” Consider what is the best way to order these clauses in your language. Also see how you translated “misery” in Gen 16:11.
Genesis 29:33
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֣הַר עוֹד֮ (1)“Then Leah became pregnant again”
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּן֒ (1)“and had {another} son” or “and gave birth to {another} son”
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“and/so she exclaimed,” or “She exclaimed,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Because Yahweh heard that I am hated
Quote: כִּֽי שָׁמַ֤ע יְהוָה֙ כִּֽי שְׂנוּאָ֣ה אָנֹ֔כִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Since Yahweh heard that my husband does not love me,” or “Yahweh heard that I am not loved, so”. See how you translated “hated” in verse 31. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or passive verb here.
then he gave to me this {son} also
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן לִ֖י גַּם אֶת זֶ֑ה (1)“he has given me this {son/child} also/too!” or “he has given me another {son/child}.”
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So she named him” or “So she named that son” or “So she gave him the name”
Simeon
Quote: שִׁמְעֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Simeon, {which means “he hears.”}” If you include the meaning of Simeon’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), make sure it matches the way you translated “heard” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 29:34
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֣הַר עוֹד֮ (1)“Then Leah became pregnant {yet} again” or “Once again Leah became pregnant”
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּן֒ (1)“and had {another} son,” or “and gave birth to {another} son,”
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and she exclaimed,” or “She exclaimed,”
This time now my husband
Quote: עַתָּ֤ה הַפַּ֨עַם֙ & אִישִׁי֙ (1)“Now finally my husband”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: יִלָּוֶ֤ה אֵלַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“will become attached to me” or “will want to be with me”. Many languages have an idiom that is similar to the Hebrew idiom and fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
because I have born three sons for him
Quote: כִּֽי יָלַ֥דְתִּי ל֖וֹ שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה בָנִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because I have had three sons for him.” or “because I have given him three sons!” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “I have born/had three sons for my husband, so now finally he will become attached to me.” Do what is best in your language.
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֥ן (1)“That is why” or “Because she had said that,”
he called his name
Quote: קָרָֽא שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“his name was” or “he was named”. Although this phrase could mean that Jacob named Levi, most translations translate this in a general or indefinite way that does not specify who named him. Do what is best in your language.
Levi
Quote: לֵוִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Levi, {which means “joined/attached.”}” or “Levi, {which means “be with.”}” If you include the meaning of Levi’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), make sure it matches the way you translated “be joined” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 29:35
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֨הַר ע֜וֹד (1)“Then Leah became pregnant again” or “Once again Leah became pregnant”
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֗ן (1)“and had a/another son,” or “and gave birth to another son,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 34.
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“and she exclaimed,” or “She said/exclaimed,”
This time I will praise Yahweh
Quote: הַפַּ֨עַם֙ אוֹדֶ֣ה אֶת יְהוָ֔ה (1)“Now I will praise Yahweh {for giving me this son}!”
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֛ן (1)“That is why” or “Because she praised Yahweh,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 34. You may need to translate it in different ways, depending on the context.
she called his name
Quote: קָרְאָ֥ה שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“she named him” or “she named that son” or “she gave him the name”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 33.
Judah
Quote: יְהוּדָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Judah, {which means “praise.”}” See how you translated “praise” earlier in this verse.
Then she stopped bearing
Quote: וַֽתַּעֲמֹ֖ד מִלֶּֽדֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then Leah stopped bearing/having babies/children {for a while}.” or “After that, Leah did not give birth to any more babies/children {for a while}.” Leah had more children at a later time. So it was only temporarily that she stopped having children.
Genesis 30
Genesis 30:1
Now Rachel saw that she was not bearing {children} for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶא רָחֵ֗ל כִּ֣י לֹ֤א יָֽלְדָה֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“Now/Meanwhile when Rachel saw/realized that she was not able to bear/have {any} {children} for Jacob,”
so Rachel envied her sister
Quote: וַתְּקַנֵּ֥א רָחֵ֖ל בַּאֲחֹתָ֑הּ (1)“she was envious/jealous of her sister {Leah},”
and she said to Jacob
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר אֶֽל יַעֲקֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and she pleaded with Jacob,” or “and she demanded of Jacob,” Use a quote margin here in your language that fits the context well.
Give me children, and if not
Quote: הָֽבָה לִּ֣י בָנִ֔ים וְאִם אַ֖יִן (1)“Help me have children, or else” or “Help me get pregnant! Otherwise”
I will die
Quote: מֵתָ֥ה אָנֹֽכִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“I want to die!” or “I have no reason to live!” Rachel is using hyperbole (exaggeration) to show how desperate and deeply ashamed she feels about not having children. You could include a footnote here in your translation that explains how in that culture it was considered very shameful for a woman to be barren (See: Gen 30:23).
Genesis 30:2
And Jacob’s anger burned against Rachel, and he said
Quote: וַיִּֽחַר אַ֥ף יַעֲקֹ֖ב בְּרָחֵ֑ל וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Jacob’s anger flared up against Rachel, and/so he said/responded {to her},” or “Jacob became very angry with Rachel and said/responded,” Some languages have an idiom that is similar to the Hebrew idiom here. Do what is best in your language.
Am I in the place of God, who has kept the fruit of the womb from you
Quote: הֲתַ֤חַת אֱלֹהִים֙ אָנֹ֔כִי אֲשֶׁר מָנַ֥ע מִמֵּ֖ךְ פְּרִי בָֽטֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“I am not in the place of God, who has kept/prevented you from having children!” or “I am not God! He is the one who has kept/prevented you from having children!” Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to show that he is upset with Rachel and to strongly emphasize his point. Do what is best in your language to communicate this.
Genesis 30:3
Then she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Rachel told {him},” or “Rachel replied {to him},”
Behold my slave woman Bilhah
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אֲמָתִ֥י בִלְהָ֖ה (1)“Here is my servant woman Bilhah.” or “You can take/have my servant woman Bilhah {as a/another wife}.”
Go to her
Quote: בֹּ֣א אֵלֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Sleep with her” or “Have marital relations with her”. See how you translated this euphemism in Gen 16:2.
so that she will bear {children
Quote: וְתֵלֵד֙ (1)“so that she will/can give birth {to children}” or “so that she will/can have children”
on my knees
Quote: עַל בִּרְכַּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{for me} {who will sit} on my knees/lap,” or “as my surrogate/substitute,” or “for me,” The idiom “bear children on my knees” means that Bilhah’s children would be considered Rachel’s children. It may come from the custom of immediately putting a newborn child on the lap of the father and mother to symbolize that the child belonged to them.
and I also will be built up from her
Quote: וְאִבָּנֶ֥ה גַם אָנֹכִ֖י מִמֶּֽנָּה (1)“so that from/through her {children} I too can/will build/have a family.” or “so that I too can/will build/have a family.” See how you translated “built up from her” in Gen 16:2.
Genesis 30:4
And she gave to him Bilhah her maidservant
Quote: וַתִּתֶּן ל֛וֹ אֶת בִּלְהָ֥ה שִׁפְחָתָ֖הּ (1)“So Rachel gave Jacob her servant/maid Bilhah”. See how you translated “maidservant” in Gen 29:24, 29. Also see how you translated a different word (“servant woman”) in verse 3 that has the same meaning. Some translations use the same term in both verses to prevent confusion. Do what is best in your language.
as a wife
Quote: לְאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)“as {his} wife,” or “to be {a/another} wife {for him},” Make sure your translation does not sound like Bilhah replaced Rachel as Jacob’s wife; Bilhah was an additional wife.
and Jacob went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֵלֶ֖יהָ יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and Jacob slept with her.” or “and Jacob had marital relations with her.” See how you translated “go to” in verse 3 and “went to” in Gen 16:3.
Genesis 30:5
Then Bilhah conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֣הַר בִּלְהָ֔ה (1)“Then Bilhah became pregnant”
and bore a son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב בֵּֽן (1)“and gave birth to a son for Jacob” or “and had a son for Jacob”
Genesis 30:6
and Rachel said
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר רָחֵל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and Rachel exclaimed,” or “Then Rachel said/exclaimed,” Consider whether it is more natural here in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 5.
God has vindicated me
Quote: דָּנַ֣נִּי אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“God has judged in my favor!” Some translations have “judged me” here. However, make sure your translation of this phrase has a positive meaning (making a decision in Rachel’s favor) and not a negative meaning (condemning her).
and indeed, he has listened to my voice and given to me a son
Quote: וְגַם֙ שָׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלִ֔י וַיִּתֶּן לִ֖י בֵּ֑ן (1)“Yes indeed, he has heard/answered my prayer/request/plea and given me a son!”
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֛ן (1)“That is why” or “Because of that”
she called his name
Quote: קָרְאָ֥ה שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“she called/named him” or “she gave him the name” or “she named her baby/son”. Make sure it is clear here in your translation that Bilhah’s son is the one being named, not God (who was the subject of the previous sentence). See how you translated “called his name” in Gen 29:32.
Dan
Quote: דָּֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Dan, {which means “he vindicated.”}” or “Dan, {which means “he judged in my favor.”}” If you include the meaning of Dan’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), make sure it matches the way you translated “he has vindicated” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:7
Then Bilhah the maidservant of Rachel conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֣הַר ע֔וֹד & בִּלְהָ֖ה שִׁפְחַ֣ת רָחֵ֑ל (1)“Then Rachel’s servant Bilhah became pregnant again”. See how you translated verse 5 which is very similar to verse 7.
and bore a second son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֕לֶד & בֵּ֥ן שֵׁנִ֖י לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)“and gave birth to a second son for Jacob.” or “and had a second son for Jacob.”
Genesis 30:8
So Rachel said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר רָחֵ֗ל (1)“So/Then Rachel exclaimed,”
With} mighty wrestlings I have wrestled with my sister
Quote: נַפְתּוּלֵ֨י אֱלֹהִ֧ים נִפְתַּ֛לְתִּי עִם אֲחֹתִ֖י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “I have had a mighty/difficult struggle/contest with my sister” or “I have struggled intensely/hard with/against my sister”. That would be the meaning if the Hebrew word “elohim” in this phrase is used as an adjective that means “mighty/powerful.” (2) “I have wrestled/struggled with God because of my sister”, which could refer to a struggle against her sister praying to God for children. That would be the meaning if the word “elohim” in this phrase means “God.”
Indeed I have prevailed
Quote: גַּם יָכֹ֑לְתִּי (1)“and I have won!” or “and/but now I have defeated her!” or “and/but now I am prevailing/winning!”
And she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“And/So she called/named him” or “Then/So she called/named that son” or “So she gave him the name”. See how you translated “called his name” in verse 6.
Naphtali
Quote: נַפְתָּלִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Naphtali, {which means “my struggle/contest.”}” As always, if you include the meaning of a name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure that it matches the text that the name is based on.
Genesis 30:9
Now Leah saw that she had ceased from bearing {children
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶא לֵאָ֔ה כִּ֥י עָמְדָ֖ה מִלֶּ֑דֶת (1)“When Leah saw/realized that she had stopped bearing/having children,” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 1.
so she took Zilpah her maidservant
Quote: וַתִּקַּח֙ אֶת זִלְפָּ֣ה שִׁפְחָתָ֔הּ (1)“she took/brought her servant Zilpah {to Jacob}”
and gave her to Jacob as a wife
Quote: וַתִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֛הּ לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“and gave her to Jacob/him as {his} wife.” or “and gave her to Jacob/him to be {another} wife {for him}.” See how you translated “gave … as a wife” in verse 4.
Genesis 30:10
Then Zilpah the maidservant of Leah bore a son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֗לֶד זִלְפָּ֛ה שִׁפְחַ֥ת לֵאָ֖ה לְיַעֲקֹ֥ב בֵּֽן (1)“Then Leah’s maidservant Zilpah gave birth to a son for Jacob,” or “Then Zilpah had a son for Jacob,” See how you translated verses 5-8, which are very similar in structure to verses 10-13.
Genesis 30:11
and Leah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֥אמֶר לֵאָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and Leah exclaimed,”
What good fortune
Quote: בגד (1)“What good luck!” or “I am so/very fortunate/lucky!”
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So she called/named him” or “So she called/named him” or “So she gave him the name”
Gad
Quote: גָּֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Gad, {which means “fortunate/lucky.”}” If you include the meaning of Gad’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translated “good fortune” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:12
Then Zilpah the maidservant of Leah bore a second son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֗לֶד זִלְפָּה֙ שִׁפְחַ֣ת לֵאָ֔ה בֵּ֥ן שֵׁנִ֖י לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)“Then Leah’s servant Zilpah gave birth to a second son for Jacob,” or “ Then Leah’s servant Zilpah had a second son for Jacob,”
Genesis 30:13
and Leah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר לֵאָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and Leah exclaimed,”
How blessed I am
Quote: בְּאָשְׁרִ֕י (1)“I am truly/greatly blessed!” or “{God} has truly/greatly blessed me!” Although many translations have “happy” in this verse instead of “blessed,” the Hebrew noun (and the verb it is based on) is more general and has to do with a person’s blessed state (which results in joy and happiness). The same Hebrew word is used in Psalm 1:1, and the equivalent Greek word is used in Luke 1:48 and Matthew 5:3-11.
For women will call me blessed
Quote: כִּ֥י אִשְּׁר֖וּנִי בָּנ֑וֹת (1)“Now {other} women will say that I am blessed {by God}.” or “Now {other} women will say that {God} has blessed me.”
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So she called/named him” or “So she named that son” or “So she gave him the name”
Asher
Quote: אָשֵֽׁר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Asher, {which means “blessed.”}” If you include the meaning of Asher’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translated “blessed” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:14
Then in the days of the wheat harvest, Reuben went out
Quote: וַיֵּ֨לֶךְ רְאוּבֵ֜ן בִּימֵ֣י קְצִיר־חִטִּ֗ים (1)“Then {one day} during the season/time when people were harvesting wheat/grain/crops, {Leah’s son} Reuben went out” or “{One day} during …” Wheat is a type of grain that is ground into flour to make bread, which was one of the people’s main foods. The harvest time for wheat in that part of the world is in March and April.
and found mandrakes in the field
Quote: וַיִּמְצָ֤א דֽוּדָאִים֙ בַּשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“and found {some} {fertility/love plants called} mandrakes in a field,” or “in a field and found {some} fertility/love plants {there},” The roots of mandrake plants were used to help people be more fertile. If mandrakes are not known in your language area, you could describe them as a kind of fertility plant. You could also put information about mandrakes in a footnote or glossary.
and he brought them to Leah his mother
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֣א אֹתָ֔ם אֶל לֵאָ֖ה אִמּ֑וֹ (1)“and he took/gave them to his mother.” or “and he took/gave the plants to his mother.”
Then Rachel said to Leah
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר רָחֵל֙ אֶל לֵאָ֔ה (1)“{When Rachel found out about the plants,} she asked/begged Leah,”
Please give to me some of your son’s mandrakes
Quote: תְּנִי נָ֣א לִ֔י מִדּוּדָאֵ֖י בְּנֵֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“Please give me some of the fertility/love plants that your son found.” See how you translated “mandrakes” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:15
But she said to her
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר לָ֗הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Leah replied to her,” of “But Leah retorted,” or “But Leah scolded her,”
Is it a small matter you have taken my husband
Quote: הַמְעַט֙ קַחְתֵּ֣ךְ אֶת אִישִׁ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{No!} It was {bad} enough that you took/stole my husband {from me}!” or “You already took/stole my husband {from me}!” Leah uses two rhetorical questions in verse 15 to scold Rachel and show how upset she is with her. Consider whether or not rhetorical questions are the best way to communicate that in your language.
And would you also take my son’s mandrakes
Quote: וְלָקַ֕חַת גַּ֥ם אֶת דּוּדָאֵ֖י בְּנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Do you also/even want to take my son’s fertility/love plants?” or “And/So {now} you also/even want to take/steal my son’s fertility/love plants!”
Then Rachel said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר רָחֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Rachel said/replied {to her/Leah},”
Therefore
Quote: לָכֵן֙ (1)“Alright then,” or “Very well,” Rachel’s response shows that she realizes that even though Leah was scolding her, she was also bargaining with her.
he may lie with you tonight
Quote: יִשְׁכַּ֤ב עִמָּךְ֙ הַלַּ֔יְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“I will let him/Jacob sleep/stay with you tonight” or “Jacob can sleep/stay with you tonight” or “Jacob can spend tonight with you”
for your son’s mandrakes
Quote: תַּ֖חַת דּוּדָאֵ֥י בְנֵֽךְ (1)“{in exchange} for your son’s fertility/love plants.” or “if you will give me your son’s fertility/love plants.” See how you translated “{in exchange} for” in Gen 29:18.
Genesis 30:16
Then Jacob came from the field in the evening
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א יַעֲקֹ֣ב מִן הַשָּׂדֶה֮ בָּעֶרֶב֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“So when/as Jacob came back that evening from {working in} the fields,” or “That evening as Jacob was coming {home} from {working in} the fields,” Consider where it is best in your language to put the time phrase in this clause. Also see how you translated “field” in verse 14.
and Leah went out to meet him
Quote: וַתֵּצֵ֨א לֵאָ֜ה לִקְרָאת֗וֹ (1)“Leah went/came out to greet him”
and said
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and she said {to him},” or “and told {him},”
You must come to me
Quote: אֵלַ֣י תָּב֔וֹא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“You must lie/sleep with me {tonight},” or “You must spend tonight with me,”
because I have surely hired you with my son’s mandrakes
Quote: כִּ֚י שָׂכֹ֣ר שְׂכַרְתִּ֔יךָ בְּדוּדָאֵ֖י בְּנִ֑י (1)“because I have bought time with you with my son’s fertility/love plants.” or “because I have traded/exchanged my son’s fertility/love plants for time with you.” See how you translated “mandrakes” in verses 14 and 15.
So he lay with her during that night
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב עִמָּ֖הּ בַּלַּ֥יְלָה הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“So that night Jacob slept with her/Leah.” or “So Jacob spent that night with her/Leah.”
Genesis 30:17
and God listened to Leah
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֥ע אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל לֵאָ֑ה (1)“God heard/answered Leah’s/her {prayers/requests},” or “God heard Leah and answered her {prayers},” or “God did what Leah had been asking him to do,” See how you translated “listened to” in verse 6.
and she conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֛הַר (1)“so that she became pregnant”
and bore a fifth son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב בֵּ֥ן חֲמִישִֽׁי (1)“and gave birth to a fifth son for Jacob.” or “and had a fifth son for Jacob.”
Genesis 30:18
Then Leah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר לֵאָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Leah/she exclaimed,”
God has given {me} my reward
Quote: נָתַ֤ן אֱלֹהִים֙ שְׂכָרִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“God has rewarded me”. Some languages must translate the noun “reward” as a verb. Do what is best in your language.
because I gave my maidservant to my husband
Quote: אֲשֶׁר נָתַ֥תִּי שִׁפְחָתִ֖י לְאִישִׁ֑י (1)“for giving my servant to my husband {as a/another wife}.”
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So she called/named him” or “So she named that son” or “So she gave him the name”. Make sure the way you translate “his name” refers here to Leah’s baby son, not to her husband or God (who were both mentioned earlier in this verse).
Issachar
Quote: יִשָּׂשכָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Issachar, {which means “reward.”}” See how you translated “reward” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:19
Then Leah conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֤הַר עוֹד֙ לֵאָ֔ה (1)“Then Leah became pregnant again”
and bore a sixth son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד בֵּן שִׁשִּׁ֖י לְּיַעֲקֹֽב (1)“and gave birth to a sixth son for Jacob.” or “and had a sixth son for Jacob.”
Genesis 30:20
And Leah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר לֵאָ֗ה (1)“Then she said/exclaimed,”
God has presented me a good present
Quote: זְבָדַ֨נִי אֱלֹהִ֥ים אֹתִי֮ זֵ֣בֶד טוֹב֒ (1)“God has given me a valuable/precious gift”
This time my husband will honor me
Quote: הַפַּ֨עַם֙ יִזְבְּלֵ֣נִי אִישִׁ֔י (1)“{so} now my husband will honor me”
because I have born six sons for him
Quote: כִּֽי יָלַ֥דְתִּי ל֖וֹ שִׁשָּׁ֣ה בָנִ֑ים (1)“because I have had six sons for him.” or “because I have given him six sons.”
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So she called/named him” or “So she named that/their son” or “So she gave him the name”. Make sure the way you translate “his name” refers here to Leah’s baby son, not to her husband (who was mentioned in the previous sentence).
Zebulun
Quote: זְבֻלֽוּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Zebulun, {which means “honor.”}” See how you translated “honor” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:21
Then later
Quote: וְאַחַ֖ר (1)“{Sometime} later” or “{Sometime} after that,”
she bore a daughter
Quote: יָ֣לְדָה בַּ֑ת (1)“she/Leah gave birth to a daughter” or “she/Leah had a daughter”
and called her name Dinah
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמָ֖הּ דִּינָֽה (1)“and called/named her Dinah.” or “whom she named Dinah.”
Genesis 30:22
Then God remembered Rachel
Quote: וַיִּזְכֹּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת רָחֵ֑ל (1)“God had kept Rachel in mind,” or “God had not forgotten Rachel,” Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not imply that God forgot about Rachel. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 8:1.
and God listened to her
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֤ע אֵלֶ֨יהָ֙ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“and/so he heard/answered her {prayers/requests}” or “and/so he did what she had been asking him to do”. See how you translated “listened to” in verses 6 and 17.
and opened her womb
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֖ח אֶת רַחְמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and made it so that she could conceive.” or “and made it possible for her to have children.” See how you translated this idiom in Gen 29:31.
Genesis 30:23
Then she conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֖הַר (1)“so that {finally} she conceived” or “Then/So she/Rachel became pregnant”. Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 22.
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֑ן (1)“and gave birth to a son,” or “and had a son,”
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“and she exclaimed,” or “Then she said/exclaimed,” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
God has taken away my disgrace
Quote: אָסַ֥ף אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת חֶרְפָּתִֽי (1)“God has removed my shame/humiliation!” or “God has made it so that I am no longer {barren and} ashamed/humiliated!”
Genesis 30:24
And she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֧א אֶת שְׁמ֛וֹ (1)“She called/named her son” or “She gave him the name”
Joseph
Quote: יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Joseph, {which means “may he add/give another,”}” If you include the meaning of Joseph’s name here in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate what Rachel says next.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{because} she said,” For some languages it is more natural to put the last half of verse 24 first in the verse and say, “She also said, “May Yahweh add/give another son to me.” So she named that/her son Joseph, {which means “may he add/give another.”}” Do what is best in your language.
May Yahweh add another son to me
Quote: יֹסֵ֧ף יְהוָ֛ה לִ֖י בֵּ֥ן אַחֵֽר (1)“I pray/ask that Yahweh will give me another son.” or “I ask Yahweh to give me another son.”
Genesis 30:25
Then it happened, after Rachel bore Joseph
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר יָלְדָ֥ה רָחֵ֖ל אֶת יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“{Soon} after Rachel gave birth to Joseph,” or “After Rachel had Joseph,”
then Jacob said to Laban
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל לָבָ֔ן (1)“Jacob requested of Laban,” or “Jacob {went to} Laban and said to him,”
Send me off
Quote: שַׁלְּחֵ֨נִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“{Please} send me on my way,” or “{Please} allow me to leave {here},” Make sure that your translation of Jacob’s request here sounds polite, not rude or disrespectful. It should also not sound like he is begging or pleading. See how you translated the same request in Gen 24:54.
so that I may go to my place and to my land
Quote: וְאֵ֣לְכָ֔ה אֶל מְקוֹמִ֖י וּלְאַרְצִֽי (1)“so that I may/can return to my {own} home in my {own} country.” or “so that I can go/return to my homeland.”
Genesis 30:26
Give me my wives and my children
Quote: תְּנָ֞ה אֶת נָשַׁ֣י וְאֶת יְלָדַ֗י (1)“Let me have/take my wives and my children”
for whom I have served you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר עָבַ֧דְתִּי אֹֽתְךָ֛ בָּהֵ֖ן (1)“whom I have finished serving you for,” or “whom I have earned by working for you,”
so that I may go
Quote: וְאֵלֵ֑כָה (1)“so that I may/can leave {with them}.” or “and let me go/leave {with them}.” or “so that I can take them with me.”
For you yourself know
Quote: כִּ֚י אַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֔עְתָּ (1)“because you yourself know” or “You yourself know”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence.
my service that I have served you
Quote: אֶת עֲבֹדָתִ֖י אֲשֶׁ֥ר עֲבַדְתִּֽיךָ (1)“that I have served you {well/faithfully}.” or “how {well/faithfully} I have served you.” or “how {well/faithfully} I have worked for you.”
Genesis 30:27
Then Laban said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Laban responded to him/Jacob,”
Please {stay}, if I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם נָ֛א מָצָ֥אתִי חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“If you are pleased with me, please {stay},” or “Please be gracious/kind to me {and stay},” or “Please do me a favor {and do not leave/go},”
I have learned by divination
Quote: נִחַ֕שְׁתִּי (1)“{because} I have found out from observing signs” or “{because} I have learned from observation/experience”. The word “divination” refers to trying to find out information by looking at signs (omens) and interpreting them either by God’s power (Gen 44:5, 15) or by witchcraft and false gods (Ezekiel 21:21). Laban may have consulted his household gods (mentioned in Gen 31:19, 30). It could also be that Laban meant that he had figured this out simply by observing how God had blessed him through Jacob’s expert tending of his flocks.
that Yahweh has blessed me
Quote: וַיְבָרֲכֵ֥נִי יְהוָ֖ה (1)“that Yahweh has caused me to prosper”
because of you
Quote: בִּגְלָלֶֽךָ (1)“because you {are here with me}.” or “because you {have been working for me}.”
Genesis 30:28
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he said {to him,}” or “Then he/Laban added,” Some translations delete this quote margin, since the same person is still speaking to the same person as in the previous verse. However it could be that there was a pause in the conversation, or the author may want to show that there is a change in topic or emphasize what is said next. So if possible, it is best to keep the quote margin here in your translation.
Name your wages to me, and I will give {them
Quote: נָקְבָ֧ה שְׂכָרְךָ֛ עָלַ֖י וְאֶתֵּֽנָה (1)“Tell me what you want your wages/pay to be, and that is what I will give/pay you.” or “Tell me what you want me to pay you, and I will give that to you.” or “Set your wages, and that is what they will be.” See how you translated “wages” in Gen 29:15.
Genesis 30:29
And he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob said/replied to him/Laban,”
You yourself know how I have served you
Quote: אַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֔עְתָּ אֵ֖ת אֲשֶׁ֣ר עֲבַדְתִּ֑יךָ (1)“You yourself know how {hard/well} I have worked for you”. See how you translated “you yourself know” in verse 26.
and how your livestock have been
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר הָיָ֥ה מִקְנְךָ֖ (1)“and how {well} your animals/flocks have prospered/fared”
with me
Quote: אִתִּֽי (1)“under my care.” or “ever since I have been taking care of them.” or “while I have been tending them.”
Genesis 30:30
For {there was} little that was yours before me, and it has prospered to abundance
Quote: כִּ֡י מְעַט֩ אֲשֶׁר הָיָ֨ה לְךָ֤ לְפָנַי֙ וַיִּפְרֹ֣ץ לָרֹ֔ב (1)“Before I came, you had very little {wealth}, but now you are prospering abundantly/greatly.” or “The few {animals} that you owned before I came have multiplied/increased dramatically/greatly.” or “Before I worked for you, you owned very few animals, but now you have a huge/large number of animals.”
and Yahweh has blessed you
Quote: וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ יְהוָ֛ה אֹתְךָ֖ (1)“That is how Yahweh has blessed/prospered you” or “Yes, Yahweh has blessed/prospered you”. See how you translated “blessed” in verse 27.
at my feet
Quote: לְרַגְלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“because of me.” or “because I am here.” or “because I have been working for you.”
But now, when will I also do something for my household
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה מָתַ֛י אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֥ה גַם אָנֹכִ֖י לְבֵיתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“But now I need to also provide for my {own} household/family!” Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to express his strong feelings. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 30:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Laban asked {him/Jacob},” or “Laban responded,”
What should I give to you
Quote: מָ֣ה אֶתֶּן לָ֑ךְ (1)“What do you want me to give/pay you {so that you will stay and work for me}?” or “What can I give/pay you {to persuade you} {to stay here}?”
And Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob answered/replied,”
Do not give anything to me
Quote: לֹא תִתֶּן לִ֣י מְא֔וּמָה (1)“Do not give/pay me anything.” or “You do not need to give/pay me anything.”
If you will do this thing for me
Quote: אִם תַּֽעֲשֶׂה לִּי֙ הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“{But} if you will do this {one} thing for me,” or “Just do this {one} thing for me, and”
I will continue tending your flock{s} watching over {them
Quote: אָשׁ֛וּבָה אֶרְעֶ֥ה צֹֽאנְךָ֖ אֶשְׁמֹֽר (1)“I will continue to tend and watch over your flock{s}:” or “I will continue/keep taking care of your flock{s}:” See how you translated “watches over” in Gen 28:20.
Genesis 30:32
I will pass through all your flock{s} today
Quote: אֶֽעֱבֹ֨ר בְּכָל צֹֽאנְךָ֜ הַיּ֗וֹם (1)“Let me go/look through all your flock{s} today” or “Today I will go/look through all your sheep and goats”
to remove from there
Quote: הָסֵ֨ר מִשָּׁ֜ם (1)“and separate out from them” or “and take away from them”
every speckled and spotted lamb and every dark-colored lamb among the sheep
Quote: כָּל שֶׂ֣ה נָקֹ֣ד וְטָל֗וּא וְכָל שֶׂה חוּם֙ בַּכְּשָׂבִ֔ים (1)“all the lambs that are speckled, spotted or dark-colored,” or “all the lambs that have speckles or spots, or that are dark-colored,” The Hebrew word for “speckled” refers to small spots, whereas “spotted” refers to medium-sized and bigger spots. In that part of the world, most sheep were white and most goats were solid brown or black. So Jacob was asking for the irregular animals for himself, including white sheep with dark marks, dark-colored goats with light marks and dark-colored lambs. You could put some of this information in a footnote.
and the spotted and speckled {young} among the goats
Quote: וְטָל֥וּא וְנָקֹ֖ד בָּעִזִּ֑ים (1)“and {all} the young/kid goats that are spotted or speckled.”
And that will be my wages
Quote: וְהָיָ֖ה שְׂכָרִֽי (1)“They will be my wages/pay.” or “Those animals will be my wages/pay.”
Genesis 30:33
So my righteousness will testify for me in future days
Quote: וְעָֽנְתָה בִּ֤י צִדְקָתִי֙ בְּי֣וֹם מָחָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“Also, in the future you will know whether or not I am being righteous/honest” or “That way {too}, in the future it will be easy {for you/everyone} to know whether {or not} I am being honest”. The phrase “my righteousness” is referred to here as if it can testify like a person can. Some languages cannot personify righteousness like that. Do what is best in your language.
when you go over my wages in front of you
Quote: כִּֽי תָב֥וֹא עַל שְׂכָרִ֖י לְפָנֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“whenever you check the animals you have paid/given me.” For some languages it is more natural to move this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “Also, in the future, whenever you check the animals you have paid/given me, you will know whether or not I am being honest.” Do what is best in your own language.
any that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and dark-colored among the sheep
Quote: כֹּ֣ל אֲשֶׁר אֵינֶנּוּ֩ נָקֹ֨ד וְטָל֜וּא בָּֽעִזִּ֗ים וְחוּם֙ בַּכְּשָׂבִ֔ים (1)“{If you see} that I have any {sheep or} goats that are not speckled or spotted or any sheep/lambs that are not dark-colored,” or “{If you see/find} any {sheep or} goats {among my flocks} that do not have speckles or spots or any sheep/lambs that are not dark-colored,”
it was stolen {if it is} with me
Quote: גָּנ֥וּב ה֖וּא אִתִּֽי (1)“{you will know that} I stole them {from you}.” or “{it will be obvious that} I stole them {from you}.”
Genesis 30:34
And Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר לָבָ֖ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Laban said/replied {to him},”
Behold
Quote: הֵ֑ן (1)“I agree,” or “Yes,” or “I agree with that;”
let it be according to your word
Quote: ל֖וּ יְהִ֥י כִדְבָרֶֽךָ (1)“let’s do exactly as/what you have said/suggested.” or “we should/will do exactly as/what you have said/suggested.”
Genesis 30:35
Then on that day he removed
Quote: וַיָּ֣סַר בַּיּוֹם֩ הַה֨וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But that {same/very} day, he/Laban removed/separated {from his flocks}”. Make sure your translation of “he” in this clause refers to Laban, not Jacob (as verse 36 confirms). Also, what Laban does in verse 35 does not follow the agreement he just made with Jacob in verses 32-34.
the male goats that were streaked and spotted, and all the female goats that were speckled and spotted
Quote: אֶת הַתְּיָשִׁ֜ים הָֽעֲקֻדִּ֣ים וְהַטְּלֻאִ֗ים וְאֵ֤ת כָּל הָֽעִזִּים֙ הַנְּקֻדּ֣וֹת וְהַטְּלֻאֹ֔ת (1)“{all} the he-goats that had streaks or spots, and all the she-goats that had speckles or spots,”
any that {had} white on it
Quote: כֹּ֤ל אֲשֶׁר לָבָן֙ בּ֔וֹ (1)“any/all that {had any} white {marks} on them,” The goats were normally dark brown or black, so if they had streaks or spots on them those marks would be white. In the Hebrew text, there is a pun (play-on-words) in verses 35 and 37: the name “Laban” means “white”, so verse 35 literally says that any goats with “Laban” (“white”) on them became Jacob’s. You could include that information in a footnote.
and all the dark-colored {ones} among the lambs
Quote: וְכָל ח֖וּם בַּכְּשָׂבִ֑ים (1)“together with all the dark-colored lambs.” or “as well as all the lambs that were dark-colored.”
Then he gave {them} into the hand of his sons
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֖ן בְּיַד בָּנָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then he had his sons tend {them},” or “Then he put his sons in charge of {them},” or “Then he told his sons to take care of {them},”
Genesis 30:36
and he put a three-day journey between himself and Jacob
Quote: וַיָּ֗שֶׂם דֶּ֚רֶךְ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֔ים בֵּינ֖וֹ וּבֵ֣ין יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“and he {and his sons} took {those animals} a three-day walking distance away from Jacob.”
And Jacob was tending the rest of Laban’s flock{s
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֗ב רֹעֶ֛ה אֶת צֹ֥אן לָבָ֖ן הַנּוֹתָרֹֽת (1)“Meanwhile Jacob continued taking care of the rest of Laban’s flock{s}.” See how you translated “tending” in verse 31 and Gen 13:7.
Genesis 30:37
Then Jacob took for himself fresh-cut branches
Quote: וַיִּֽקַּֽח ל֣וֹ יַעֲקֹ֗ב מַקַּ֥ל & לַ֖ח (1)“Then Jacob cut {some} branches”
of poplar and almond and plane trees
Quote: לִבְנֶ֛ה & וְל֣וּז וְעֶרְמ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“from poplar {trees}, almond/hazel {trees}, and plane/chestnut {trees},” or “from three different kinds of trees,” If the three kinds of trees are not known in your language area, you could transliterate the names of the trees or be more general and leave out the names (if they are too distracting).
and peeled white stripes in them
Quote: וַיְפַצֵּ֤ל בָּהֵן֙ פְּצָל֣וֹת לְבָנ֔וֹת (1)“and peeled/stripped off long strips/pieces of bark,” or “and made white stripes/streaks on them {by stripping/peeling off long strips/pieces of bark},”
exposing the white that {was} inside the branches
Quote: מַחְשֹׂף֙ הַלָּבָ֔ן אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל הַמַּקְלֽוֹת (1)“which exposed/showed the white {wood} under the bark.” or “so that the white {wood} that was inside the branches was exposed/showing.”
Genesis 30:38
Then he put the branches that he had peeled in the troughs, in the water troughs
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֗ג אֶת הַמַּקְלוֹת֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר פִּצֵּ֔ל בָּרֳהָטִ֖ים בְּשִֽׁקֲת֣וֹת הַמָּ֑יִם (1)“Then he put/set those {striped/streaked} branches in all the {stone} drinking/watering troughs/tubs/places”. See how you translated “trough” in Gen 24:20.
where the flock{s} came to drink
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ תָּבֹ֨אןָ הַצֹּ֤אן לִשְׁתּוֹת֙ (1)“where the flock{s} came to drink,” or “that the flock{s} would come to drink from,” The way you translate this should allow for the fact that the animals came to the watering troughs repeatedly or regularly throughout the day, not just one time.
in front of the flock{s
Quote: לְנֹ֣כַח הַצֹּ֔אן (1)“in front of them.” or “so that the flock{s} would see the branches {there}.”
And they were in heat when they came to drink
Quote: וַיֵּחַ֖מְנָה בְּבֹאָ֥ן לִשְׁתּֽוֹת (1)“The flocks {often} mated when they came {to the troughs/tubs} to drink,” or “{That way, whenever} the animals that were ready to mate/breed came {to the troughs/tubs} to drink,” The way you translate this clause will determine whether you begin the next verse with a conjunction (“and” or “so”) or without a conjunction. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 30:39
and the flock{s} would mate by the branches
Quote: וַיֶּחֱמ֥וּ הַצֹּ֖אן אֶל הַמַּקְל֑וֹת (1)“and/so they would mate in front of the branches,” or “they would mate where they could see the branches,” or “they would see the branches as they were mating/breeding,” Make sure your translation of the verbs in this verse refers to a repeated or habitual activity, not a one-time event.
and the flock{s} would bear streaked, speckled, and spotted {young
Quote: וַתֵּלַ֣דְןָ הַצֹּ֔אן עֲקֻדִּ֥ים נְקֻדִּ֖ים וּטְלֻאִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“As a result, they would bear/have {young/offspring that were} streaked/striped or speckled or spotted.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “speckled” and “spotted” in verses 32-33 and 35. Also consider what is the most natural way in your language to refer to the flocks in verses 38 and 39.
Genesis 30:40
Then Jacob set apart the lambs
Quote: וְהַכְּשָׂבִים֮ הִפְרִ֣יד יַעֲקֹב֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then Jacob separated those young animals {from Laban’s flocks} {to form/make new flocks for himself},”
and he made the faces of the flock{s} look at
Quote: וַ֠יִּתֵּן פְּנֵ֨י הַצֹּ֧אן אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he put {the rest of} the flock{s} with”. The Hebrew text uses an idiom here that means Jacob put the marked and unmarked animals together (so that they would mate).
the streaked and all the dark-colored {animals
Quote: עָקֹ֛ד וְכָל ח֖וּם (1)“all the streaked/striped animals and dark-colored {animals}”. See how you translated “streaked” in verses 35 and 39, and how you translated “dark-colored” in verses 32-33 and 35.
in the flock{s} of Laban
Quote: בְּצֹ֣אן לָבָ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{that were} in Laban’s flock{s} {so that they would mate and have young/offspring/babies that were streaked or dark-colored}.” You may need to make it explicit in your translation why Jacob put the unmarked sheep and goats with Laban’s streaked and spotted animals, so that people understand what Jacob was doing.
And he put flocks for himself by themselves
Quote: וַיָּֽשֶׁת ל֤וֹ עֲדָרִים֙ לְבַדּ֔וֹ (1)“In that way, {over time} he created/formed/made separate flocks {of sheep and goats} for himself”
and he did not put them with the flock{s} of Laban
Quote: וְלֹ֥א שָׁתָ֖ם עַל צֹ֥אן לָבָֽן (1)“that he did not put/mix with Laban’s flock{s}.” or “that he kept separate/away from Laban’s flock{s}.”
Genesis 30:41
So it happened whenever
Quote: וְהָיָ֗ה בְּכָל (1)“So whenever” or “Whenever”. This verse includes more details about what Jacob was doing on a regular basis.
the strong animals
Quote: הַצֹּ֣אן הַמְקֻשָּׁרוֹת֒ (1)“the stronger/best female animals” or “the strong/hardy/robust female sheep and goats”
were in heat
Quote: יַחֵם֮ (1)“were ready to mate/breed,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 38.
then Jacob put the branches in the troughs
Quote: וְשָׂ֨ם יַעֲקֹ֧ב אֶת הַמַּקְל֛וֹת & בָּרֳהָטִ֑ים (1)“Jacob put/set the {striped/streaked} branches in the {drinking/watering} troughs/tubs”. See how you translated a similar clause in verse 38.
before the eyes of the flocks so that they would mate by the branches
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֥י הַצֹּ֖אן & לְיַחְמֵ֖נָּה בַּמַּקְלֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-purpose
“in front of those animals so that they would see the branches as they were mating/breeding.” or “so that as they were mating, they would see the branches.” See how you translated “mate” and “the branches” in verse 39.
Genesis 30:42
But when the animals were weak
Quote: וּבְהַעֲטִ֥יף הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But whenever the weak/feeble female animals {were ready to mate/breed},”
he did not put {them} {in
Quote: לֹ֣א יָשִׂ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Jacob did not put/set {the branches} {in the troughs/tubs}.”
So it was
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“In that way,”
the weak {ones
Quote: הָעֲטֻפִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{the young/offspring from} the weaker/feeble {animals}”
went} to Laban
Quote: לְלָבָ֔ן (1)“were Laban’s,” or “{had no streaks or spots and} remained in Laban’s flocks,”
and the strong {ones
Quote: וְהַקְּשֻׁרִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and/whereas {the young/offspring from} the stronger/hardy/robust {animals}”. See how you translated “strong” in verse 41.
to Jacob
Quote: לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)“{went} to Jacob,” or “were Jacob’s,” or “{had streaks and spots and} became part of Jacob’s {flocks},”
Genesis 30:43
so that the man prospered
Quote: וַיִּפְרֹ֥ץ הָאִ֖ישׁ (1)“So Jacob became extremely/very prosperous/wealthy” or “As a result, Jacob became extremely/very wealthy/rich”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “prospered” in verse 30.
and he owned large flock{s
Quote: וַֽיְהִי לוֹ֙ צֹ֣אן רַבּ֔וֹת (1)“and owned large flock{s} {of sheep and goats},” or “He owned many sheep and goats,” For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
and maidservants and menservants and camels and donkeys
Quote: וּשְׁפָחוֹת֙ וַעֲבָדִ֔ים וּגְמַלִּ֖ים וַחֲמֹרִֽים (1)“and {many} male and female servants and {many} camels and donkeys.” See how you translated “maidservants,” “menservants,” “camels,” and “donkeys” in Gen 12:16 and 24:35.
Genesis 31
Genesis 31:1
Then he heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֗ע (1)“Then {one day} Jacob heard” or “Then {one day} someone told Jacob”
the words of the sons of Laban, {who} were saying
Quote: אֶת דִּבְרֵ֤י בְנֵֽי לָבָן֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“that Laban’s sons were {complaining and} saying,”
Jacob has taken everything that {belonged} to our father
Quote: לָקַ֣ח יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֵ֖ת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאָבִ֑ינוּ (1)“Jacob has taken {for himself} everything/all that our father owned,”
and from what {belonged} to our father he has gained all this wealth
Quote: וּמֵאֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאָבִ֔ינוּ עָשָׂ֕ה אֵ֥ת כָּל הַכָּבֹ֖ד הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Yes, he/Jacob has become wealthy/rich by taking our father’s wealth/possessions!” or “In fact, he/Jacob has acquired/gotten all his wealth/riches by taking {the animals} that were our father’s!” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes Laban’s sons’ complaint against Jacob. The phrase “all this wealth” especially refers to all the livestock that Jacob had gained during the years he worked for Laban.
Genesis 31:2
And Jacob saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)“Jacob also saw/noticed”
the face of Laban, and behold, he was not with him as yesterday {and} three days ago
Quote: אֶת פְּנֵ֣י לָבָ֑ן וְהִנֵּ֥ה אֵינֶ֛נּוּ עִמּ֖וֹ כִּתְמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“that Laban no longer looked at him in a kind/friendly way as/like {he did} previously/before.” or “that Laban was no longer pleased/happy with him as/like he was previously/before.” or “that Laban no longer acted kind/friendly toward him the way he did in the past.” The clause “he was not with him” is used here as an idiom that means Laban was no longer happy with Jacob or that he no longer liked him. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that fits well here.
Genesis 31:3
Then Yahweh said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Yahweh told/commanded Jacob,”
Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives
Quote: שׁ֛וּב אֶל אֶ֥רֶץ אֲבוֹתֶ֖יךָ וּלְמוֹלַדְתֶּ֑ךָ (1)“Go back to your ancestors’ homeland, where your relatives live,” or “Return to the land where your ancestors lived and where your {other} relatives {also} live,”
and I will be with you
Quote: וְאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה עִמָּֽךְ (1)“and I will stay with you {and help/bless you}.” See how you translated this clause in Gen 26:3 and how you translated similar clauses in Gen 26:8, 24; 28:15.
Genesis 31:4
Then Jacob sent and called for Rachel and Leah to the field
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֣ח יַעֲקֹ֔ב וַיִּקְרָ֖א לְרָחֵ֣ל וּלְלֵאָ֑ה הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)“So Jacob sent for Rachel and Leah {to come} to the field/pasture” or “Then/So Jacob sent a message to Rachel and Leah that they should meet him at/in the field/pasture”. See how you translated “sent and called for” in Gen 27:42.
to his flock{s
Quote: אֶל צֹאנֽוֹ (1)“where {he was with/tending} his flock{s} {of sheep and goats}.”
Genesis 31:5
Then he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָהֶ֗ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{When they arrived,} he said to them,” or “{There} he told them,” Consider whether in your language it is necessary to make explicit that Rachel and Leah had come to Jacob before he spoke to them.
I have seen
Quote: רֹאֶ֤ה אָנֹכִי֙ (1)“I have noticed”
the face of your father, that he is not toward me as yesterday {and} three days ago
Quote: אֶת פְּנֵ֣י אֲבִיכֶ֔ן כִּֽי אֵינֶ֥נּוּ אֵלַ֖י כִּתְמֹ֣ל שִׁלְשֹׁ֑ם (1)“that your father no longer looks at me in a kind/friendly way as/like he did in the past,” or “that your father is no longer pleased/happy with me as/like he was previously/before,” or “that your father no longer acts friendly toward me the way he did previously/before,” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2.
but the God of my father
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֔י (1)“but my father’s God” or “but the God whom my father serves/worships” or “but the God {who takes care} of my father”. See how you translated “the God of …” in Gen 28:13.
has been with me
Quote: הָיָ֖ה עִמָּדִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“has stayed with me {and has helped/blessed me}.” See how you translated the idiom “be with you” in verse 3.
Genesis 31:6
And you know
Quote: וְאַתֵּ֖נָה יְדַעְתֶּ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“You {both} know”. In the Hebrew text, “you” is an emphatic pronoun. Also, some languages have a special dual pronoun that fits here well. Do what is best in your language.
that with all my might I have served your father
Quote: כִּ֚י בְּכָל כֹּחִ֔י עָבַ֖דְתִּי אֶת אֲבִיכֶֽן (1)“that I have served your father with all my might/strength,” or “that I have tried as hard as I could to serve your father well,” or “how I have worked for your father as hard/faithfully as I could,”
Genesis 31:7
but your father has deceived me
Quote: וַאֲבִיכֶן֙ הֵ֣תֶל בִּ֔י (1)“but {in spite of that,} he has deceived/cheated me” or “but {yet} he has treated me unfairly”
and changed my wages ten times
Quote: וְהֶחֱלִ֥ף אֶת מַשְׂכֻּרְתִּ֖י עֲשֶׂ֣רֶת מֹנִ֑ים (1)“by changing what he pays me ten times.” or “and ten times he has changed what he said that he would pay me.”
However, God has not allowed him to harm me
Quote: וְלֹֽא נְתָנ֣וֹ אֱלֹהִ֔ים לְהָרַ֖ע עִמָּדִֽי (1)“However, God has not permitted him to harm/hurt me.” or “But God has prevented/kept him from harming/hurting me.” or “But God has protected me so that he/Laban did/could not hurt/harm me.” In this context, “harm” especially refers to financial harm, but it can also include physical harm.
Genesis 31:8
If he said like this
Quote: אִם כֹּ֣ה יֹאמַ֗ר (1)“{For example,} if/whenever he told {me}” or “{For example,} every time that he told {me}”. The examples Jacob is describing in verse 8 took place repeatedly (as verse 7 indicates).
The speckled {animals} will be your wages
Quote: נְקֻדִּים֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה שְׂכָרֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“that {only} the speckled {animals} would be my wages/pay,” or “that he would pay me by giving me {only} the animals with speckles on them,” Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, see how you translated “speckled” in Gen 30:32, 33, 35, 39.
then all the flock{s} bore
Quote: וְיָלְד֥וּ כָל הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“then all {the female animals in} the flocks gave birth to” or “then all the female sheep and goats gave birth to”
speckled {young
Quote: נְקֻדִּ֑ים (1)“speckled {young/babies}.” or “{young/babies that were} speckled.”
But if he said like this
Quote: וְאִם כֹּ֣ה יֹאמַ֗ר (1)“But if/whenever he said {to me}” or “Then if/whenever he {changed his mind and} told {me}”
The streaked {ones} will be your wages
Quote: עֲקֻדִּים֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה שְׂכָרֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“that {only} the streaked/striped {animals} would be my wages/pay,” or “that he would pay me by giving me {only} the animals with streaks/stripes on them,” See how you translated “streaked” in Gen 30:35, 39, 40.
then all the flock{s} bore
Quote: וְיָלְד֥וּ כָל הַצֹּ֖אן (2)“then all {the females in} the flock{s} gave birth to” or “then all the female sheep and goats had” or “then they all gave birth to”
streaked {young
Quote: עֲקֻדִּֽים (1)“streaked/striped {young/babies}.” or “{young/babies that had} streaks/stripes on them.”
Genesis 31:9
So God took away
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֧ל אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)“In that way, God has taken” or “So that’s how God took”
the livestock of your father
Quote: אֶת מִקְנֵ֥ה אֲבִיכֶ֖ם (1)“{many of} the animals that belonged to your father” or “{many of} the sheep and goats that were your father’s” or “{many of} your father’s animals {from him}”. The term “livestock” usually includes all kinds of domestic animals, but in this context it refers to the sheep and goats that Jacob was taking care of for Laban.
and gave {them} to me
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן לִֽי (1)“and gave {them} to me {instead}.” or “and has given {them} to me.”
Genesis 31:10
And it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י (1)“One time/night”
in the season
Quote: בְּעֵת֙ (1)“during the season/time” or “during the time of year”
the flock{s} were in heat
Quote: יַחֵ֣ם הַצֹּ֔אן (1)“that/when the female sheep and goats were in heat,” or “that/when the flock{s} {of sheep and goats} were mating/breeding,”
and I lifted my eyes and saw in a dream that, behold
Quote: וָאֶשָּׂ֥א עֵינַ֛י וָאֵ֖רֶא בַּחֲל֑וֹם וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)“I had a dream and {in the dream} I looked around and saw/noticed that” or “I had a dream. {In the dream} I looked around and was surprised to see that”. The word “behold” emphasizes what Jacob saw and might also express that he was surprised at what he saw.
the he-goats that were mounting the flock{s
Quote: הָֽעַתֻּדִים֙ הָעֹלִ֣ים עַל הַצֹּ֔אן (1)“the {only} male goats {and sheep} that were mating with the female goats {and sheep}”. Some languages have special terms for male and female goats or sheep. For example, billy goats and nanny goats (for male and female goats) and rams and ewes (for male and female sheep). Choose terms in your language that are natural and well-known.
were} streaked, speckled, and spotted
Quote: עֲקֻדִּ֥ים נְקֻדִּ֖ים וּבְרֻדִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{were} streaked/striped, speckled, or spotted/blotched.” or “had a streaked/striped, speckled, or spotted/blotched pattern {in/on their fur/hair}.” It may be more natural to put this phrase earlier and say, “… saw that the male goats {and sheep} that were streaked, speckled, and spotted were the {only} ones that were mating with the female goats {and sheep}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 31:11
Then an angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֵלַ֜י מַלְאַ֧ךְ הָאֱלֹהִ֛ים בַּחֲל֖וֹם יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Then/And an angel from God called to me in the dream {and said}, ‘Jacob!’ ” or “Then in the dream, one of God’s angels said/called to me, ‘Jacob!’ ” In some languages it is more natural to put “in the dream” earlier in this clause. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “an angel of God” in Gen 21:17.
and I said
Quote: וָאֹמַ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and I answered/responded,”
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)“Here I am!” or “Yes, {Lord/sir}?” or “Yes, I am listening.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 22:1 and 27:11.
Genesis 31:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he said {to me},” or “The angel said/replied,”
Please lift up your eyes
Quote: שָׂא נָ֨א עֵינֶ֤יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Look around you” or “Look carefully”. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 22:13. Also see how you translated Gen 22:2, another passage where Yahweh uses “Please”.
and see
Quote: וּרְאֵה֙ (1)“and observe/notice {that}”
all the he-goats that are mounting the flock{s
Quote: כָּל הָֽעַתֻּדִים֙ הָעֹלִ֣ים עַל הַצֹּ֔אן (1)“all the male goats {and sheep} that are mating with the female goats {and sheep}”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 10.
are} streaked, speckled, and spotted
Quote: עֲקֻדִּ֥ים נְקֻדִּ֖ים וּבְרֻדִּ֑ים (1)“{are} streaked/striped, speckled, or spotted/blotched,” or “have a streaked/striped, speckled, or spotted/blotched pattern {in their fur/hair},” See how you translated this phrase in verses 8 and 10.
because I have seen
Quote: כִּ֣י רָאִ֔יתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{I, Yahweh, have caused that to happen,} because I have observed/noticed”. Sometimes an angel says “I” as God’s representative, but in this context, it seems to be Yahweh himself (in the form of an angel) who is speaking to Jacob (See verse 13). That information could be put in a footnote, and you could make “Yahweh” explicit in the text to make that clear.
all that Laban is doing to you
Quote: אֵ֛ת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֥ר לָבָ֖ן עֹ֥שֶׂה לָּֽךְ (1)“all {the wrong/terrible things} that Laban has done to you.” or “all the ways that Laban has been treating you {badly/wrongfully}.”
Genesis 31:13
I {am} the God of Bethel
Quote: אָנֹכִ֤י הָאֵל֙ בֵּֽית אֵ֔ל (1)“I {am} the God {who appeared to you} at {the town of} Bethel,”
where you anointed a pillar
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר מָשַׁ֤חְתָּ שָּׁם֙ מַצֵּבָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“where you poured {olive} oil on top of a {memorial} pillar/stone {to dedicate the place to me},” See how you translated “poured oil on top of” in Gen 28:38 and “pillar” in Gen 28:18, 22.
where you vowed a vow to me
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָדַ֥רְתָּ לִּ֛י שָׁ֖ם נֶ֑דֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-term
“{and} where you made a vow/pledge/promise to me.” See how you translated “vowed a vow” in Gen 28:20.
Now get up, go out from this land
Quote: עַתָּ֗ה ק֥וּם צֵא֙ מִן הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֔את (1)“{So} now/then, get up/ready and leave this land/region {immediately},” or “Now go/leave at once from this land/region,” The phrase “get up” means that Jacob should immediately get ready to go and then leave; see how you translated this phrase in Gen 27:43.
and return to
Quote: וְשׁ֖וּב אֶל (1)“and go/travel back to”
the land of your birth
Quote: אֶ֥רֶץ מוֹלַדְתֶּֽךָ (1)“the land where you were born.” or “the land where your relatives live.” or “your native/home land.” The Hebrew word for “birth” in this phrase can also be translated as “relatives” here (as in verse 3). See how you translated this phrase in Gen 24:7.
Genesis 31:14
Then Rachel replied, and Leah, and they said to him
Quote: וַתַּ֤עַן רָחֵל֙ וְלֵאָ֔ה וַתֹּאמַ֖רְנָה ל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Rachel and Leah responded to him/Jacob,” or “Rachel and Leah replied to him/Jacob,”
Is there still for us a portion or inheritance
Quote: הַע֥וֹד לָ֛נוּ חֵ֥לֶק וְנַחֲלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“We no longer have any part/share in the inheritance” or “We will not/never inherit anything”. This rhetorical question expects the answer “no.” It also expresses Rachel's and Leah’s strong emotion and emphasizes that there is nothing for them to inherit from their father. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question fits well here in your language.
in the house of our father
Quote: בְּבֵ֥ית אָבִֽינוּ (1)“from our father’s house/estate {when he dies}!” or “from our father {when he dies}”
Genesis 31:15
Are we not regarded by him
Quote: הֲל֧וֹא & נֶחְשַׁ֥בְנוּ ל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Doesn’t he regard/treat us” or “It is obvious that he regards/treats us” or “He obviously is treating us”. This rhetorical question expects the answer “yes” and expresses Rachel's and Leah’s anger at how their father treats them. Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to use a rhetorical question here.
as} foreigners
Quote: נָכְרִיּ֛וֹת (1)“like foreigners/strangers/outsiders {and not family}” or “as if we were foreigners/strangers {instead of family}”. Make sure that the punctuation you use here fits with how you translate this rhetorical question.
For he sold us
Quote: כִּ֣י מְכָרָ֑נוּ (1)“For example, he sold us {to you},” or “After all, he sold us {to you},” This sentence is an example of how Laban treated his daughters like foreigners.
and he has indeed completely eaten up
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אכַל גַּם אָכ֖וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and then he spent all” or “and then he used up all”. The phrase “eaten up” is used here as an idiom that means Laban had spent or kept for himself all the wealth he had gained from Jacob’s 14 years of working for him. Many languages have a similar idiom that could be used here. Do what is best in your language.
our silver
Quote: אֶת כַּסְפֵּֽנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“the money/wealth that should have been ours.” or “the money/wealth that belonged to us.” In that culture at that time, silver was a currency used to buy and sell things.
Genesis 31:16
For all the wealth that God took from our father
Quote: כִּ֣י כָל הָעֹ֗שֶׁר אֲשֶׁ֨ר הִצִּ֤יל אֱלֹהִים֙ מֵֽאָבִ֔ינוּ (1)“In fact, all the wealth/abundance {of flocks} that God has taken from our father” or “In fact/reality, all {the flocks} that made our father wealthy and that God has taken from him”
belongs} to us and to our children
Quote: לָ֥נוּ ה֖וּא וּלְבָנֵ֑ינוּ (1)“{rightfully/actually} {belongs} to us and our children.” or “{should have been given} to us and our children {anyway}.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה עֲשֵֽׂה (1)“So then, {you should} do” or “So {go ahead and} do” or “So {we totally agree that you should} do”. The words “So now” introduce Rachel and Leah’s conclusion that is based on what they just said. Do what is best in your language to communicate that.
all that God has said to you
Quote: כֹּל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר אָמַ֧ר אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֵלֶ֖יךָ (1)“everything/whatever God has told/commanded you {to do}.” or “exactly what God told/instructed you {to do}.”
Genesis 31:17
So Jacob got up
Quote: וַיָּ֖קָם יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“So/Then Jacob {immediately/quickly} got ready/packed {for the journey}”. See how you translated “get up” in verse 13.
and put his sons and his wives on the camels
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֛א אֶת בָּנָ֥יו וְאֶת נָשָׁ֖יו עַל הַגְּמַלִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“and helped his wives and his sons/children {get/mount up} onto the/some camels.” Jacob took all his children with him, not just his sons.
Genesis 31:18
Then he drove
Quote: וַיִּנְהַ֣ג (1)“Then he led/herded” or “Then he {started} driving/leading/herding”
all his livestock and all his property that he had acquired, the livestock in his possession that he had acquired
Quote: אֶת כָּל מִקְנֵ֗הוּ וְאֶת כָּל רְכֻשׁוֹ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר רָכָ֔שׁ מִקְנֵה֙ קִנְיָנ֔וֹ אֲשֶׁ֥ר רָכַ֖שׁ (1)“{the camels and} all his {other} livestock/animals and {along with them,} {he also took} all the {other} possessions that he had acquired/accumulated”. The word “livestock” is general here and includes all of Jacob’s animals.
in Paddan Aram
Quote: בְּפַדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)“{while living} in {the land/region of} Paddan Aram,” Be consistent here with how you translated “{the land/region of} Paddan Aram” in Gen 25:20.
to go to Isaac his father, to the land of Canaan
Quote: לָב֛וֹא אֶל יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו אַ֥רְצָה כְּנָֽעַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“to go/return to his father Isaac’s house in the land/region of Canaan.” or “to go/return to Canaan, to {the home of} his father Isaac.” or “to the land/region of Canaan, where his father Isaac lived.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “Then he {started} driving/herding {the camels} and all his {other} animals to/toward the land/region of Canaan where his father Isaac lived. {He took with him} all his possessions that he had accumulated, {including} all the livestock that he had acquired/accumulated {while living} in {the land/region of} Paddan Aram.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 31:19
Now Laban
Quote: וְלָבָ֣ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Now {before that,} Laban {the Aramean}”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that the events in verse 19 happened before Jacob and his family had left. Also, for some languages it is more natural to first make “the Aramean” explicit here in verse 19 rather than wait until verse 20. Do what is best in your language.
had gone to shear his sheep
Quote: הָלַ֔ךְ לִגְזֹ֖ז אֶת צֹאנ֑וֹ (1)“had gone away {for several days} to cut the wool off his sheep”. In that culture, sheep wool was very important since it was used to make clothing and blankets. The process of shearing many sheep would have taken several days. You could include some of this information in a footnote.
so Rachel stole
Quote: וַתִּגְנֹ֣ב רָחֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“so {while he was gone,} Rachel {went into her father’s tent and} stole/took” or “{While he was gone,} Rachel {entered his tent and} stole/took”. Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the idols that {belonged} to her father
Quote: אֶת הַתְּרָפִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְאָבִֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“his {household/family} idols/gods,” or “the idols/gods that he had/worshiped.” These idols were statues made of wood or precious metals. They were small enough to be used in a private home. In this chapter these statues are referred to as “idols” (in verses 19, 34, 35 when the author refers to them) and “gods” (in quotes in verses 30 and 32 when Laban or Jacob talk about them). If it is confusing in your language to switch back and forth between these two terms, you could use “gods” throughout this chapter, since Laban would not have called them idols, and Jacob would not have used that term in his presence. However, if possible, it is best to translate the two terms the way the Hebrew text has them.
Genesis 31:20
and Jacob stole the heart of
Quote: וַיִּגְנֹ֣ב יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֶת לֵ֥ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and Jacob deceived/tricked” or “At the same time, Jacob deceived/tricked”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Laban the Aramean
Quote: לָבָ֖ן הָאֲרַמִּ֑י (1)“Laban/him”. If you used “Aramean” earlier (verse 19), it may not be natural here. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated this phrase in Gen 25:20.
by not informing him that he was fleeing
Quote: עַל בְּלִי֙ הִגִּ֣יד ל֔וֹ כִּ֥י בֹרֵ֖חַ הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“by not informing/telling him that he was fleeing/leaving.” or “by fleeing/leaving {secretly} without informing/telling him that he was leaving.”
Genesis 31:21
And he fled
Quote: וַיִּבְרַ֥ח הוּא֙ (1)“So Jacob {and his family} ran away” or “So {in that way} Jacob ran away {with his family}”. This statement summarizes an event that already happened (See verses 18 and 20). Make sure your translation of this verse does not sound like Jacob left a second time. To make this clear you could say, “After Jacob {and his family} ran away with everything that they owned, they {quickly} crossed the {Euphrates} River and headed toward the hill country of Gilead.”
and all
Quote: וְכָל (1)“with all/everything” or “and {took/brought} all/everything”
that {belonged} to him
Quote: אֲשֶׁר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“that {belonged} to them.” or “that he/they had/owned.” Make sure that your choice of pronouns throughout this verse fits with how you translate the beginning of this sentence.
And he got up and crossed the River
Quote: וַיָּ֖קָם וַיַּעֲבֹ֣ר אֶת הַנָּהָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“He/They quickly crossed the {Euphrates} River”. The Euphrates River was also called “the River” because it was large and well-known. It was about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Haran, where Laban lived. This information could be put in a footnote.
and set his face {toward
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם אֶת פָּנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and headed toward” or “and went/traveled in the direction of”
the mountain{s} of Gilead
Quote: הַ֥ר הַגִּלְעָֽד (1)“the mountain region of/called Gilead.” or “the hill country of/called Gilead.” The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could refer to: (1) mountains or hill country; or (2) a specific mountain (“Mount Gilead”).
Genesis 31:22
And on the third day it was told to Laban
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְלָבָ֖ן בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Three days after {Jacob/they had left}, someone informed/told Laban” or “Three days later Laban found out”
that Jacob had fled
Quote: כִּ֥י בָרַ֖ח יַעֲקֹֽב (1)“that Jacob {and his family} had run away.” See how you translated “fleeing” and “fled” in verses 20-21.
Genesis 31:23
So he took his relatives with him
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אֶת אֶחָיו֙ עִמּ֔וֹ (1)“So Laban took {some of} his relatives with him” or “So Laban gathered {some of} his relatives”
and pursued after him a seven-day journey
Quote: וַיִּרְדֹּ֣ף אַחֲרָ֔יו דֶּ֖רֶךְ שִׁבְעַ֣ת יָמִ֑ים (1)“and chased/followed after Jacob {and his family/household} for seven days”
and overtook him
Quote: וַיַּדְבֵּ֥ק אֹת֖וֹ (1)“until they overtook him/them” or “until they caught up with him/them”
in the mountain{s} of Gilead
Quote: בְּהַ֥ר הַגִּלְעָֽד (1)“in the mountain region of/called Gilead.” or “in the hill country of/called Gilead.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 21.
Genesis 31:24
But God came to Laban the Aramean in a dream that night
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֧א אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶל לָבָ֥ן הָאֲרַמִּ֖י בַּחֲלֹ֣ם הַלָּ֑יְלָה (1)“But/Then that {same} night God appeared to Laban in a dream” or “That night Laban had a dream and in it God appeared to him”. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 20:3. Also see how you translated “Laban the Aramean” in verse 20.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗וֹ (1)“and warned him,”
Watch yourself that you do not speak with Jacob either good or bad
Quote: הִשָּׁ֧מֶר לְךָ֛ פֶּן תְּדַבֵּ֥ר עִֽם יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִטּ֥וֹב עַד רָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
“Be careful/sure that you do not say {or do} anything to Jacob {to try to stop him from leaving}.” or “ Be careful/sure that you do not threaten/harm Jacob in any way.” God is warning Laban not to say or do anything that would harm Jacob (See verse 29).
Genesis 31:25
And Laban overtook Jacob
Quote: וַיַּשֵּׂ֥ג לָבָ֖ן אֶֽת יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“So {when} Laban overtook Jacob,” or “{By the time that} Laban caught up with Jacob,” Make sure that the way you translate this clause does not sound like Laban overtook Jacob a second time. This is referring to what already happened in verse 23. See how you translated “overtook” there.
and Jacob had pitched his tent{s
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֗ב תָּקַ֤ע אֶֽת אָהֳלוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Jacob {and his family} had {already} set/put up his/their tents” or “Jacob {and his family} had {already} set up camp”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob had already pitched his tents before Laban arrived. Also see how you translated “pitched his tent” in Gen 12:8 and 26:25.
in the mountain{s
Quote: בָּהָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“in the mountain region {of Gilead},” or “in the hill country {of Gilead},” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to make “Gilead” explicit here (rather than later in this verse). Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “mountain{s} of Gilead” in verses 21 and 23.
so Laban with his relatives
Quote: וְלָבָ֛ן & אֶת אֶחָ֖יו (1)“so Laban and {all} his relatives {that were with him}”
pitched {theirs
Quote: תָּקַ֥ע (1)“{also} set/put up {their tents}” or “{also} set up camp” or “{also} camped”
in the mountain{s} of Gilead
Quote: בְּהַ֥ר הַגִּלְעָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“in the hill country of Gilead.” or “there {at a place nearby}.” If you made “Gilead” explicit earlier in this verse in your translation, it may not be necessary to repeat it here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 31:26
Then Laban said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָבָן֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then {the next day} Laban {went/came to Jacob and} complained to Jacob/him,” or “{The next day} Laban {met with Jacob and} {rebuked/confronted Jacob/him and} said to him,” See how you translated a similar quote margin in 29:25, when the roles were reversed and Jacob confronted Laban.
What have you done
Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why have you done this?” or “Look what you have done!” or “What you have done is wrong!” Laban uses a rhetorical question here to express his anger at Jacob. Do what is best in your language to communicate that.
And you have stolen my heart
Quote: וַתִּגְנֹ֖ב אֶת לְבָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“You have deceived/tricked me” or “You have acted deceitfully toward me”. See how you translated the idiom “stole the heart of” in verse 20.
and carried away my daughters
Quote: וַתְּנַהֵג֙ אֶת בְּנֹתַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“and dragged away my daughters {with you}” or “and forced my daughters to leave {with you}”. Laban uses exaggeration to show he is angry and to try to make Jacob feel guilty for what he did.
like captives of the sword
Quote: כִּשְׁבֻי֖וֹת חָֽרֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“like prisoners of war!” or “as if you had captured them in battle!”
Genesis 31:27
Why did you secretly flee and deceive me
Quote: לָ֤מָּה נַחְבֵּ֨אתָ֙ לִבְרֹ֔חַ וַתִּגְנֹ֖ב אֹתִ֑י (1)“Why did you deceive/trick me and secretly run away” or “Why did you deceive me by secretly running away” or “You should not have deceived me and secretly run away”
and not tell me
Quote: וְלֹא הִגַּ֣דְתָּ לִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“without telling me {you were leaving}!” or “{Why} didn’t you tell me {that you were leaving}?” or “You should have told me {you were leaving}!” Verse 27 is one long rhetorical question in the Hebrew text that expresses Laban’s anger at Jacob. For some languages it is better to break it up into two or more sentences. Do what is best in your language, and make sure that the punctuation fits well.
For I would have sent you with joy and with songs
Quote: וָֽאֲשַׁלֵּחֲךָ֛ בְּשִׂמְחָ֥ה וּבְשִׁרִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“{If I had known,} I/we would/could have {held a feast and} sent you {on your way}, singing joyful songs {together},” or “{If I had known,} I/we could/would have sent you {on your way} by {having a feast and} singing joyful songs {together},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the events in this clause are contrary-to-fact (hypothetical).
with tambourine{s} and with lyre{s
Quote: בְּתֹ֥ף וּבְכִנּֽוֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“with tambourines and lyres/harps playing!” or “with/to the music/sound/playing of musical instruments!” For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “{If I had known,} we could have {held a feast and} sung joyful songs {and danced} together, with tambourines and lyres playing, before sending you {on your way}.” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “lyres/harps” in Gen 4:21.
Genesis 31:28
And you did not let me kiss my grandchildren and my daughters
Quote: וְלֹ֣א נְטַשְׁתַּ֔נִי לְנַשֵּׁ֥ק לְבָנַ֖י וְלִבְנֹתָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“You did not {even} let me kiss my daughters and my grandchildren {goodbye} {before they left}!” or “{You left so secretly that} I wasn’t even able to say goodbye to my daughters and grandchildren!” For some languages, it may be more natural to mention the daughters before the children. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “kiss” in Gen 27:26-27.
Now you have acted foolishly by doing {that
Quote: עַתָּ֖ה הִסְכַּ֥לְתָּֽ עֲשֽׂוֹ (1)“What you have done is {very} foolish/stupid!” or “You acted foolishly when you left {secretly} like that!”
Genesis 31:29
It is in the power of my hand to do harm to you
Quote: יֶשׁ לְאֵ֣ל יָדִ֔י לַעֲשׂ֥וֹת עִמָּכֶ֖ם רָ֑ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“I {and my relatives/men} have the power/ability to harm {all of} you,” The pronoun “you” is plural here, so it probably refers to Jacob and everyone in his household.
but last night the God of your father
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהֵ֨י אֲבִיכֶ֜ם אֶ֣מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“but last night {in a dream} the God whom your father serves”. For some languages it may be more natural to put this time phrase later and say “ … said to me {in a dream} last night”. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated a similar phrase (“the God of my father”) in verse 5.
said to me, saying, ‘Keep yourself from speaking with Jacob either good or bad
Quote: אָמַ֧ר אֵלַ֣י לֵאמֹ֗ר הִשָּׁ֧מֶר לְךָ֛ מִדַּבֵּ֥ר עִֽם יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִטּ֥וֹב עַד רָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“commanded/warned me, ‘Do not say {or do} anything to Jacob {to try to stop him from leaving}.’ ” or “commanded/warned me to not threaten/harm you in any way.” For some languages it is necessary to make this embedded quote an indirect quote. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated a similar quote in verse 24.
Genesis 31:30
So now, you have surely gone
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ הָלֹ֣ךְ הָלַ֔כְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“Now then, {I know/understand that} you left” or “Now, {I know/understand that} you went/ran away”. Begin this verse in a way which shows that Laban is introducing a new topic. Also notice that “you” shifts to singular here in verse 30.
because you greatly long
Quote: כִּֽי נִכְסֹ֥ף נִכְסַ֖פְתָּה (1)“because you longed so much” or “because you were so/very homesick”
for the house of your father
Quote: לְבֵ֣ית אָבִ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“to return to your father’s household/family,” or “to return home to your father {and other relatives},” This phrase refers to the people in Jacob’s father’s household and other relatives living nearby.
Why did you steal my gods
Quote: לָ֥מָּה גָנַ֖בְתָּ אֶת אֱלֹהָֽי (1)“{but} what is the reason that you stole my gods?” or “{but} why did you steal my gods?”
Genesis 31:31
Then Jacob answered and said to Laban
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַן יַעֲקֹ֖ב וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְלָבָ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob answered Laban/him,” or “Then Jacob told Laban/him,”
Because I was afraid
Quote: כִּ֣י יָרֵ֔אתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{We left secretly} because I was afraid.” Make sure it is clear here in your translation that Jacob is answering Laban’s question in verse 27, not his question in verse 30.
because I said
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔רְתִּי (1)“I told myself that {if you knew,}” or “I thought that {if I told you we were leaving,}” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
that perhaps you would seize your daughters from me
Quote: פֶּן תִּגְזֹ֥ל אֶת בְּנוֹתֶ֖יךָ מֵעִמִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“you might take your {two} daughters from me {by force}.” Make sure you translate this sentence in a way that shows it is hypothetical. Also see how you translated “seized” in Gen 21:25.
Genesis 31:32
Whomever you find your gods with
Quote: עִ֠ם אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּמְצָ֣א אֶת אֱלֹהֶיךָ֮ (1)“{As for} your gods, if you find them {here} in someone’s {tent},” or “{However we did not steal/take your gods. In fact,} if you find your gods with anyone {here},” See how you translated “gods” in verse 30.
will not live
Quote: לֹ֣א יִֽחְיֶה֒ (1)“that person will die {for stealing them}!” or “that person will be put to death {as punishment for stealing them}!”
In front of our relatives
Quote: נֶ֣גֶד אַחֵ֧ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“{So} while our relatives are watching,” or “{So} with our relatives as witnesses,” Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to both Jacob’s and Laban’s relatives.
observe for yourself what {is} with me
Quote: הַֽכֶּר לְךָ֛ מָ֥ה עִמָּדִ֖י (1)“search for yourself what/everything I have with me here” or “{go ahead and} search {all} my belongings for yourself”
and take {what belongs} to you
Quote: וְקַֽח לָ֑ךְ (1)“and take whatever you find that is yours.” or “{If you find} anything that is yours, take it.” Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Now Jacob did not know that Rachel had stolen them
Quote: וְלֹֽא יָדַ֣ע יַעֲקֹ֔ב כִּ֥י רָחֵ֖ל גְּנָבָֽתַם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“{When Jacob said that,} he did not know that Rachel {was the one who} had stolen the idols.” Translate this background information in a way that is clear and natural in your language. Also see how you translated “stole” in verses 19 and 30.
Genesis 31:33
Then Laban went into the tent of Jacob
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א לָבָ֜ן בְּאֹ֥הֶל יַעֲקֹ֣ב (1)“Then/So Laban went/started {searching} in/through Jacob’s tent,” See how you translated “tent” in verse 25.
and into the tent of Leah
Quote: וּבְאֹ֣הֶל לֵאָ֗ה (1)“Then {he searched} through/in Leah’s tent”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and into the tent of the two slave women
Quote: וּבְאֹ֛הֶל שְׁתֵּ֥י הָאֲמָהֹ֖ת (1)“and through/in the two servant women’s tent,” or “and through/in the tent where the two maidservants lived,” Consider again how you translated “slave/servant woman” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 20:17; 21:10, 12-13; 30:3; 31:33.
but he did not find {anything
Quote: וְלֹ֣א מָצָ֑א (1)“but he did not find {anything} {that belonged to him}.” or “but he did not find {the/his idols/gods}.”
Then he came out of Leah’s tent and went into Rachel’s tent
Quote: וַיֵּצֵא֙ מֵאֹ֣הֶל לֵאָ֔ה וַיָּבֹ֖א בְּאֹ֥הֶל רָחֵֽל (1)“Then he came out of Leah’s tent {and the servant women’s tent} and went into Rachel’s tent {to search it}.” or “Then/Next after he left/searched those tents, he went into Rachel’s tent {to search it}.”
Genesis 31:34
Now Rachel had taken the idols and put them inside the camel’s saddle
Quote: וְרָחֵ֞ל לָקְחָ֣ה אֶת הַתְּרָפִ֗ים וַתְּשִׂמֵ֛ם בְּכַ֥ר הַגָּמָ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Now/But Rachel had put the idols inside {her} camel saddlebag {to hide them},” or “Now/But Rachel had hidden the idols inside her camel saddlebag”. This kind of saddle was used as a seat and also had compartments or bags for carrying things. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Rachel had hidden the idols before Laban entered her tent. Also see how you translated “idols” in verse 19.
and was sitting on them
Quote: וַתֵּ֣שֶׁב עֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“and she was sitting on the idols/gods/saddlebag.”
And Laban felt throughout the entire tent
Quote: וַיְמַשֵּׁ֥שׁ לָבָ֛ן אֶת כָּל הָאֹ֖הֶל (1)“Laban searched/rummaged through everything {else} in the tent, but” or “So when/although Laban searched everywhere {else} in her tent,”
but he did not find {them
Quote: וְלֹ֥א מָצָֽא (1)“he did/could not find {them/anything}.” or “he did/could not find {the/his idols/gods}.” For some languages, it may be better to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “So Laban was not able to find {them}, even though he searched her tent thoroughly.”
Genesis 31:35
And she said to her father
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל אָבִ֗יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Rather Rachel had said to him,” or “{As he was searching,} Rachel said to him,”
Do not let it burn in the eyes of my lord
Quote: אַל יִ֨חַר֙ בְּעֵינֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“{Please} do not be angry/upset {at me}, sir/Father,” or “Sir/Father, {please} do not be angry/upset {at me}”. Make sure you translate “my lord” in a way that is appropriate for a daughter to show respect to her father; it should not sound like she was Laban’s slave or servant. The word “burn” is used here as an idiom that means to be angry. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Also see how you translated this idiom in Gen 30:2.
that I am not able to stand up in your presence
Quote: כִּ֣י ל֤וֹא אוּכַל֙ לָק֣וּם מִפָּנֶ֔יךָ (1)“that I am not able to stand/get up to greet you,”
because the way of women {is} on me
Quote: כִּי דֶ֥רֶךְ נָשִׁ֖ים לִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“because it is that time of the month {when I feel weak}.” or “because I am having my {monthly} period/cycle.” Translate this in a way that will not offend or embarrass people when this is read aloud in public.
So he searched, but he did not find the idols
Quote: וַיְחַפֵּ֕שׂ וְלֹ֥א מָצָ֖א אֶת הַתְּרָפִֽים (1)“That is {also} why he did/could not find the/his idols/gods when he searched {her/Rachel’s tent}.” or “So {that is why} he did/could not find the/his idols/gods {in her/Rachel’s tent}.”
Genesis 31:36
Then it burned within Jacob
Quote: וַיִּ֥חַר לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Jacob became {very} angry {at Laban}”. See how you translated the idiom “burn” in verse 35.
and he disputed with Laban, and Jacob responded and said to Laban
Quote: וַיָּ֣רֶב בְּלָבָ֑ן וַיַּ֤עַן יַעֲקֹב֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְלָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and contended with Laban/him and said,” or “and confronted/rebuked Laban/him by saying to him,”
What {is} my crime
Quote: מַה פִּשְׁעִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Tell me my crime!” or “Tell me what crime I have done/committed!” Jacob’s rhetorical questions in this verse show that he was angry at Laban. Do what is best in your language to communicate his anger.
What {is} my sin, that you have hotly pursued after me
Quote: מַ֣ה חַטָּאתִ֔י כִּ֥י דָלַ֖קְתָּ אַחֲרָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“How have I sinned against you so that you have a reason to pursue me so intensely/fiercely?” or “Tell me what sin/offense I have done/committed {against you} that gives you the right to pursue/chase after me!”
Genesis 31:37
Since you have felt through all my things
Quote: כִּֽי מִשַּׁ֣שְׁתָּ אֶת כָּל כֵּלַ֗י (1)“Now that you have felt/rummaged/searched through all my things/possessions,” See how you translated “felt through” in verse 34.
what have you found from any of the things of your house? Put {it} here
Quote: מַה מָּצָ֨אתָ֙ מִכֹּ֣ל כְּלֵי בֵיתֶ֔ךָ שִׂ֣ים כֹּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“did you find anything {that anyone took} from your household? {If so,} put/bring {it} here” or “show us what you have found that belongs to you! {If you found anything,} put/bring {it} here”.
in front of my relatives and your relatives
Quote: נֶ֥גֶד אַחַ֖י וְאַחֶ֑יךָ (1)“in front of our relatives,” or “where all our relatives can see it,”
and let them judge
Quote: וְיוֹכִ֖יחוּ (1)“so that they can judge/decide whether you or I am right!” or “and they will/can judge/decide which one of us is right!”
Genesis 31:38
These twenty years I {have been} with you
Quote: זֶה֩ עֶשְׂרִ֨ים שָׁנָ֤ה אָנֹכִי֙ עִמָּ֔ךְ (1)“For {the past/last} twenty years I {have worked} for you!”
Your ewes and your she-goats
Quote: רְחֵלֶ֥יךָ וְעִזֶּ֖יךָ (1)“{During those years} your female sheep and goats” or “{During all that time} your sheep and your goats”
did not miscarry
Quote: לֹ֣א שִׁכֵּ֑לוּ (1)“bore their young without any problems,” or “had no trouble bearing young,”
and I have not eaten rams from your flocks
Quote: וְאֵילֵ֥י צֹאנְךָ֖ לֹ֥א אָכָֽלְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and I have never {killed and} eaten {any} rams/animals from your flocks.” or “and I never took/killed {any} animals from your flocks to eat.” Make sure your translation does not sound here like Jacob is talking about eating animals while they are still alive; the animals would be killed and cooked first.
Genesis 31:39
I did not bring torn {animals} to you
Quote: טְרֵפָה֙ לֹא הֵבֵ֣אתִי אֵלֶ֔יךָ (1)“{And} whenever wild animals killed {any of} your animals, I never brought {the dead animal} to you {to show/prove I was innocent}.”
I bore the loss of it myself
Quote: אָנֹכִ֣י אֲחַטֶּ֔נָּה (1)“{Rather/Instead,} I paid for that loss myself.” or “{Rather/Instead,} I replaced them at my own expense.” Normally it was the owner of the flocks (not the shepherds) who took care of the expense when an animal was killed or stolen. You could put that information in a footnote.
You required it from my hand
Quote: מִיָּדִ֖י תְּבַקְשֶׁ֑נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{Besides that,} you required me to pay for” or “You {also} made me pay for”. Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language.
those} stolen by day and {those} stolen by night
Quote: גְּנֻֽבְתִ֣י י֔וֹם וּגְנֻֽבְתִ֖י לָֽיְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{any} animals that got stolen {by thieves}, whether it happened in the day or at night.” or “{any} animals {that anyone ever} stole {at any time of} day or night.” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 31:40
There I was
Quote: הָיִ֧יתִי (1)“That is how it was for me!” or “That was my life/situation!”
In the day, heat devoured me
Quote: בַיּ֛וֹם אֲכָלַ֥נִי חֹ֖רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
“During the day the heat {of the sun} oppressed/pounded me,” or “During the days, I suffered from the hot sun,” Consider whether or not you can talk about heat and frost in your language as if they could harm Jacob the way a person could harm him.
and in the night the frost, so that … fled
Quote: וְקֶ֣רַח בַּלָּ֑יְלָה וַתִּדַּ֥ד (1)“and at night {I suffered from} the frost/cold, so that I could not/hardly sleep.” or “and during the nights it was so cold that I could not/hardly sleep.”
Genesis 31:41
That {is how it was} for me
Quote: זֶה לִּ֞י (1)“That {is what it was like} for me” or “{It was like} that for me”
twenty years in your house
Quote: עֶשְׂרִ֣ים שָׁנָה֮ בְּבֵיתֶךָ֒ (1)“{for/during the} twenty years that I worked for you.” or “{during the entire} twenty years that I was with you.”
I served you fourteen years for your two daughters
Quote: עֲבַדְתִּ֜יךָ אַרְבַּֽע עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה שָׁנָה֙ בִּשְׁתֵּ֣י בְנֹתֶ֔יךָ (1)“I worked for you for fourteen years in order to marry your two daughters,” or “For fourteen years I worked for you {in exchange} for {marrying} your two daughters,”
and six years for your flock{s
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים בְּצֹאנֶ֑ךָ (1)“and {I worked} {another} six years to earn flocks {of animals} from you,” or “and for six {more} years {I worked for you} to earn flocks {of sheep and goats} from you,”
and you changed my wages ten times
Quote: וַתַּחֲלֵ֥ף אֶת מַשְׂכֻּרְתִּ֖י עֲשֶׂ֥רֶת מֹנִֽים (1)“even though you changed my wages/pay ten times.” or “even though ten times you changed what you said you would pay me.” See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 7.
Genesis 31:42
If the God of my father, the God of Abraham and the Fear of Isaac, … not
Quote: לוּלֵ֡י אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִי֩ אֱלֹהֵ֨י אַבְרָהָ֜ם וּפַ֤חַד יִצְחָק֙ (1)“If God, the Revered/Awesome One, whom my father Isaac and {grandfather} Abraham serve/worship,” or “If God, whom my ancestors Abraham and Isaac serve/worship and fear/revere,” The phrase “the Fear of Isaac” is a title for God that is ambiguous in Hebrew (and English). It could mean: (1) “the One/God whom Isaac fears/reveres” or (2) “Isaac’s God whom {people/others} are afraid/terrified of”. The interpretation that is not used in your translation could be put in a footnote. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob is only talking about one God in this verse, not two or three. Also notice that “my father” and “Isaac” both refer to Jacob’s father Isaac, not two different people.
If … had not been with me
Quote: לוּלֵ֡י & הָ֣יָה לִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“had not been with me {to take care of me},” or “had not been with me {protecting me and guiding me},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the events in this sentence are contrary-to-fact (hypothetical) and imply that God actually had been with Jacob, so that Laban did not send him away empty-handed.
surely now you would have sent me away
Quote: כִּ֥י עַתָּ֖ה & שִׁלַּחְתָּ֑נִי (1)“you would certainly be sending me away now” or “there is no doubt/question that I would now be leaving {here}”
empty-handed
Quote: רֵיקָ֣ם (1)“with {absolutely} nothing.” or “without anything {at all}.”
God has seen my affliction
Quote: אֶת עָנְיִ֞י & רָאָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“{But} God knows how much I have suffered {under you}” or “{But} God knows how {much} you have afflicted/oppressed/mistreated me”
and the toil of my palms
Quote: וְאֶת יְגִ֧יעַ כַּפַּ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“and the hard work I did with my hands {for you},” or “and how hard I have worked {for you},”
and he judged {you} last night
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹכַח אָֽמֶשׁ (1)“so last night he judged {against you} {in my favor}.” or “so last night he rebuked {you}.” See how you translated “judge” in verse 37. It may be necessary to translate this word in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 31:43
And Laban responded and said to Jacob
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן לָבָ֜ן וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Laban responded to Jacob,” or “Laban replied to Jacob,”
The daughters {are} my daughters, and the children {are} my grandchildren
Quote: הַבָּנ֨וֹת בְּנֹתַ֜י וְהַבָּנִ֤ים בָּנַי֙ (1)“These women {are} my daughters, and their children {are} my grandchildren,” or “These {are} my daughters and my grandchildren,”
and the flock{s} {are} my flock{s
Quote: וְהַצֹּ֣אן צֹאנִ֔י (1)“and these flock{s} {are} {also} mine.” or “and these flock{s}/animals {also} belong to me.”
And everything that you see {belongs} to me
Quote: וְכֹ֛ל אֲשֶׁר אַתָּ֥ה רֹאֶ֖ה לִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“In fact, everything/all that you see {here} is mine!” or “Yes, everything that is here with you is {actually} mine!” Laban is lying or exaggerating here to make it sound like he was wronged, when actually he is the one who was dishonest in his dealings with Jacob.
But what can I do today about these daughters of mine or about their children whom they have born
Quote: וְלִבְנֹתַ֞י מָֽה־אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֤ה לָאֵ֨לֶּה֙ הַיּ֔וֹם א֥וֹ לִבְנֵיהֶ֖ן אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָלָֽדוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“But/Yet there is nothing I can do today/now to keep my daughters and grandchildren from leaving!” or “But I can’t do anything now to keep my daughters and their children near me {any longer}!” Laban uses this rhetorical question to express his emotions and emphasize that there is nothing that he can do. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question fits well here in your language.
Genesis 31:44
So now, come, let us cut a covenant, I and you
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה לְכָ֛ה נִכְרְתָ֥ה בְרִ֖ית אֲנִ֣י וָאָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“So then, you and I should make a {peace} covenant/treaty {with each other},” or “So I invite you to make a covenant/treaty with me,” For some languages it may be more natural to put “I” and “you” earlier in the sentence. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “So now” in verse 16 and “cut a covenant” in Gen 26:28.
and let it be
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה (1)“and let there be” or “and there should be”. The subject of the Hebrew verb in this phrase is masculine singular, so it cannot refer to “covenant,” which is feminine singular. It is probably best to translate this phrase in a general way.
a witness between me and you
Quote: לְעֵ֖ד בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“a witness/memorial to remind us {of our covenant/treaty}.” or “something to remind us {to keep that covenant/treaty}.” If your language has a dual pronoun for “us”, you could use it in this verse. Also, if your language distinguishes exclusive and inclusive pronouns, you could use the inclusive form of “us” here.
Genesis 31:45
So Jacob took a stone
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֥ח יַעֲקֹ֖ב אָ֑בֶן (1)“So Jacob picked out a {large} stone”. See how you translated “stone” in Gen 28:18.
and set it up {as} a pillar
Quote: וַיְרִימֶ֖הָ מַצֵּבָֽה (1)“and set/stood it up {on its end} {as} a monument {to mark the place where they made their covenant/treaty}.” or “and set/stood it up {as} a memorial/reminder stone {to mark the place as special}.” See how you translated “pillar” in verse 13 and “set it up as a pillar” in Gen 28:18, 22.
Genesis 31:46
Then Jacob said to his relatives
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֤ב לְאֶחָיו֙ (1)“Then Jacob/he told his relatives,” These relatives would have included Jacob’s sons, as well as Laban and his men who had come with him. See how you translated “relatives” in verses 23, 25, 32, 37.
Gather stones
Quote: לִקְט֣וּ אֲבָנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
“Gather {some more} stones.” or “{Please} gather {some} stones.” Make sure that your translation of Jacob’s request sounds polite here, not rude or demanding, but also not begging.
So they took stones and made a heap
Quote: וַיִּקְח֥וּ אֲבָנִ֖ים וַיַּֽעֲשׂוּ גָ֑ל (1)“So they {all} gathered/brought/got stones and put them in a {large} pile/mound.”
Then they ate there
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אכְלוּ שָׁ֖ם (1)“Then they/everyone ate {a meal together} there”. Make sure your translation does not sound like Jacob ate without Laban and his men.
by the heap
Quote: עַל הַגָּֽל (1)“near the heap/pile {of stones}.” or “next to the pile/mound {of stones}.”
Genesis 31:47
And Laban called it
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא ל֣וֹ לָבָ֔ן (1)“Laban gave the heap/pile/place the {Aramaic} name”
Jegar Sahadutha
Quote: יְגַ֖ר שָׂהֲדוּתָ֑א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Jegar Sahadutha, {which means “witness heap/pile/mound,”}” or “Jegar Sahadutha, {which means “heap/pile that reminds,”}” If the meaning of “Jegar Sahadutha” and “Galeed” is included in your translation or in a footnote, be sure that it fits with how you translate “heap/pile/mound” in verses 46 and 48, and “witness” in verse 48.
but Jacob called it Galeed
Quote: וְיַֽעֲקֹ֔ב קָ֥רָא ל֖וֹ גַּלְעֵֽד (1)“but/whereas Jacob gave it the {Hebrew} name Galeed, {which has the same meaning}.”
Genesis 31:48
And Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Laban said {to Jacob/him},” or “Laban said {to him/Jacob},”
This heap {is} a witness between me and you today
Quote: הַגַּ֨ל הַזֶּ֥ה עֵ֛ד בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינְךָ֖ הַיּ֑וֹם (1)“This heap/pile {of stones} is to remind us {to keep our peace covenant/treaty}.” or “{Starting} today, when we see this pile/mound {of stones}, we will remember {our peace covenant/treaty}.”
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֥ן (1)“That is the reason” or “That is why”
he called its name Galeed
Quote: קָרָֽא שְׁמ֖וֹ גַּלְעֵֽד (1)“they/people call it Galeed.” or “that place is called Galeed.” or “the name of that place is Galeed.” The phrase “he called its name” is used here in a general way that means “they/people call it”; the pronoun “he” does not refer here to Laban. Make sure that is clear in your language.
Genesis 31:49
It is} also Mizpah
Quote: וְהַמִּצְפָּה֙ (1)“{It is/was} also {called/named} Mizpah,” or “People also call {the place,} Mizpah,” or “{Another name for the place is} Mizpah, {which means “watchtower,”}”
because he said
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמַ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“because Laban said {to Jacob},” Make sure that your translation of “he” refers here to Laban.
May Yahweh watch between me and you
Quote: יִ֥צֶף יְהוָ֖ה בֵּינִ֣י וּבֵינֶ֑ךָ (1)“May Yahweh watch both/each of us” or “May Yahweh keep watch on/over us”
when we are hidden one from the other
Quote: כִּ֥י נִסָּתֵ֖ר אִ֥ישׁ מֵרֵעֵֽהוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dualpronoun
“while we are out of each other’s sight {and hold both of us responsible for keeping our covenant/treaty with each other}.” or “{to make sure we keep our covenant/treaty} while we are apart/away from each other.” The pronoun “we” is inclusive here and includes both Laban and Jacob. Some languages have a dual pronoun that fits here well. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 31:50
If you afflict my daughters
Quote: אִם תְּעַנֶּ֣ה אֶת בְּנֹתַ֗י (1)“If you treat my daughters badly,” or “If you mistreat/oppress my daughters,” See how you translated “afflict” in Gen 15:13 and 16:6, and how you translated a related word (“affliction”) in verse 42.
or if you take wives besides my daughters
Quote: וְאִם תִּקַּ֤ח נָשִׁים֙ עַל בְּנֹתַ֔י (1)“or if you marry {other} wives/women besides them,”
even though} there is not someone with us, behold
Quote: אֵ֥ין אִ֖ישׁ עִמָּ֑נוּ רְאֵ֕ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual
“{even if} no one {else} is watching us, don’t forget {that}” or “remember {that} {even if} no one {else} is watching us,” See how you translated the pronoun “we” in verse 49.
God {is} a witness between me and you
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֥ים עֵ֖ד בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“God is {always} watching both of us {to hold us accountable}.” or “God always sees/watches us {and will punish us if we break our covenant/treaty}.” In his role as witness, God would also punish anyone who broke the covenant. You could make this information explicit in your translation or put it in a footnote.
Genesis 31:51
Then Laban said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר לָבָ֖ן לְיַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Laban {also} said to Jacob,”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)“See” or “Here is” or “Look at”
this heap
Quote: הַגַּ֣ל הַזֶּ֗ה (1)“this heap/pile/mound {of stones},” See how you translated “heap” in verses 46 and 48.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)“and here is” or “and see” or “and look at”
the pillar
Quote: הַמַצֵּבָ֔ה (1)“this monument” or “this memorial/reminder stone”. See how you translated “pillar” in verse 45.
which I set up between me and you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָרִ֖יתִי בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽךָ (1)“which I {helped} set up between us {to remind us to keep our peace treaty}.” or “which we set/stood up between us {to remind us about our peace covenant/treaty}.” Jacob set up the stone as a pillar, but Laban and Jacob, along with their relatives, worked together to make the pile of stones.
Genesis 31:52
This heap {is} a witness and the pillar {is} a witness
Quote: עֵ֚ד הַגַּ֣ל הַזֶּ֔ה וְעֵדָ֖ה הַמַּצֵּבָ֑ה (1)“This heap/pile {of stones} {is} a witness/reminder and this pillar {is} {also} a witness/reminder” or “This pile/mound {of stones} and this monument/memorial {both} remind us”. See how you translated “witness” in verses 44 and 48.
that I will not pass by this heap to you
Quote: אִם אָ֗נִי לֹֽא אֶֽעֱבֹ֤ר אֵלֶ֨יךָ֙ אֶת הַגַּ֣ל הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“that I will/must never go past this heap/pile/mound to {harm/attack} you,” Laban and Jacob could go to each other’s homes in peace but not to harm each other.
and that you will not pass by this heap and this pillar to me, to do harm
Quote: וְאִם אַ֠תָּה לֹא תַעֲבֹ֨ר אֵלַ֜י אֶת הַגַּ֥ל הַזֶּ֛ה וְאֶת הַמַּצֵּבָ֥ה הַזֹּ֖את לְרָעָֽה (1)“and that you will/must never go past this heap/pile/mound and this monument/memorial to harm/attack me.”
Genesis 31:53
the God of Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵ֨י אַבְרָהָ֜ם (1)“May {your grandfather} Abraham’s God” or “May the God whom your grandfather Abraham served/worshiped”. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 28:13.
and the gods of Nahor, the gods of their father
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהֵ֤י נָחוֹר֙ & אֱלֹהֵ֖י אֲבִיהֶ֑ם (1)“and {my grandfather} Nahor’s gods, {which were also} their/his father {Terah}’s gods,” or “and the gods that {my grandfather} Nahor and his father {Terah} worshiped/served,” Abraham trusted in Yahweh, the one and only true God (Gen 15:6). Terah worshiped other gods (Joshua 24:2), and so did Laban (verses 19, 30), which suggests that Nahor served the same gods that his father Terah served, and then taught his son Laban to do the same thing. In spite of that, many translations still capitalize “God” all three times here in verse 53. Be consistent with how you spelled “Nahor” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:22-25, 29; 12:26-27; 22:20, 24, 28; 24:9, 15, 24, 47; 29:5; 31:53.
May … judge between us
Quote: יִשְׁפְּט֣וּ בֵינֵ֔ינוּ (1)“judge between us {and punish us if we break this/our covenant/treaty/agreement}!”
Then Jacob swore
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבַ֣ע יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-term
“But Jacob swore” or “Then/But Jacob made/vowed a vow”. Jacob refused to swear by the gods of Nahor and Terah. See how you translated “swore” in Gen 26:31, and compare that to how you translated a related phrase (“vowed a vow”) in 31:13.
by the Fear of his father Isaac
Quote: בְּפַ֖חַד אָבִ֥יו יִצְחָֽק (1)“by the God whom his father Isaac feared/revered, {that he would keep their treaty,}” or “with the Fear/God of his father Isaac as his witness/enforcer,” See how you translated “the Fear of Isaac” in verse 42.
Genesis 31:54
and Jacob sacrificed a sacrifice on the mountain
Quote: וַיִּזְבַּ֨ח יַעֲקֹ֥ב זֶ֨בַח֙ בָּהָ֔ר (1)“and Jacob/he offered an animal sacrifice {to God} {on an altar} on the/a mountain/hill.” or “and Jacob/he burned {the body of} an animal {on an altar} as a sacrifice {to God} on the/a mountain/hill.” Make sure your translation does not sound like Jacob burned the animal while it was still alive. Also see how you translated “sacrificed” in Gen 22:13.
Then he called his relatives to eat bread
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א לְאֶחָ֖יו לֶאֱכָל לָ֑חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“Then he invited his relatives to eat a meal {together} {there}.” In the Bible, “bread” is often used as an idiom that refers to food in general. In this context, it was a meal that they shared together. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
Then they ate bread and spent the night on the mountain
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אכְלוּ לֶ֔חֶם וַיָּלִ֖ינוּ בָּהָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then after they had eaten the meal, they spent the night {there} on the/that mountain/hill.” or “So they {all} ate the meal {together} and spent the night there.” As in Genesis 26:30, eating together was an important part of the covenant or treaty process, since it shows unity and close relationship, as if they were part of the same family. Some of that information could be included in a footnote.
Genesis 31:55
Then in the morning Laban got up early
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם לָבָ֜ן בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)“The next morning Laban got up early” or “Early the next morning Laban got up”. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 28:18.
and kissed his grandchildren and his daughters
Quote: וַיְנַשֵּׁ֧ק לְבָנָ֛יו וְלִבְנוֹתָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and kissed his grandchildren and his daughters {goodbye} {on the cheeks}” or “said goodbye to his daughters and grandchildren and kissed them {on the cheeks}”. It was a Hebrew custom for relatives and close friends to greet each other with a kiss on each cheek. Only make this information explicit here if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning.
and he blessed them
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֶתְהֶ֑ם (1)“and asked God to bless them.”
Then Laban left and returned to his place
Quote: וַיֵּ֛לֶךְ וַיָּ֥שָׁב לָבָ֖ן לִמְקֹמֽוֹ (1)“Then Laban/he {and his men} left {from there} and returned home.” or “Then Laban/he left {from there} {with his men} and went back home.”
Genesis 32
Genesis 32:1
Then Jacob went on his way
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֖ב הָלַ֣ךְ לְדַרְכּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then/Meanwhile Jacob {also} {left from there and} went/continued on his way/journey {home} {with his family},” You can make implied information explicit in your translation if it is necessary to make the meaning accurate and clear.
and angels of God met him
Quote: וַיִּפְגְּעוּ ב֖וֹ מַלְאֲכֵ֥י אֱלֹהִֽים (1)“and {some} angels from God met/encountered him.” Translate “met” in a way that allows for the fact that no conversation is recorded between the angels and Jacob and that the angels were probably not hostile; for example, they may have been sent by God to escort and protect him.
Genesis 32:2
And when he saw them, Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר רָאָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“When Jacob saw the angels, he said/exclaimed {in surprise},” Make sure that you refer to Jacob and the angels here in a way that is accurate and natural in your language.
This {is} God’s camp
Quote: מַחֲנֵ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים זֶ֑ה (1)“This {is} God’s army!” or “God’s camp/army must be here/nearby!” or “God’s army is {stationed/camping} here!”
So he called the name of that place Mahanaim
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א שֵֽׁם הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא מַֽחֲנָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So he named that place Mahanaim, {which means “two camps/armies.”}” If you include the meaning of the name “Mahanaim” in your translation or in a footnote, be sure it matches the way you translated “God’s camp” earlier in the verse so that it is clear why Jacob gave the place that name. Also see how you translated “he called the name of that place” in Gen 28:19.
Genesis 32:3
Then Jacob sent messengers before him
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֨ח יַעֲקֹ֤ב מַלְאָכִים֙ לְפָנָ֔יו (1)“Then Jacob sent {some} messengers ahead of him to his brother Esau” or “Then Jacob sent {some} of his servants ahead of him to give/deliver a message to his brother Esau”
to the land of Seir
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה שֵׂעִ֖יר (1)“{who was living} in the land/region of Seir,”
the country of Edom
Quote: שְׂדֵ֥ה אֱדֽוֹם (1)“{that is,} the country/land of Edom.” or “{which was also called} the country/land of Edom.”
Genesis 32:4
And he commanded them, saying
Quote: וַיְצַ֤ו אֹתָם֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“{Before/As they left,} he ordered/instructed them,”
This {is what} you will say to my lord, to Esau
Quote: כֹּ֣ה תֹאמְר֔וּן לַֽאדֹנִ֖י לְעֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“This {is what} you must tell my master Esau:” or “I want you to tell Esau whom I highly respect:” Jacob uses “my lord” and “your servant” in verse 4 and 5 to show his brother Esau great respect. Do this in a way that is natural in your language.
This {is what} your servant Jacob says
Quote: כֹּ֤ה אָמַר֙ עַבְדְּךָ֣ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I, your servant Jacob, want you to know that” or “This is a message from Jacob who wants to serve you:” Verses 4 and 5 have two levels of embedded quotes. Some languages need to use indirect quotes for one or both of those levels; for example, “Your servant Jacob wants you to know that he has been sojourning/staying with {your uncle} Laban all this time.” Do what is best in your language.
I have been sojourning with Laban and have remained there until now
Quote: עִם לָבָ֣ן גַּ֔רְתִּי וָאֵחַ֖ר עַד עָֽתָּה (1)“I have been staying with {our uncle} Laban all this time.” or “Since we last saw each other, I have been staying/living with {Uncle} Laban.”
Genesis 32:5
And I have
Quote: וַֽיְהִי לִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I {now} have/own” or “Also {tell him that} I have/own”. Consider whether it is more natural to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
cattle and donkey{s}, flock{s
Quote: שׁ֣וֹר וַחֲמ֔וֹר צֹ֖אן (1)“{many} cattle, donkeys, and flocks {of sheep and goats},” See how you translated “donkeys” and “flocks” in Gen 12:16.
and menservant{s} and maidservant{s
Quote: וְעֶ֣בֶד וְשִׁפְחָ֑ה (1)“as well as {many} male/men and female/women slaves/servants.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 12:16.
And I have sent {messengers} to speak with my lord
Quote: וָֽאֶשְׁלְחָה֙ לְהַגִּ֣יד לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“I have sent this message to {you,} sir,” or “Sir, I sent these messengers to you,” If you use indirect quotes in this section, make sure each part fits with the other parts, especially in your choice of pronouns. It is helpful if you read your translation aloud to check for accuracy and naturalness.
so that I will find favor in your eyes
Quote: לִמְצֹא חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“hoping that you will be gracious/kind {to me} {when I arrive}.” or “so that {when we see/meet each other} you will be pleased with me {and welcome me}.” See how you translated the idiom “found favor in your eyes” in Gen 30:27.
Genesis 32:6
Then the messengers returned to Jacob
Quote: וַיָּשֻׁ֨בוּ֙ הַמַּלְאָכִ֔ים אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)“{After the messengers delivered the/Jacob’s message,} they returned to Jacob/him” or “{Jacob’s messengers delivered his message,} then they came back to him”
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said/reported {to him},” or “and informed {him},”
We went to your brother, to Esau
Quote: בָּ֤אנוּ אֶל אָחִ֨יךָ֙ אֶל עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)“We went {and spoke} to your brother Esau.” or “We went to your brother Esau {and gave/told him your message}.” or “We delivered the/your message to your brother Esau.”
And also, he is coming to meet you
Quote: וְגַם֙ הֹלֵ֣ךְ לִקְרָֽאתְךָ֔ (1)“Now he is on his way {here} to meet you,” or “and he is already headed here to meet you,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, notice that the word “meet” is neutral in this context and does not imply whether or not Esau had hostile intent against Jacob.
and 400 men with him
Quote: וְאַרְבַּע מֵא֥וֹת אִ֖ישׁ עִמּֽוֹ (1)“and/but {there are} {also} 400 men {coming} with him!” or “and/but {he has} 400 men with him!”
Genesis 32:7
And Jacob was exceedingly afraid
Quote: וַיִּירָ֧א יַעֲקֹ֛ב מְאֹ֖ד (1)“{When Jacob heard that,} he was very frightened” or “{When Jacob heard the report,} he was terrified”
and it was distressing for him
Quote: וַיֵּ֣צֶר ל֑וֹ (1)“and {very/extremely} distressed/worried.”
so he divided the people who {were} with him and the flock{s} and the herd{s} and the camels into two camps
Quote: וַיַּ֜חַץ אֶת הָעָ֣ם אֲשֶׁר אִתּ֗וֹ וְאֶת הַצֹּ֧אן וְאֶת הַבָּקָ֛ר וְהַגְּמַלִּ֖ים לִשְׁנֵ֥י מַחֲנֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“So he divided/organized/put {all} the people and animals that were with him into two {large} camps/groups, including {his family, his servants and} {all} his flocks {of sheep and goats}, herds {of cattle} and camels.” Consider what phrase order for this sentence is best in your language.
Genesis 32:8
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“{He did that} because he thought,” or “He was thinking,”
If Esau comes to one camp and strikes them
Quote: אִם יָב֥וֹא עֵשָׂ֛ו אֶל הַמַּחֲנֶ֥ה הָאַחַ֖ת וְהִכָּ֑הוּ (1)“If Esau {and his men} come and attack {the people in} one camp/group,”
then the camp that is left will escape
Quote: וְהָיָ֛ה הַמַּחֲנֶ֥ה הַנִּשְׁאָ֖ר לִפְלֵיטָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“then {the people in} the other camp/group can/could escape.” or “then the other camp/group might {be able to} escape.”
Genesis 32:9
Then Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֮ יַעֲקֹב֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Jacob/he prayed,”
God of my grandfather Abraham, and God of my father Isaac, Yahweh
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אָבִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם וֵאלֹהֵ֖י אָבִ֣י יִצְחָ֑ק יְהוָ֞ה (1)“{Dear} Yahweh, the God whom my grandfather Abraham and my father Isaac served/worshiped,” Make sure that your translation of this address refers to only one God, not two or three different Gods. Also make sure it is clear that Jacob is talking directly to Yahweh, not talking about him.
who said to me, ‘Return to your land and to your relatives
Quote: הָאֹמֵ֣ר אֵלַ֗י שׁ֧וּב לְאַרְצְךָ֛ וּלְמוֹלַדְתְּךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“you told me to go back to my homeland/country where my relatives live,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here. Also see how you translated “land” and “relatives” in Gen 31:3.
and I will cause things to prosper with you
Quote: וְאֵיטִ֥יבָה עִמָּֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“and that you would cause me to prosper.” or “and that you would make things go well for me.” Make sure your choice of “I” or “you” (for God) and “you” or “me” (for Jacob) in this clause fits with the way you translated the previous part of this quote.
Genesis 32:10
I am unworthy
Quote: קָטֹ֜נְתִּי (1)“I am not worthy of” or “I do not deserve”
of all the kindnesses and of all the faithfulness that you have shown your servant
Quote: מִכֹּ֤ל הַחֲסָדִים֙ וּמִכָּל הָ֣אֱמֶ֔ת אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשִׂ֖יתָ אֶת עַבְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)“the way you have always treated me so kindly and faithfully as your servant.” or “how kind and faithful/loyal you have always been to {me} as I have served you.”
For I crossed this Jordan with my staff
Quote: כִּ֣י בְמַקְלִ֗י עָבַ֨רְתִּי֙ אֶת הַיַּרְדֵּ֣ן הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“I crossed this/the Jordan {River} with {only} my staff,” or “When I {first} {left home and} crossed this/the Jordan {River}, all that I owned/had was my walking stick,”
but now I have become two camps
Quote: וְעַתָּ֥ה הָיִ֖יתִי לִשְׁנֵ֥י מַחֲנֽוֹת (1)“but now I have {so many people in my household and so many belongings/possessions that there are} two {large} camps/groups.” or “but now my {family and belongings} are enough to form/make two {large} groups.”
Genesis 32:11
Please save me
Quote: הַצִּילֵ֥נִי נָ֛א (1)“Please rescue me {now}” or “{I’m asking you now to} please save/rescue me”
from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau
Quote: מִיַּ֥ד אָחִ֖י מִיַּ֣ד עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“from the power of my brother Esau,” or “from my brother Esau,”
because I am afraid of him, that
Quote: כִּֽי יָרֵ֤א אָנֹכִי֙ אֹת֔וֹ פֶּן (1)“because I am afraid that” or “I am very worried that”
he will come and strike me {and} the mothers with the children
Quote: יָב֣וֹא וְהִכַּ֔נִי אֵ֖ם עַל־בָּנִֽים (1)“he {and his men} will come and attack me {as well as} {these} mothers with/and {their/my/our} children!” or “he {and his men} will attack {and kill} us {all}, {including} {these} mothers with/and {their/my/our} children!”
Genesis 32:12
But you said
Quote: וְאַתָּ֣ה אָמַ֔רְתָּ (1)“But/For you told/promised {me},” or “But {remember that} you promised {me},”
I will surely cause things to prosper with you, and I will make your descendants as the sand of the sea
Quote: הֵיטֵ֥ב אֵיטִ֖יב עִמָּ֑ךְ וְשַׂמְתִּ֤י אֶֽת זַרְעֲךָ֙ כְּח֣וֹל הַיָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“that you would surely/greatly prosper me, and that you would make my descendants {as numerous} as {the grains of} sand on the seashore,” For some languages it is more natural to use an indirect quote here, especially since Jacob is quoting the one he is talking to. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “I will cause things to prosper with you” in verse 9 and how you translated “as the sand” in Gen 22:17.
which cannot be counted from {their} abundance
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹא יִסָּפֵ֖ר מֵרֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“which cannot be counted because there are so many.” or “which are so numerous/many that no one can count them all.”
Genesis 32:13
Then he stayed there for that night
Quote: וַיָּ֥לֶן שָׁ֖ם בַּלַּ֣יְלָה הַה֑וּא (1)“Then Jacob spent the night there,”
and he took gifts from what was in his hand
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח מִן הַבָּ֧א בְיָד֛וֹ מִנְחָ֖ה (1)“and {during that time} he selected {many} of his animals as gifts/presents” or “and {while he was there} he picked out {many} of the animals he had with him”
for Esau his brother
Quote: לְעֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִֽיו (1)“to give to his brother Esau,”
Genesis 32:14
two hundred she-goats and twenty he-goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams
Quote: עִזִּ֣ים מָאתַ֔יִם וּתְיָשִׁ֖ים עֶשְׂרִ֑ים רְחֵלִ֥ים מָאתַ֖יִם וְאֵילִ֥ים עֶשְׂרִֽים (1)“{including} 200 nanny/female goats and twenty billy/male goats, 200 female sheep and twenty male sheep,” or “{including} 200 nanny/female goats, twenty billy/male goats, 200 female sheep, twenty male sheep,” Consider what is the most natural way in your language to list these animals, here and in verse 15. See how you translated “she-goats”, “he-goats”, “ewes” and “rams” in Gen 31:10.
Genesis 32:15
thirty nursing camels and their young
Quote: גְּמַלִּ֧ים מֵינִיק֛וֹת וּבְנֵיהֶ֖ם שְׁלֹשִׁ֑ים (1)“thirty mother camels with their young/colts,”
forty cows and ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys
Quote: פָּר֤וֹת אַרְבָּעִים֙ וּפָרִ֣ים עֲשָׂרָ֔ה אֲתֹנֹ֣ת עֶשְׂרִ֔ים וַעְיָרִ֖ם עֲשָׂרָֽה (1)“forty cows and ten bulls, {and} twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys.” or “forty cows, ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys.” See how you translated “female donkeys” and “male donkeys” in Gen 12:16.
Genesis 32:16
And he gave them into the hand{s} of his servants
Quote: וַיִּתֵּן֙ בְּיַד עֲבָדָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“He/Jacob put his servants in charge of the animals,”
each herd by itself
Quote: עֵ֥דֶר עֵ֖דֶר לְבַדּ֑וֹ (1)“with each kind {of animal} in a separate herd/group.” or “and had them put/keep the different kinds {of animals} in different/separate groups.”
And he said to his servants
Quote: וַ֤יֹּאמֶר אֶל עֲבָדָיו֙ (1)“Then he ordered/told his servants,”
Go before me, and put space between each herd
Quote: עִבְר֣וּ לְפָנַ֔י וְרֶ֣וַח תָּשִׂ֔ימוּ בֵּ֥ין עֵ֖דֶר וּבֵ֥ין עֵֽדֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“Go ahead of me, {one herd/group at a time,} and keep {some} space/distance between each herd/group {of animals}.” or “to go ahead of him, {one herd/group at time,} keeping {some} distance between each herd/group.” Consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here.
Genesis 32:17
And he commanded the first {one}, saying
Quote: וַיְצַ֥ו אֶת הָרִאשׁ֖וֹן לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“He {also} ordered/instructed the servant in charge of the first herd/group {of animals},”
When Esau my brother meets you and asks you, saying
Quote: כִּ֣י יִֽפְגָּשְׁךָ֞ עֵשָׂ֣ו אָחִ֗י וִשְׁאֵֽלְךָ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“When my brother Esau meets you and asks you”
Whom do you {belong} to, and where are you going
Quote: לְמִי אַ֨תָּה֙ וְאָ֣נָה תֵלֵ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“ ‘Who is your master, and where are you headed?” or “who your master is and where you are going/headed,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct or indirect quote in verses 17-20a.
And whom do these {animals} {belong} to {that are} before you
Quote: וּלְמִ֖י אֵ֥לֶּה לְפָנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“And whose animals are these {that you are driving/herding} ahead of you?’ ” or “Who owns these animals in front of you?’ ” or “and asks who owns the animals that you are herding,”
Genesis 32:18
then you say
Quote: וְאָֽמַרְתָּ֙ (1)“then you must tell {him},” or “then you are to answer/tell {him},”
They belong} to your servant, to Jacob. They {are} a gift sent to my lord, to Esau
Quote: לְעַבְדְּךָ֣ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב מִנְחָ֥ה הִוא֙ שְׁלוּחָ֔ה לַֽאדֹנִ֖י לְעֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“ ‘Esau, sir, these {animals} belong to Jacob who {humbly} serves you. He has sent them to you as a gift.” Also see how you translated “your servant” and “my lord” in verse 4.
And behold, he {is} also behind us
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה גַם ה֖וּא אַחֲרֵֽינוּ (1)“And indeed/actually he is coming right behind us.’ ” or “In fact, he is following us {here}.’ ” Notice that the pronoun “us” is exclusive here.
Genesis 32:19
Then he also commanded
Quote: וַיְצַ֞ו גַּ֣ם (1)“In the same way, Jacob ordered/instructed” or “Jacob gave the same orders/instructions to”. See how you translated “commanded” in verse 17.
the second {servant}, also the third
Quote: אֶת הַשֵּׁנִ֗י גַּ֚ם אֶת הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י (1)“the servant in charge of the second herd/group and the servant in charge of the third herd/group,” or “the servants who were in charge of the second and third herds/groups {of animals},”
also all who followed behind the herds, saying
Quote: גַּ֚ם אֶת כָּל הַהֹ֣לְכִ֔ים אַחֲרֵ֥י הָעֲדָרִ֖ים לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“as well as all {the other servants} who were in charge of the {other} herds/groups,”
Say the same thing to Esau when you find him
Quote: כַּדָּבָ֤ר הַזֶּה֙ תְּדַבְּר֣וּן אֶל עֵשָׂ֔ו בְּמֹצַאֲכֶ֖ם אֹתֽוֹ (1)“When you meet/reach Esau, {you are to} tell him the same thing {that I told the first servant}.”
Genesis 32:20
And also say, ‘Behold, your servant Jacob {is} behind us
Quote: וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֕ם גַּ֗ם הִנֵּ֛ה עַבְדְּךָ֥ יַעֲקֹ֖ב אַחֲרֵ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Especially be sure to tell {him}, ‘Your servant Jacob is following us {here}.’ ” or “Especially be sure to tell {him} that his servant Jacob is following you {there}.” See how you translated “is behind us” in verse 18.
For he said
Quote: כִּֽי אָמַ֞ר (1)“{Jacob did all that,} because he said/thought,”
I will cover his face with the gift
Quote: אֲכַפְּרָ֣ה פָנָ֗יו בַּמִּנְחָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I will/can appease/pacify Esau by sending” or “Perhaps Esau will stop being angry at me if I send”. The idiom “cover his face” means to try to calm someone’s anger by doing something to please him. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom you could use here.
with the gift that is going before me
Quote: בַּמִּנְחָה֙ הַהֹלֶ֣כֶת לְפָנָ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“him this gift/present {of animals} ahead of me” or “this gift {of animals} to him ahead of me”. For some languages it is more natural to use an indirect quote here and say, “because he thought that if he sent the gifts {of animals} ahead of himself {to Esau}, then Esau would stop being angry at him.” Notice that this alternate translation also changes the clause order. Do what is best in your language.
and after that, when I see his face, perhaps he will receive my face
Quote: וְאַחֲרֵי כֵן֙ אֶרְאֶ֣ה פָנָ֔יו אוּלַ֖י יִשָּׂ֥א פָנָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“After that, perhaps he will {forgive me} and welcome/accept me when we see each other face to face.” or “He was hoping that when Esau saw the gifts, he would {forgive him and} welcome him when they met in person.” Make sure that the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the previous clauses as either a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 32:21
Then the gift went before him
Quote: וַתַּעֲבֹ֥ר הַמִּנְחָ֖ה עַל פָּנָ֑יו (1)“Then/So the {animal} gifts {for Esau} were taken ahead of Jacob {by his servants},” or “So Jacob’s servants {went} ahead of Jacob with the {animal} gifts {for Esau},” See how you translated “gift” in verses 13, 18, 20.
and he himself stayed for that night in the camp
Quote: וְה֛וּא לָ֥ן בַּלַּֽיְלָה הַה֖וּא בַּֽמַּחֲנֶֽה (1)“but/while Jacob {and his family} stayed {behind} in/at the camp that night.” or “but/while Jacob himself stayed/slept for {part of} the night in the camp.”
Genesis 32:22
Then during that night he got up
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם בַּלַּ֣יְלָה ה֗וּא (1)“{Later} that {same} night Jacob got/woke up and took” or “{Sometime} during that night”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that this is the same night that was referred to in verse 21. Also, the phrase “got up” often refers to initiating an action, but here it may also imply that Jacob got up out of bed after sleeping for a while.
his two wives and his two maidservants and his eleven sons
Quote: אֶת שְׁתֵּ֤י נָשָׁיו֙ וְאֶת שְׁתֵּ֣י שִׁפְחֹתָ֔יו וְאֶת אַחַ֥ד עָשָׂ֖ר יְלָדָ֑יו (1)“his two wives, his two servant wives and his eleven sons” or “his two wives, two concubines and eleven sons”. Consider what is the best way in your language to list these people. See what you did for a similar list of people in Gen 7:13.
and crossed over
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲבֹ֔ר (1)“and waded/walked across” or “across”
the ford of the Jabbok
Quote: אֵ֖ת מַעֲבַ֥ר יַבֹּֽק (1)“a shallow place on/in the Jabbok {Stream/River}.” or “a place in the Jabbok {Stream/River} that was shallow.” A ford is a very shallow place in a stream that is fairly easy and safe for people and animals to walk across. The Jabbok Stream was a small river that flowed from east to west into the Jordan River about halfway between the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee. Jacob took his wives and children from the north side of the stream to the south side; his brother was coming towards them from further south. It might be helpful to include a map here in your translation that includes the places named in this chapter and shows where Jacob and Esau were coming from.
Genesis 32:23
So he took them and had them cross over the stream
Quote: וַיִּקָּחֵ֔ם וַיַּֽעֲבִרֵ֖ם אֶת הַנָּ֑חַל (1)“{After} he had taken them across the stream/river,” or “After he did that,” Verse 23 refers back to what already happened in verse 22. Make sure your translation does not sound like Jacob’s wives and children crossed the Jabbok Stream twice in verses 22-23.
and he sent what {belonged} to him across
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲבֵ֖ר אֶת אֲשֶׁר לוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“he {went back and} had his servants take {everything} that he owned across {the stream/river} {too}.” or “he {went back and} had his servants take {all} his {livestock/animals and other} belongings/possessions across {the stream/river} {too}.” At some point, Jacob went back to the north side of the Jabbok Stream, while his family waited for him on the south side. His belongings included the animals that he had not sent ahead to Esau as well as all his other possessions.
Genesis 32:24
Then Jacob was left alone
Quote: וַיִּוָּתֵ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב לְבַדּ֑וֹ (1)“Then Jacob was {there} by himself {for a while},” or “After that, Jacob was alone {there} {for a while},”
and a man wrestled with him
Quote: וַיֵּאָבֵ֥ק אִישׁ֙ עִמּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“and/but {then} a man {came and} wrestled/fought with him”. At some point, Jacob realized that this man was Yahweh in the form of a man (verse 30), so translation teams that capitalize references to God will capitalize all the pronouns that refer to him in verses 24-29 and may or may not capitalize “Man” in these verses. See what you did for a similar case when Yahweh appeared as a man to Abraham in Gen 18.
until the dawn came up
Quote: עַ֖ד עֲל֥וֹת הַשָּֽׁחַר (1)“until dawn/daybreak.” or “until daylight started to appear.” The word “dawn” refers to the time before sunrise when the sky begins to get light.
Genesis 32:25
And he saw that he was not prevailing over him
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא כִּ֣י לֹ֤א יָכֹל֙ ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then the man realized that he could not overpower/defeat him/Jacob, so” or “When the man saw/realized that he was not able to defeat him/Jacob,” Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to in verses 25-29.
so he touched {him} on the socket of his hip
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֖ע בְּכַף יְרֵכ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“he struck/hit {him/Jacob} on his hip,” or “he touched/struck his/Jacob’s hip joint,”
so that the socket of Jacob’s hip was dislocated
Quote: וַתֵּ֨קַע֙ כַּף־יֶ֣רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“so that it was wrenched/knocked/put out of place” or “and his hip joint went out of place”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or passive clause here. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a noun phrase or a pronoun here to refer to Jacob’s hip joint.
as he wrestled with him
Quote: בְּהֵֽאָבְק֖וֹ עִמּֽוֹ (1)“as he/Jacob wrestled/fought with the man.” or “as they wrestled/fought with/against each other.”
Genesis 32:26
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then the man said {to him/Jacob},” or “Then the man demanded,”
Release me
Quote: שַׁלְּחֵ֔נִי (1)“Let go of me,” or “{You must} let me go {now},”
because the dawn has come up
Quote: כִּ֥י עָלָ֖ה הַשָּׁ֑חַר (1)“because it is dawn/daybreak!” or “because daylight is beginning to come!” See how you translated “the dawn came up” in verse 24.
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Jacob said/replied {to him},”
I will not release you unless you bless me
Quote: לֹ֣א אֲשַֽׁלֵּחֲךָ֔ כִּ֖י אִם בֵּרַכְתָּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“{No!} I will not let go of you until you {first} bless me!” or “{No!} {First} you must bless me, and then I will let you go!” or “I will let you go only if/after you bless me!”
Genesis 32:27
So he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So/Then the man asked him/Jacob”
What {is} your name
Quote: מַה שְּׁמֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“Tell me your name.” or “what his name was.” Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
And he said, “Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“He/Jacob answered {him}, “{My name is} Jacob.” ” or “And he told him his name was Jacob.” or “And Jacob told him his name.” Make sure in your translation that Jacob’s reply sounds respectful. Also consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
Genesis 32:28
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“Then the man said {to Jacob},”
Your name will not be called Jacob anymore
Quote: לֹ֤א יַעֲקֹב֙ יֵאָמֵ֥ר עוֹד֙ שִׁמְךָ֔ (1)“Your name will no longer be Jacob,” or “You will no longer be called/named Jacob,” The wording here is similar to what God said when he changed Abram’s name to Abraham (Gen 17:5) and Sarai’s name to Sarah (17:15). After that, Abraham and Sarah were no longer called by their previous names. In the case of Jacob, he continues to be referred to by both of his names in this chapter (“Jacob” in verses 29-30, 32; “Israel” in verse 32) and throughout the rest of the Bible, including by God (Gen 46:2). It could be that although God was changing Jacob’s primary name to “Israel,” he was still known by his previous name too. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
but Israel
Quote: כִּ֖י אִם יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“but {rather} {it will be} Israel, {which means “he who struggles/contends with God,”}” If you include the meaning of the name “Israel” in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translate “struggled” in the following clause.
because you have struggled with God and with men
Quote: כִּֽי שָׂרִ֧יתָ עִם אֱלֹהִ֛ים וְעִם אֲנָשִׁ֖ים (1)“because you have struggled/contended with/against {both} God and men/people,” The Hebrew word for “struggled” here is more general than the word for “wrestled” in verses 24 and 25.
and you have prevailed
Quote: וַתּוּכָֽל (1)“and you have won/overcome.” See how you translated “prevailed” in verse 25 and Gen 30:8. It may be necessary to translate this term in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 32:29
Then Jacob asked and said
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֣ל יַעֲקֹ֗ב וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“Then Jacob asked him” or “Then Jacob asked the man”. Consider again whether or not you have capitalized references to the man in verses 24-29. See the note about this at verse 24.
Please tell {me} your name
Quote: הַגִּֽידָה נָּ֣א שְׁמֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“What is your name?” or “what his name was.” or “to tell him his name.” Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But he replied,” or “But the man replied,”
Why {is} this you are asking
Quote: לָ֥מָּה זֶּ֖ה תִּשְׁאַ֣ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“There is no need for you to ask {me}” or “You do not need to ask {me}”. This rhetorical question probably means that there was no need for Jacob to ask the man what his name was; he should have known without asking. Consider whether or not it is best to use a rhetorical question here in your language.
for my name
Quote: לִשְׁמִ֑י (1)“to tell you my name!” or “what my name is!”
Then he blessed him there
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ אֹת֖וֹ שָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then the man blessed Jacob there.”
Genesis 32:30
So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א יַעֲקֹ֛ב שֵׁ֥ם הַמָּק֖וֹם פְּנִיאֵ֑ל (1)“So/Then Jacob named the/that place Peniel, {which means “face of God,”}”
because {he said
Quote: כִּֽי (1)“because {he exclaimed},”
I saw God face to face
Quote: רָאִ֤יתִי אֱלֹהִים֙ פָּנִ֣ים אֶל פָּנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“I saw God’s face {here},” or “I saw/met God in person {here},”
but my life was preserved
Quote: וַתִּנָּצֵ֖ל נַפְשִֽׁי (1)“but/and {yet} my life was spared {by him}!” or “but/and {yet} he has allowed me to live!” Jacob was amazed that he was still alive because, although there were exceptions (Exodus 33:11; Judges 13:22), normally people could not see God face to face and live (Exodus 33:20). You could put that information in a footnote so that readers understand why Jacob was surprised.
Genesis 32:31
And the sun rose on him
Quote: וַיִּֽזְרַֽח ל֣וֹ הַשֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ (1)“The sun shined on Jacob” or “The sun was rising/shining”
as he passed Penuel
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר עָבַ֖ר אֶת פְּנוּאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“as he/Jacob left Penuel {and returned to his family}.” Penuel is another name for the place that is called Peniel in verse 30. That information could be put in a footnote. Or you could use the same spelling in both verses to avoid confusion; “Penuel” is the spelling in the rest of the Old Testament.
and he was limping
Quote: וְה֥וּא צֹלֵ֖עַ (1)“He was limping {as he walked}” or “{As he walked,} he was limping”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
because of his hip
Quote: עַל יְרֵכֽוֹ (1)“because of his hip {injury}.” or “because his hip {joint} was injured/painful.”
Genesis 32:32
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֡ן (1)“That is why”
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)“even today/now” or “{even/still} to/in the present”
the sons of Israel
Quote: בְנֵֽי יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל (1)“the descendants/people of Israel” or “the Israelites”
do not eat the muscle of the tendon
Quote: לֹֽא יֹאכְל֨וּ & אֶת גִּ֣יד הַנָּשֶׁ֗ה (1)“do not eat the muscle/tendon” or “do not eat meat”
that {is} on the socket of the hip
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל־כַּ֣ף הַיָּרֵ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that is/was attached to an {animal’s} hip socket/joint,” or “that comes from an {animal’s} hip socket/joint,” Make sure it is clear in your translation that this is talking about eating meat from an animal, not about cannibalism.
because he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip on the muscle of the tendon
Quote: כִּ֤י נָגַע֙ בְּכַף יֶ֣רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֔ב בְּגִ֖יד הַנָּשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“to commemorate/remember {the fact} that God struck/hit {and injured} the muscle/tendon attached to Jacob’s hip socket/joint.” or “because that is the muscle/tendon/place on Jacob’s hip that God struck/hit {and injured}.” See how you translated the idiom “touched” in verse 25.
Genesis 33
Genesis 33:1
Then Jacob lifted his eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א יַעֲקֹ֜ב עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּרְא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Jacob looked up and saw” or “Then Jacob looked {ahead of him} and saw”. Make sure your translation of this idiom does not mean that Jacob looked straight up. Rather, he probably looked carefully to the south (the direction that his brother was coming from).
and behold, Esau was coming
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה עֵשָׂ֣ו בָּ֔א (1)“{in the distance} that Esau was coming {toward him},” or “that Esau was {in the distance} coming/heading {his direction/way},” Esau was still a fair distance away, which gave Jacob time to do everything that he does in verses 1-3.
and with him 400 men
Quote: וְעִמּ֕וֹ אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת אִ֑ישׁ (1)“and with him {were} 400 men!” or “with 400 men!” or “and that he had 400 men with him!”
Then he divided the children among Leah and Rachel and the two maidservants
Quote: וַיַּ֣חַץ אֶת הַיְלָדִ֗ים עַל לֵאָה֙ וְעַל רָחֵ֔ל וְעַ֖ל שְׁתֵּ֥י הַשְּׁפָחֽוֹת (1)“Then/So he/Jacob {quickly} separated/put his children into groups with {their own mothers,} Leah, Rachel and {his} two servant wives.” or “Then/So he/Jacob had his children {quickly} gather/stand with their own mothers, so that Leah, Rachel and {his} two concubines were each with her own children.” Each of the women had her own children with her (verse 2). See how you translated “divided” in Gen 32:7 and “his two maidservants” in Gen 32:22.
Genesis 33:2
And he put the maidservants and their children
Quote: וַיָּ֧שֶׂם אֶת הַשְּׁפָח֛וֹת וְאֶת יַלְדֵיהֶ֖ן (1)“He put his {two} servant wives and/with their children” or “He put the group that had/included his {two} servant wives and their children”. See how you translated “his two maidservants” in Gen 32:22.
first
Quote: רִֽאשֹׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“first {in line},” or “in front {of all the others},” For some languages it is more natural to put phrases like “first” and “after them” at the beginning of their clauses and say, “First {in line} he put his {two} servant wives and/with their children. Behind them {he put} Leah and/with her children, and last {of all} {he put} Rachel and/with {her son} Joseph.” Do what is best in your language.
and Leah and her children
Quote: וְאֶת לֵאָ֤ה וִֽילָדֶ֨יהָ֙ (1)“then {he put} Leah and/with her children”
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֹנִ֔ים (1)“behind them,” or “next,”
and Rachel and Joseph
Quote: וְאֶת רָחֵ֥ל וְאֶת יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)“and {he put} Rachel and/with {her son} Joseph”
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֹנִ֔ים (1)“behind them {all}.” or “last.” or “in the rear.”
Genesis 33:3
Then he himself went before them
Quote: וְה֖וּא עָבַ֣ר לִפְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“Then Jacob himself went/walked ahead of them {all} {toward his brother},” or “Then he/Jacob started going/walking {toward his brother} ahead of them {all},”
and he bowed to the ground seven times as he came near to his brother
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֤חוּ אַ֨רְצָה֙ שֶׁ֣בַע פְּעָמִ֔ים עַד גִּשְׁתּ֖וֹ עַד אָחִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and he bowed {with his face} to the ground seven times {to show respect} as he went/got closer to him/Esau.” or “As he approached him/Esau, he prostrated himself {with his face} to the ground seven times {to show respect}.” See how you translated “bow down” in Gen 27:29.
Genesis 33:4
But Esau ran to meet him and embraced him
Quote: וַיָּ֨רָץ עֵשָׂ֤ו לִקְרָאתוֹ֙ וַֽיְחַבְּקֵ֔הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But Esau ran to greet Jacob and hugged him”. This sentence shows a contrast between what Jacob was expecting and what actually happened.
and he fell on his neck and kissed him
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל עַל צַוָּארָ֖ו וַׄיִּׄשָּׁׄקֵ֑ׄהׄוּׄ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he threw/put his arms around his neck/shoulders and kissed him,” or “He held him/Jacob tightly and kissed him {on the cheek/cheeks},” See how you translated “hugged him … and kissed him {on the cheek/cheeks}” in Gen 29:13. Make sure that the way you translate “fell on his neck” does not imply that Esau accidentally fell. Rather, this is an idiom that means he embraced Jacob warmly, with much emotion.
and they cried
Quote: וַיִּבְכּֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“and/as they {both} cried {for joy}.” or “Both of them cried {because they were so happy to see each other again}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, some languages have a dual pronoun for “they” that could be used here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 33:5
Then he lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֣א אֶת עֵינָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Esau looked up/ahead”. See how you translated the idiom “lifted … eyes” in verse 1 and Gen 31:10. It may be necessary to translate this idiom in different ways, depending on the context.
and saw the women and the children
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא אֶת הַנָּשִׁים֙ וְאֶת הַיְלָדִ֔ים (1)“and saw/noticed the women and children {who were there} {with/behind Jacob},”
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“so he asked {him/Jacob},”
Who {are} these with you
Quote: מִי אֵ֣לֶּה לָּ֑ךְ (1)“Who {are} these {people}? {Do they belong} to you?” or “How are these people related to you?” Esau wants to know if these people are Jacob’s family members or his servants or someone else; he is not asking what their names are.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“He/Jacob answered {him/Esau},” Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking to whom here.
The children
Quote: הַיְלָדִ֕ים (1)“{They are} the children {and the wives}” or “{They are} {the/my wives and} the/my children”
whom God has graciously given to your servant
Quote: אֲשֶׁר חָנַ֥ן אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת עַבְדֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“whom God has graciously/kindly given to {me,} your servant.” or “whom God has graciously/kindly given to me, sir.” Jacob uses the phrase “your servant” to be polite and show respect to Esau; he was not actually Esau’s servant. For some languages it is more natural to put the honorific title first in this sentence and say, “Sir, {they are} the {wives and} children whom God has graciously given to me.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 33:6
Then the maidservants came near, they and their children
Quote: וַתִּגַּ֧שְׁןָ הַשְּׁפָח֛וֹת הֵ֥נָּה וְיַלְדֵיהֶ֖ן (1)“Then the {two} maidservants came closer {to Esau} {along} with their children,” or “Then the/Jacob’s {two} servant wives and their children came/went closer/forward,” See how you translated “maidservants” in verses 1-2.
and they bowed down
Quote: וַתִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶֽיןָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and they {all} bowed {to the ground} {in front of Esau/him} {to show respect}.” See how you translated “bowed down” in verse 3.
Genesis 33:7
Then Leah also came near and her children
Quote: וַתִּגַּ֧שׁ גַּם לֵאָ֛ה וִילָדֶ֖יהָ (1)“Then Leah also came closer {to Esau} {along} with her children” or “Next Leah and her children also came closer/forward”
and they bowed down
Quote: וַיִּֽשְׁתַּחֲו֑וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and bowed {to the ground}.”
Then after {that}, Joseph came near and Rachel
Quote: וְאַחַ֗ר נִגַּ֥שׁ יוֹסֵ֛ף וְרָחֵ֖ל (1)“Then last {of all}, Joseph and {his mother} Rachel came closer/forward,”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיִּֽשְׁתַּחֲו֑וּ (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-theydual
“and they {also} bowed {to the ground}.” Some languages have a dual pronoun for “they” that fits here well. See what you did in verse 4.
Genesis 33:8
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Esau said {to Jacob},” or “Then Esau asked {Jacob},”
What to you {are
Quote: מִ֥י לְךָ֛ (1)“What do you mean/intend by” or “Why did you send” or “What is the meaning/purpose of”
all these groups
Quote: כָּל הַמַּחֲנֶ֥ה הַזֶּ֖ה (1)“all those groups/herds {of livestock/animals}”
that I met
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר פָּגָ֑שְׁתִּי (1)“that I encountered/saw {on my way here}?” or “that came to me {on my way here}?”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob said {to him},” or “Jacob answered {him},”
To find favor in the eyes of my lord
Quote: לִמְצֹא חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{I sent them} so that you would be gracious/kind to me, sir.” or “{They are gifts for you} so that you would be pleased with me, sir.” See how you translated “my lord” and the idiom “find favor in … eyes” in Gen 32:5.
Genesis 33:9
Then Esau said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Esau replied,” or “Esau said/replied {to him},” What Esau says is in contrast to what Jacob said, but it may not be necessary to use a conjunction here at all. Do what is best in your language.
I have plenty, my brother
Quote: יֶשׁ לִ֣י רָ֑ב אָחִ֕י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“My brother, I {already} have/own enough {livestock/animals}”. For some languages it is more natural to put the address “my brother” first in this quote. Some languages also have a special term for “younger brother” that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
Let what {belongs} to you be yours
Quote: יְהִ֥י לְךָ֖ אֲשֶׁר לָֽךְ (1)“Keep what you have/own for yourself.” or “{so} keep your livestock/animals for yourself.” or “{so} keep them for yourself.”
Genesis 33:10
But Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Jacob responded/insisted {to him},”
No, please
Quote: אַל נָא֙ (1)“No, I beg you.” or “Please don’t refuse {my gift}.” In verses 10 and 11, Jacob speaks urgently to Esau, because in that culture if Esau accepts Jacob’s gift, he is committing himself to treat Jacob as a friend.
If, please, I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֶ֔יךָ (1)“{Rather,} if you are pleased with me,” or “{Rather,} if you want to be gracious/kind to me, then”. See how you translated the idiom “find/gain favor in your eyes” in verse 8.
then take my gift from my hand
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ מִנְחָתִ֖י מִיָּדִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“then {please} accept these gifts from me.” or “{please} accept from me what I have given {you}.”
For indeed
Quote: כִּ֣י עַל כֵּ֞ן (1)“After all,” or “The fact is,”
I have seen your face, {which is} like seeing the face of God, and you have received me
Quote: רָאִ֣יתִי פָנֶ֗יךָ כִּרְאֹ֛ת פְּנֵ֥י אֱלֹהִ֖ים וַתִּרְצֵֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“for me to see your face is like seeing God’s face, especially since you have received/welcomed me {so kindly/warmly}.” or “{I thought you were still angry at me, so} I was afraid of seeing/meeting you again in person, just as I would be afraid of seeing/meeting God in person, but you {forgave me and} welcomed me!” In Old Testament times it was terrifying for someone to see God in person, because normally people could not see God’s face and live (Exodus 33:20). However, God had been gracious to Jacob and allowed him to live (Genesis 32:30). In the same way, it was a terrifying thing for Jacob to see Esau who had 400 men with him, but Esau was gracious to him (33:4). See how you translated a different Hebrew word that means “receive” or “welcome” in Gen 32:20.
Genesis 33:11
Please take my blessing that was brought to you
Quote: קַח נָ֤א אֶת בִּרְכָתִי֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הֻבָ֣את לָ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{So} please accept my gift {of livestock/animals} that my servants brought to you,” or “{So} please accept the livestock/animals from me that I sent/gave to you,”
because God has been gracious to me
Quote: כִּֽי חַנַּ֥נִי אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“because God has been kind/generous to me,” or “because God has blessed me,”
and because I have everything
Quote: וְכִ֣י יֶשׁ לִי כֹ֑ל (1)“and he has given me everything {that I need}.” or “so that I have/own all/everything {that I need/want}.”
And he urged him
Quote: וַיִּפְצַר בּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“He/Jacob kept urging him/Esau {to accept his gift}” or “He/Jacob kept insisting {that he/Esau accept the gift/livestock/animals from him}”. Make sure it is clear in your translation who and what is being referred to at every point in this sentence.
so he took {it
Quote: וַיִּקָּֽח (1)“until {finally} he/Esau accepted {it/them}.”
Genesis 33:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)“Then Esau said/suggested {to Jacob},”
Let’s travel and go
Quote: נִסְעָ֣ה וְנֵלֵ֑כָה (1)“Let’s start traveling/heading {home},”
and I will go in front of you
Quote: וְאֵלְכָ֖ה לְנֶגְדֶּֽךָ (1)“and I will lead/accompany/escort you.” Esau is suggesting that he would accompany or escort Jacob and his family, not that he would go far ahead of them.
Genesis 33:13
But he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“But he/Jacob replied to him,” or “But Jacob replied,”
My lord knows that
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֤י יֹדֵ֨עַ֙ כִּֽי (1)“Sir, you know that” or “Sir, as you know,” See how you translated “my lord” in verse 8.
the children {are} tender
Quote: הַיְלָדִ֣ים רַכִּ֔ים (1)“my children {are} fragile/frail/delicate/weak,”
and the flock{s} and the herd{s} {that} are nursing {are} with me
Quote: וְהַצֹּ֥אן וְהַבָּקָ֖ר עָל֣וֹת עָלָ֑י (1)“and some of my sheep and cattle are nursing {their young}.” or “and I need {to be careful with} {all} the sheep and cattle that are nursing {their young}.” See how you translated “flock{s} and herd{s}” in Gen 12:16.
And if they drive them one day
Quote: וּדְפָקוּם֙ י֣וֹם אֶחָ֔ד (1)“If my servants/men drive the livestock/animals {too hard/far} in one day,” or “If I force the livestock/animals to go/travel too far/fast {for} {even} one day,”
then all the flock{s} will die
Quote: וָמֵ֖תוּ כָּל הַצֹּֽאן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“then all the flock{s} {and herds} will die.” or “then all of them will die.” This phrase especially refers to the sheep and cattle that were nursing, but Jacob is probably using hyperbole here (“all”) to emphasize that he does not want to travel too fast.
Genesis 33:14
Please let my lord go on before his servant
Quote: יַעֲבָר נָ֥א אֲדֹנִ֖י לִפְנֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“{So then,} sir, please go on {home} ahead of me, sir.” See how you translated Jacob’s use of “my lord” (in verse 8) and “servant” (in verse 5) to show respect and deference to Esau. Here he uses both terms for emphasis.
and I will lead them on at my gentle pace, at the pace of the livestock that {are} ahead of me and at the pace of the children
Quote: וַאֲנִ֞י אֶֽתְנָהֲלָ֣ה לְאִטִּ֗י לְרֶ֨גֶל הַמְּלָאכָ֤ה אֲשֶׁר לְפָנַי֙ וּלְרֶ֣גֶל הַיְלָדִ֔ים (1)“Then/Meanwhile I will travel along slowly at a pace/speed {that is safe/good} for the livestock/animals and children that are with me,”
until I come to my lord
Quote: עַ֛ד אֲשֶׁר אָבֹ֥א אֶל אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)“until we reach you, sir,” or “We will catch up to you later, sir,”
in Seir
Quote: שֵׂעִֽירָה (1)“in {the land/region of} Seir.” See how you translated “the land of Seir” in Gen 32:3. The land of Seir was a mountainous region southeast of the land of Canaan (and the Dead Sea) and was where Esau had settled. It was also called “Edom” (Gen 32:3), which was Esau’s nickname (Gen 25:30). You could put some of that information in a footnote.
Genesis 33:15
And Esau said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)“So/Then Esau said/responded {to Jacob/him},”
Please let me leave with you some of the people who {are} with me
Quote: אַצִּֽיגָה נָּ֣א עִמְּךָ֔ מִן הָעָ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתִּ֑י (1)“{Okay,} {then} please let me leave you some of my men {to escort/accompany you}.” or “{Okay,} {then} may I leave some of my men with you {to escort/accompany you}?”
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Jacob replied,” or “Jacob said/replied {to him},” or “Jacob answered {him},” Make sure the way you translate this quote margin fits with how you translate the previous and following sentences.
Why {do} that
Quote: לָ֣מָּה זֶּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“There’s no need for that.” or “There is no need {for you} to do that.” Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize that there is no need for Esau to leave any of his men with him. For some languages it is clearer and more natural to use a statement here instead. Do what is best in your language.
Let me find favor in the eyes of my lord
Quote: אֶמְצָא חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“{Just} please {continue to} be gracious/kind to me, sir.” or “Sir, please {just} {continue to} treat me kindly.” Consider again how you translated “my lord” in verses 8,13-15. For some languages it is more natural to put this address earlier in this quote. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated the idiom “find favor in the eyes of” in verse 8.
Genesis 33:16
So on that day Esau went on his way back
Quote: וַיָּשָׁב֩ בַּיּ֨וֹם הַה֥וּא עֵשָׂ֛ו לְדַרְכּ֖וֹ (1)“So that {very/same} day Esau {and his men} started on their way back” or “So that {very/same} day Esau {and his men} left and headed back”
to Seir
Quote: שֵׂעִֽירָה (1)“{home} to {the land/region of} Seir.” See how you translated “Seir” in verse 14.
Genesis 33:17
And Jacob traveled to Succoth
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹב֙ נָסַ֣ע סֻכֹּ֔תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“But Jacob traveled/went to {the town of} Succoth {instead},” or “Meanwhile, {instead of going to Seir,} Jacob {and his family} traveled/went to {the town of} Succoth,” Jacob went northwest to Succoth, instead of going south to the region of Seir as he had said he would do (verse 14). Also see how you translated “travel” in verse 12.
and he built a house for himself
Quote: וַיִּ֥בֶן ל֖וֹ בָּ֑יִת (1)“There he {and his men/servants} built a house for himself {and his family/household},” or “where he {and his men/servants} built a house for his family/household,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and for his livestock he made shelters
Quote: וּלְמִקְנֵ֨הוּ֙ עָשָׂ֣ה סֻכֹּ֔ת (1)“and they {also} built {some} shelters for his livestock/animals.” or “and shelters for his livestock/animals.” The term “livestock” is general here and includes all of Jacob’s animals.
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֛ן (1)“That is why” or “Because of that,” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 32:32.
he called the name of the place Succoth
Quote: קָרָ֥א שֵׁם הַמָּק֖וֹם סֻכּֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the name of that place/town is {called} Succoth, {which means “shelters.”}” or “they/people call that place/town Succoth, {which means “shelters.”}” The phrase “he/they called” could refer to Jacob, or it could refer to people in general (as it often does in Genesis). If you include the meaning of the name Succoth in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate “shelters” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 33:18
Then Jacob came {in} peace {to} the city of Shechem, which {was} in the land of Canaan, when he came from Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֩ יַעֲקֹ֨ב שָׁלֵ֜ם עִ֣יר שְׁכֶ֗ם אֲשֶׁר֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן בְּבֹא֖וֹ מִפַּדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)“Later Jacob {and his family} arrived safely at the city of Shechem in the land/region of Canaan, as he/they continued traveling {home} from {the land/region of} Paddan Aram,” or “{After that,} Jacob {and his family} continued their journey {home} from {the land/region of} Paddan Aram, until {eventually} they arrived safely at the city of Shechem in the land/region of Canaan,” Jacob and his family had left Paddan Aram and had been traveling back to the land of his ancestors in Canaan (Gen 31:3, 13, 18). See how you translated “in peace” in Gen 28:21.
and he camped
Quote: וַיִּ֖חַן (1)“and he/they set up camp {in a field}” or “Then he/they set up his/their tents {in a field}”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “camped” in Gen 26:17.
before the city
Quote: אֶת פְּנֵ֥י הָעִֽיר (1)“near/beside the/that city.” or “on the edge/outskirts of the/that city.”
Genesis 33:19
And he bought the portion of the field
Quote: וַיִּ֜קֶן אֶת חֶלְקַ֣ת הַשָּׂדֶ֗ה (1)“Then he bought the plot/piece of land” or “{While he was there,} he bought the land”
where he pitched his tent{s
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר נָֽטָה־שָׁם֙ אָהֳל֔וֹ (1)“where they had set up their tents/camp” or “where he/they were camping/staying”
from the hand{s} of the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for a hundred kesitahs
Quote: מִיַּ֥ד בְּנֵֽי חֲמ֖וֹר אֲבִ֣י שְׁכֶ֑ם בְּמֵאָ֖ה קְשִׂיטָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“from the sons of Hamor for one hundred pieces {of silver/money}. One of Hamor’s sons was named Shechem.” or “for/with one hundred pieces {of silver/money} from the sons of Hamor {who was} the father of Shechem.” The weight and value of a hundred kesitahs of silver is not known. Some ancient translations (including the LXX and Latin Vulgate) have “a hundred lambs” here, but most modern translations have “a hundred pieces of silver/money”.
Genesis 33:20
And there he set up an altar
Quote: וַיַּצֶּב שָׁ֖ם מִזְבֵּ֑חַ (1)“On that land he/Jacob {also} built a {stone} altar,” or “Jacob {also} built/made an altar {out of stones} on that land,” See how you translated “altar” in Gen 26:25.
and he called it El Elohe Israel
Quote: וַיִּ֨קְרָא ל֔וֹ אֵ֖ל אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“and he named it El Elohe Israel, {which means “God is the God of Israel.”}” The name “El Elohe Israel” could also mean “Powerful/Mighty is the God of Israel,” because the Hebrew word “el” can mean “God” or “powerful.” You could put that information in a footnote.
Genesis 34
Genesis 34:1
Then Dinah, the daughter of Leah, whom she had born for Jacob, went out
Quote: וַתֵּצֵ֤א דִינָה֙ בַּת־לֵאָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָלְדָ֖ה לְיַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Then/Now {one day} Dinah, {who was} the daughter whom Leah bore/had for Jacob, went out” or “{One day,} Dinah, {who was} the daughter of Jacob and Leah, went {to/into the city}” These events took place at an unspecified time after Jacob and his family set up their camp beside the city of Shechem (Gen 33:18). Consider what is the best way to introduce a new event in your language. Also be consistent here with how you spelled “Dinah” in Gen 30:21.
to see
Quote: לִרְא֖וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. The verb “to see” could mean: (1) “to visit with”; many languages have a similar idiom. (2) “to see/observe” the local women, for example, how they dressed and what jewelry they wore.
the daughters of the land
Quote: בִּבְנ֥וֹת הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{some of} the women who were native to that area/region.” or “{some of} the local/native women.” See how you translated “daughters of the land” in Gen 27:46, and how you translated a similar phrase (“people of the land”) in Gen 23:7, 12.
Genesis 34:2
And Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite, the ruler of the land, saw
Quote: וַיַּ֨רְא & שְׁכֶ֧ם בֶּן חֲמ֛וֹר הַֽחִוִּ֖י נְשִׂ֣יא הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Then Shechem, who was the/a son of the Hivite named Hamor who ruled that region, saw” or “Now the ruler/chief of that region was a Hivite named Hamor. His son Shechem saw”. Consider which order of phrases is best here in your language. Also see how you translated “Hivites” in Gen 10:17 and “ruler” in Gen 25:16.
her, and he took her
Quote: אֹתָ֜הּ & וַיִּקַּ֥ח אֹתָ֛הּ (1)“Dinah, and he grabbed {hold of} her” or “{how beautiful} Dinah was, so he took/grabbed {hold of} her”
and lay with her and violated her
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב אֹתָ֖הּ וַיְעַנֶּֽהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and forced her to go to bed with him.” or “and raped her.” This is a euphemistic way of saying that Shechem forced Dinah to have sex with him. Translate this in a way that will not offend or embarrass people, especially when hearing your translation read aloud.
Genesis 34:3
And his soul was attached to Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved
Quote: וַתִּדְבַּ֣ק נַפְשׁ֔וֹ בְּדִינָ֖ה בַּֽת יַעֲקֹ֑ב וַיֶּֽאֱהַב֙ (1)“He/Shechem was strongly/deeply attracted to Jacob’s daughter Dinah and he loved her” or “He/Shechem admired Jacob’s daughter Dinah so much that he fell in love with her” or “He/Shechem admired her so much that he fell in love with her”
and spoke to the heart of the young woman
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֖ר עַל לֵ֥ב הַֽנַּעֲרָֽ (1)“and spoke sweetly/tenderly to her {to try to woo/persuade/comfort her}.” or “and {tried to win her heart/affection} by speaking tenderly/kindly to her.” See how you translated “young woman” in Gen 24:14, and see the note about that there.
Genesis 34:4
Then Shechem said to Hamor his father, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר שְׁכֶ֔ם אֶל חֲמ֥וֹר אָבִ֖יו לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“Then Shechem said to his father Hamor,” or “Then Shechem {went to} his father Hamor and requested/demanded,”
Get this girl for me as a wife
Quote: קַֽח לִ֛י אֶת הַיַּלְדָּ֥ה הַזֹּ֖את לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“Negotiate {things} for me so that I can marry this girl.” or “Ask this girl’s family to let me marry her.” At that time it was normal for parents to negotiate with another family to get a spouse for their child. The negotiations would include a bride-price and other details. You could put some of that information in a footnote. The term “girl” that Shechem uses here is less respectful than the term “young woman” that is used in verses 3 and 12.
Genesis 34:5
Then Jacob heard that
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֣ב שָׁמַ֗ע כִּ֤י (1)“When Jacob found out that” or “When Jacob was told/informed {by someone} that”
he had defiled Dinah his daughter
Quote: טִמֵּא֙ אֶת דִּינָ֣ה בִתּ֔וֹ (1)“Shechem had dishonored/disgraced his daughter Dinah,” or “his daughter Dinah had been defiled/disgraced by Shechem,”
and his sons were with his livestock in the fields
Quote: וּבָנָ֛יו הָי֥וּ אֶת מִקְנֵ֖הוּ בַּשָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)“his sons were {still} tending his livestock/animals out in the fields,” or “his sons were {still} {out} in the fields taking care of his livestock/animals,”
so Jacob kept quiet
Quote: וְהֶחֱרִ֥שׁ יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)“so he didn’t say anything {about it}” or “so he didn’t tell anyone {about it}”. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not mean that Jacob was totally silent. Rather, it means he did not speak about what Shechem had done to Dinah.
until they came
Quote: עַד בֹּאָֽם (1)“until they came {back} {home}.” or “until they returned {home}.”
Genesis 34:6
And Hamor the father of Shechem came out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֛א חֲמ֥וֹר אֲבִֽי שְׁכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Meanwhile, Shechem’s father Hamor went {with his son}” or “Meanwhile, {Shechem and} Shechem’s/his father Hamor went”. For some languages it is more natural to introduce Shechem here, rather than wait and have him appear too suddenly in verse 11. Do what is best in your language.
to Jacob to talk with him
Quote: אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֑ב לְדַבֵּ֖ר אִתּֽוֹ (1)“to talk with/to Jacob.” or “to Jacob’s {camp/tent} to talk with/to him.”
Genesis 34:7
Then the sons of Jacob came from the fields
Quote: וּבְנֵ֨י יַעֲקֹ֜ב בָּ֤אוּ מִן הַשָּׂדֶה֙ (1)“Then/Soon Jacob’s sons came/returned {home} from the fields.”
When they heard
Quote: כְּשָׁמְעָ֔ם (1)“When they heard {what had happened},” or “When they heard {that Shechem had raped their sister},” Many translations put “when they heard” with the previous sentence. However, unless someone else told Jacob’s sons the news of what happened, that interpretation contradicts verse 5, which says that Jacob kept quiet about it until his sons got home.
then the men were grieved
Quote: וַיִּֽתְעַצְּבוּ֙ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)“they were {very} distressed/shocked”. See how you translated “grieved” in Gen 6:6. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and it burned within them greatly
Quote: וַיִּ֥חַר לָהֶ֖ם מְאֹ֑ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and filled with anger,” or “and extremely angry”. See how you translated the idiom “it/anger burned within …” in Gen 32:36.
because he had done something disgraceful to Israel
Quote: כִּֽי נְבָלָ֞ה עָשָׂ֣ה בְיִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)“because/that Shechem had disgraced/dishonored {the people/family of} Israel” or “because/that Shechem had brought shame on Israel’s family”. Notice in this verse that the Hebrew text has both of Jacob’s names, “Jacob” and “Israel,” to emphasize that Shechem had sinned against Jacob and all of his descendants (the people of Israel). You could put that information in a footnote. Make sure that your translation of “Israel” does not refer here to a place, since Israel was not yet a country or a territory.
by lying with the daughter of Jacob
Quote: לִשְׁכַּב֙ אֶת בַּֽת יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“by having sexual relations with Jacob’s daughter.” or “by raping Jacob’s daughter.”
and such a thing should not have been done
Quote: וְכֵ֖ן לֹ֥א יֵעָשֶֽׂה (1)“Such a {wicked/terrible} thing should never be done {by anyone}!” or “No one should ever do such a {wicked/horrible} thing/crime!”
Genesis 34:8
But Hamor spoke with them, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר חֲמ֖וֹר אִתָּ֣ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“But Hamor pleaded with Jacob and his sons and said,” or “But Hamor urged/begged Jacob and his sons,”
to your daughter
Quote: בְּבִתְּכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“My son Shechem really/deeply loves your {family’s} daughter.” or “My son Shechem has fallen {deeply/completely} in love with your daughter {and sister}.” The pronoun “your” is plural here, which shows that Hamor is addressing not only Jacob but also his sons.
Please give her to him as a wife
Quote: תְּנ֨וּ נָ֥א אֹתָ֛הּ ל֖וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“{So} please allow/permit him to marry her.” The way “give” and “take” are used in verses 8, 9, 12, 16 and 21 reflects the culture at that time, when parents or families arranged marriages for their daughters. Also see the note about this at verse 4.
Genesis 34:9
And intermarry with us
Quote: וְהִֽתְחַתְּנ֖וּ אֹתָ֑נוּ (1)“{In fact,} let’s allow marriage between our two people groups,” or “Let’s agree to let members of our families marry one another,”
Give your daughters to us, and take our daughters for yourselves
Quote: בְּנֹֽתֵיכֶם֙ תִּתְּנוּ לָ֔נוּ וְאֶת בְּנֹתֵ֖ינוּ תִּקְח֥וּ לָכֶֽם (1)“{so that} your daughters can/will marry our {young men} and your {young men} can/will marry our daughters.” or “{so that} you allow our {young men} to marry your daughters and we allow your {young men} to marry our daughters.”
Genesis 34:10
and settle with us
Quote: וְאִתָּ֖נוּ תֵּשֵׁ֑בוּ (1)“You can {also} settle/live among us.” or “{We also invite you to} settle/live with/among us.”
And the land is before you. Settle and trade in it
Quote: וְהָאָ֨רֶץ֙ תִּהְיֶ֣ה לִפְנֵיכֶ֔ם שְׁבוּ֙ וּסְחָר֔וּהָ (1)“The land is available for you {to choose what you want}; settle/live {in it} {wherever you want}. You can {also} trade {freely} here,” or “You can settle/live {wherever you want} in the land. You can also do business buying and selling things {wherever you want},” Normally foreigners were not allowed to own land or to move around in the land to trade freely. So that is why Hamor is offering this in exchange for Jacob allowing his family to intermarry with the Hivites.
and acquire {property} in it
Quote: וְהֵֽאָחֲז֖וּ בָּֽהּ (1)“and you can buy/own {your own} {property/land}.”
Genesis 34:11
Then Shechem said to her father and to her brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר שְׁכֶם֙ אֶל אָבִ֣יה וְאֶל אַחֶ֔יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Shechem said to Dinah’s father and brothers,”
Let me find favor in your eyes
Quote: אֶמְצָא חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{Please} be gracious/kind to me {and let me marry her/Dinah},” See how you translated the idiom “Let me find favor in the eyes of …” in Gen 33:15.
and what you say to me I will give
Quote: וַאֲשֶׁ֥ר תֹּאמְר֛וּ אֵלַ֖י אֶתֵּֽן (1)“Then I will give/pay {you} whatever you request/require/ask from me {for her}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 34:12
Increase greatly the dowry and gift for me
Quote: הַרְבּ֨וּ עָלַ֤י מְאֹד֙ מֹ֣הַר וּמַתָּ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“Set the dowry/bride-price and {marriage/wedding} gifts {that I must pay} {to marry her} as high as you want,” The “dowry” was the payment that a groom (and his family) had to give to the bride’s family. It could include things like money, land, and livestock. The term “gift” probably refers to additional gifts given to the bride and her family members (as in Gen 24:53). If the custom of paying a dowry is not known in your culture, you could include an explanation in a footnote.
and I will give according to what you say to me
Quote: וְאֶ֨תְּנָ֔ה כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר תֹּאמְר֖וּ אֵלָ֑י (1)“and I will give/pay {you} whatever you request/ask/require from me.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 11.
Then give the young woman to me as a wife
Quote: וּתְנוּ לִ֥י אֶת הַֽנַּעֲרָ֖ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)“{Just please} give the young woman to me to marry.” or “{Just/Only please} let me marry the young woman.” See how you translated “young woman” in verse 3.
Genesis 34:13
Then the sons of Jacob answered Shechem and Hamor his father with deceit when they spoke
Quote: וַיַּעֲנ֨וּ בְנֵֽי יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶת שְׁכֶ֨ם וְאֶת חֲמ֥וֹר אָבִ֛יו בְּמִרְמָ֖ה וַיְדַבֵּ֑רוּ (1)“Then/But Jacob’s sons responded/replied to Shechem and his father Hamor in a deceitful/deceptive way” or “Jacob’s sons responded/replied to Shechem and his father Hamor but deceived/tricked them”
because he had defiled Dinah their sister
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר טִמֵּ֔א אֵ֖ת דִּינָ֥ה אֲחֹתָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because he/Shechem had dishonored/disgraced their sister Dinah.” or “because he/Shechem had done a shameful thing to their sister Dinah.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “But because/since Shechem had defiled/dishonored their sister Dinah, the sons of Jacob deceived/tricked Shechem and his father Hamor 14 by saying to them,” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 34:14
And they said to them
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֲלֵיהֶ֗ם (1)“and said to them,” or “They said to them,” Consider whether it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence that started in verse 13.
We are not able to do this thing
Quote: לֹ֤א נוּכַל֙ לַעֲשׂוֹת֙ הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“We are not able to do such a thing as” or “It would be not be acceptable/right for us”
to give our sister to a man who has a foreskin
Quote: לָתֵת֙ אֶת אֲחֹתֵ֔נוּ לְאִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁר ל֣וֹ עָרְלָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“to let our sister marry a man {like you} who has not had his foreskin removed,” or “to allow a man {like you} who is not circumcised to marry our sister,” Translate “who has a foreskin” in a way that will not offend or embarrass people, especially when hearing your translation read aloud.
because that {is} a disgrace to us
Quote: כִּֽי חֶרְפָּ֥ה הִ֖וא לָֽנוּ (1)“because that would dishonor/humiliate our family!” or “That would cause {great} shame/humiliation to our family!” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 34:15
Only on this {condition} will we consent with you
Quote: אַךְ בְּזֹ֖את נֵא֣וֹת לָכֶ֑ם (1)“The only way that we will/can agree with your proposal {is}” or “We will/can do what you want/ask only if you do this one thing:”
if you become like us
Quote: אִ֚ם תִּהְי֣וּ כָמֹ֔נוּ (1)“if {first} you {and your people} become like us” or “You {and your people} must {first} become like us”
by every male among you being circumcised
Quote: לְהִמֹּ֥ל לָכֶ֖ם כָּל זָכָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“by circumcising all your males.” See how you translated “circumcised” in Gen 17:10.
Genesis 34:16
Then we will give our daughters to you, and we will take your daughters for us
Quote: וְנָתַ֤נּוּ אֶת בְּנֹתֵ֨ינוּ֙ לָכֶ֔ם וְאֶת בְּנֹתֵיכֶ֖ם נִֽקַּֽח לָ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“Then we will let our daughters marry your {young men}, and our {young men} will marry your daughters.” or “{If/After you do that,} then we will allow your {young men} to marry our daughters, and {we will allow} your daughters to marry our {young men}.” The pronouns “we,” “our,” and “us” are exclusive in verses 14-17 except for the last “we” in verse 16. Also see how you translated “give … daughters … take … daughters …” in verse 9.
And we will settle with you
Quote: וְיָשַׁ֣בְנוּ אִתְּכֶ֔ם (1)“We will {also} settle/live among you {in this land},” See how you translated “settle with” in verse 10.
and we will become one people
Quote: וְהָיִ֖ינוּ לְעַ֥ם אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“so that we become one people group.” or “and as a result we will {all} be/become one people/ethnic group.” Here the “we” is inclusive because Jacob’s sons are including Shechem and Hamor’s people. If you have an inclusive form of this pronoun in your language, you could use it here.
Genesis 34:17
But if you will not listen to us to be circumcised
Quote: וְאִם לֹ֧א תִשְׁמְע֛וּ אֵלֵ֖ינוּ לְהִמּ֑וֹל (1)“But/However if you refuse to agree with our requirement that you circumcise {your people/males},” or “But if you will/do not circumcise {your males} as we require/say,”
then we will take our daughter and go
Quote: וְלָקַ֥חְנוּ אֶת בִּתֵּ֖נוּ וְהָלָֽכְנוּ (1)“then we will take our {father’s/family’s} daughter {from you} and go/move {somewhere else}.” or “then we will leave and take our sister with us.” The phrase “our daughter” reflects the fact that Jacob’s sons are using their father’s perspective and authority here. If that is confusing, you could say “our sister” instead. See how you translated “our {family’s} daughter” in verse 8.
Genesis 34:18
And their words were good in the eyes of Hamor and in the eyes of Shechem, Hamor’s son
Quote: וַיִּֽיטְב֥וּ דִבְרֵיהֶ֖ם בְּעֵינֵ֣י חֲמ֑וֹר וּבְעֵינֵ֖י שְׁכֶ֥ם בֶּן חֲמֽוֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“What Jacob’s sons said/proposed seemed good to Hamor and his son Shechem.” or “Hamor and his son Shechem were pleased {and agreed to do} what Jacob’s sons said/proposed.” See how you translated the idiom “good in … eyes” in Gen 19:8. It may need to be translated in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 34:19
So the young man did not delay
Quote: וְלֹֽא אֵחַ֤ר הַנַּ֨עַר֙ (1)“So Shechem immediately started” or “So right away Shechem took action”
to do the thing
Quote: לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת הַדָּבָ֔ר (1)“to do/fulfill what they required/proposed,” or “to do/fulfill their requirement,”
because he was delighted with the daughter of Jacob
Quote: כִּ֥י חָפֵ֖ץ בְּבַֽת יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“because he was thrilled with Jacob’s daughter {Dinah}.” or “because he was deeply/completely in love with Jacob’s daughter {Dinah}.”
and he was honored more than all of the house of his father
Quote: וְה֣וּא נִכְבָּ֔ד מִכֹּ֖ל בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{He was able to get people/everyone to do what he wanted} because he was the most respected person in his father’s household/family.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “So right away Shechem, who was the most respected member in his father’s household/family, started to do what they required, because he was thrilled with Jacob’s daughter.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 34:20
So Hamor and Shechem his son went to the gate of their city
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א חֲמ֛וֹר וּשְׁכֶ֥ם בְּנ֖וֹ אֶל־שַׁ֣עַר עִירָ֑ם (1)“In fact, he/Shechem and his father Hamor went {straight/directly} to their city’s gates/entrance {for a town meeting},”
and they spoke to the men of their city, saying
Quote: וַֽיְדַבְּר֛וּ אֶל אַנְשֵׁ֥י עִירָ֖ם לֵאמֹֽר (1)“and they spoke to the city elders/leaders {who had gathered there}. They said,” or “and they told the elders/leaders of their city {about Jacob and his sons},” In that culture the leaders of a city held their meetings at the main city gates (as in Gen 23:3). Cities were surrounded by walls (that had gates) for protection. You could put some of that information in a footnote so that people understand what was happening.
Genesis 34:21
These men {are} peaceful with us
Quote: הָאֲנָשִׁ֨ים הָאֵ֜לֶּה שְֽׁלֵמִ֧ים הֵ֣ם אִתָּ֗נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“These people are friendly toward us,” or “Jacob and his family are at peace with us,” Here “us” includes Hamor, Shechem and the men they are talking to.
so let them settle in the land
Quote: וְיֵשְׁב֤וּ בָאָ֨רֶץ֙ (1)“so {let’s} allow them to live/stay in the/our land” or “so we should let them live/stay in the/our land”. See how you translated “settle” in verse 10.
and let them trade in it
Quote: וְיִסְחֲר֣וּ אֹתָ֔הּ (1)“and trade {freely} here.” or “and let them buy and sell things {wherever they want}.” See how you translated “trade in it” in verse 10.
And behold, the land {is} broad of hands before them
Quote: וְהָאָ֛רֶץ הִנֵּ֥ה רַֽחֲבַת יָדַ֖יִם לִפְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Look, there is enough land to support them {and us}.” or “After all, there is more than enough space/room in the/this land for them {too}.”
We can take their daughters for ourselves as wives, and we can give our daughters to them
Quote: אֶת בְּנֹתָם֙ נִקַּֽח לָ֣נוּ לְנָשִׁ֔ים וְאֶת בְּנֹתֵ֖ינוּ נִתֵּ֥ן לָהֶֽם (1)“{That way too,} we can take/choose their daughters to be {our} wives, and we can let their {young} men marry our daughters.” or “{Besides that,} {then} our {young men} can marry their daughters, and their {young men} can marry our daughters.” See how you translated similar clauses in verses 9 and 16. It may be necessary to translate these in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 34:22
Only on this {condition} will the men consent with us to settle with us
Quote: אַךְ בְּ֠זֹאת יֵאֹ֨תוּ לָ֤נוּ הָאֲנָשִׁים֙ לָשֶׁ֣בֶת אִתָּ֔נוּ (1)“There is just one thing/condition/requirement: They will only agree to settle/live among us” or “But they will only consent/agree to settle/live among us”. See how you began verse 15, which is very similar to verse 22.
to become one people
Quote: לִהְי֖וֹת לְעַ֣ם אֶחָ֑ד (1)“and become one people group {with us}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 16.
when every male among us is circumcised
Quote: בְּהִמּ֥וֹל לָ֨נוּ֙ כָּל זָכָ֔ר (1)“if all our males are circumcised” or “if we circumcise all our males”. See how you translated “every male among … circumcised” in verse 15.
just as they are circumcised
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר הֵ֥ם נִמֹּלִֽים (1)“as their males are.” or “so that we are like them.”
Genesis 34:23
Their livestock and their property and all their animals
Quote: מִקְנֵהֶ֤ם וְקִנְיָנָם֙ וְכָל בְּהֶמְתָּ֔ם (1)“{Then} all their livestock and animals, and {all} their {other} property/possessions” or “{But if we do that,} {all} their property/possessions, {including} their livestock and all their {other} animals”
will they not {belong} to us
Quote: הֲל֥וֹא לָ֖נוּ הֵ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“will belong to us!” or “will be ours!” This rhetorical question emphasizes that all of Jacob’s livestock and property will belong to the people of Shechem. If a rhetorical question does not fit here in your language, you could make this a statement.
Only let us consent with them
Quote: אַ֚ךְ נֵא֣וֹתָה לָהֶ֔ם (1)“{So} let’s just agree to do what they require,” or “{So} we should just do what they propose/require”
and they will settle with us
Quote: וְיֵשְׁב֖וּ אִתָּֽנוּ (1)“so that they will settle/live among us!” See how you translated “settle with us” in verses 10 and 22.
Genesis 34:24
And all who went out of the gate of his city listened
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמְע֤וּ & כָּל יֹצְאֵ֖י שַׁ֣עַר עִיר֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“All {the men} who were citizens/leaders/elders of the city” or “All the men/leaders/elders who were {there} at the city gate/entrance”. Make sure that your translation of this idiom refers here to the same men who had gathered at the city gates in verse 20.
And … listened to Hamor and to Shechem his son
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמְע֤וּ אֶל חֲמוֹר֙ וְאֶל שְׁכֶ֣ם בְּנ֔וֹ (1)“agreed with Hamor and his son Shechem,” or “agreed to do what Hamor and his son Shechem said,”
and every male was circumcised, all who went out of the gate of his city
Quote: וַיִּמֹּ֨לוּ֙ כָּל זָכָ֔ר כָּל יֹצְאֵ֖י שַׁ֥עַר עִירֽוֹ (1)“so all of them and all the other males in the city were circumcised.” or “so they circumcised every male in the city, including themselves.”
Genesis 34:25
Then it happened on the third day
Quote: וַיְהִי֩ בַיּ֨וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֜י (1)“On the third day {after that},” or “Three days later,”
when they were in pain
Quote: בִּֽהְיוֹתָ֣ם כֹּֽאֲבִ֗ים (1)“when the men of {the city of} Shechem were {all} {still} sore {from being circumcised},” or “when it was {still} painful for the men of the city {to move/walk},”
then two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, brothers of Dinah, each took
Quote: וַיִּקְח֣וּ שְׁנֵֽי בְנֵי יַ֠עֲקֹב שִׁמְע֨וֹן וְלֵוִ֜י אֲחֵ֤י דִינָה֙ אִ֣ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, {who were} Dinah’s brothers, took” These brothers had the same father and mother as Dinah. Some languages have a special term for this. Do what is best in your language.
his sword and went upon the city boldly
Quote: חַרְבּ֔וֹ וַיָּבֹ֥אוּ עַל הָעִ֖יר בֶּ֑טַח (1)“their swords and attacked the city, with no one opposing/resisting them.” See how you translated “sword” in Gen 27:40.
and killed every male
Quote: וַיַּֽהַרְג֖וּ כָּל זָכָֽר (1)“They killed all the males/men {there}”. The children who were males were probably not killed, since later (verse 29) it says that all the children were captured. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 26.
Genesis 34:26
And they killed Hamor and Shechem his son with the mouth of the sword
Quote: וְאֶת חֲמוֹר֙ וְאֶת שְׁכֶ֣ם בְּנ֔וֹ הָרְג֖וּ לְפִי חָ֑רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“with their swords, including Hamor and his son Shechem.” Some languages have dual pronouns for “they” and “you” that can be used in verses 25-26 and 30-31 to refer to Simeon and Levi. Do what is best in your language.
and they took Dinah from the house of Shechem
Quote: וַיִּקְח֧וּ אֶת דִּינָ֛ה מִבֵּ֥ית שְׁכֶ֖ם (1)“Then they took/got/rescued Dinah from Shechem’s house”
and left
Quote: וַיֵּצֵֽאוּ (1)“and left {the city}.” or “and returned {home}.”
Genesis 34:27
The sons of Jacob came upon the slain and plundered the city
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֗ב בָּ֚אוּ עַל הַ֣חֲלָלִ֔ים וַיָּבֹ֖זּוּ הָעִ֑יר (1)“{Then/Next} {all} Jacob’s sons went {into the city} and took everything valuable from/off the dead bodies and from {the rest of} the city,” All of Jacob’s sons probably joined Simeon and Levi in plundering the city, after those two had killed all the men there (verse 25).
because they had defiled their sister
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר טִמְּא֖וּ אֲחוֹתָֽם (1)“{They did that} because {that was where} Shechem had defiled/dishonored/disgraced their sister.” or “to get revenge for the shameful thing that had been done to their sister {there}.” See how you translated “defiled” in verses 5 and 13. Even though Shechem was the one who actually defiled Dinah (verses 2, 5, 7, 13), Jacob’s sons held everyone in the city responsible for the crime that their ruler’s son had committed (verses 25-29). If that is not clear, you could put that information in a footnote. Make sure that your translation of “they” does not refer to Jacob’s sons.
Genesis 34:28
They took their flock{s} and their herd{s} and their donkeys, and what {was} in the city and what {was} in the field{s
Quote: אֶת צֹאנָ֥ם וְאֶת בְּקָרָ֖ם וְאֶת חֲמֹרֵיהֶּ֑ם וְאֵ֧ת אֲשֶׁר בָּעִ֛יר וְאֶת אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּשָּׂדֶ֖ה לָקָֽחוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“They took away the people’s sheep and goats, their cattle, their donkeys, and everything else {they wanted} from inside the city and from out in the fields/countryside.” or “They plundered whatever was inside the city and out in the {surrounding} fields/area, including the people’s flocks {of sheep and goats}, their herds {of cattle}, and their donkeys.” See how you translated “donkeys” in Gen 32:15.
Genesis 34:29
And all their wealth and all their little ones and their women they took captive, and they also plundered everything that {was} in the houses
Quote: וְאֶת כָּל חֵילָ֤ם וְאֶת כָּל טַפָּם֙ וְאֶת נְשֵׁיהֶ֔ם שָׁב֖וּ וַיָּבֹ֑זּוּ וְאֵ֖ת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּבָּֽיִת (1)“They carried away all the valuable things the people of Shechem had owned, including everything that was in their houses. They also captured all their women and children.” or “They took away everything that was valuable and also captured all the children and women. They seized and took away everything that was in the houses.” See how you translated “plundered” in verse 27.
Genesis 34:30
Then Jacob said to Simeon and to Levi
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶל־שִׁמְע֣וֹן וְאֶל־לֵוִי֮ (1)“Later/Afterwards {when they came home,} Jacob scolded/rebuked Simeon and Levi {by saying},”
You have brought trouble on me
Quote: עֲכַרְתֶּ֣ם אֹתִי֒ (1)“You have brought/caused me {serious} trouble/problems” or “You have put me/us in great danger”
by making me stink among {those} who live in the land, among the Canaanites and among the Perizzites
Quote: לְהַבְאִישֵׁ֨נִי֙ בְּיֹשֵׁ֣ב הָאָ֔רֶץ בַּֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י וּבַפְּרִזִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“by causing the people who live in this land to despise/hate me/us, {including/especially} the Canaanites and Perizzites!” or “by causing the Canaanites and Perizzites who live in this land to despise/hate me/us!” The idiom “making me stink” means Jacob’s sons had caused him to have a very bad reputation, so that people would hate him and his family. Some languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “the Canaanites” and “the Perizzites” in Gen 13:7; 15:20-21. There were other people groups also living in the land, but these two groups are the ones being emphasized here.
And I am few of number
Quote: וַאֲנִי֙ מְתֵ֣י מִסְפָּ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“I/We {only} have a few men {to defend us},” or “I/We don’t have many people {in our family/household},” The words “I,” “me,” and “my” refer in this verse to all of Jacob’s family; he uses these pronouns because he is the leader of his family.
and if they gather together against me and attack me
Quote: וְנֶאֶסְפ֤וּ עָלַי֙ וְהִכּ֔וּנִי (1)“so if they {all} join {forces} against me/us and attack me/us,” Make sure your use of the pronouns “me” or “us” fits with the way you translate the rest of this sentence.
then I will be destroyed, I and my house
Quote: וְנִשְׁמַדְתִּ֖י אֲנִ֥י וּבֵיתִֽי (1)“then I/we and my/our family/household will be destroyed/killed!” or “they will destroy/annihilate/kill me/us and {the rest of} my/our family/household!”
Genesis 34:31
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֑וּ (1)“But Simeon and Levi responded/replied {angrily},”
Should he have treated our sister like a prostitute
Quote: הַכְזוֹנָ֕ה יַעֲשֶׂ֖ה אֶת אֲחוֹתֵֽנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“He/Shechem should not have treated our sister like/as a prostitute/whore!” or “We couldn’t let him/Shechem {just} get away with treating our sister like/as a {cheap,} immoral woman!” This rhetorical question shows Simeon and Levi’s anger and emphasizes that Shechem was wrong to do what he did and implies that he (and his city) deserved justice. Some languages have an idiom for this. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 35
Genesis 35:1
Then God said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God told/commanded Jacob,” Translate this quote margin in a way that is natural in your language and that fits with what God says.
Get up
Quote: ק֛וּם (1)“Get ready/packed” or “Leave here”
go up to Bethel and settle there
Quote: עֲלֵ֥ה בֵֽית אֵ֖ל וְשֶׁב שָׁ֑ם (1)“and travel to {the town of} Bethel and live there.” or “and move to {the town of} Bethel.” The verb “go up” reflects the fact that the town of Bethel is higher in elevation than the city of Shechem; it does not refer to the direction they were going, which was south. Many translations leave “up” implied (to prevent confusion). Do what is best in your language.
and make an altar there
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה שָׁ֣ם מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Build an altar there {and offer sacrifices on it}”. See how you translated “altar” in Gen 33:20.
to the God
Quote: לָאֵל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“to {me as} the God” or “to {me,} the God” or “to worship {me as} the God”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is referring to himself as he speaks here to Jacob.
who appeared to you
Quote: הַנִּרְאֶ֣ה אֵלֶ֔יךָ (1)“who appeared/came to you {there}” or “who introduced himself/myself to you {there}”. See how you translated “appeared” in Gen 26:2, 24.
when you were fleeing
Quote: בְּבָרְחֲךָ֔ (1)“when you were running away”. See how you translated “flee” in Gen 31:20-21, 27.
from the presence of Esau your brother
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י עֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִֽיךָ (1)“from {the anger of} your brother Esau.” or “from your brother Esau.”
Genesis 35:2
So Jacob said to his household
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל בֵּית֔וֹ (1)“So Jacob told {the members of} his household/family”
and to all who {were} with him
Quote: וְאֶ֖ל כָּל אֲשֶׁ֣ר עִמּ֑וֹ (1)“and everyone {else} who {was} with him,” This included Jacob’s servants and the people (women and children) whom his sons had just captured from the city of Shechem (Gen 34:29). You could put some of that information in a footnote.
Remove the foreign gods that {are} among you
Quote: הָסִ֜רוּ אֶת אֱלֹהֵ֤י הַנֵּכָר֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּתֹכְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“Get rid of the idols you have that other/pagan people/ethnic groups worship.” or “Give up the idols that you got/have from foreigners”. See how you translated “idols” and “gods” in Gen 31:19, 30, 32.
and purify yourselves
Quote: וְהִֽטַּהֲר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“and cleanse yourselves” or “Also wash and make yourselves clean”. They were to make themselves physically clean as a sign that they were preparing themselves mentally and spiritually to worship God (as their only God) at Bethel, which was a holy place where God had met with Jacob before. Some languages may have a special word for “purify” that communicates this. Do what is best in your language. Also consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and change your clothes
Quote: וְהַחֲלִ֖יפוּ שִׂמְלֹתֵיכֶֽם (1)“and put/get on clean clothes.”
Genesis 35:3
Then let us get up
Quote: וְנָק֥וּמָה (1)“Then we will/must pack up {our things/belongings}” or “Then we will/must leave here”. See how you translated “get up” in verse 1.
and go up to Bethel
Quote: וְנַעֲלֶ֖ה בֵּֽית אֵ֑ל (1)“and go/move to {the town of} Bethel,” See how you translated “go up” in verse 1.
and there I will make an altar to God
Quote: וְאֶֽעֱשֶׂה שָּׁ֣ם מִזְבֵּ֗חַ לָאֵ֞ל (1)“where I/we will build an altar to worship God,” or “There I/we will build an altar and worship God,” The Hebrew text has “I” here, but probably also implies that others in Jacob’s household would help him build the altar. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated “make an altar” in verse 1.
who answered me
Quote: הָעֹנֶ֤ה אֹתִי֙ (1)“because he answered/helped me” or “who answered/granted my prayers {for help}”
in the day of my distress
Quote: בְּי֣וֹם צָֽרָתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“during the days/time/times when I was in distress/trouble.” The phrase “In the day of” is used here as an idiom that could refer to the time when Jacob was fleeing from Esau, or it could be more general and also include other times when Jacob was suffering, such as the years he worked for Laban.
And he has been with me
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ עִמָּדִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“He has {always} been/stayed with me/us {and taken care of me/us}”. See how you translated the idiom “with me” in Gen 31:5, where it also means that God is not only present with him but also helps him and takes care of him.
in the way that I have gone
Quote: בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָלָֽכְתִּי (1)“everywhere that I/we have gone/traveled.”
Genesis 35:4
So they gave to Jacob
Quote: וַיִּתְּנ֣וּ אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)“So/Then they gave Jacob” or “So/Then they handed/turned over to Jacob”
all the foreign gods that {were} in their hand{s
Quote: אֵ֣ת כָּל אֱלֹהֵ֤י הַנֵּכָר֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּיָדָ֔ם (1)“all the foreign/pagan gods/idols that they had {with them}” or “all their idols”. See how you translated “foreign gods” in verse 2. You could translate this differently here since this is the second time they are mentioned in this paragraph.
and the rings that {were} in their ears
Quote: וְאֶת הַנְּזָמִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּאָזְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“and the earrings they wore on their ears.” or “and {all} their earrings.” These earrings seem to have been part of their idol worship and may have had images of their idols on them. You could include that information in a footnote.
and Jacob hid them
Quote: וַיִּטְמֹ֤ן אֹתָם֙ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“Then Jacob hid/buried everything {in the ground}” or “Then Jacob hid/buried all those things {in the ground}”
under
Quote: תַּ֥חַת (1)“beside” or “at the foot/base of”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob buried these things in the ground beside the tree, not directly under the trunk of the tree.
the terebinth tree
Quote: הָאֵלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“the/a terebinth/oak tree”. Although this phrase refers to a terebinth tree, many translations have “oak tree” instead, or some other type of large, strong tree that is well known. See how you translated a different Hebrew word that is also translated “terebinth tree” or “oak tree” in Gen 12:6; 13:18; 14:13; 18:1. Another Hebrew word in Gen 35:8 is also translated as “oak.”
that {was} by Shechem
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עִם שְׁכֶֽם (1)“that {was} near {the city of} Shechem.”
Genesis 35:5
Then they set out
Quote: וַיִּסָּ֑עוּ (1)“Then they {all} left there {and started traveling},” or “Then Jacob and everyone with him left that place,”
and the dread of God was on the cities that {were} around them, so that … not
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י חִתַּ֣ת אֱלֹהִ֗ים עַל הֶֽעָרִים֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ סְבִיבֹ֣תֵיהֶ֔ם וְלֹ֣א (1)“and God caused {the people in} the surrounding/nearby cities/towns to be terrified/afraid, so that” or “and God made {the people in} the nearby cities/towns so afraid that”. The Hebrew word “Elohim” probably means “God” in this phrase (as it usually does in the Bible); most English versions translate it that way here. Or it could be an adjective that modifies “dread/terror” and means “great/deep dread/terror” (similar to Gen 23:6, 30:8). See how you translated “dread” in Gen 9:2.
so that they did not pursue after
Quote: וְלֹ֣א רָֽדְפ֔וּ אַחֲרֵ֖י (1)“they did not attack” or “no one attacked” or “none of them chased/came/went after”. Make sure your translation of “they” refers here to the people in the surrounding towns, not Jacob’s sons.
the sons of Jacob
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Jacob’s sons/family {to avenge the people of Shechem}.” or “them.” or “Jacob and his family.” Jacob’s sons are mentioned here since they are in focus as the ones who just plundered the city of Shechem; Jacob and the rest of his family were there with his sons and were also in danger.
Genesis 35:6
Then Jacob came to Luz
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א יַעֲקֹ֜ב ל֗וּזָה (1)“Then/Soon Jacob/they arrived at {the town of} Luz,” Be consistent in this verse with how you spelled “Luz” and “Bethel” in Gen 28:19.
which {is} Bethel
Quote: הִ֖וא בֵּֽית אֵ֑ל (1)“which {is also/now called/named} Bethel,” or “that {is}, Bethel,” or “which {also/now has the name} Bethel,” See how you translated “which is” in Gen 23:2, 19.
which {is} in the land of Canaan
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“which is {also} in Canaan,” Since Shechem (verse 4) and Bethel were both in the land or region of Canaan, for some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this location phrase earlier in the verse and say, “Jacob/He and his family {continued traveling} in the land/region of Canaan and arrived at {the town of} Luz, which {also/now has the name} Bethel,” Do what is best in your language.
he and all the people who {were} with him
Quote: ה֖וּא וְכָל הָעָ֥ם אֲשֶׁר עִמּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“he/Jacob and his whole/entire household/family.” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase near the beginning of this verse. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 35:7
And there he built an altar
Quote: וַיִּ֤בֶן שָׁם֙ מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“There he/Jacob built an altar,” or “Then he/Jacob built an altar there,” Consider again how you translated “altar” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 8:20; 12:7-8; 13:4, 18; 22:9; 26:25; 33:20; 35:1, 3, 7.
and he called the place
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֙ לַמָּק֔וֹם (1)“and he named the/that place” or “and he called/named it”
El Bethel
Quote: אֵ֖ל בֵּֽית אֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“El Bethel, {which means “the God of/at Bethel,”}” or “El Bethel, {which means “the God of/at God’s house,”}”
because there
Quote: כִּ֣י שָׁ֗ם (1)“because that is where” or “because it was at Bethel that”
God had revealed himself to him
Quote: נִגְל֤וּ אֵלָיו֙ הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“God had {first} introduced himself to him/Jacob” or “God had {first} appeared to him/Jacob”. Compare how you translated a different Hebrew word that has a similar meaning (“appeared”) in verses 1 and 9.
when he was fleeing
Quote: בְּבָרְח֖וֹ (1)“when/while he was running away”. See how you translated “fleeing” in verse 1.
from the presence of his brother
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֥י אָחִֽיו (1)“from {the anger of} his brother.” or “from his brother.” See how you translated “from the presence of” in verse 1.
Genesis 35:8
Then Deborah, the nurse of Rebekah, died
Quote: וַתָּ֤מָת דְּבֹרָה֙ מֵינֶ֣קֶת רִבְקָ֔ה (1)“Then {while they were still in Bethel,} Rebekah’s {former} nurse/nanny Deborah died” or “{While they were there,} Deborah died. She was the servant who had helped raise {Jacob’s mother} Rebekah {when she was young}.” See how you translated “nurse” in Gen 24:59.
and was buried
Quote: וַתִּקָּבֵ֛ר (1)“and {her body} was buried {by Jacob} {in the ground}” or “They/Jacob buried her {body} {in the ground}”
below Bethel
Quote: מִתַּ֥חַת לְבֵֽית אֵ֖ל (1)“{in the valley} below/near {the town of} Bethel,” or “{at a place} south of {the town of} Bethel,” The town of Bethel was built on a hill, so the phrase “below Bethel” means that Deborah was buried near Bethel, in a valley or place that was lower in elevation than the town, and possibly to the south of it.
under the oak tree
Quote: תַּ֣חַת הָֽאַלּ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“beside the/an oak tree” or “at the foot/base of an oak tree.” See how you translated a similar phrase (“under the terebinth/oak tree”) in verse 4. Many translations translate this phrase the same way in both places (“under an oak tree”), even though different Hebrew words are used for the type of tree. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put this phrase before the previous phrase and say, “at the base of an oak tree, below/near {the town of} Bethel.” Do what is best in your language.
So he called its name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So he/they named the tree/place” or “That is why the/that place is known as”. The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) that people in general called the tree or place Allon Bacuth; or (2) that Jacob was the one who named the place. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 31:38.
Allon Bacuth
Quote: אַלּ֥וֹן בָּכֽוּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Allon Bacuth, {which means “oak tree of weeping/mourning.”}” or “Allon Bacuth, {which means “oak tree where people mourn.”}” If you include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translated “oak tree” in the previous sentence.
Genesis 35:9
Then God appeared to Jacob again when he had come from Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים אֶֽל יַעֲקֹב֙ ע֔וֹד בְּבֹא֖וֹ מִפַּדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Now that Jacob had come/returned from {the land/region of} Paddan Aram, God appeared to him {at Bethel} again” or “Now that Jacob had come/returned {to Bethel} from {the land/region of} Paddan Aram, God appeared to him {there} again”
and he blessed him
Quote: וַיְבָ֖רֶךְ אֹתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“and blessed him” or “and showed his goodness/kindness toward him” or “God blessed him”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 35:10
and God said to him
Quote: וַיֹּֽאמֶר ל֥וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said to him,” or “by saying to him,” What God says to Jacob in verses 10-12 is the blessing. So make sure your translation of “blessed” (verse 9) and “said” (verse 10) refers to the same event, not two separate events. See how you translated “blessed … and said” in Gen 1:28.
Your name {is} Jacob
Quote: שִׁמְךָ֣ יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“{Although} your name {has been} Jacob,” Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like God was telling Jacob something he did not know.
Your name will not be called Jacob anymore
Quote: לֹֽא יִקָּרֵא֩ שִׁמְךָ֨ ע֜וֹד יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)“that will no longer be your {only} name,” or “it will no longer be Jacob/that,” Notice that Jacob is referred to by both of his names in this chapter (“Jacob” in verses 11-20, 22-29; “Israel” in verses 10 and 21). You could put that information in a footnote. Also see how you translated this clause in Gen 32:28, and see the note about Jacob’s names there.
but Israel will be your name
Quote: כִּ֤י אִם יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה שְׁמֶ֔ךָ (1)“Rather, your name will {also} be Israel!” or “Rather, you will {also} have the name Israel!” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
So he called his name Israel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So {once again} God gave Jacob the name Israel.” This was not the first time God had given Jacob the name Israel (See: Gen 32:28). To make that clear, you could make “once again” explicit here.
Genesis 35:11
Then God said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֩ ל֨וֹ אֱלֹהִ֜ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God {also} said to him/Jacob,” or “Then God {also} {blessed him/Jacob by} saying,” or “God continued {blessing him/Jacob by} saying to him,” In verse 11, God continues the blessing that he started in verse 10, perhaps after a pause.
I {am} God Almighty
Quote: אֲנִ֨י אֵ֤ל שַׁדַּי֙ (1)“I {am} Almighty God.” or “I {am} God {who is} all-powerful.” See how you translated the title “God Almighty” in Gen 17:1 and 28:3.
Be fruitful
Quote: פְּרֵ֣ה (1)“Have many children”. Consider again how you translated “Be fruitful and multiply” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 1:22, 28; 8:17; 9:1, 7; 35:11. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
and multiply
Quote: וּרְבֵ֔ה (1)“and increase {in number}.” or “so that you {and your descendants} become {very} numerous/many.”
A nation and a community of nations will be from you
Quote: גּ֛וֹי וּקְהַ֥ל גּוֹיִ֖ם יִהְיֶ֣ה מִמֶּ֑ךָּ (1)“{Your descendants will become} a {large} people/ethnic group. In fact, many people/ethnic groups will come/descend from you,” or “Your descendants will become many people/ethnic groups,” Compare how you translated a similar phrase (“a multitude of nations”) in Gen 17:4-5 and another similar phrase (“a community of peoples”) in Gen 28:3.
and kings will come from your loins
Quote: וּמְלָכִ֖ים מֵחֲלָצֶ֥יךָ יֵצֵֽאוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and kings will come/descend from you.” or “and some of your descendants will be kings.” The phrase “come from your loins” is an idiom that refers to having children, grandchildren and other descendants. Consider whether you have a similar idiom in your language.
Genesis 35:12
And the land that I gave to Abraham and to Isaac I will give to you, and I will give the land to your descendants after you
Quote: וְאֶת הָאָ֗רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר נָתַ֛תִּי לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם וּלְיִצְחָ֖ק לְךָ֣ אֶתְּנֶ֑נָּה וּֽלְזַרְעֲךָ֥ אַחֲרֶ֖יךָ אֶתֵּ֥ן אֶת הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“{Besides that,} the land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac I {also} give to you and your descendants {who live} after you.” or “Also, I am giving to you the land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac, and I will {also} give it to your descendants {who live} after you.”
Genesis 35:13
Then God went up from him at the place where he spoke with him
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל מֵעָלָ֖יו אֱלֹהִ֑ים בַּמָּק֖וֹם אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֥ר אִתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Then God left Jacob there where he had been speaking/talking to him.” or “After God finished talking to Jacob, he left him there and went up {to heaven}.” See how you translated “went up from” in Gen 17:22.
Genesis 35:14
Then Jacob set up a pillar
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֨ב יַעֲקֹ֜ב מַצֵּבָ֗ה (1)“Then Jacob set/stood a {large} stone up {on its end}” or “Then Jacob took/chose a {large} stone {that was there} and set/stood it up {on its end}”. See how you translated a similar passage in Gen 28:18 about Jacob setting up a memorial stone pillar.
at the place where he had spoken with him, a pillar of stone
Quote: בַּמָּק֛וֹם אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֥ר אִתּ֖וֹ מַצֶּ֣בֶת אָ֑בֶן (1)“at the place where God had spoken/talked to him, to mark the place {as special}.” or “as a memorial stone to remember the place where God had spoken/talked to him.”
and he poured a drink offering on it, and he poured oil on it
Quote: וַיַּסֵּ֤ךְ עָלֶ֨יהָ֙ נֶ֔סֶךְ וַיִּצֹ֥ק עָלֶ֖יהָ שָֽׁמֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then he poured some wine and some {olive} oil on the stone pillar/marker {to thank God and dedicate the place to him}.” A drink offering was probably wine that Jacob poured on the stone as a sacrifice to God, to worship and thank him. See how you translated “poured oil on …” in Gen 28:18.
Genesis 35:15
And Jacob called the name of the place where God spoke with him Bethel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶת שֵׁ֣ם הַמָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁר֩ דִּבֶּ֨ר אִתּ֥וֹ שָׁ֛ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים בֵּֽית אֵֽל (1)“Then Jacob called/named that place Bethel, {which means “house of God,”} because God had spoken/talked to him there.” or “Since God had spoken/talked to Jacob at that place, Jacob named it Bethel, {which means “God’s house.”}” See how you translated “called the name of that place Bethel” in Gen 28:19.
Genesis 35:16
Then they set out from Bethel
Quote: וַיִּסְעוּ֙ מִבֵּ֣ית אֵ֔ל (1)“Then they left {the town of} Bethel” or “Later Jacob and his family moved on from {the town of} Bethel”. Be consistent here with how you spelled “Bethel” throughout the book of Genesis and whether you refer to it as a town or a city. See Gen 12:8; 13:3; 28:19; 31:13; 35:1, 3, 7, 15, 16.
and there was still a distance of land to come to Ephrath
Quote: וַֽיְהִי ע֥וֹד כִּבְרַת הָאָ֖רֶץ לָב֣וֹא אֶפְרָ֑תָה (1)“and started {heading} toward {the town of} Ephrath. But while they were still a distance away from there,” or “and headed for {the town of} Ephrath. While they were still some distance from there,” The phrase “a distance of land” is very general, but your translation should not make it sound like the distance was too far, because Rachel’s grave is about two kilometers (one mile) from Ephrath (Bethlehem).
Then Rachel started giving birth
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד רָחֵ֖ל (1)“{Jacob’s/his wife} Rachel, {who was pregnant,} began to have labor/childbirth pains,” or “Rachel went into labor,”
but was having great difficulty while she was giving birth
Quote: וַתְּקַ֥שׁ בְּלִדְתָּֽהּ (1)“but she was having a very difficult time delivering the baby.” or “but she was experiencing great difficulty.”
Genesis 35:17
And it happened when she was in hard labor
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י בְהַקְשֹׁתָ֖הּ בְּלִדְתָּ֑הּ (1)“Then when her labor pain was at its worst,” or “Then when she was at the most difficult/painful point/time in her labor,” or “Then when her labor/childbirth pains were the most severe,” The phrase “hard labor” refers to when childbirth contractions are close together and very painful, often right before a baby is born.
then the midwife said to her
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר לָ֤הּ הַמְיַלֶּ֨דֶת֙ (1)“the midwife told her,” or “{the baby was born and} the midwife/woman who was helping her deliver exclaimed to her,”
Do not be afraid
Quote: אַל תִּ֣ירְאִ֔י (1)“Do not worry/despair!”
because this {is} also a son for you
Quote: כִּֽי גַם זֶ֥ה לָ֖ךְ בֵּֽן (1)“You {now} have another son/boy!” or “You {just} gave birth to another son/boy!”
Genesis 35:18
Then it happened as her soul was leaving {her}—for she was dying
Quote: וַיְהִ֞י בְּצֵ֤את נַפְשָׁהּ֙ כִּ֣י מֵ֔תָה (1)“But Rachel was dying, and as her soul/spirit was leaving her body,” or “But {in fact/reality,} Rachel was about to die, and just/right before her soul/spirit left her,” Some translations use an idiom here, for example, “as she was taking her last breath” or “as her life was slipping/fading away”, but it is best to translate this in a way that preserves the biblical teaching that at death the soul or spirit leaves the body.
then she called his name Ben-oni
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ בֶּן אוֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“she named her baby {boy} Benoni, {which means “son of my sorrow/trouble.”}” The meaning of this name could imply that the child caused Rachel’s death. In the Hebrew text this name is two words connected with a dash (“Ben-oni”). Many translations write it that way or as one word (“Benoni”), and a few translations write it as “Ben Oni.” Any of these spellings is fine.
but his father
Quote: וְאָבִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“But {later,} his father {Jacob}”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that this phrase refers to Jacob. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
called him Benjamin
Quote: קָֽרָא ל֥וֹ בִנְיָמִֽין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“named him Benjamin {instead}.” or “changed his name to Benjamin, {which means “son of my right hand.”}” The phrase “son of my right hand” is an idiom that means “favored son” or “son of strength.”
Genesis 35:19
So Rachel died and was buried
Quote: וַתָּ֖מָת רָחֵ֑ל וַתִּקָּבֵר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“After Rachel died, her body was buried {by Jacob}” or “After Rachel died, they/Jacob buried her {body}”. See how you translated “was buried” in verse 8.
on the way to Ephrath
Quote: בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ אֶפְרָ֔תָה (1)“beside/near the road {that goes} to {the town of} Ephrath,”
which {is} Bethlehem
Quote: הִ֖וא בֵּ֥ית לָֽחֶם (1)“which {is also called/named} Bethlehem.” or “which {also has the name} Bethlehem.” or “that {is}, Bethlehem.” See how you translated a similar phrase (“which is Bethel”) in verse 6.
Genesis 35:20
And Jacob set up a pillar
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֧ב יַעֲקֹ֛ב מַצֵּבָ֖ה (1)“Jacob set/stood a {large} stone up {on its end}”. See how you translated this clause in verse 14. Also consider again how you translated “set up” and “pillar” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 28:18, 22; 31:13, 45, 51, 52; 35:14, 20.
over her grave
Quote: עַל קְבֻרָתָ֑הּ (1)“over/on her burial place {to mark/show where it was}.” or “to mark/show {where} her grave/tomb {was}.” or “to mark the place where they/he had buried her body.”
that {is} the pillar of Rachel’s grave
Quote: הִ֛וא מַצֶּ֥בֶת קְבֻֽרַת רָחֵ֖ל (1)“{In fact,} that {same} pillar/stone still marks Rachel’s/her grave/tomb”
to this day
Quote: עַד הַיּֽוֹם (1)“to/in the present day.” or “today/now.” The phrase “to this day” refers to the time when the author (Moses) was living. Even in modern times, Rachel’s grave is still marked beside the road about eight kilometers (five miles) south of Jerusalem and two kilometers (one mile) north of Bethlehem.
Genesis 35:21
Then Israel set out
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֖ע יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)“Then Israel {that is, Jacob,} {and his family} moved on {from there}” or “Then Israel {and his family} started traveling again”. Make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that “Israel” (verses 21-22) and “Jacob” (verses 20, 22) refer to the same person, not two different people.
and pitched his tents
Quote: וַיֵּ֣ט אָֽהֳלֹ֔ה (1)“and set/put up his/their tents”
beyond
Quote: מֵהָ֖לְאָה (1)“on the other/south side of”. This phrase reflects the perspective of Jacob, who was traveling south.
Migdal Eder
Quote: לְמִגְדַּל עֵֽדֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“the tower of Eder.” or “Eder Tower.” Many translations transliterate “Migdal Eder” (like most other names). Many others translate the meaning of “Migdal” as “the tower” and transliterate “Eder.” A few translate the meaning of the entire name as “the Tower of the Flock.” This was apparently a place near Bethlehem where sheep were raised (Micah 4:8); shepherds may have watched over their flocks from the tower.
Genesis 35:22
And it happened while Israel was living
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י בִּשְׁכֹּ֤ן יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)“While Israel {and his family} were {still} living/staying” or “During the time that they were living/staying”
in that land
Quote: בָּאָ֣רֶץ הַהִ֔וא (1)“in that area/region,” or “there,”
then Reuben went and lay with
Quote: וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ רְאוּבֵ֔ן וַיִּשְׁכַּב֙ אֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“{his/Israel’s son} Reuben slept with” or “{his/Israel’s son} Reuben committed adultery with” or “{his/Israel’s son} Reuben had {physical/sexual} relations with”. Translate this idiom in a way that will not offend or embarrass people, especially when read aloud in public. See how you translated “lain with” in Gen 26:10.
Bilhah, the concubine of his father
Quote: בִּלְהָה֙ פִּילֶ֣גֶשׁ אָבִ֔יו (1)“his father’s concubine/servant-wife Bilhah,”
and Israel heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֖ע יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)“and/but Israel found out {about it}.” or “and Israel was told/informed {by someone} {about it}.” See how you translated “heard” in Gen 34:5, 7.
Now the sons of Jacob were twelve
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֥וּ בְנֵֽי יַעֲקֹ֖ב שְׁנֵ֥ים עָשָֽׂר (1)“{After Benjamin was born,} Jacob’s sons were twelve {in number}.” or “{With/After the birth of Benjamin,} Jacob {now} had {a total of} twelve sons.”
Genesis 35:23
The sons of Leah {were
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י לֵאָ֔ה (1)“The sons {he had} with {his wife} Leah {were}” or “{These are} {the names of} the sons {he had} with {his wife} Leah:” Throughout verses 23-26, many translations have a colon (:) instead of “{were}”. Do what is best in your language. See what you did in chapter 10.
Reuben the firstborn of Jacob
Quote: בְּכ֥וֹר יַעֲקֹ֖ב רְאוּבֵ֑ן (1)“Reuben, {who was} Jacob’s/his firstborn/oldest {child},”
then Simeon and Levi and Judah and Issachar and Zebulun
Quote: וְשִׁמְעוֹן֙ וְלֵוִ֣י וִֽיהוּדָ֔ה וְיִשָּׂשכָ֖ר וּזְבוּלֻֽן (1)“then Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun.”
Genesis 35:24
The sons of Rachel {were} Joseph and Benjamin
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י רָחֵ֔ל יוֹסֵ֖ף וּבִנְיָמִֽן (1)“The sons {he/Jacob had} with Rachel {were} Joseph and Benjamin.” or “These are the names of the sons {that he/Jacob had} with {his wife} Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin.”
Genesis 35:25
And the sons of Bilhah, the maidservant of Rachel, {were} Dan and Naphtali
Quote: וּבְנֵ֤י בִלְהָה֙ שִׁפְחַ֣ת רָחֵ֔ל דָּ֖ן וְנַפְתָּלִֽי (1)“The sons {he/Jacob had} with Rachel’s servant Bilhah {were} Dan and Naphtali.” or “These are {the names of} the sons {that he/Jacob had} with Bilhah, Rachel’s servant: Dan and Naphtali.”
Genesis 35:26
And the sons of Zilpah, the maidservant of Leah, {were} Gad and Asher
Quote: וּבְנֵ֥י זִלְפָּ֛ה שִׁפְחַ֥ת לֵאָ֖ה גָּ֣ד וְאָשֵׁ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“And the sons {he/Jacob had} with Leah’s servant Zilpah {were} Gad and Asher.” or “These are {the names of} the sons {that he/Jacob had} with Leah’s servant Zilpah: Gad and Asher.” Consider again how you translated “maidservant” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16, 16:1-3, 5-6, 8; 20:14; 24:35; 25:12; 29:24, 29; 30:4, 7, 9-10, 12, 18, 43; 32:5, 22; 33:1-2, 6; 35:25-26. It may be necessary to translate this word in slightly different ways, depending on the context. Compare that to how you translated a different Hebrew word that has a similar meaning (“slave/servant woman”); see Gen 31:33 for a list of where this word occurs in Genesis.
Those {are} the sons of Jacob who were born to him
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר יֻלַּד ל֖וֹ (1)“{All} those {are/were} the sons Jacob had” or “Those {are/were} {all} Jacob’s sons that he had”
in Paddan Aram
Quote: בְּפַדַּ֥ן אֲרָֽם (1)“{starting from the time that he lived} in {the region of} Paddan Aram.” Jacob started having children during the time he was living with Laban in Paddan Aram, but his last son Benjamin was not born until after they had left there (verse 18). Translate this in a way that allows for that.
Genesis 35:27
Then Jacob came to Isaac his father
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֤א יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל יִצְחָ֣ק אָבִ֔יו (1)“Then Jacob came/went {home} to his father Isaac {who was living}” or “Then Jacob continued traveling and came to where his father Isaac was {living}”
in Mamre
Quote: מַמְרֵ֖א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“in {the city of} Mamre,” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Mamre” in Gen 23:17, 19.
Kiriath Arba, which {is} Hebron
Quote: קִרְיַ֣ת הָֽאַרְבַּ֑ע הִ֣וא חֶבְר֔וֹן (1)“{which is also/now called} Kiriath Arba, that {is}, Hebron,” or “which {is also known as} Kiriath Arba or Hebron,” or “which {also has the name} Kiriath Arba or Hebron,” See how you translated Gen 23:2, which says that Kiriath Arba (where Sarah died) was also known as Hebron.
where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned
Quote: אֲשֶׁר גָּֽר־שָׁ֥ם אַבְרָהָ֖ם וְיִצְחָֽק (1)“where Abraham and Isaac {and their families} had lived/stayed for a while {as foreigners/outsiders}.” or “That is where Isaac {and his family} had been living/staying for a while {as foreigners/outsiders} and where {his father} Abraham had also lived/stayed for a while.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 35:28
And the days of Isaac were 180 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֖וּ יְמֵ֣י יִצְחָ֑ק מְאַ֥ת שָׁנָ֖ה וּשְׁמֹנִ֥ים שָׁנָֽה (1)“Isaac lived to be 180 years old.” See how you translated “the days of” in Gen 5:4-31 and 11:32.
Genesis 35:29
Then Isaac exhaled and died
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֨ע יִצְחָ֤ק וַיָּ֨מָת֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then Isaac/he breathed out {for the last time} and died,” or “Then he breathed/took his last/final breath and died,” See how you translated “exhaled” in Gen 25:8 and 17.
and he was gathered to
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֣סֶף אֶל (1)“and he was gathered/taken {by God} to be with” or “and {God} took his spirit to be with” or “and he joined”. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 25:8 and 17.
his people
Quote: עַמָּ֔יו (1)“his ancestors/relatives {who had already died}.” or “his ancestors/relatives {who had gone/died before him}.” or “his {deceased} ancestors/relatives.”
old and full of days
Quote: זָקֵ֖ן וּשְׂבַ֣ע יָמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“after living a long, full life.” or “{He was} very old and had lived a long, full life.” For some languages it is more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “Then, after living a long, full life, he breathed/took his last breath, died and joined his ancestors/relatives {who had died before him}.” Do what is best in your language.
And Esau and Jacob, his sons, buried him
Quote: וַיִּקְבְּר֣וּ אֹת֔וֹ עֵשָׂ֥ו וְיַעֲקֹ֖ב בָּנָֽיו (1)“Then his sons Esau and Jacob buried his body.” See how you translated “his sons … buried him” in Gen 25:9.
Genesis 36
Genesis 36:1
And these {are} the generations of Esau
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תֹּלְד֥וֹת עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)“Now this is the genealogy/family-line of Esau,” or “These/Here are the descendants of Esau,” or “Here {is} the/a record/history about the descendants/family of Esau,” See how you translated “the generations of” in 25:12, 19.
who {is} Edom
Quote: ה֥וּא אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“who {was also called} Edom.” or “that is, Edom.” or “whose {name} was {also} Edom.” The name Edom means “red” and is the nickname that Esau got for trading his birthright to Jacob for some reddish-colored stew (Genesis 25:29-34). The region of Edom and the Edomites were named after Esau, which is probably why this chapter repeatedly mentions that Esau is Edom.
Genesis 36:2
Esau had taken his wives from the daughters of Canaan
Quote: עֵשָׂ֛ו לָקַ֥ח אֶת נָשָׁ֖יו מִבְּנ֣וֹת כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Esau had chosen {two of his} wives from {among} the Canaanite women:” or “Esau had married {two} Canaanite women” or “Esau had married {two} women who were descendants of Canaan”. Only the first two wives mentioned in this chapter were Canaanites; see the comment about Basemath at verse 3. The Canaanites were the descendants of Noah’s grandson Canaan (Ham’s son) and included the Hittites and Hivites (verse 2; Genesis 10:15-18) and several other people groups. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
Adah
Quote: אֶת עָדָ֗ה (1)“{whose names were} Adah,” or “{Their names were} Adah,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the daughter of Elon the Hittite
Quote: בַּת אֵילוֹן֙ הַֽחִתִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{who was} the daughter of a Hittite {man} named Elon,” or “whose father was Elon, {who was} a descendant of Heth,” or “the daughter of {a man named} Elon, {who was} a member of the Heth/Hittite people {group},” Make sure your translation does not sound like Elon was the only Hittite. See how you translated “Hittites” in Gen 27:46.
and Oholibamah
Quote: וְאֶת אָהֳלִֽיבָמָה֙ (1)“and {also} Oholibamah,” or “as well as Oholibamah,” Notice that the names of Esau’s two Canaanite wives here are different from the names of his wives mentioned in Gen 26:34. It could be that they each had two names, or these may be different wives that he married later.
the daughter of Anah {and} the {grand}daughter of
Quote: בַּת עֲנָ֔ה בַּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{who was} Anah’s daughter {and} the {grand}daughter of” or “whose father was Anah and whose grandfather was”. Notice that Elon, Anah, and Zibeon are the names of men here, not women.
Zibeon the Hivite
Quote: צִבְע֖וֹן הַֽחִוִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“a Hivite named Zibeon.” or “Zibeon {who was} a descendant of Hivi.” or “Zibeon {who was} a {member of the} Hivi/Hivite people {group}.” Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not sound like Zibeon was the only Hivite. Consider again how you translated “Hivites” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:17; 34:2; 36:2.
Genesis 36:3
and Basemath
Quote: וְאֶת בָּשְׂמַ֥ת (1)“{Esau also married} Basemath,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Since this Basemath was a daughter of Ishmael (who was a descendant of Noah’s son Shem), she was not a Canaanite, in contrast to Esau’s first two wives (verse 2). She was also known as Mahalath (Gen 28:9); you could include some of that information in a footnote. Be consistent here with how you spelled Basemath (a different woman with the same name) in Gen 26:34.
the daughter of Ishmael {and} the sister of Nebaioth
Quote: בַּת יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל אֲח֥וֹת נְבָיֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“{who was} Ishmael’s daughter {and} Nebaioth’s {younger} sister.” or “whose father was Ishmael and whose {older} brother was Nebaioth.” Since Nebaioth was Ishmael’s oldest child (Gen 25:13), Basemath (Mahalath) was his younger sister, probably from the same mother. Use a kinship term here in your language that fits with those facts. See how you translated “the sister of Nebaioth” in Gen 28:9.
Genesis 36:4
And Adah bore Eliphaz for Esau
Quote: וַתֵּ֧לֶד עָדָ֛ה לְעֵשָׂ֖ו אֶת אֱלִיפָ֑ז (1)“{Esau’s wife} Adah bore/had {a son} for/with him {named} Eliphaz,” or “Adah had {a son} for/with Esau {whom they named} Eliphaz,”
and Basemath bore Reuel
Quote: וּבָ֣שְׂמַ֔ת יָלְדָ֖ה אֶת רְעוּאֵֽל (1)“and/while {his wife} Basemath bore/had {a son named} Reuel,” or “{His/Esau’s wife} Basemath had {a son they named} Reuel,” Consider whether or not it is best in your language to break this long sentence into two or more shorter sentences.
Genesis 36:5
and Oholibamah bore
Quote: וְאָהֳלִֽיבָמָה֙ יָֽלְדָ֔ה (1)“and {his/Esau’s wife} Oholibamah bore/had” or “Oholibamah had”
Jeush and Jalam and Korah
Quote: אֶת יעיש וְאֶת יַעְלָ֖ם וְאֶת קֹ֑רַח (1)“{sons named} Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.” or “{sons whom they named} Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.”
Those {were} the sons of Esau who were born for him in the land of Canaan
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י עֵשָׂ֔ו אֲשֶׁ֥ר יֻלְּדוּ ל֖וֹ בְּאֶ֥רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)“Those {were} Esau’s sons that his wives bore/had for/with him {while he and his family were living} in the land/region of Canaan.” or “{All} those {were} Esau’s sons whom he and his wives had {while they lived} in the land/region of Canaan.”
Genesis 36:6
Then Esau took his wives and his sons and his daughters
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח עֵשָׂ֡ו אֶת נָ֠שָׁיו וְאֶת בָּנָ֣יו וְאֶת בְּנֹתָיו֮ (1)“Later Esau took his wives, his sons, his daughters,”
and all the people of his house
Quote: וְאֶת כָּל נַפְשׁ֣וֹת בֵּיתוֹ֒ (1)“and all the {other} members of his household,” This phrase refers to other relatives (besides Esau’s wife and children), as well as servants or slaves who lived with him.
and his livestock and all his animal{s} and all his possession{s
Quote: וְאֶת מִקְנֵ֣הוּ וְאֶת כָּל בְּהֶמְתּ֗וֹ וְאֵת֙ כָּל קִנְיָנ֔וֹ (1)“as well as his livestock and all {the rest of} his animals and all the {other} possessions/belongings”
that he had acquired in the land of Canaan
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר רָכַ֖שׁ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)“that he had gotten/accumulated {while they lived} in the land/region of Canaan,” See how you translated “acquired” and “land of Canaan” in Gen 12:5 and 31:18.
and he went to a land from the presence of Jacob his brother
Quote: וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ אֶל אֶ֔רֶץ מִפְּנֵ֖י יַעֲקֹ֥ב אָחִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and he moved to an area/region {that was} away from his brother Jacob.” or “and he moved/traveled to a {different} region {and settled there,} away from where his brother Jacob was living.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause at the beginning of this verse and say, “Then/Later Esau moved to a land {that was} away from his brother Jacob. He took {with him} his wives …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 36:7
because
Quote: כִּֽי (1)“{He/Esau did that} because” or “The reason {he/Esau moved away} is that”
their possession{s} were {too} great for them to remain together
Quote: הָיָ֧ה רְכוּשָׁ֛ם רָ֖ב מִשֶּׁ֣בֶת יַחְדָּ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“he and Jacob {both} owned so many possessions/livestock that they could no longer live near each other.” or “they {both} owned so many livestock/animals that they could not live together {in the same area/region}.” The phrase “their possessions” is general, but here it refers primarily to livestock. Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to both Esau and Jacob’s livestock, not just Esau’s.
the land of their sojournings
Quote: אֶ֤רֶץ מְגֽוּרֵיהֶם֙ (1)“The land where they were staying/living”. See how you translated Gen 13:6, which is similar in content to this verse.
and … was not able to support them because of their livestock
Quote: וְלֹ֨א יָֽכְלָ֜ה & לָשֵׂ֣את אֹתָ֔ם מִפְּנֵ֖י מִקְנֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
“was {just} not big enough to support/feed them {all} because they owned/had so many livestock/animals.” or “did not have enough grazing areas {or water} to support/feed all the livestock/animals that both families owned/had.” For some languages it is necessary to switch the order of verses 6 and 7, and say, “After a while, Esau and Jacob had so many animals and other possessions that the land was not able to support both their families. So Esau took his wives …” If you do this in your translation, you should label these verses as “6-7”.
Genesis 36:8
So Esau settled
Quote: וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב עֵשָׂו֙ (1)“That is why/how Esau {and his family}” or “That is the reason Esau {took his family and}”
in the mountains of Seir
Quote: בְּהַ֣ר שֵׂעִ֔יר (1)“moved to the hill-country in {the land/region of} Seir.” or “went to live in the Seir Mountains.” or “ended up living in the Seir Mountains.” Esau had already been living in the region of Seir (Genesis 32:3, 33:16). Here he moves to the part of that region that had mountains. To make that clear, you could put that information in a footnote.
Esau
Quote: עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)“{That is the record/history about} Esau,”
who {is} Edom
Quote: ה֥וּא אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“that {is}, Edom.” or “who {was also known as} Edom.” or “who {was also called} Edom.” Some translations put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “So Esau, that {is}, Edom, moved {with his family} to the mountains of Seir {and settled there}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 36:9
Now these {are} the generations of Esau
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תֹּלְד֥וֹת עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)“What follows {is} {more of} the history of Esau,” or “This/Here {is} a {more detailed} genealogy/record of/about the descendants of Esau,” Consider again how you translated “generations” in the book of Genesis when it is followed by a genealogy (list of names). See Gen 5:1, 10:1, 11:10, 25:12, 36:9. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
the father of the Edomites
Quote: אֲבִ֣י אֱד֑וֹם (1)“{who was} the ancestor of the Edomites” or “{who was} the ancestor of the Edom people {group}”
in the mountains of Seir
Quote: בְּהַ֖ר שֵׂעִֽיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“{who live} in the Seir Mountains/Hills.” or “{who live} in the hill-country/mountains of Seir.” Consider again how you translated “mountains” or “hill country” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:30; 12:8; 14:6, 10; 19:17, 19, 30; 22:2, 14; 31:21, 23, 25, 54; 36:8-9, and see the note about this at 10:30. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 36:10
These {are} the names of the sons of Esau
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה שְׁמ֣וֹת בְּנֵֽי עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)“These {were} the names of {two of} Esau’s sons:” or “{Two of} Esau’s sons {were}”. Only two of Esau’s many sons are listed in verse 10.
Eliphaz, the son of Esau’s wife Adah
Quote: אֱלִיפַ֗ז בֶּן עָדָה֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)“Eliphaz, {who was} the son of his wife Adah,” or “Eliphaz, whom he/Esau had with his wife Adah,” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Eliphaz” and “Adah” in verse 4.
and Reuel, the son of Esau’s wife Basemath
Quote: רְעוּאֵ֕ל בֶּן בָּשְׂמַ֖ת אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)“and Reuel, {who was} the son of his wife Basemath.” or “and Reuel, whom he/Esau had with his wife Basemath.” See how you spelled “Basemath” and “Reuel” in verse 4.
Genesis 36:11
And the sons of Eliphaz were
Quote: וַיִּהְי֖וּ בְּנֵ֣י אֱלִיפָ֑ז (1)“The sons of Eliphaz {and his wife} were” or “Eliphaz {and his wife} had sons {they named}”
Teman, Omar, Zepho and Gatam and Kenaz
Quote: תֵּימָ֣ן אוֹמָ֔ר צְפ֥וֹ וְגַעְתָּ֖ם וּקְנַֽז (1)“Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz.”
Genesis 36:12
And Timna was a concubine for Esau’s son Eliphaz, and she bore Amalek for Eliphaz
Quote: וְתִמְנַ֣ע הָיְתָ֣ה פִילֶ֗גֶשׁ לֶֽאֱלִיפַז֙ בֶּן עֵשָׂ֔ו וַתֵּ֥לֶד לֶאֱלִיפַ֖ז אֶת עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)“Eliphaz {also} had a concubine/servant-wife {named} Timna, and she had {a son} with him {named} Amalek.” or “Eliphaz and his concubine/servant-wife Timna had {a son they named} Amalek.” See how you translated “concubine” in Gen 22:24, 25:6; 35:22.
Those {were} the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֕לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י (1)“{All} those {sons of Eliphaz} {were} grandsons of” or “Eliphaz’s sons {were} {all} grandsons of”
Adah, the wife of Esau
Quote: עָדָ֖ה אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Esau’s wife Adah.” or “{Esau and} his wife Adah.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Adah’s grandsons were also Esau’s grandsons.
Genesis 36:13
And these {were} the sons of Reuel
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ בְּנֵ֣י רְעוּאֵ֔ל (1)“{The names of} Reuel’s sons {were}” or “The sons of Reuel were named” or “Reuel {and his wife} had these sons:”
Nahath and Zerah, Shammah and Mizzah
Quote: נַ֥חַת וָזֶ֖רַח שַׁמָּ֣ה וּמִזָּ֑ה (1)“Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.”
Those were the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּ֣ה הָי֔וּ בְּנֵ֥י (1)“They were the grandsons of” or “Those {sons of Reuel} were grandsons of”
Basemath, the wife of Esau
Quote: בָשְׂמַ֖ת אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Esau’s wife Basemath.” or “{Esau and} his wife Basemath.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Basemath’s grandsons were also Esau’s grandsons. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 12.
Genesis 36:14
And these were the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah
Quote: וְאֵ֣לֶּה הָי֗וּ בְּנֵ֨י אָהֳלִיבָמָ֧ה & אֵ֣שֶׁת עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)“These/Here are the sons that Esau had with his wife Oholibamah,”
the daughter of Anah {and} the {grand}daughter of Zibeon
Quote: בַת עֲנָ֛ה בַּת צִבְע֖וֹן (1)“{who was} Anah’s daughter {and} Zibeon’s granddaughter:” or “whose father was Anah and whose grandfather was Zibeon:” See how you translated these phrases in verse 2.
and she bore Jeush and Jalam and Korah for Esau
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד לְעֵשָׂ֔ו אֶת יעיש וְאֶת יַעְלָ֖ם וְאֶת קֹֽרַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{Their sons’ names were} Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.” or “She/They had sons {whom they named} Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to change the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “Esau and his wife Oholibamah had sons {whom they named} Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. {Oholibamah was} the daughter of Anah {and} the granddaughter of Zibeon.” or “The sons that Oholibamah had with Esau were Jesush, Jalam, and Korah. {She was} the daughter of …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 36:15
These {were
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה (1)“Here {is} {a record/list of}” or “The following {are/were}”
the chiefs of the sons of Esau
Quote: אַלּוּפֵ֣י בְנֵֽי עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)“Esau’s descendants/grandsons {who became} chiefs:” or “{the names of} the clan/tribal leaders of/for Esau’s descendants:”
The sons of Eliphaz, the firstborn of Esau
Quote: בְּנֵ֤י אֱלִיפַז֙ בְּכ֣וֹר עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)“The sons of Esau’s/his firstborn/oldest {son} Eliphaz”
were} Chief Teman, Chief Omar, Chief Zepho, Chief Kenaz
Quote: אַלּ֤וּף תֵּימָן֙ אַלּ֣וּף אוֹמָ֔ר אַלּ֥וּף צְפ֖וֹ אַלּ֥וּף קְנַֽז (1)“who became chiefs {were} Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz,” or “who became clan/tribal leaders {were} Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz,”
Genesis 36:16
Chief Korah, Chief Gatam, Chief Amalek
Quote: אַלּֽוּף קֹ֛רַח אַלּ֥וּף גַּעְתָּ֖ם אַלּ֣וּף עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)“Korah, Gatam, and Amalek.” Make sure you are consistent in whether or not you use the title “Chief” in verses 15-16.
Those {were} the chiefs of Eliphaz in the land of Edom
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֤י אֱלִיפַז֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֱד֔וֹם (1)“Those/They {were/are} the chiefs {who descended} from Eliphaz {and lived} in the land/region of/called Edom.” or “{All} those sons of Eliphaz were clan/tribal leaders {who lived} in the land/region of Edom.” Be consistent with how you spelled “Eliphaz” throughout this chapter; see verses 4, 10-12, 15-16.
Those {were} the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י (1)“They {were} the grandsons of” or “They {were} {all} grandsons of”
Adah
Quote: עָדָֽה (1)“{Esau’s wife} Adah.” or “Adah {and Esau}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Adah’s grandsons were also Esau’s grandsons. Also, be consistent with how you spelled “Adah” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:19-20, 23; 36:2, 4, 10, 12, 16.
Genesis 36:17
And these {were} the sons of Reuel, the son of Esau: Chief Nahath, Chief Zerah, Chief Shammah, Chief Mizzah
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה בְּנֵ֤י רְעוּאֵל֙ בֶּן עֵשָׂ֔ו אַלּ֥וּף נַ֨חַת֙ אַלּ֣וּף זֶ֔רַח אַלּ֥וּף שַׁמָּ֖ה אַלּ֣וּף מִזָּ֑ה (1)“{This/Here is a record/list of} the sons of Esau’s son Reuel {who became} chiefs: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.” or “The sons of Esau’s son Reuel {who became} clan/tribal leaders {were} Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.”
Those {were} the chiefs of Reuel in the land of Edom
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֤י רְעוּאֵל֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֱד֔וֹם (1)“They {were} the chiefs {who descended} from Reuel {and lived} in the land/region of/called Edom.” or “{All} those sons of Reuel {were} clan/tribal leaders {who lived} in the land/region of Edom.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 16. Also be consistent with how you spelled “Reuel” throughout this chapter; see verses 4, 10, 13, 17.
Those {were} the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֕לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י (1)“They {were} {all} grandsons of” or “{All} those {sons of Reuel} {were} grandsons of”. See how you translated this phrase in verses 12, 13 and 16.
Basemath, the wife of Esau
Quote: בָשְׂמַ֖ת אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)“Esau’s wife Basemath.” or “{Esau and} his wife Basemath.” See how translated this phrase in verse 13 and a similar phrase in verse 12. Also be consistent with how you spelled “Basemath” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 26:34-35; 36:3-4, 10, 13, 17.
Genesis 36:18
And these {were} the sons of Oholibamah, the wife of Esau: Chief Jeush, Chief Jalam, Chief Korah
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה בְּנֵ֤י אָהֳלִֽיבָמָה֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת עֵשָׂ֔ו אַלּ֥וּף יְע֛וּשׁ אַלּ֥וּף יַעְלָ֖ם אַלּ֣וּף קֹ֑רַח (1)“{This/Here is a record/list of} the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah who became chiefs: Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.” or “The sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah who became clan/tribal leaders {were} Jeush, Jalam, and Korah.”
Those {were} the chiefs of Esau’s wife Oholibamah
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֞י אָֽהֳלִיבָמָ֛ה & אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)“They {were} the chiefs {who descended} from {Esau and} his wife Oholibamah,” or “They {were} the clan/tribal leaders …”
the daughter of Anah
Quote: בַּת עֲנָ֖ה (1)“{who was} Anah’s daughter.”
Genesis 36:19
Those {were} the sons of Esau, and those {were} their chiefs
Quote: אֵ֧לֶּה בְנֵי עֵשָׂ֛ו וְאֵ֥לֶּה אַלּוּפֵיהֶ֖ם (1)“Those {were} Esau’s descendants, and they {were} the chiefs of/over the Edomites.” or “{All} those {chiefs} {were} Esau’s descendants, and they {were} the leaders of their own family groups.”
He {is} Edom
Quote: ה֥וּא אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Esau {was also known as} Edom.” or “Esau {was also called} Edom.” or “That {is the record/history about} Edom.” Some translations put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “{All} those {chiefs} were the descendants of Esau, that {is}, Edom, and each one led his own family group.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 8.
Genesis 36:20
These {were} the sons of Seir the Horite who were inhabiting the land
Quote: אֵ֤לֶּה בְנֵֽי שֵׂעִיר֙ הַחֹרִ֔י יֹשְׁבֵ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“Here is {a record/list of} the descendants of Seir the Horite who were {also} living in that land:” or “The sons/descendants of Seir the Horite {who} were {also} living in that land {were}”. The name “Horites” is an alternate name for the Hivites (verse 2). Also, this genealogy is mentioned here because Seir was the ancestor of Esau’s Canaanite wife Oholibamah (verse 25) and the Seir mountains where Esau was living (verse 8) were probably named after Seir. You could put some of that information in a footnote. See how you translated “Horites” in Gen 14:6.
Lotan and Shobal and Zibeon and Anah
Quote: לוֹטָ֥ן וְשׁוֹבָ֖ל וְצִבְע֥וֹן וַעֲנָֽה (1)“Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah,”
Genesis 36:21
and Dishon and Ezer and Dishan
Quote: וְדִשׁ֥וֹן וְאֵ֖צֶר וְדִישָׁ֑ן (1)“Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan.”
Those {were} the chiefs of the Horites, the sons of Seir
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֧י הַחֹרִ֛י בְּנֵ֥י שֵׂעִ֖יר (1)“Those descendants of Seir {were/became} the chiefs of/over the Horites” or “They were the descendants of Seir who became clan/tribal leaders for the Horites”. See how you translated the names of people groups in verses 2.
in the land of Edom
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ אֱדֽוֹם (1)“{who were living} in the land/region of Edom.”
Genesis 36:22
And the sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam
Quote: וַיִּהְי֥וּ בְנֵי לוֹטָ֖ן חֹרִ֣י וְהֵימָ֑ם (1)“Lotan’s sons were Hori and Heman” or “{The names of} Lotan’s sons were Hori and Hemam”. Some translations spell the name “Hemam” as “Heman” or “Homam.” You could use any of these spellings in your translation.
and the sister of Lotan {was} Timna
Quote: וַאֲח֥וֹת לוֹטָ֖ן תִּמְנָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“and {the name of} his sister {was} Timna.” or “Lotan’s sister {was} Timna.” or “Lotan was also Timna’s brother.” Timna became a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz (verse 12). This genealogy (verses 20-22) also shows that she was the daughter of Chief Seir (since her brother Lotan was the son of Chief Seir). You could put some of that information in a footnote. Also, according to Jewish history outside the Bible, Timna was Lotan’s younger sister. If your language has a special term for “younger sister” or “older brother,” you could use one of those here.
Genesis 36:23
And these {were} the sons of Shobal
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ בְּנֵ֣י שׁוֹבָ֔ל (1)“These {were} Shobal’s sons:” or “Shobal’s sons {were}” or “{The names of} Shobal’s sons {were}”
Alvan and Manahath and Ebal, Shepho, and Onam
Quote: עַלְוָ֥ן וּמָנַ֖חַת וְעֵיבָ֑ל שְׁפ֖וֹ וְאוֹנָֽם (1)“Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam.”
Genesis 36:24
And these {were} the sons of Zibeon: both Aiah and Anah
Quote: וְאֵ֥לֶּה בְנֵֽי צִבְע֖וֹן וְאַיָּ֣ה וַעֲנָ֑ה (1)“{The names of} Zibeon’s sons {were} Aiah and Anah.”
He {is} Anah who found
Quote: ה֣וּא עֲנָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר מָצָ֤א (1)“He/This {is} {the same} Anah who found/discovered” or “Anah {is} the one who found/discovered”
the hot springs
Quote: אֶת הַיֵּמִם֙ (1)“{some} hot springs” or “springs/water”. The term used here in the Hebrew text occurs only once in the Bible and its meaning is not certain. Most translations have either “hot springs” or “water.”
in the wilderness when he was pasturing the donkeys for Zibeon his father
Quote: בַּמִּדְבָּ֔ר בִּרְעֹת֥וֹ אֶת הַחֲמֹרִ֖ים לְצִבְע֥וֹן אָבִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“while/when he was {out} in the wilderness/desert grazing his father’s donkeys.” or “when/while he was pasturing/grazing his father’s donkeys out in the wilderness/desert.” See how you translated “pasture” in Gen 29:7.
Genesis 36:25
And these {were} the children of Anah: Dishon and Oholibamah, the daughter of Anah
Quote: וְאֵ֥לֶּה בְנֵֽי עֲנָ֖ה דִּשֹׁ֑ן וְאָהֳלִיבָמָ֖ה בַּת עֲנָֽה (1)“Anah’s children {were} {his son} Dishon and his daughter Oholibamah.”
Genesis 36:26
And these {were} the sons of Dishon
Quote: וְאֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י דִישָׁ֑ן (1)“These {were} Dishon’s sons:” or “Dishon’s sons {were}” or “{The names of} Dishon’s sons were”
Hemdan and Eshban and Ithran and Keran
Quote: חֶמְדָּ֥ן וְאֶשְׁבָּ֖ן וְיִתְרָ֥ן וּכְרָֽן (1)“Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Keran.” The Hebrew name “Keran” can also be spelled “Cheran.” Each of these spellings is found in many translations. Be consistent here with how you spelled “Dishon” in verse 21.
Genesis 36:27
These {were} the sons of Ezer: Bilhan and Zaavan and Akan
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵי אֵ֑צֶר בִּלְהָ֥ן וְזַעֲוָ֖ן וַעֲקָֽן (1)“{The names of} Ezer’s sons {were} Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan.” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Ezer” in verses 20-21.
Genesis 36:28
These {were} the sons of Dishan: Uz and Aran
Quote: אֵ֥לֶּה בְנֵֽי דִישָׁ֖ן ע֥וּץ וַאֲרָֽן (1)“Dishan’s sons {were} Uz and Aran.”
Genesis 36:29
These {were} the chiefs of the Horites
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֣י הַחֹרִ֑י (1)“The chiefs/leaders of/over the Horite clans/tribes {were}” or “The Horites who became chiefs {were}”
Chief Lotan, Chief Shobal, Chief Zibeon, Chief Anah
Quote: אַלּ֤וּף לוֹטָן֙ אַלּ֣וּף שׁוֹבָ֔ל אַלּ֥וּף צִבְע֖וֹן אַלּ֥וּף עֲנָֽה (1)“Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah,” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Lotan” and “Shobal” in verse 20, how you spelled “Zibeon” in verses 2, 14, 20, 24, 29, and how you spelled “Anah” in verses 2, 14, 18, 20, 24-25, 29.
Genesis 36:30
Chief Dishon, Chief Ezer, Chief Dishan
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף דִּשֹׁ֛ן אַלּ֥וּף אֵ֖צֶר אַלּ֣וּף דִּישָׁ֑ן (1)“Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan.” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Dishon” in verses 21, 25-26, how you spelled “Ezer” in verses 21, 27, 30, and how you spelled “Dishan” in verses 21, 28, 30.
Those {were} the chiefs of the Horites, according to their clans
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֧י הַחֹרִ֛י לְאַלֻּפֵיהֶ֖ם (1)“Those {were} the Horite chiefs. They had/led their own family groups” or “Those {were} the clan/tribal leaders of/for the Horites. They had/led their own clans/tribes”. Be consistent with how you translated “Horites” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:6; 36:20-21, 29-30.
in the land of Seir
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ שֵׂעִֽיר (1)“{and lived} in the land/region of Seir.” or “{who/which were living} in the land/region of Seir.” Be consistent with how you spelled “Seir” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:6; 32:3; 33:14, 16; 36:8-9, 20-21, 30.
Genesis 36:31
And these {were} the kings
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ הַמְּלָכִ֔ים (1)“These {are} {the names of} the kings” or “This/Here {is} {a record/history about} the kings”. See how you translated “kings” in Gen 17:6 and 35:11. Be sure to distinguish “kings” (verses 31-39) from “chiefs” (verses 15-19, 21, 28, 40-43) in your translation of this chapter.
who reigned in the land of Edom
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר מָלְכ֖וּ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֱד֑וֹם (1)“who reigned/ruled over {the people of/in} the land/region of Edom”
before a king reigned for the sons of Israel
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י מְלָךְ מֶ֖לֶךְ לִבְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)“before there were any kings reigning/ruling over the descendants/people of Israel.” or “before the Israelites had their own king.” or “during the time {period} when the Israelites did not yet have their own king.” See how you translated “the sons of Israel” in Gen 32:3.
Genesis 36:32
And Bela the son of Beor reigned in Edom
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ בֶּאֱד֔וֹם בֶּ֖לַע בֶּן בְּע֑וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Bela, {who was} the son of Beor, was the {first} king to rule over {the people of} {the land/region of} Edom.” or “The {first} king to rule/reign over {the people of} {the land/region of} Edom was Bela, the son of Beor.”
and the name of his city {was} Dinhabah
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם עִיר֖וֹ דִּנְהָֽבָה (1)“The name of his hometown {that he ruled from} {was} Dinhabah.” or “His {capital} city {that he ruled from} {was} Dinhabah.” Dinhabah was probably King Bela’s hometown and his capital city that he ruled the land of Edom from.
Genesis 36:33
Then Bela died
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת בָּ֑לַע (1)“When {King} Bela died,”
and Jobab the son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו יוֹבָ֥ב בֶּן זֶ֖רַח מִבָּצְרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Jobab, {who was} the son of Zerah from {the city of} Bozrah, took his/Bela’s place as king.” or “Jobab, {who was} the son of Zerah, replaced/succeeded him/Bela as king {and ruled} from {his hometown of} Bozrah.” The phrase “from Bozrah” probably means this was Jobab’s hometown, which he ruled from, much like the meaning of “his city” in verses 32, 35, and 39.
Genesis 36:34
Then Jobab died
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת יוֹבָ֑ב (1)“When {King} Jobab died,”
and Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו חֻשָׁ֖ם מֵאֶ֥רֶץ הַתֵּימָנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Husham, {who was} from the land/region of the Teman/Temanite people {group}, took his/Jobab’s place as king.” or “Husham replaced/succeeded him/Jobab as king {and reigned/ruled} from {his hometown, which was in} the land/region where the Temanites lived.” King Husham may have been a descendant of Esau’s grandson Teman (verse 11). You could put that information in a footnote. Also compare how you translated verse 33.
Genesis 36:35
Then Husham died
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת חֻשָׁ֑ם (1)“When {King} Husham died,”
Hadad the son of Bedad
Quote: הֲדַ֣ד בֶּן בְּדַ֗ד (1)“Hadad, {who was} the son of Bedad,”
and … reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֨ךְ תַּחְתָּ֜יו (1)“took his/Husham’s place as king.” or “replaced/succeeded him/Husham as king.”
who struck the Midianites
Quote: הַמַּכֶּ֤ה אֶת מִדְיָן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{King Hadad is the one} who defeated the Midianites {in battle/war}”. See how you translated the idiom “struck” in Gen 14:5, 7.
in the field of Moab
Quote: בִּשְׂדֵ֣ה מוֹאָ֔ב (1)“in a field {in the region/land} of Moab.” or “in the region/land/country of Moab.” Moab was a large region located to the east of the Dead Sea. This battle probably took place in the countryside or an unpopulated area (a “field”) within this region.
And the name of his city {was} Avith
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם עִיר֖וֹ עֲוִֽית (1)“The name of his/Hadad’s hometown {that he ruled from} {was} Avith.” or “His {capital} city {that he ruled from} {was} Avith.” See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 32.
Genesis 36:36
Then Hadad died
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת הֲדָ֑ד (1)“When {King} Hadad died,”
and Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו שַׂמְלָ֖ה מִמַּשְׂרֵקָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Samlah, {who was} from {the city of} Masrekah, took his/Hadad’s place as king.” or “Samlah replaced/succeeded him/Hadad as king {and ruled} from {his hometown of} Masrekah.”
Genesis 36:37
Then Samlah died
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת שַׂמְלָ֑ה (1)“When {King} Samlah died,”
and Shaul from Rehoboth {on} the river reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו שָׁא֖וּל מֵרְחֹב֥וֹת הַנָּהָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Shaul {who was} from {the city of} Rehoboth {on/beside} the River {Euphrates} took his/Samlah’s place as king.” or “Shaul replaced/succeeded him/Samlah as king {and ruled} from {his hometown of} Rehoboth, which was {beside} the {Euphrates} River.” See how you translated similar sentences in verses 33, 34 and 36.
Genesis 36:38
Then Shaul died, and Baal-Hanan the son of Acbor reigned in his place
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת שָׁא֑וּל וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו בַּ֥עַל חָנָ֖ן בֶּן־עַכְבּֽוֹר (1)“When {King} Shaul died, Baal-Hanan, {who was} the son of Acbor, took his place as king.” or “… replaced/succeeded him as king.”
Genesis 36:39
Then Baal-Hanan the son of Acbor died, and Hadar reigned
Quote: וַיָּמָת֮ בַּ֣עַל חָנָ֣ן בֶּן עַכְבּוֹר֒ וַיִּמְלֹ֤ךְ & הֲדַ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“When {King} Baal-Hanan died, Hadar”. Most translations follow the Hebrew text and have “Hadar” here. Some translations (and ancient versions such as SP, LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate) have “Hadad” here instead, in order to spell this name the same way it is spelled in 1 Chronicles 1:50-51. However, that could cause confusion, because “Hadad” is also the name of a different king in verses 35-36 above.
and … reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֤ךְ תַּחְתָּיו֙ (1)“took his place as king” or “replaced/succeeded him as king”. Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 33-39.
and the name of his city {was} Pau
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם עִיר֖וֹ פָּ֑עוּ (1)“and the name of his hometown {that he ruled from} {was} Pau.” or “His {capital} city {that he ruled from} {was} Pau.” Consider whether it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated a similar clause in verses 32 and 35.
And the name of his wife {was} Mehetabel
Quote: וְשֵׁ֨ם אִשְׁתּ֤וֹ מְהֵֽיטַבְאֵל֙ (1)“His wife’s name {was} Mehetabel,”
the daughter of Matred {and} the granddaughter of Me-Zahab
Quote: בַּת מַטְרֵ֔ד בַּ֖ת מֵ֥י זָהָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{who was} the daughter of Matred {and} the granddaughter of Me-Zahab.” or “whose father was Matred {and} whose grandfather was Me-Zahab.” Notice that “Matred” and “Me-Zahab” are the names of men. See how you translated similar phrases in verses 2 and 14.
Genesis 36:40
And these {are} the names of
Quote: וְ֠אֵלֶּה שְׁמ֞וֹת (1)“Here {are} the names of” or “The following list of names includes”
the chiefs of Esau, according to their clans, according to their places, by their names
Quote: אַלּוּפֵ֤י עֵשָׂו֙ לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֔ם לִמְקֹמֹתָ֖ם בִּשְׁמֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{more of} the chiefs {who descended} from Esau. {These chiefs led} their own family groups in their own regions/territories, which were named after them:” or “{more of} the descendants of Esau who were clan/tribal leaders; the clans/tribes and the regions where they lived were named after them:” Notice that the chiefs listed below are different from those listed in the verses above, except for Kenaz and Teman (verse 15). Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to break up this long sentence into two shorter sentences.
Chief Timna, Chief Alvan, Chief Jetheth
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף תִּמְנָ֛ע אַלּ֥וּף עַֽלְוָ֖ה אַלּ֥וּף יְתֵֽת (1)“Timna, Alvan, Jetheth,” The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. (1) Most translations treat all the names in verses 40-43 as the names of chiefs (as in the ULT and UST of these verses). (2) However, some scholars think that all the names in verses 40-43 are the names of regions or clans and say, “{These are/were} {the names of} the clans/tribes {that descended} from Esau. Each clan/tribe lived {in the land of Edom} in its own region that was named after that clan/tribe. {The names of the clans/tribes} were TImna, Alvan … Iram. Those were {the names of} the clans/tribes of the Edomites. Each of the clans/tribes lived in their own part of the land {of Edom} that they owned …”
Genesis 36:41
Chief Oholibamah, Chief Elah, Chief Pinon
Quote: אַלּ֧וּף אָהֳלִיבָמָ֛ה אַלּ֥וּף אֵלָ֖ה אַלּ֥וּף פִּינֹֽן (1)“Oholibamah, Elah, Pinon,” Make sure that the way you translate verses 41-43 fits with the interpretation you followed in verse 40.
Genesis 36:42
Chief Kenaz, Chief Teman, Chief Mibzar
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף קְנַ֛ז אַלּ֥וּף תֵּימָ֖ן אַלּ֥וּף מִבְצָֽר (1)“Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar,”
Genesis 36:43
Chief Magdiel, Chief Iram
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף מַגְדִּיאֵ֖ל אַלּ֣וּף עִירָ֑ם (1)“Magdiel, {and} Iram.” Make sure you are consistent in whether or not you use the title “Chief” in verses 40-43.
Those {were} the chiefs of
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֣י (1)“Those {were} {the names of} {more of} the chiefs over/for” or “{All of} those {were} chiefs over” or “Those {were} {more of} the clan/tribal leaders of/over”. Consider again how you translated “chief” throughout this chapter; see verses 15-19, 21, 29-30, 40-43.
Edom
Quote: אֱד֗וֹם (1)“the Edomites;” or “the Edom people {group};”
according to their dwellings
Quote: לְמֹֽשְׁבֹתָם֙ (1)“they {all} led their own settlements” or “each of them led/ruled {their own clans/tribes} in the places where they lived”
in the land of their possession
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֲחֻזָּתָ֔ם (1)“in the land/regions that they owned/controlled/inhabited.”
That {was} Esau
Quote: ה֥וּא עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)“That {was} {the record/history about} Esau,” or “This {concludes the record/history about} Esau,”
the father of the Edomites
Quote: אֲבִ֥י אֱדֽוֹם (1)“{who was} the ancestor of {all} the Edomites.” or “{who was} the ancestor of the Edom people {group}.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 9. Also compare how you translated the names of other people groups in this chapter, including “Hittite” and “Hivite” in verse 2; “Edomites” in verse 9; “Horite/Horites” in verses 20, 21, 29, 30; “Temanites” in verse 34; and “Midianites” in verse 35.
Genesis 37
Genesis 37:1
And Jacob lived
Quote: וַיֵּ֣שֶׁב יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)“Now Jacob was {still} living” or “Jacob continued to live”. Chapter 37 continues the history about Jacob that left off at the end of chapter 35. Begin this chapter in a way that is natural in your language. Make sure the way you translate “lived” allows for the fact that Jacob was already living in Canaan and had settled near the city of Hebron, where his father and grandfather had lived previously (Gen 35:27).
in the land of his father’s sojournings, in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֖רֶץ מְגוּרֵ֣י אָבִ֑יו בְּאֶ֖רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)“in the land/region of Canaan where his father {Isaac} had lived for a while {as a foreigner/outsider}.” See how you translated “sojourned” in Gen 35:27 and “the land of Canaan” in Gen 35:6.
Genesis 37:2
These {are} the generations of Jacob
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה תֹּלְד֣וֹת יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)“This/Here is {more of} the record/history about Jacob and his descendants/family:” or “What follows tells {more} about Jacob and his descendants/family:” Consider again how you translated “These are the generations of” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 2:4; 6:9; 11:27; 25:19; 36:1; 37:2, where what follows is a narrative or history of events. Compare that to Gen 5:1; 10:1; 11:10; 25:12; 36:9, where what follows is more of a genealogy (list of names). It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
Joseph, a son of seventeen years
Quote: יוֹסֵ֞ף בֶּן שְׁבַֽע עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה שָׁנָה֙ (1)“{One day} {his} seventeen-year-old son Joseph” or “{Jacob’s/His son} Joseph, who was seventeen years old,” This verse may be referring to a single incident or it may be referring to what happened regularly.
was shepherding the flock{s
Quote: הָיָ֨ה רֹעֶ֤ה & בַּצֹּ֔אן (1)“was taking care of the {family’s} flock{s} {of sheep and goats}” or “had the work/job of pasturing/tending the {family’s} flock{s} {of sheep and goats}”. See how you translated “flocks” in Gen 4:2.
with his brothers, and he {was} a young man with
Quote: אֶת אֶחָיו֙ & וְה֣וּא נַ֗עַר אֶת (1)“as an assistant/helper for his brothers {who were}” or “Joseph was helping his brothers {who were}”. As the youngest of these brothers, Joseph was their helper as they took care of their father’s flocks.
the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, his father’s wives
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י בִלְהָ֛ה וְאֶת בְּנֵ֥י זִלְפָּ֖ה נְשֵׁ֣י אָבִ֑יו (1)“the sons of his father’s {servant} wives Bilhah and Zilpah,” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Bilhah” in Gen 29:29 and “Zilpah” in 29:24.
and Joseph brought a bad report about them to their father
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת דִּבָּתָ֥ם רָעָ֖ה אֶל אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and he told their/his father about the bad things they were doing.” or “and he gave bad/negative reports to their/his father about them.” The Hebrew text does not specify what Joseph’s brothers had done wrong, so neither should your translation. Also, make sure your translation of “their father” does not sound like the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah had a different father than Joseph had.
Genesis 37:3
Now Israel
Quote: וְיִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Now {Jacob, whose other name was} Israel,” or “Israel, {that is, Jacob,}” This verse introduces background information for the events that happen next. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language. Make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that Jacob (verse 1) and Israel (verse 3) refer to the same person, not two separate people. For a note about this, see Gen 35:10.
loved Joseph more than all of his sons
Quote: אָהַ֤ב אֶת יוֹסֵף֙ מִכָּל בָּנָ֔יו (1)“loved Joseph more than any of his {other} sons”
because he {was} a son of his old age
Quote: כִּֽי בֶן זְקֻנִ֥ים ה֖וּא ל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because he/Joseph was born to him when he was old.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Now Joseph was born to Israel when he was old, so he/Israel loved him more than all {the rest} of his sons.” Do what is best in your language.
So he made a multicolored tunic for him
Quote: וְעָ֥שָׂה ל֖וֹ כְּתֹ֥נֶת פַּסִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“So he/Israel/Jacob made a {special/beautiful} tunic/robe for him/Joseph that had many colors.” or “So he/Israel/Jacob made a {special} colorful tunic/robe for him/Joseph.” The meaning of the Hebrew text is not certain here. Many translations (including the Greek Septuagint and Latin Vulgate) say that the tunic or robe was “multicolored” or “colorful.” This “tunic” was probably full-length to the ankles and had long sleeves that reached to the hands.
Genesis 37:4
And his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all of his brothers
Quote: וַיִּרְא֣וּ אֶחָ֗יו כִּֽי אֹת֞וֹ אָהַ֤ב אֲבִיהֶם֙ מִכָּל אֶחָ֔יו (1)“Joseph’s brothers saw/realized that their father loved him/Joseph more than any of {the rest of} his sons, so” or “When Joseph’s brothers saw/realized that their father loved him/Joseph more than the rest of them,”
so they hated him and were not able to speak to him peaceably
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׂנְא֖וּ אֹת֑וֹ וְלֹ֥א יָכְל֖וּ דַּבְּר֥וֹ לְשָׁלֹֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“they hated/despised him/Joseph so much that they could/would not speak/talk to him kindly/nicely.” or “… they refused to speak/talk to him in a friendly/kind manner/way.” or “… they always spoke unkindly/disrespectfully to him.” Make sure it is clear here in your translation that the brothers hated Joseph, not their father.
Genesis 37:5
Then Joseph dreamed a dream
Quote: וַיַּחֲלֹ֤ם יוֹסֵף֙ חֲל֔וֹם (1)“Then {one night} Joseph had a dream” or “{One night} Joseph had a dream”
and told it to his brothers
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֖ד לְאֶחָ֑יו (1)“and he told his brothers about it.” or “{The next day} he told his brothers what he dreamed”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and they continued to hate him even more
Quote: וַיּוֹסִ֥פוּ ע֖וֹד שְׂנֹ֥א אֹתֽוֹ (1)“and they became even more hateful toward him.” or “That made them hate/despise him even more {than before}.”
Genesis 37:6
And he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“He told them,” or “{This is what} he told them:”
Please hear this dream that I dreamed
Quote: שִׁמְעוּ נָ֕א הַחֲל֥וֹם הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר חָלָֽמְתִּי (1)“Please listen to {me tell about} this dream that I had:” or “I had a dream {that I want to tell you about}. Please listen to {me tell} it.”
Genesis 37:7
And behold
Quote: וְ֠הִנֵּה (1)“{In it} I saw” or “{In my dream} I saw”
we were binding sheaves in the middle of a field
Quote: אֲנַ֜חְנוּ מְאַלְּמִ֤ים אֲלֻמִּים֙ בְּת֣וֹךְ הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)“that we {all} were out in the middle of a field {cutting stalks of grain/wheat and} tying the stalks into sheaves/bundles.” or “us {working together} out in a field {cutting and} tying sheaves/bundles {of grain/wheat stalks}.” A sheaf of grain is a bunch of grain stalks that have been cut and tied together in a bundle, with the heads of grain at the top. Wheat and barley were the grains that were common in this region at that time, not corn or oats.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֛ה (1)“Then suddenly”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
my sheaf
Quote: אֲלֻמָּתִ֖י (1)“my sheaf/bundle {of grain/wheat}” or “the sheaf/bundle that I had made”
got up and also stood upright
Quote: קָ֥מָה & וְגַם נִצָּ֑בָה (1)“stood up straight.” or “stood up on its end”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה (2)“Then behold/amazingly,” or “Then I saw that”
your sheaves
Quote: אֲלֻמֹּ֣תֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“your sheaves/bundles {of grain/wheat}” or “the sheaves/bundles that you had made”
gathered around
Quote: תְסֻבֶּ֨ינָה֙ (1)“gathered/stood around {my sheaf/bundle}” or “stood in a circle around {my sheaf/bundle}”
and bowed down to my sheaf
Quote: וַתִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖יןָ לַאֲלֻמָּתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and bowed down {to the ground} to/before my sheaf/bundle {to show respect/submission}.” or “and bowed {respectfully} to my sheaf/bundle.” or “and bowed down in front of it {in respect}.”
Genesis 37:8
Then his brothers said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמְרוּ לוֹ֙ אֶחָ֔יו (1)“His brothers responded to him,” or “His brothers retorted {angrily},”
Will … really
Quote: הֲמָלֹ֤ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Do you really expect to” or “Certainly you don’t think you will” or “You will never”. The brothers use two rhetorical questions in this verse to express their disagreement with Joseph and to emphasize that they are not happy with him. Do what is best in your language.
you … reign over us
Quote: תִּמְלֹךְ֙ עָלֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“reign over us!” or “be our king!” For languages that mark inclusive and exclusive pronouns, “us” excludes Joseph in this sentence.
Will you really rule over us
Quote: אִם מָשׁ֥וֹל תִּמְשֹׁ֖ל בָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“You will never rule over us!”
And they continued to hate him even more
Quote: וַיּוֹסִ֤פוּ עוֹד֙ שְׂנֹ֣א אֹת֔וֹ (1)“So they hated/despised him even more {strongly/intensely} {than they did before}”. Consider again how you translated “hate” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 24:60; 26:27; 29:31, 33; 37:4-5, 8. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
because of his dreams and because of his words
Quote: עַל חֲלֹמֹתָ֖יו וְעַל דְּבָרָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“for his dreams and for what he told them about the/his dreams.” or “because of what he had said {to them} about his dreams.” For some languages, it is more natural to switch the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “So because of what he/Joseph had told them about his dreams, his brothers hated him even more {strongly/intensely} {than they did before}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 37:9
Then he dreamed yet another dream, and he related it to his brothers
Quote: וַיַּחֲלֹ֥ם עוֹד֙ חֲל֣וֹם אַחֵ֔ר וַיְסַפֵּ֥ר אֹת֖וֹ לְאֶחָ֑יו (1)“Then Joseph had another dream that he {also} told to his brothers.” or “Sometime after that, Joseph told his brothers about another dream that he had.”
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“He said,” or “This/Here is what he said:”
Behold, I dreamed another dream
Quote: הִנֵּ֨ה חָלַ֤מְתִּֽי חֲלוֹם֙ ע֔וֹד (1)“Listen, I {just} had another dream,”
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה (1)“and there/amazingly {in this dream}” or “and {in it} I saw that”
the sun and the moon and eleven stars
Quote: הַשֶּׁ֣מֶשׁ וְהַיָּרֵ֗חַ וְאַחַ֤ד עָשָׂר֙ כּֽוֹכָבִ֔ים (1)“the sun, the moon, and eleven stars”
were bowing down
Quote: מִֽשְׁתַּחֲוִ֖ים (1)“were bowing down {to the ground}” or “bowed down {to the ground}”. See how you translated “bowed down” in verse 7.
to me
Quote: לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“to/before me {to show respect}.” or “in front of me {to honor me}.” Bowing down to someone was a way of showing respect and honor to that person. If that is not clear in your culture, you could make that information explicit in your translation or in a footnote. If it is understood, you can leave it implied (as the Hebrew text does).
Genesis 37:10
And he related it to his father and to his brothers
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֣ר אֶל אָבִיו֮ וְאֶל אֶחָיו֒ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. Verse 10 could refer to: (1) a second time that Joseph told his dream; for example, “Then/Later Joseph told {the same dream} to {both} his father and his brothers, but his father …” or (2) the same time that he told this dream to his brothers in verse 9; for example, “When Joseph related/told {the dream} to his father and his brothers, his father …”
but his father rebuked him and said to him
Quote: וַיִּגְעַר בּ֣וֹ אָבִ֔יו וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“but his father rebuked/scolded him by saying,” Your translation of this quote margin should not sound like two separate events; the verbs “rebuked” and “said” refer to the same event.
What {is} this dream that you dreamed
Quote: מָ֛ה הַחֲל֥וֹם הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר חָלָ֑מְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“That {is} a strange dream that you had!” or “Your dream {is} ridiculous/outrageous!” Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to show that he is not happy about Joseph’s dream. Decide the best way to translate this in your language.
Will your mother and I and your brothers really
Quote: הֲב֣וֹא & אֲנִי֙ וְאִמְּךָ֣ וְאַחֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Do you really expect your mother and me and your brothers to” or “Certainly you don’t think that your mother and I or your brothers will” or “Your mother and I and your brothers will never”. See how you translated a similar rhetorical question in verse 8.
come to bow down to the ground
Quote: נָב֗וֹא & לְהִשְׁתַּחֲוֺ֥ת & אָֽרְצָה (1)“come {to you} and bow down to the ground” or “bow down”. See how you translated “bow down” in verse 7.
to you
Quote: לְךָ֖ (1)“before you” or “in front of you”
Genesis 37:11
And his brothers envied him
Quote: וַיְקַנְאוּ ב֖וֹ אֶחָ֑יו (1)“So Joseph’s brothers were envious/jealous of him,” or “{Because of Joseph’s dreams} his brothers were envious/jealous of him,” See how you translated “envied” in Gen 26:14; 30:1.
but his father kept the matter {in mind
Quote: וְאָבִ֖יו שָׁמַ֥ר אֶת הַדָּבָֽר (1)“but his father continued to think/wonder about what it all could mean.” or “but his father kept thinking about the dreams and wondered what they meant.”
Genesis 37:12
Then his brothers went to shepherd the flock{s} of their father
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֖וּ אֶחָ֑יו לִרְע֛וֹת אֶׄתׄ־צֹ֥אן אֲבִיהֶ֖ם (1)“Sometime after that, his/Joseph’s brothers took their father’s flock{s} {of sheep and goats} to graze {in the fields}” or “One time/day, his/Joseph’s brothers …”
near Shechem
Quote: בִּשְׁכֶֽם (1)“near {the city of} Shechem.” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Shechem” in Gen 35:4.
Genesis 37:13
And Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל אֶל יוֹסֵ֗ף (1)“Then/So {one day} Israel said to Joseph,”
Aren’t your brothers shepherding
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא אַחֶ֨יךָ֙ רֹעִ֣ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“As you know, your brothers are pasturing/tending {our flocks/animals}”. Israel uses a rhetorical question to remind Joseph of something he already knows and to introduce what he wants Joseph to do. Decide the best way to communicate this in your language.
near Shechem
Quote: בִּשְׁכֶ֔ם (1)“near {the city of} Shechem.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
Come and I will send you to them
Quote: לְכָ֖ה וְאֶשְׁלָחֲךָ֣ אֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“Get ready so that I can send you to them.”
And he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖וֹ (1)“He/Joseph responded,” or “He/Joseph answered him,”
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)“I’m here {and ready to go}.” or “I’m ready {to go}.” or “Yes, {sir}.”
Genesis 37:14
Then he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗וֹ (1)“Then Israel told him/Joseph,”
Please go and see
Quote: לֶךְ נָ֨א רְאֵ֜ה (1)“Please go and check on” or “Please go find out”
the well-being of your brothers and the well-being of the flock{s
Quote: אֶת שְׁל֤וֹם אַחֶ֨יךָ֙ וְאֶת שְׁל֣וֹם הַצֹּ֔אן (1)“how your brothers and the flock{s} are doing,” or “whether {or not} things are going well for your brothers and the flock{s},”
and bring me word
Quote: וַהֲשִׁבֵ֖נִי דָּבָ֑ר (1)“Then come tell me {how they are doing}.” or “Then report back to me {what you find out}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
So he sent him
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלָחֵ֨הוּ֙ (1)“So/Then Israel sent him/Joseph {on his way}”
from the valley of Hebron
Quote: מֵעֵ֣מֶק חֶבְר֔וֹן (1)“from {their home in} the valley near {the city of} Hebron,” Be consistent in how you spell “Hebron” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:18; 23:2, 19; 35:27; 37:14.
and he went to Shechem
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א שְׁכֶֽמָה (1)“and he/Joseph went/traveled to {the city of} Shechem.” The trip from the city of Hebron to the city of Shechem was about 100 kilometers (60 miles).
Genesis 37:15
And a man found him, and behold
Quote: וַיִּמְצָאֵ֣הוּ אִ֔ישׁ וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“There he met a man who had seen/noticed him” or “{When he arrived there,} a man saw him”. In this context “found” means the man happened to meet Joseph as Joseph was walking around looking for his brothers; the man was not intentionally looking for him. Also, for some languages it is clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “He started wandering around {searching} in the fields {near there}, where/and he met a man who asked …” or “As he was wandering around {searching} in the fields {near there}, he met a man who asked …” Do what is best in your language.
he was wandering around in the fields. So the man asked him, saying
Quote: תֹעֶ֖ה בַּשָּׂדֶ֑ה וַיִּשְׁאָלֵ֧הוּ הָאִ֛ישׁ לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)“searching around in the {nearby} fields/countryside and asked him”. The word “fields” refers here to large, open places with no fences and few trees, where sheep and goats could easily graze.
What are you looking for
Quote: מַה תְּבַקֵּֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“What/Who are you looking for?” or “what/who he was looking for.” Consider whether it is better to use a direct or an indirect quote here in your language.
Genesis 37:16
And he said, “I am looking for my brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר אֶת אַחַ֖י אָנֹכִ֣י מְבַקֵּ֑שׁ (1)“He/Joseph responded/replied, “I am looking/searching for my brothers.” ”
Please tell me
Quote: הַגִּֽידָה נָּ֣א לִ֔י (1)“Can you tell me” or “Do you know”
where they are shepherding
Quote: אֵיפֹ֖ה הֵ֥ם רֹעִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“where they are pasturing/tending {their flocks}?” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause earlier in the verse and say, “I am looking for my brothers who were somewhere around here shepherding/pasturing/tending {their flocks}. Do you know where they are {now}?” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 37:17
Then the man said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר הָאִישׁ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“The man answered {him},” or “The man replied,”
They set out from here
Quote: נָסְע֣וּ מִזֶּ֔ה (1)“{I saw them, but then} they left from here” or “They were here and then left”
For I heard them say
Quote: כִּ֤י שָׁמַ֨עְתִּי֙ אֹֽמְרִ֔ים (1)“In fact, I heard/overheard them say {to each other}” or “but I overheard them say {to each other}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Let us go to Dothan
Quote: נֵלְכָ֖ה דֹּתָ֑יְנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“ ‘Let’s {move on and} go to {the town of} Dothan.’ ” or “that they were going to {the town of} Dothan.” Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your translation.
Then Joseph went after his brothers and found them at Dothan
Quote: וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ יוֹסֵף֙ אַחַ֣ר אֶחָ֔יו וַיִּמְצָאֵ֖ם בְּדֹתָֽן (1)“So Joseph followed his brothers and caught up with them near {the town of} Dothan.” or “So Joseph went to {the town of} Dothan and found his brothers {near} there.”
Genesis 37:18
But they saw him from a distance
Quote: וַיִּרְא֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ מֵרָחֹ֑ק (1)“But they saw him while he was still some distance away,” or “While he was still some distance away {from them}, they saw him,”
and before he came near to them
Quote: וּבְטֶ֨רֶם֙ יִקְרַ֣ב אֲלֵיהֶ֔ם (1)“and before he reached them,” or “and before he got close to where they were,”
then they conspired against him to kill him
Quote: וַיִּֽתְנַכְּל֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ לַהֲמִיתֽוֹ (1)“they plotted to kill him.” or “they made plans to kill him.”
Genesis 37:19
And they said each to his brother
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל אָחִ֑יו (1)“They said to each other {about him},”
Behold, that master of dreams is coming
Quote: הִנֵּ֗ה בַּ֛עַל הַחֲלֹמ֥וֹת הַלָּזֶ֖ה בָּֽא (1)“Look/See, here comes that master/expert dreamer!” or “Look who’s coming! It’s that master/expert of dreams!” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph’s brothers are being sarcastic and disrespectful here as they make fun of Joseph.
Genesis 37:20
So now, come and let us kill him
Quote: וְעַתָּ֣ה לְכ֣וּ וְנַֽהַרְגֵ֗הוּ (1)“Come on, let’s kill him” or “Let’s work/join together and kill him”
and throw him
Quote: וְנַשְׁלִכֵ֨הוּ֙ (1)“and throw his body”
into one of the cisterns
Quote: בְּאַחַ֣ד הַבֹּר֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“into one of the {empty} pits/wells {here}.” A cistern was a large hole or pit that had been dug in the ground to catch rain water and store it there. It was wide at the bottom and had a small opening at the top. The sides of the hole were covered with plaster so that it would hold water.
Then we will say an evil animal
Quote: וְאָמַ֕רְנוּ חַיָּ֥ה רָעָ֖ה (1)“Then we will/can tell {people} that a fierce/vicious/ferocious {wild} animal”
devoured him
Quote: אֲכָלָ֑תְהוּ (1)“has devoured/eaten him,” or “ate him up/down,”
and we will see
Quote: וְנִרְאֶ֕ה (1)“and we/everyone will see/watch”
what his dreams become
Quote: מַה יִּהְי֖וּ חֲלֹמֹתָֽיו (1)“what will become of his dreams!” or “what happens to his {great} dreams!” or “if his {great} dreams come true!” Joseph’s brothers are speaking here in a disdainful way, continuing to mock him.
Genesis 37:21
But Reuben heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע רְאוּבֵ֔ן (1)“But Reuben heard {their plan}, so” or “When Reuben heard {what they were planning,}”
and he rescued him from their hand{s
Quote: וַיַּצִּלֵ֖הוּ מִיָּדָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“he {tried to} rescue/save Joseph from them”. The phrase “their hand{s}” refers to Joseph’s brothers and their power to harm him. Consider whether you have a similar figure of speech in your language.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to them},” or “by urging them,”
Let us not strike his life
Quote: לֹ֥א נַכֶּ֖נּוּ נָֽפֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“We should/must not take his life.” or “We should/must not kill him.” Consider again how you translated the idiom “strike” in Gen 4:15; 34:30; 37:21.
Genesis 37:22
And Reuben said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֣ם רְאוּבֵן֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Reuben/he continued/added,” Some translations do not include this phrase, possibly because Reuben is still speaking to the same people. However, he may have paused between verses 21 and 22 to see the effect of what he said in verse 21. Also, the repeated quote margin helps emphasize what he says in verse 22. Do what is best in your language.
Do not shed blood
Quote: אַל תִּשְׁפְּכוּ דָם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Do not kill him.” or “You must not take his life.” See how you translated the idiom “shed blood” in Gen 9:6.
Throw him into this cistern
Quote: הַשְׁלִ֣יכוּ אֹת֗וֹ אֶל הַבּ֤וֹר הַזֶּה֙ (1)“{Instead} put him into this {dry/empty} pit/well”. See how you translated “cistern” in verse 20.
which {is} in the wilderness
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר בַּמִּדְבָּ֔ר (1)“{here} in the wilderness/desert,” Consider again how you translated “wilderness” or “desert” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:6 (and note); 16:7; 21:14, 20-21; 36:24; 37:22. Also see when it occurs as implied information in Gen 12:9-10; 13:1, 3; 20:1; 24:62.
but do not lay a hand on him
Quote: וְיָ֖ד אַל תִּשְׁלְחוּ ב֑וֹ (1)“but you must not harm him {in any way}.” The phrase “lay a hand on” is an idiom that emphasizes that they are not to harm him at all, not even in the smallest way.
in order to rescue him from their hand{s
Quote: לְמַ֗עַן הַצִּ֤יל אֹתוֹ֙ מִיָּדָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“Reuben was planning to rescue/save him/Joseph from them” or “{He/Reuben said that} in order to save him/Joseph from being killed by them”. See how you translated “rescued him from their hand{s}” in verse 21.
to return him to his father
Quote: לַהֲשִׁיב֖וֹ אֶל אָבִֽיו (1)“so that he could return him {safely} to his/their father.” or “and take him back {home} to his/their father.” Make sure your translation of “his father” does not sound like Joseph had a different father than his brothers had.
Genesis 37:23
Then it happened when Joseph came to his brothers
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֕י כַּֽאֲשֶׁר בָּ֥א יוֹסֵ֖ף אֶל אֶחָ֑יו (1)“When Joseph reached his brothers,” As usual, the phrase “Then it happened” introduces and emphasizes an important set of events. Many translations leave it implied. Do what is natural in your language.
then they stripped Joseph of his tunic, the multicolored tunic
Quote: וַיַּפְשִׁ֤יטוּ אֶת יוֹסֵף֙ אֶת כֻּתָּנְתּ֔וֹ אֶת כְּתֹ֥נֶת הַפַּסִּ֖ים (1)“they {grabbed/took hold of him and} stripped/ripped/tore off the/his colorful robe”. See how you translated “multicolored tunic” in verse 3.
that {was} on him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָלָֽיו (1)“he had on.” or “that he was wearing.”
Genesis 37:24
Then they took him
Quote: וַיִּ֨קָּחֻ֔הוּ (1)“Then they grabbed him”. If the phrase “grabbed/took hold of him” is made explicit in your translation in verse 23, it can be left implied here in verse 24.
and threw him into the cistern
Quote: וַיַּשְׁלִ֥כוּ אֹת֖וֹ הַבֹּ֑רָה (1)“and put him into the pit/well.” See how you translated “throw him” and “cistern” in verse 20.
And the cistern {was} empty; there was not water in it
Quote: וְהַבּ֣וֹר רֵ֔ק אֵ֥ין בּ֖וֹ מָֽיִם (1)“Now the pit/well {was} empty; it had no water in it.” or “The pit/well {was} empty and {completely} dry inside.”
Genesis 37:25
Then they sat down to eat bread
Quote: וַיֵּשְׁבוּ֮ לֶֽאֱכָל לֶחֶם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then {some of} Joseph’s brothers sat down to eat a meal,” It is clear from verse 29 that Reuben was not there when his brothers made the plan to sell Joseph to the traders.
and they lifted their eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֤וּ עֵֽינֵיהֶם֙ וַיִּרְא֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and {while they were eating,} they looked around” or “{While they were eating,} they looked around”. See how you translated the idiom “lifted … eyes” in Gen 22:13.
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)“and saw/noticed {that}” or “and they saw/noticed {that}”
a caravan of
Quote: אֹרְחַ֣ת (1)“a {large} group/company of”. A “caravan” is a large group of people who are traveling together.
Ishmaelites
Quote: יִשְׁמְעֵאלִ֔ים (1)“Ishmaelite {traders/merchants}” or “{traders/merchants} from the Ishmael/Ishmaelite people group” or “{traders/merchants who were} descendants of Ishmael”. See how you translated the names of other people groups in Gen 15:19-21.
was coming from Gilead
Quote: בָּאָ֖ה מִגִּלְעָ֑ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“was coming/traveling {toward them} from {the region of} Gilead.” or “was traveling from {the region of} Gilead {and was headed their way}.” For some languages it may be clearer to change the order of some of the implied information in this sentence and say, “… and saw/noticed {that headed their way/direction was} a {large} group of Ishmaelite {traders/merchants} {that was} coming/traveling from {the region of} Gilead.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled “Gilead” in Gen 31:21, 23, 25.
And their camels were carrying
Quote: וּגְמַלֵּיהֶ֣ם נֹֽשְׂאִ֗ים (1)“Their camels were loaded with”. Consider again how you translated “camel” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16 (and note); 24:10-11, 14, 19-20, 22, 25, 30-32, 35, 44, 46, 61, 63-64; 30:43; 31:17, 18, 34; 32:7, 15; 37:25.
spices and balm and myrrh
Quote: נְכֹאת֙ וּצְרִ֣י וָלֹ֔ט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“{expensive} spices, healing resin/salve and incense”. Gilead was a mountainous region east of the Jordan River that was famous as a source of balm (or balsam), which was a rare tree resin that was used for perfume and for medicine. Myrrh was another type of tree resin that was used as incense and as medicine. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
that} they were going to take down to Egypt
Quote: הוֹלְכִ֖ים לְהוֹרִ֥יד מִצְרָֽיְמָה (1)“that they were taking/transporting down to {the country of} Egypt {to sell there}.” or “that they were taking {to sell} in {the country of} Egypt.”
Genesis 37:26
Then Judah said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוּדָ֖ה אֶל אֶחָ֑יו (1)“Then/So Judah asked/urged his brothers,”
What gain {is there
Quote: מַה בֶּ֗צַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“What will we gain” or “We will not gain anything”. Judah uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize his point. Do what is best in your language.
if we kill our brother and cover up his blood
Quote: כִּ֤י נַהֲרֹג֙ אֶת אָחִ֔ינוּ וְכִסִּ֖ינוּ אֶת דָּמֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“if we kill our brother and try to keep people from finding out about it” or “by killing our brother and trying to hide it!” The phrase “cover up” is an idiom that means to prevent people from knowing about something evil that was done. Also, the phrase “his blood” is an idiom that refers to Joseph’s death.
Genesis 37:27
Come and let us sell him
Quote: לְכ֞וּ וְנִמְכְּרֶ֣נּוּ (1)“{Instead,} come on, let’s sell him” or “{Instead,} we should sell him”. See how you translated “come and” in verse 20.
to the Ishmaelites
Quote: לַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֗ים (1)“to those Ishmaelites {over there}” or “to those Ishmaelite {traders/merchants} {over there}”. See how you translated “Ishmaelites” in verse 25.
so that our hand{s} will not be on him
Quote: וְיָדֵ֨נוּ֙ אַל תְּהִי ב֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so that we will/do not harm him.” or “so that we will not be guilty of harming him.” Translate this idiom in a way that is natural and clear in your language.
For he {is} our brother, our flesh
Quote: כִּֽי אָחִ֥ינוּ בְשָׂרֵ֖נוּ ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“After all, he {is} a member of our family, our own brother.” or “After all, as our brother, he {is} member of our family.” The phrase “our flesh” refers to the fact that they are closely related biologically. See how you translated a similar idiom (“my bone and my flesh”) in Gen 29:14.
And his brothers listened
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁמְע֖וּ אֶחָֽיו (1)“Judah’s brothers agreed {with him}.” or “Judah’s brothers agreed {to do what Judah had proposed/suggested}.” See how you translated “listened” in Gen 34:24.
Genesis 37:28
Then the Midianite men, traders, passed by
Quote: וַיַּֽעַבְרוּ֩ אֲנָשִׁ֨ים מִדְיָנִ֜ים סֹֽחֲרִ֗ים (1)“So when/as the Midianite {(that is, Ishmaelite)} traders/merchants came by/near {them},” or “So when the {Ishmaelite} traders who were {also/sometimes called} Midianites were passing/going by {them},” The Ishmaelites (verses 25, 27-28; 39:1) and Midianites (verses 28 and 36) were the descendants of Abraham’s sons Ishmael and Midian (16:15; 25:1-2). However, sometimes (as here) the names of those people groups are used interchangeably for the same people (also see Judges 8:22, 24, 26). Perhaps that was because the two people groups had intermarried. Or there may have been merchants from the two people groups in this caravan who bought and sold Joseph together. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
and they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the cistern
Quote: וַֽיִּמְשְׁכוּ֙ וַיַּֽעֲל֤וּ אֶת יוֹסֵף֙ מִן הַבּ֔וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{some of} Joseph’s brothers pulled Joseph/him up out of the pit/well”. Not all of Joseph’s brothers were there, because we know from the next verse that at least Reuben was somewhere else when they sold Joseph.
and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty {shekels of} silver
Quote: וַיִּמְכְּר֧וּ אֶת יוֹסֵ֛ף לַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֖ים בְּעֶשְׂרִ֣ים כָּ֑סֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
“and sold him to the Ishmaelite {traders/merchants} for twenty {shekels/pieces of} silver.” See the note about shekels at Gen 20:16. Twenty shekels of silver was equal to about one-fourth of a kilo (half a pound) and was the average price for a slave. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
Then they brought Joseph to Egypt
Quote: וַיָּבִ֥יאוּ אֶת יוֹסֵ֖ף מִצְרָֽיְמָה (1)“Then the Ishmaelites took him to {the country of} Egypt.”
Genesis 37:29
Then Reuben returned to the cistern
Quote: וַיָּ֤שָׁב רְאוּבֵן֙ אֶל הַבּ֔וֹר (1)“Later Reuben {who had been gone for a while} returned to the pit/well,” or “Then/Later Reuben came/went back to the pit/well {to get Joseph},” Consider again how you translated “cistern” in verses 20, 22, 24, 28-29.
but behold, Joseph was not in the cistern
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה אֵין יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּבּ֑וֹר (1)“and he was shocked to see that Joseph was not there!” or “but to his surprise/horror, Joseph was gone!”
so he tore his clothes
Quote: וַיִּקְרַ֖ע אֶת בְּגָדָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“So/Then he tore his clothes {to show distress/grief}.” or “Then {he was so distressed/grieved that} he tore his clothes.”
Genesis 37:30
Then he returned to his brothers
Quote: וַיָּ֥שָׁב אֶל אֶחָ֖יו (1)“Then he went back to where his brothers were” or “Then he went to his brothers”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said/exclaimed {to them},”
The boy
Quote: הַיֶּ֣לֶד (1)“The lad/youth” or “Joseph” or “Our {younger} brother”. Joseph was seventeen years old (verse 2), so this phrase should be translated in a way that is appropriate for his older brother to refer to him here. See how you translated a different word that has a similar meaning in Gen 21:12.
is not {there
Quote: אֵינֶ֔נּוּ (1)“is gone/missing!”
And I, where am I going
Quote: וַאֲנִ֖י אָ֥נָה אֲנִי בָֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Now what should/can I do?” or “Now I do not know what to do!” Reuben uses a rhetorical question here to express how distressed he is and to emphasize that he does not know what to do. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Genesis 37:31
Then they took
Quote: וַיִּקְח֖וּ (1)“So they” or “Then/So Joseph’s brothers”
Then they took Joseph’s tunic
Quote: וַיִּקְח֖וּ אֶת כְּתֹ֣נֶת יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“took his tunic/robe,” or “picked up his tunic/robe,”
and slaughtered a kid of the goats
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁחֲטוּ֙ שְׂעִ֣יר עִזִּ֔ים (1)“killed a male/young goat”
and dipped the tunic in the blood
Quote: וַיִּטְבְּל֥וּ אֶת הַכֻּתֹּ֖נֶת בַּדָּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and dipped the/Joseph's robe in its blood.” For some languages it is more natural to switch the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Then/So Joseph’s brothers killed a young goat, took Joseph’s/his tunic/robe, and dipped it in the {goat’s} blood.” or “Then/So Joseph’s brothers killed a young goat and dipped Joseph’s/his tunic/robe in the {goat’s} blood.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 37:32
Then they sent the multicolored tunic and had it brought to their father and said
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּח֞וּ אֶת כְּתֹ֣נֶת הַפַּסִּ֗ים וַיָּבִ֨יאוּ֙ אֶל אֲבִיהֶ֔ם וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)“Then they had someone take/bring the colorful tunic/robe back to their father and say {to him} {for them},” Consider again how you translated “multicolored/colorful tunic/robe” in verses 3, 23, 32.
We found this. Please examine
Quote: זֹ֣את מָצָ֑אנוּ הַכֶּר נָ֗א (1)“We found this {tunic/robe}. Please look at it {to see/determine}”. See how you translated “examine” in Gen 31:32.
whether it {is} your son’s tunic or not
Quote: הַכְּתֹ֧נֶת בִּנְךָ֛ הִ֖וא אִם לֹֽא (1)“whether/if it {is} your son’s tunic/robe.” or “whether or not it {is} your son’s.”
Genesis 37:33
And he examined it and said
Quote: וַיַּכִּירָ֤הּ וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“Jacob examined/recognized the robe and exclaimed,”
It is} my son’s tunic
Quote: כְּתֹ֣נֶת בְּנִ֔י (1)“{This is} my son {Joseph}’s tunic/robe!” or “This tunic/robe belongs to my son {Joseph}!”
An evil animal has devoured him! Surely Joseph was torn to pieces
Quote: חַיָּ֥ה רָעָ֖ה אֲכָלָ֑תְהוּ טָרֹ֥ף טֹרַ֖ף יוֹסֵֽף (1)“Surely/Clearly a fierce/vicious/ferocious {wild} animal has torn Joseph/him to pieces/bits and eaten him up!” See how you translated “an evil animal devoured him” in verse 20.
Genesis 37:34
Then Jacob tore his clothes
Quote: וַיִּקְרַ֤ע יַעֲקֹב֙ שִׂמְלֹתָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then Jacob tore his clothes {in grief/sorrow},” or “Jacob {was so grieved that he} tore his clothes,” See how you translated “tore his clothes” in verse 29.
and put sackcloth on his loins
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם שַׂ֖ק בְּמָתְנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“put on sackcloth,” or “put on mourning clothes,” It was a Hebrew custom to wear sackcloth, which was a rough/coarse garment made/woven from black goats’ hair, to show that the person was mourning for someone’s death. If this custom is not familiar in your culture, you could put that information in a footnote.
and he mourned for his son many days
Quote: וַיִּתְאַבֵּ֥ל עַל בְּנ֖וֹ יָמִ֥ים רַבִּֽים (1)“and for many days he mourned/grieved that his son had died.” or “and for a {very} long time he mourned/grieved that/because his son was dead/gone.” See how you translated “mourn” in Gen 27:41.
Genesis 37:35
And all his sons and all his daughters got up
Quote: וַיָּקֻמוּ֩ כָל בָּנָ֨יו וְכָל בְּנֹתָ֜יו (1)“All Jacob’s sons and daughters”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיָּקֻמוּ֩ לְנַחֲמ֗וֹ (1)“came {to him} {and tried} to comfort/console him,”
but he refused to be comforted
Quote: וַיְמָאֵן֙ לְהִתְנַחֵ֔ם (1)“but he did not want to be comforted/consoled” or “but he did/would not let them comfort/console him”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“Instead he said {to them},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
For I will go down to my son in Sheol mourning
Quote: כִּֽי אֵרֵ֧ד אֶל בְּנִ֛י אָבֵ֖ל שְׁאֹ֑לָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“{No,} I will continue to mourn until I {die and} join my son down in Sheol.” or “{No,} I will continue to mourn {for my son} until I {die and} go down to be with him in the afterworld.” Sheol is the Hebrew name for the world of the dead, that is, the place where the spirits of dead people lived. You could put that information in a footnote. Your translation of “Sheol” should not refer to hell or a place of punishment. Some translations have “the grave” here, but that leaves out the idea of an afterlife that this sentence implies.
So his father wept for him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ אֹת֖וֹ אָבִֽיו (1)“So/Then Joseph’s father continued to mourn/grieve {deeply} for him/Joseph.”
Genesis 37:36
And the Midianites sold him in Egypt
Quote: וְהַ֨מְּדָנִ֔ים מָכְר֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ אֶל מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“Meanwhile, in {the country of} Egypt, the Midianite {traders} sold Joseph” or “Meanwhile, when the Midianite {traders} got to {the country of} Egypt, they sold Joseph”. The event in verse 36 occurred during the time that the events in verses 29-35 happened.
to Potiphar, an official of Pharaoh
Quote: לְפֽוֹטִיפַר֙ סְרִ֣יס פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)“to Potiphar, {who was} an official/officer under Pharaoh {the king of/over Egypt};” See how you translated “Pharaoh” in Gen 12:15-20.
the chief of the guards
Quote: שַׂ֖ר הַטַּבָּחִֽים (1)“{he was} the captain over the {royal/palace} guards.” or “{he was} the leader of the soldiers who guarded the king.”
Genesis 38
Genesis 38:1
And it happened at that time
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ בָּעֵ֣ת הַהִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Meanwhile,” or “At/About that/this time,” The phrase “And it happened” introduces a new episode here. Some translations leave it implied. Do what is best in your language.
that Judah went down from his brothers
Quote: וַיֵּ֥רֶד יְהוּדָ֖ה מֵאֵ֣ת אֶחָ֑יו (1)“Judah left his brothers and went/traveled down”
and settled near an Adullamite man
Quote: וַיֵּ֛ט עַד אִ֥ישׁ עֲדֻלָּמִ֖י (1)“and settled/stayed/lived in {the town of} Adullam near {the home of} a man from there” or “to {the town of} Adullam and settled/stayed/lived near {the home of} a man from there”. The word “Adullamite” refers to the fact that Hirah was from the town of Adullam; it is not the name of a people group. The town of Adullam was about 19 kilometers (12 miles) northwest of the city of Hebron (37:14), and was lower in elevation, which is why the text says that Judah “went down” to get there.
and his name {was} Hirah
Quote: וּשְׁמ֥וֹ חִירָֽה (1)“whose name {was} Hirah.”
Genesis 38:2
And there Judah saw the daughter of a Canaanite man, and his name {was} Shua
Quote: וַיַּרְא־שָׁ֧ם יְהוּדָ֛ה בַּת אִ֥ישׁ כְּנַעֲנִ֖י וּשְׁמ֣וֹ שׁ֑וּעַ (1)“{While he was living} there, Judah/he met the daughter of a Canaanite man named Shua,” or “{While he was living} there, Judah/he met a Canaanite woman whose father {was} Shua,”
and he took her
Quote: וַיִּקָּחֶ֖הָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he took her {as his wife}.” or “and he married her.” See how you translated a similar idiom (“took a wife”) in Gen 25:1.
Then he went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then he slept/lay with her,” or “Then he had {marital/sexual} relations with her,” See how you translated the idiom “went to” in Gen 6:4.
Genesis 38:3
and she conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֖הַר (1)“and she became pregnant”
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֑ן (1)“and gave birth to a son,” or “When she gave birth, she had a son,” Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
and he called his name Er
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ עֵֽר (1)“whom he/Judah named Er.” Throughout Genesis, sometimes the father, sometimes the mother, and sometimes both are said to give their child his name.
Genesis 38:4
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֥הַר ע֖וֹד (1)“Then Judah’s wife became pregnant again”. See how you translated verse 3, which is similar to verse 4.
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֑ן (1)“and gave birth to {another} son,”
and she called his name Onan
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ אוֹנָֽן (1)“and she named him Onan.”
Genesis 38:5
Then she continued further
Quote: וַתֹּ֤סֶף עוֹד֙ (1)“Then she conceived again” or “Then she became pregnant yet again”
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֔ן (1)“and gave birth to {another} son,”
and she called his name Shelah
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖וֹ שֵׁלָ֑ה (1)“and she named him Shelah.”
And he was in Kezib when she bore him
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה בִכְזִ֖יב בְּלִדְתָּ֥הּ אֹתֽוֹ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “He/Judah was in/at {the town of} Kezib when she gave birth to Shelah.” or “When she gave birth to Shelah, Judah was in {the town of} Kezib.” or (2) “It was in {the town of} Kezib that she gave birth to him/Shelah.” or “She was in Kezib when she gave birth to him/Shelah.”
Genesis 38:6
Then Judah took a wife for Er his firstborn, and her name {was} Tamar
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֧ח יְהוּדָ֛ה אִשָּׁ֖ה לְעֵ֣ר בְּכוֹר֑וֹ וּשְׁמָ֖הּ תָּמָֽר (1)“Years later, Judah got/chose a wife named Tamar for his firstborn/oldest son Er.” or “When Judah’s firstborn/oldest son Er grew up, Judah arranged/negotiated for him to marry a woman whose name {was} Tamar.” See how you translated the phrase “took a wife for” in Gen 21:21.
Genesis 38:7
But Er, the firstborn of Judah, was
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י עֵ֚ר בְּכ֣וֹר יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)“But Judah’s firstborn/oldest son Er” or “But Er”. Some languages leave “the firstborn of Judah” implied here since Er was already called the firstborn in verse 6. The Hebrew text repeats that information here to emphasize Er’s relationship to Judah in the following events. Do what is best in your language.
But … was evil in the eyes of Yahweh
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י & רַ֖ע בְּעֵינֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“did things that were evil/wicked in Yahweh’s sight/opinion,” or “did something/things that Yahweh considered/judged to be evil/wicked,” The Hebrew text does not specify what Er had done wrong, so neither should your translation. See how you translated the idiom “in the eyes of Yahweh” in Gen 6:8.
so Yahweh killed him
Quote: וַיְמִתֵ֖הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)“so Yahweh took his life.” or “so Yahweh caused him to die.”
Genesis 38:8
Then Judah said to Onan
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוּדָה֙ לְאוֹנָ֔ן (1)“After that, Judah told {his son} Onan,”
Go to the wife of your brother
Quote: בֹּ֛א אֶל אֵ֥שֶׁת אָחִ֖יךָ (1)“Marry your brother’s wife/widow {Tamar} {according to our custom}”. The Israelites practiced the custom of Levirate marriage, which meant that if a man died without any children, it was his oldest brother’s duty to marry his widow so that together they could have a son who would carry on the deceased man’s family line and inherit his estate (See: Deuteronomy 25:5-6). You could put some of that information in a footnote.
and perform your duty to her
Quote: וְיַבֵּ֣ם אֹתָ֑הּ (1)“so that you fulfill your duty/obligation to her {as her brother-in-law}”
and produce offspring
Quote: וְהָקֵ֥ם זֶ֖רַע (1)“and produce/have children {with her}”
for your brother
Quote: לְאָחִֽיךָ (1)“for your {deceased} brother.” or “to carry on {the name of} your brother {Er}.”
Genesis 38:9
However, Onan knew that the offspring would not be his
Quote: וַיֵּ֣דַע אוֹנָ֔ן כִּ֛י לֹּ֥א ל֖וֹ יִהְיֶ֣ה הַזָּ֑רַע (1)“But Onan knew that the children {they would have together} would not belong to him.”
so it happened when
Quote: וְהָיָ֞ה אִם (1)“So whenever” or “So every time”
he went to
Quote: בָּ֨א אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“he slept/lay with” or “he had {marital/physical} relations with”
the wife of his brother
Quote: אֵ֤שֶׁת אָחִיו֙ (1)“his brother’s wife/widow {Tamar},” or “Tamar,”
then he spilled {it} on the ground
Quote: וְשִׁחֵ֣ת אַ֔רְצָה (1)“he wasted {his semen} on the ground” or “he caused/let {his semen} to spill/go on the ground”. Translate this clause in a way that is polite and will not shame or embarrass people when this verse is read aloud in public. Make sure it is clear that Onan did something to keep Tamar from getting pregnant.
so that he would not give offspring to his brother
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֥י נְתָן זֶ֖רַע לְאָחִֽיו (1)“so that he would not have offspring/children for his brother.” or “to keep her from {getting pregnant and} having {any} offspring/children for his brother.”
Genesis 38:10
And what he did was evil in the eyes of Yahweh
Quote: וַיֵּ֛רַע בְּעֵינֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑ה (1)“Yahweh considered/judged what he/Onan did to be evil/wicked,” or “But that was evil/wicked in Yahweh’s sight/opinion,” See how you translated “evil in the eyes of Yahweh” in verse 7.
so he killed him also
Quote: וַיָּ֖מֶת גַּם אֹתֽוֹ (1)“so he/Yahweh took his life too/also.” or “so he/Yahweh caused him to die too.”
Genesis 38:11
Then Judah said to Tamar
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוּדָה֩ לְתָמָ֨ר (1)“Then Judah told”
to Tamar his daughter-in-law
Quote: לְתָמָ֨ר כַּלָּת֜וֹ (1)“his daughter-in-law Tamar,” or “his son’s widow Tamar,” or “Tamar,”
Remain a widow in the house of your father
Quote: שְׁבִ֧י אַלְמָנָ֣ה בֵית אָבִ֗יךְ (1)“{Go back} to your father’s house and stay there as a widow” or “{Go and} live at your father’s house, and do not marry again”
until Shelah my son grows up
Quote: עַד יִגְדַּל֙ שֵׁלָ֣ה בְנִ֔י (1)“until my son Shelah is old enough {to marry you}.”
For he said, “So that he does not also die like his brothers
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔ר פֶּן יָמ֥וּת גַּם־ה֖וּא כְּאֶחָ֑יו (1)“{He/Judah said/did that} because he said/thought {to himself}, “I don’t want Shelah to die like his brothers did!” ” or “{He/Judah did/said that} because he was afraid Shelah would die like his brothers had died.” or “{Actually Judah did not want Shelah to marry Tamar} because he was afraid/worried {that if he did,} he would also die like his brothers had died.”
So Tamar went and lived in the house of her father
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶךְ תָּמָ֔ר וַתֵּ֖שֶׁב בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽיהָ (1)“So Tamar went {home} to her father’s house and live/stayed there.”
Genesis 38:12
Then the days were many
Quote: וַיִּרְבּוּ֙ הַיָּמִ֔ים (1)“Many years later,” or “After a long time,” or “Years went by and then”
and Shua’s daughter, the wife of Judah, died
Quote: וַתָּ֖מָת בַּת שׁ֣וּעַ אֵֽשֶׁת יְהוּדָ֑ה (1)“Judah’s wife, the daughter of Shua, died.” or “Judah’s wife, {who was} Shua’s daughter, died.” Notice that Shua was the father of Judah’s wife. Be consistent here with how you spelled his name in verse 2.
Then Judah was comforted
Quote: וַיִּנָּ֣חֶם יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)“After Judah finished mourning/grieving {for her}, {one day}” or “After Judah had completed the {customary} time of mourning/grieving {for her},” See how you translated “comforted” in Gen 37:35.
and he went up to Timnah
Quote: וַיַּ֜עַל & תִּמְנָֽתָה (1)“he {decided to} go to {the town of} Timnah”. Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like Judah had already arrived at Timnah, because he does not actually reach there until verse 19. His trip from the town of Adullam (verse 1) to the town of Timnah was about 13 kilometers (8 miles).
to {the men} who were shearing his sheep
Quote: עַל גֹּֽזֲזֵ֤י צֹאנוֹ֙ (1)“{to work} with {the men} who were shearing his sheep {there}.” or “where {his men} were shearing his sheep {for him}.” See how you translated “shear his sheep” in Gen 31:19 and see the note about that there.
he and his friend Hirah the Adullamite
Quote: ה֗וּא וְחִירָ֛ה רֵעֵ֥הוּ הָעֲדֻלָּמִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“He and his friend Hirah, {who was} from {the town of} Adullam, {started traveling there together}.” or “His friend Hirah the Adullamite went/traveled with him.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “… and he and his friend Hirah the Adullamite went up to {the town of} Timnah where men were shearing Judah’s sheep {for him}.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled “Hirah” and how you translated “Adullamite” in verse 1.
Genesis 38:13
And it was told to Tamar, saying
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְתָמָ֖ר לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Then/Meanwhile someone told/informed Tamar,”
Behold, your father-in-law
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה חָמִ֛יךְ (1)“Listen, your father-in-law {Judah}”
is going up to Timnah to shear his sheep
Quote: עֹלֶ֥ה תִמְנָ֖תָה לָגֹ֥ז צֹאנֽוֹ (1)“is on his way to {the town of} Timnah to shear his sheep.” or “is on his way to shear his sheep in/at {the town of} Timnah.” See how you translated “shearing his sheep” in verse 12.
Genesis 38:14
So she took off her widow’s clothes from her
Quote: וַתָּסַר֩ בִּגְדֵ֨י אַלְמְנוּתָ֜הּ מֵֽעָלֶ֗יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So she changed from her clothes that showed she was a widow” or “So she changed {into different clothes} from the kind of clothes that widows wear”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Tamar did not just take off her widow’s clothes, but that she also put different clothes on.
and covered herself with a veil
Quote: וַתְּכַ֤ס בַּצָּעִיף֙ (1)“and covered herself with a {large} veil/shawl” or “and covered her face with a {thin} veil/headscarf”. A veil was a large piece of thin cloth that was used to cover the face and/or the body. See how you translated “veil” in Gen 24:65.
and wrapped herself
Quote: וַתִּתְעַלָּ֔ף (1)“and dressed/disguised herself {as/like a prostitute}.” or “to disguise herself.”
Then she sat at the entrance of Enaim, which {is} on the road to Timnah
Quote: וַתֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בְּפֶ֣תַח עֵינַ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל דֶּ֣רֶךְ תִּמְנָ֑תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then she sat near/by the entrance/gateway to {the town of} Enaim, which {was} on the road/way to/toward {the town of} Timnah,” or “Then {she went/traveled} toward {the town of} Timnah and sat down at/near the entrance/gateway of {the town of} Enaim, which {was} along the way.” Some languages need to specify that Tamar traveled to Enaim before she sat down there. Do what is best in your language.
because she saw that Shelah had grown up
Quote: כִּ֤י רָאֲתָה֙ כִּֽי גָדַ֣ל שֵׁלָ֔ה (1)“{She did that} because she had noticed that Shelah was now old enough {to marry},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
but she had not been given to him as a wife
Quote: וְהִ֕וא לֹֽא נִתְּנָ֥ה ל֖וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“but Judah had not given her to him/Shelah to marry {as he was supposed/required to do}.” For some languages it is more natural to change the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “Tamar had seen/noticed that Shelah was now grown up, but Judah had not given her to him to marry {as he was supposed/required to do}. So she changed from her widow’s clothes …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 38:15
Then Judah saw her
Quote: וַיִּרְאֶ֣הָ יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)“{As Judah was traveling to Timnah,} he saw Tamar {beside the road},”
and he thought she was a prostitute because she had covered her face
Quote: וַֽיַּחְשְׁבֶ֖הָ לְזוֹנָ֑ה כִּ֥י כִסְּתָ֖ה פָּנֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“but since she had covered/veiled her face {with a veil/shawl}, {he could not see who she was and} he thought/assumed that she was a prostitute.” See how you translated “prostitute” in Gen 34:31 and “covered her face” in verse 14.
Genesis 38:16
So he turned to her beside the road
Quote: וַיֵּ֨ט אֵלֶ֜יהָ אֶל הַדֶּ֗רֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So he went over to where she was {sitting} beside/by the road”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“and said {to her},” or “and propositioned {her} by saying,” or “and requested,”
Please come, let me come to you
Quote: הָֽבָה נָּא֙ אָב֣וֹא אֵלַ֔יִךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Let me sleep/lie with you.” or “Let me have relations/sex with you.”
because he did not know that she {was} his daughter-in-law
Quote: כִּ֚י לֹ֣א יָדַ֔ע כִּ֥י כַלָּת֖וֹ הִ֑וא (1)“{He did/said that} because he did not recognize/realize that she {was} his daughter-in-law {Tamar}.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “He did not realize that she was his daughter-in-law {Tamar}, so he went over to her beside the road and said …”
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So she asked {him},”
What will you give to me
Quote: מַה תִּתֶּן לִּ֔י (1)“What will you give me {in exchange}” or “What will you pay me”
if you will come
Quote: כִּ֥י תָב֖וֹא (1)“if I allow you to” or “so that you can”
you will come to me
Quote: תָב֖וֹא אֵלָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“sleep/lie with me?” or “have relations/sex with me?” or “do that?” See how you translated the idiom “come to” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 38:17
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“He answered {her},”
I will send a kid goat from the flock
Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י אֲשַׁלַּ֥ח גְּדִֽי עִזִּ֖ים מִן הַצֹּ֑אן (1)“I will send {you} a young goat from my flock.” See how you translated “kid goat” in Gen 27:9, 16.
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)“She replied,”
If you will give a pledge
Quote: אִם תִּתֵּ֥ן עֵרָב֖וֹן (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{Ok,} if you will give {me} a pledge/deposit …” or “{I will agree,} if you give {me} something {valuable} {of yours} to keep …” or (2) “Will you give me a pledge/deposit …?”
until you send {it
Quote: עַ֥ד שָׁלְחֶֽךָ (1)“until you send/deliver {the goat to me}.”
Genesis 38:18
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Judah asked {her},”
What {is} the pledge that I should give to you
Quote: מָ֣ה הָֽעֵרָבוֹן֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶתֶּן לָּךְ֒ (1)“What should I give to you as a pledge/deposit?” or “What do you want me to leave with you?”
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“She answered {him},”
Your signet and your cord
Quote: חֹתָֽמְךָ֙ וּפְתִילֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“{Leave/Give me} your {name/identification/signature} seal/thing with its cord/string {that you have/wear around your neck},” A “signet” or “identification seal” was a ring or small cylinder-shaped object that had the owner’s name engraved on it and was worn around his neck on a cord. It was used to prove his identity and to sign documents that were written on clay tablets, by rolling the cylinder over the soft clay. If people in your culture are not familiar with these things, you could put some of this information in a footnote.
and your staff
Quote: וּמַטְּךָ֖ (1)“and your cane” or “and your walking stick”
that {is} in your hand
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּיָדֶ֑ךָ (1)“that you are holding.” or “that you have.”
So he gave {them} to her
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן לָּ֛הּ (1)“So he gave {those things} to her”
and went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֵלֶ֖יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Then he slept/lay with her,” or “Then he had {sexual} relations with her,” Consider again how you translated the idiom “went to” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 6:4 (See: note); 16:2, 4; 19:31; 30:3-4; 38:2, 8-9, 16, 18. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context; for example, the relationship in Gen 38:16, 18 was outside of marriage.
and she conceived by him
Quote: וַתַּ֥הַר לֽוֹ (1)“and she became pregnant by/from him.” or “and he caused her to become pregnant.” Consider again how you translated “conceive” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:1, 17; 16:4-5; 19:36; 21:2; 25:21; 29:32-35; 30:5, 7, 17, 19, 23; 38:3-4, 18.
Genesis 38:19
Then she got up and left
Quote: וַתָּ֣קָם וַתֵּ֔לֶךְ (1)“After that, Tamar left {Judah} and went/returned {home}” or “After Tamar left {Judah}, she went/returned {home}”
and she took off her veil from her
Quote: וַתָּ֥סַר צְעִיפָ֖הּ מֵעָלֶ֑יהָ (1)“took off her veil/shawl” or “Then she took her veil/scarf off”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “veil” in verse 14.
and put on her widow’s clothes
Quote: וַתִּלְבַּ֖שׁ בִּגְדֵ֥י אַלְמְנוּתָֽהּ (1)“and put {back} on her clothes that showed she was a widow.” or “and put {back} on the kind of clothes that widows wear.” See how you translated “widow’s clothes” in verse 14.
Genesis 38:20
Then Judah sent the kid goat by the hand of his friend the Adullamite
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֨ח יְהוּדָ֜ה אֶת־גְּדִ֣י הָֽעִזִּ֗ים בְּיַד֙ רֵעֵ֣הוּ הָֽעֲדֻלָּמִ֔י (1)“Meanwhile Judah sent a young goat with his friend {Hirah}, {who was} from {the town of} Adullam,” or “After that, Judah sent his friend {Hirah} the Adullamite with a young goat”. See how you translated “his friend … the Adullamite” in verse 12 and “kid goat” in verse 17.
to get back the pledge from the hand of the woman
Quote: לָקַ֥חַת הָעֵרָב֖וֹן מִיַּ֣ד הָאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)“to retrieve/reclaim his things from the woman/prostitute {whom he had given them to}.” or “to exchange it for the things he had left with the woman/prostitute.” or “to get back from the woman/prostitute the things he had left with her.”
but he did not find her
Quote: וְלֹ֖א מְצָאָֽהּ (1)“but Hirah could not find her.” or “But {when Hirah looked for her,} he was not able to find her.”
Genesis 38:21
So he asked the men of her place, saying
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֞ל אֶת אַנְשֵׁ֤י מְקֹמָהּ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“So he/Hirah asked {some} men {who lived} near the place where she had been,”
Where {is} the temple prostitute who {was} at Enaim beside the road
Quote: אַיֵּ֧ה הַקְּדֵשָׁ֛ה הִ֥וא בָעֵינַ֖יִם עַל הַדָּ֑רֶךְ (1)“Where {is} the temple/shrine prostitute who {was sitting} beside the road near {the town of} Enaim?” Pagan religions had fertility rites at their temples or shrines that included professional prostitutes. Make sure your translation of “temple prostitute” does not refer to any temple built by the Israelites. Also be consistent here with how you translated “Enaim” in verse 14.
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)“But they answered {him},”
There has not been a temple prostitute
Quote: לֹא הָיְתָ֥ה & קְדֵשָֽׁה (1)“There has never been a temple/shrine prostitute” or “No temple/shrine prostitute has ever been”
in this place
Quote: בָזֶ֖ה (1)“in/near this place/town.” or “around here.”
Genesis 38:22
So he returned to Judah
Quote: וַיָּ֨שָׁב֙ אֶל יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)“So/Then Hirah went/came back to Judah”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said/reported {to him},” or “and told/informed {him},”
I did not find her
Quote: לֹ֣א מְצָאתִ֑יהָ (1)“I was not able to find the woman/prostitute.”
And also
Quote: וְגַ֨ם (1)“In fact,” or “And besides that,”
the men of the place
Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמָּקוֹם֙ (1)“the men who live {around} there” or “the men who live in/near that town”
said, ‘There has not been a temple prostitute in this {place
Quote: אָֽמְר֔וּ לֹא הָיְתָ֥ה בָזֶ֖ה קְדֵשָֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“claimed, ‘There has never been a temple/shrine prostitute in/near this {place/town}.’ ” or “say/claim that there has never been a temple/shrine prostitute near/around there.” See how you translated this same quote in verse 21. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this as an indirect quote here in verse 22.
Genesis 38:23
And Judah said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוּדָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Judah said/replied {to him},” or “Judah replied,”
Let her take {the things} for herself
Quote: תִּֽקַּֽח לָ֔הּ (1)“{Stop looking for her and} let her keep {my things} for herself”
so that we do not become a laughingstock
Quote: פֶּ֖ן נִהְיֶ֣ה לָב֑וּז (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“so that people do not laugh at us.” or “Otherwise everyone will make fun of us.” or “so that we are not publicly shamed.” The pronouns “we” and “us” are inclusive here because Judah is including Hirah; some languages might use a dual pronoun. Use the pronouns that are best in your language in this context.
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)“Besides that,” or “After all,”
I sent this kid
Quote: שָׁלַ֨חְתִּי֙ הַגְּדִ֣י הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“I {did try to} send/deliver this goat {to her},” or “I sent {you to deliver} this goat {to her},”
but you did not find her
Quote: וְאַתָּ֖ה לֹ֥א מְצָאתָֽהּ (1)“but you could not find her.” or “but you were not able to find her.”
Genesis 38:24
Then it happened about three months later
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כְּמִשְׁלֹ֣שׁ חֳדָשִׁ֗ים (1)“About three months later,” The phrase “Then it happened” introduces an important part of the story and helps create suspense or anticipation, so that it leaves the audience wondering what will happen next. Some translations leave it implied. Do what is best in your language.
that it was told to Judah, saying
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֨ד לִֽיהוּדָ֤ה לֵֽאמֹר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“someone said/reported to Judah,” or “someone told/informed Judah,”
Tamar your daughter-in-law
Quote: תָּמָ֣ר כַּלָּתֶ֔ךָ (1)“Your daughter-in-law Tamar”. Consider again how you translated “daughter-in-law” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:31; 38:11, 16, 24.
has prostituted herself
Quote: זָֽנְתָה֙ (1)“has acted/behaved like/as a prostitute.” Some languages have an idiom for this phrase. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “prostitute” in Gen 34:31, 38:15 and “temple prostitute” in verses 21-22.
and also, behold, {she is} pregnant by her prostitutions
Quote: וְגַ֛ם הִנֵּ֥ה הָרָ֖ה לִזְנוּנִ֑ים (1)“In fact, look, {she is} {now} pregnant from doing that!” or “In fact, as a result of her immoral/indecent behavior {she has become} pregnant!” or “and even worse, {she is} {now} pregnant because of that!” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
So Judah said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Judah said/responded {angrily},”
Bring her out
Quote: הוֹצִיא֖וּהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Take her outside {the town}”. Executions were normally done outside of the city walls.
and let her be burned
Quote: וְתִשָּׂרֵֽף (1)“and burn her {to death}!” or “and {punish her by} burning her {to death}!”
Genesis 38:25
She was being brought out
Quote: הִ֣וא מוּצֵ֗את (1)“{So they went to get her/Tamar, but} as they were taking her out {of the town},”
and she sent {a message} to her father-in-law, saying
Quote: וְהִ֨יא שָׁלְחָ֤ה אֶל חָמִ֨יהָ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“she sent {a messenger} to her father-in-law {along with his things} and {told the messenger to} say,” See how you translated “father-in-law” in verse 13.
By the man whom these things belong to, I {am} pregnant
Quote: לְאִישׁ֙ אֲשֶׁר אֵ֣לֶּה לּ֔וֹ אָנֹכִ֖י הָרָ֑ה (1)“The man who owns these things is the one who got me pregnant.”
Then she said, “Please identify whose signet and cords and staff these {are
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ הַכֶּר נָ֔א לְמִ֞י הַחֹתֶ֧מֶת וְהַפְּתִילִ֛ים וְהַמַּטֶּ֖ה הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Please identify {the man} who owns this name/identification/signature seal/thing with its cord/string and this walking stick.” or “Please look at this name/identification/signature seal/thing with its cord/string and this walking stick. Do you know/recognize who they belong to?” For some languages it is more natural to omit the quote margin here, since what follows is a continuation of the message Tamar is sending to Judah. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “signet” and “cord” and “staff” in verse 18.
Genesis 38:26
And Judah identified {the things
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֣ר יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)“Judah recognized {his things}” or “Judah saw/recognized {that the things she had were his}”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“and confessed/admitted,”
She is more righteous than I {am
Quote: צָֽדְקָ֣ה מִמֶּ֔נִּי (1)“She/Tamar is right, and I am wrong,”
because I did not give her to Shelah my son
Quote: כִּֽי־עַל־כֵּ֥ן לֹא־נְתַתִּ֖יהָ לְשֵׁלָ֣ה בְנִ֑י (1)“because I refused to have my son Shelah marry her {as I was supposed/required to}!” or “because I did not let her marry my son Shelah {as I was supposed/required to}!” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Shelah” in verses 5, 11, 14.
And he did not continue to know her more
Quote: וְלֹֽא יָסַ֥ף ע֖וֹד לְדַעְתָּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“{So they released her/Tamar,} and {after that} he/Judah never again laid/slept with her/Tamar.” or “… never had {sexual} relations with her/Tamar again.” Consider again how you translated the idiom “knew” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:1 (and note), 17, 25; 19:8; 24:16; 38:26. It may be necessary to translate 38:26 differently, since the relationship in this verse was outside of marriage. Compare how you translated a related idiom (“went to”) in verse 18.
Genesis 38:27
Then it happened when {it was} time for her to give birth
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י בְּעֵ֣ת לִדְתָּ֑הּ (1)“Months later, when Tamar {was ready} to give birth,” See how you translated “Then it happened” in verse 24. The same phrase occurs three times in verses 27-29 to draw attention to the peak of this chapter, the birth of Perez, who was the ancestor of King David and the Messiah.
then behold, twins {were} inside her womb
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה תְאוֹמִ֖ים בְּבִטְנָֽהּ (1)“surprisingly/amazingly {there were} twins inside her!” or “they saw/realized that {there were} twins inside her!” or “it turned out that she was going to have twins!”
Genesis 38:28
And it happened, as she was giving birth
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י בְלִדְתָּ֖הּ (1)“While she was in labor,” or “As she was starting to deliver her babies,” See how you translated “giving birth” in Gen 35:16. This may need to be translated differently here because of the different context.
then {one} put out a hand
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן יָ֑ד (1)“{one of them} stuck out {his} hand” or “{one of the twins/babies} put/stuck out {his} hand”
and the midwife took a scarlet thread and tied {it} on his hand, saying
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֣ח הַמְיַלֶּ֗דֶת וַתִּקְשֹׁ֨ר עַל־יָד֤וֹ שָׁנִי֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“Then/So the midwife {who was there} tied a {bright} red thread/string on/around his wrist and said,” or “Then/So the midwife {who was helping her} …” The midwife did this because it was her responsibility to identify which baby was the firstborn. See how you translated “midwife” in Gen 35:17.
This {one} came out first
Quote: זֶ֖ה יָצָ֥א רִאשֹׁנָֽה (1)“This {one/baby} was born first.”
Genesis 38:29
But it happened, when he drew his hand back in, then behold
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כְּמֵשִׁ֣יב יָד֗וֹ וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)“But then the/that baby pulled his hand back inside, and suddenly/unexpectedly”
his brother came out
Quote: יָצָ֣א אָחִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“his brother came out {first} {instead}.” or “his brother was born {first} {instead}.”
Then she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So the midwife said/exclaimed {to the baby},”
How have you breached for yourself a breach
Quote: מַה פָּרַ֖צְתָּ עָלֶ֣יךָ פָּ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“How did you break/burst yourself out like that?” or “What a dramatic/powerful way for you to break/burst out!” or “Just look at how you have forced your way out!” The midwife uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize how surprised she is that Perez was born first. Decide the best way to communicate this in your language.
So he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So they named him” or “That is why he was named”. Although this phrase could mean that Judah (Perez’s father) named Perez, most translations translate this in a general or indefinite way that does not specify who named him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 29:34.
Perez
Quote: פָּֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Perez, {which means “break/burst out.”}” If you include the meaning of Perez’ name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translated the previous sentence.
Genesis 38:30
And afterwards, his brother
Quote: וְאַחַר֙ & אָחִ֔יו (1)“After that, his {twin} brother”
came out
Quote: יָצָ֣א (1)“was born/delivered”
who {had} the scarlet thread on his hand
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל יָד֖וֹ הַשָּׁנִ֑י (1)“who {had} the {bright} red thread/string on his wrist.” or “with the {bright} red thread/string on his wrist.” See how you translated “scarlet thread” in verse 28.
and he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)“So he was named” or “So they named him”. See how you translated “he called his name” in verse 29.
Zerah
Quote: זָֽרַח (1)“Zerah, {which means “brightness.”}”
Genesis 39
Genesis 39:1
Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֖ף הוּרַ֣ד מִצְרָ֑יְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Now {as you know,} {Ishmaelite traders/merchants} had taken/brought Joseph down to {the country of} Egypt,” or “Back/Returning {now} to Joseph: {Remember that} he had been taken/brought down to {the country of} Egypt {by Ishmaelite traders/merchants},” Chapter 39 picks up where 37:36 left off and repeats some events (that happened in chapter 37) to remind readers of what happened before chapter 38 interrupted the narrative. Make sure your translation does not sound like Joseph was taken to Egypt twice or sold to Potiphar twice.
Potiphar, an Egyptian man, an official of Pharaoh, the chief of the guards
Quote: פּוֹטִיפַר֩ סְרִ֨יס פַּרְעֹ֜ה שַׂ֤ר הַטַּבָּחִים֙ אִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י (1)“and/where an Egyptian {named} Potiphar, who was the captain over {King} Pharaoh’s {personal} guards,” See how you translated “an official of Pharaoh, the chief of the guards” in Gen 37:36.
and … had bought him from the hand of the Ishmaelites who had taken him down there
Quote: וַיִּקְנֵ֡הוּ & מִיַּד֙ הַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר הוֹרִדֻ֖הוּ שָֽׁמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“had bought him {as a slave/servant} from the Ishmaelites who had taken/brought him there.” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Now {as you know,} {some} Ishmaelite traders had taken/brought Joseph down to {the country of} Egypt, and an Egyptian {named} Potiphar had bought him {as a slave/servant} from them. Potiphar {was} {one of} Pharaoh’s officials/officers, the captain over the king’s {personal} guards.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “Ishmaelites” in Gen 37:25, 27-28.
Genesis 39:2
And Yahweh was with Joseph
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יְהוָה֙ אֶת יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“But Yahweh was with Joseph {and helped/blessed him},” See how you translated “was with” in Gen 21:20; 26:28.
and he was a successful man
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י אִ֣ישׁ מַצְלִ֑יחַ (1)“so that he succeeded in what/everything he did” or “so that he did everything very well”
and he was in the house of his Egyptian master
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י בְּבֵ֥ית אֲדֹנָ֖יו הַמִּצְרִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“as he worked in his Egyptian master’s/owner’s house.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “As Joseph worked in his Egyptian master/owner’s house, Yahweh was with him/Joseph {and helped/blessed him}, so that he succeeded in everything he did.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 39:3
And his master saw that Yahweh {was} with him
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא אֲדֹנָ֔יו כִּ֥י יְהוָ֖ה אִתּ֑וֹ (1)“His/Joseph’s master/owner realized that Yahweh {was} with/blessing him/Joseph”. In verses 2 through 20, Potiphar is referred to as Joseph’s master (verses 2-3, 7-8, 16, 19-20) and “the Egyptian” (verse 5); he is no longer mentioned by his name in the Hebrew text. Some translations continue to use Potiphar’s name occasionally in verses 2 through 20 to prevent confusion and make it clear that all of these references refer to the same person, not two or three different people. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “master” or “owner” in Gen 24:9-10.
and {that} Yahweh made all that he was doing successful in his hand
Quote: וְכֹל֙ אֲשֶׁר ה֣וּא עֹשֶׂ֔ה יְהוָ֖ה מַצְלִ֥יחַ בְּיָדֽוֹ (1)“and was helping/enabling him/Joseph to succeed/prosper in everything that he did.” or “and was helping/enabling him/Joseph to do everything very well.” See how you translated “successful” in verse 2.
Genesis 39:4
So Joseph found favor in his eyes, and he served him
Quote: וַיִּמְצָ֨א יוֹסֵ֥ף חֵ֛ן בְּעֵינָ֖יו וַיְשָׁ֣רֶת אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“So he/Potiphar was pleased with Joseph/him and made him his personal servant/attendant.” Make sure that your translation of “in his eyes” refers here to Joseph’s master, not Yahweh. Also, see how you translated the idiom “found favor in … eyes” in Gen 6:8.
And he put him in charge over his house and gave into his hand all {that} was his
Quote: וַיַּפְקִדֵ֨הוּ֙ עַל בֵּית֔וֹ וְכָל־יֶשׁ־ל֖וֹ נָתַ֥ן בְּיָדֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“He/Potiphar also put him/Joseph in charge of managing his household and taking care of everything {else} {that} he owned.” or “He/Potiphar also appointed him/Joseph as the manager/overseer of/over his {entire} household and entrusted into his care everything {that} belonged to him.” Make sure your translation of the pronouns (“he,” “him,” and “his”) in verses 2 through 6 refers to the correct person at each point in the text. Also see how you translated the idiom “gave … into the hand of” in Gen 32:16.
Genesis 39:5
And it happened from the time
Quote: וַיְהִ֡י מֵאָז֩ (1)“Beginning from the time {that}” or “From the time {that}”
he put him in charge in his house and over all that was his
Quote: הִפְקִ֨יד אֹת֜וֹ בְּבֵית֗וֹ וְעַל֙ כָּל אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֶשׁ ל֔וֹ (1)“Joseph’s Egyptian master/owner put him in charge of/over his household and everything {else} that belonged to him,” or “he/Potiphar put him/Joseph in charge of managing everything that belonged to him,” or “Joseph’s Egyptian master/owner did that,” See how you translated “put him in charge … his house and … everything {that} was his” in verse 4. It is repeated in verse 5 in the Hebrew text to emphasize the authority that Joseph was given. Do what is natural in your language.
then Yahweh blessed the house of the Egyptian
Quote: וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ יְהוָ֛ה אֶת בֵּ֥ית הַמִּצְרִ֖י (1)“Yahweh blessed the household of that Egyptian {man}” or “Yahweh caused that Egyptian’s household to prosper”. Make sure it is clear in your translation of this chapter that “Egyptian,” “master,” and “Potiphar” all refer to the same person, not two or three different people.
because of Joseph
Quote: בִּגְלַ֣ל יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“for Joseph’s sake/benefit.” or “because Joseph was working for him.”
So the blessing of Yahweh was on all that was his
Quote: וַיְהִ֞י בִּרְכַּ֤ת יְהוָה֙ בְּכָל אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֶשׁ ל֔וֹ (1)“Yahweh/He blessed everything that belonged to him,” or “Yahweh/He caused everything that he owned to prosper,”
in the house and in the fields
Quote: בַּבַּ֖יִת וּבַשָּׂדֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{including} {everything} in {his} household/home and in {his} fields.” or “{including} {his family and servants} in {his} household, as well as {the crops and livestock} in {his} fields.” In this context, “house” especially refers to the people in the house and “fields” refers to what is in the fields.
Genesis 39:6
And he left all that {belonged} to him in the hand of Joseph
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֣ב כָּל אֲשֶׁר לוֹ֮ בְּיַד יוֹסֵף֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“In fact, he/Potiphar gave Joseph the responsibility of managing everything that he owned/had, so that” or “In fact, after/since Joseph’s owner put him in charge of everything that he owned,” See how you translated a similar idiom (“gave into his hand”) in verse 4.
and he did not think to himself {about} anything except for the bread that he ate
Quote: וְלֹא יָדַ֤ע אִתּוֹ֙ מְא֔וּמָה כִּ֥י אִם הַלֶּ֖חֶם אֲשֶׁר ה֣וּא אוֹכֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“he did not {need to} concern himself with anything {in his household} except for {personal things/matters like} {deciding} what {kind of} food {he wanted} to eat.” or “the only thing he {needed to} think/decide about {in his household} was {personal things/matters like} what food {he wanted} to eat.” For some languages, it is more natural to put the exception clause first in the sentence. Do what is best in your language. Also, Potiphar did more than decide what to eat; that was just one example of personal decisions which were all he had to concern himself with.
Now Joseph was handsome in form and handsome in appearance
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף יְפֵה תֹ֖אַר וִיפֵ֥ה מַרְאֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Joseph was well-built/muscular and good-looking.” or “Now Joseph was a very handsome young man.” Some languages have a conjunction such as “Now” that introduces background information and a change of topic. For other languages a paragraph break is enough (without a conjunction). Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 39:7
And it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)“So after a while,” or “After {he had been/worked there for} a while,” The phrase “And it happened” introduces and emphasizes an important event. Many English translations do not include this phrase. Do what is natural in your language.
then the wife of his master lifted her eyes toward Joseph
Quote: וַתִּשָּׂ֧א אֵֽשֶׁת־אֲדֹנָ֛יו אֶת־עֵינֶ֖יהָ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“his master’s/owner’s wife started looking at Joseph/him {with desire/lust}” or “his master’s/owner’s wife started lusting for Joseph/him”. Many languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
and said
Quote: וַתֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said {to him},” or “and told/demanded {him},” Translate this quote introduction in a way that fits well with what Potiphar’s wife says to Joseph.
Lie with me
Quote: שִׁכְבָ֥ה עִמִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Sleep with me!” or “Come to bed with me!” See how you translated the idiom “lie with” in Gen 19:32.
Genesis 39:8
But he refused
Quote: וַיְמָאֵ֓ן (1)“But Joseph refused” or “But he/Joseph rejected {her request/demand}”
and said to the wife of his master
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל אֵ֣שֶׁת אֲדֹנָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and said to her,” or “and told her,”
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)“Look/Listen,” or “Notice that”
with me {here
Quote: אִתִּ֖י (1)“with me {in charge},” or “because of me,” or “since I am {working/serving} here,”
my master does not think {about
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֔י לֹא יָדַ֥ע (1)“my master/owner does not {need to} think/worry {about}” or “my owner does not {need/have to} concern himself with”
what {is} in the house
Quote: מַה בַּבָּ֑יִת (1)“anything that {is} in {his} house,” or “{managing} anything in {his} household,”
and all that is his he has given into my hand
Quote: וְכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר יֶשׁ ל֖וֹ נָתַ֥ן בְּיָדִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“In fact, everything that he owns he has given/entrusted into/to my care” or “In fact, he has put me in charge of everything that he owns/has”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated the idiom “gave into … hand” in verse 4.
Genesis 39:9
He is not greater than me in this house
Quote: אֵינֶ֨נּוּ גָד֜וֹל בַּבַּ֣יִת הַזֶּה֮ מִמֶּנִּי֒ (1)“{so that} he has no one in his household who has more authority than I do.” or “{As a result,} {even} he does not exercise more authority in/over this/his household than I do”. As Joseph’s master, Potiphar still had more authority than Joseph. But he had given Joseph authority to act in his place over everything in his household. Try to make that clear in your translation. Also, consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin verse 9 with a new sentence or to continue the sentence from verse 8.
and he has not withheld anything from me except for you, because you {are} his wife
Quote: וְלֹֽא חָשַׂ֤ךְ מִמֶּ֨נִּי֙ מְא֔וּמָה כִּ֥י אִם אוֹתָ֖ךְ בַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר אַתְּ אִשְׁתּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
“and he has given me freedom with everything {in his household}, except you, {of course,} because you {are} his wife.” or “He allows me to do anything {in his household}, except with you, his wife.” The phrase “has not withheld” is a litotes that emphasizes the freedom that Potiphar had given Joseph. Some languages must translate this in a way that does not use a negative word such as “not”. Do what is best in your language.
So how can I do this great evil, and sin against God
Quote: וְאֵ֨יךְ אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֜ה הָרָעָ֤ה הַגְּדֹלָה֙ הַזֹּ֔את וְחָטָ֖אתִי לֵֽאלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“So I refuse to do such an evil thing, which would be a terrible sin against God!” or “So there is no way I would {ever} sin against God by doing such an evil thing!” Joseph uses this rhetorical question to emphasize why he will not do what Potiphar’s wife wants. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 39:10
Then it happened even though she kept speaking to Joseph day {after} day
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כְּדַבְּרָ֥הּ אֶל יוֹסֵ֖ף י֣וֹם י֑וֹם (1)“Even though Potiphar’s wife kept propositioning/pressuring Joseph every day {to lie/sleep with her},” or “Day after day, Potiphar’s wife kept pressuring/asking Joseph {to go to bed with her}, but”. The phrase “Then/And it happened” is used several times in this chapter (verses 5, 7, 10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 19) to introduce and emphasize important events and to increase suspense so that the audience wonders what the outcome will be. Many English translations have omitted this phrase, possibly for reasons of naturalness. Consider whether you have an expression like this that is natural in your language.
yet he did not listen to her to lie beside her
Quote: וְלֹא שָׁמַ֥ע אֵלֶ֛יהָ לִשְׁכַּ֥ב אֶצְלָ֖הּ (1)“he did not do what she wanted, but refused to lie/sleep with her,” or “he refused/rejected her requests/demands”
to be with her
Quote: לִהְי֥וֹת עִמָּֽהּ (1)“and he stayed away from her.” or “and would not {even} go near her.”
Genesis 39:11
Then it happened on such a day
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כְּהַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)“{But} then on a day like that,” or “Then/But one such day” or “Then/But one day”
that he went into the house to do his work
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א הַבַּ֖יְתָה לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת מְלַאכְתּ֑וֹ (1)“Joseph went to {his master’s/owner’s} house {as usual} to do his work, and/but” or “when Joseph went into the/Potiphar’s house to work,”
and there were no other men of the house there in the house
Quote: וְאֵ֨ין אִ֜ישׁ מֵאַנְשֵׁ֥י הַבַּ֛יִת שָׁ֖ם בַּבָּֽיִת (1)“no other menservants from the household were there.” or “none of the other household menservants were there.”
Genesis 39:12
So she caught him by his garment
Quote: וַתִּתְפְּשֵׂ֧הוּ בְּבִגְד֛וֹ (1)“So/Then Potiphar’s wife caught/grabbed {hold of} him/Joseph by his robe/tunic,” The word “garment” is very general and probably refers to an outer article of clothing, such as a robe or tunic.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“{and} said {to him},” or “{and} said/demanded,” See how you translated this quote introduction in verse 7.
Lie with me
Quote: שִׁכְבָ֣ה עִמִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“Come to bed with me!” or “Sleep with me!” See how you translated this quote in verse 7.
But he left his garment in her hand and fled and went outside
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֤ב בִּגְדוֹ֙ בְּיָדָ֔הּ וַיָּ֖נָס וַיֵּצֵ֥א הַחֽוּצָה (1)“But {immediately} he fled and left his robe/tunic {behind} in her hands as he ran outside/outdoors.” or “But he {immediately} got away from her and fled/ran outside/outdoors, leaving his robe/tunic {behind} in her hands.” Make sure your translation does not sound here like Joseph put his garment in her hands. Rather, it came off in her hands as he was fleeing.
Genesis 39:13
Then it happened when she saw
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כִּרְאוֹתָ֔הּ (1)“As soon as she saw” or “After/When she saw”
that he had left his garment in her hands and had fled outside
Quote: כִּֽי עָזַ֥ב בִּגְד֖וֹ בְּיָדָ֑הּ וַיָּ֖נָס הַחֽוּצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“that Joseph had left his robe/tunic {behind} in her hands as he ran outside,” or “that Joseph had fled/run outside/outdoors and left his robe/tunic {behind} in her hands,” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 12.
Genesis 39:14
then she called for the men of her house
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֞א לְאַנְשֵׁ֣י בֵיתָ֗הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“she called out for the {other} household menservants {to come to her}” or “she summoned the {other} menservants of/from her household {to come}”. See how you translated “men of the house” in verse 11.
and said to them, saying
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר לָהֶם֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then {when they arrived/came,} she exclaimed to them,”
Look
Quote: רְא֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Look {at this}!” or “Look/See {what happened}!” As Potiphar’s wife speaks, she is probably showing the servants Joseph’s garment in her hands.
He brought to us a Hebrew man
Quote: הֵ֥בִיא לָ֛נוּ אִ֥ישׁ עִבְרִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“My husband brought {this} Hebrew slave/servant {here} to/among us”. Make sure that your translation of “He brought” refers here to Potiphar (as verse 17 confirms), not Joseph.
to laugh at us
Quote: לְצַ֣חֶק בָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“to mock/insult/humiliate us!” or “to make fools of us!” In this context, “us” is general and includes Potiphar’s wife and the people she is talking to.
He came to me
Quote: בָּ֤א אֵלַי֙ (1)“He came here” or “That man/slave came {here} to me”. Make sure your translation of “He came” refers here to Joseph, not Potiphar (who was the subject of the previous sentence in the Hebrew text).
to lie with me
Quote: לִשְׁכַּ֣ב עִמִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“to rape me,” or “to force me to lie/sleep with him,” Consider again how you translated the idiom “lie with” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 19:32-35; 26:10; 30:15-16; 34:2, 7; 35:22; 39:7, 10, 12, 14. It may be necessary to translate this in different ways, depending on the context.
but I called out with a loud voice
Quote: וָאֶקְרָ֖א בְּק֥וֹל גָּדֽוֹל (1)“but I cried out {for help}!” or “but I screamed/shouted loudly {for help}!”
Genesis 39:15
Then it happened when he heard
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כְשָׁמְע֔וֹ (1)“Then when” or “Then as soon as”
Then it happened when he heard that I raised my voice and called out
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כְשָׁמְע֔וֹ כִּֽי הֲרִימֹ֥תִי קוֹלִ֖י וָאֶקְרָ֑א (1)“Then when he heard me call/cry out loudly,” or “Then as soon as he heard me scream/shout {like that},”
then he left his garment beside me and fled and went outside
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֤ב בִּגְדוֹ֙ אֶצְלִ֔י וַיָּ֖נָס וַיֵּצֵ֥א הַחֽוּצָה (1)“he left his robe/tunic with me and fled/ran outside/outdoors!” or “he {immediately} fled/ran outside/outdoors and he left his robe/tunic behind!” See how you translated a similar clause in verses 12 and 13.
Genesis 39:16
Then she kept
Quote: וַתַּנַּ֥ח (1)“So she kept” or “Then/So Potiphar’s wife kept”
his garment beside her
Quote: בִּגְד֖וֹ אֶצְלָ֑הּ (1)“Joseph’s robe/tunic with her”
until his master
Quote: עַד & אֲדֹנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“until {her husband,} Joseph’s master/owner,”. Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not sound like her husband and Joseph’s master were two different people. Do what is best in your language.
came to his house
Quote: בּ֥וֹא & אֶל בֵּיתֽוֹ (1)“came {back} to his home.” or “came/returned home.”
Genesis 39:17
Then she spoke to him
Quote: וַתְּדַבֵּ֣ר אֵלָ֔יו (1)“Then {when he/Potiphar arrived,} she told him”
according to those words
Quote: כַּדְּבָרִ֥ים הָאֵ֖לֶּה (1)“the same story.” or “the same thing she had told {the others}.”
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“She said,” or “This is what she said:”
The Hebrew slave whom you brought
Quote: הָעֶ֧בֶד הָֽעִבְרִ֛י אֲשֶׁר הֵבֵ֥אתָ (1)“The/That Hebrew slave/servant whom you brought”
to us
Quote: לָּ֖נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“among us” or “{to work} for us”. Here the pronoun “us” includes Potiphar, his wife and their household.
came to me to laugh at me
Quote: בָּֽא אֵלַ֞י & לְצַ֥חֶק בִּֽי (1)“{just now} came to me to mock/insult/humiliate me!” or “came here to make a fool of me!” See how you translated “laugh at” in verse 14.
Genesis 39:18
Then it happened when I raised my voice and called out
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּהֲרִימִ֥י קוֹלִ֖י וָאֶקְרָ֑א (1)“But as soon as I screamed/shouted loudly,” or “But when I screamed/shouted {for help},” See how you translated verse 15, which is similar to verse 18.
then he left his garment beside me and fled outside
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֥ב בִּגְד֛וֹ אֶצְלִ֖י וַיָּ֥נָס הַחֽוּצָה (1)“he left his robe/tunic beside/with me and ran outside/outdoors!” Consider again how you translated “garment” in verses 12-13, 15-16, 18.
Genesis 39:19
And it happened when his master heard
Quote: וַיְהִי֩ כִשְׁמֹ֨עַ אֲדֹנָ֜יו (1)“When Joseph’s master/owner heard”
the words of his wife that she spoke to him, saying, “Such {are} the things your slave did to me
Quote: אֶת דִּבְרֵ֣י אִשְׁתּ֗וֹ אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבְּרָ֤ה אֵלָיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר כַּדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה עָ֥שָׂהּ לִ֖י עַבְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“his wife say, “This is what your slave/servant did to me,” ” or “what his wife said his slave/servant {Joseph} had done to her,” Make sure that your translation of “his” refers to Joseph’s master here, not Joseph. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here.
then his anger burned
Quote: וַיִּ֖חַר אַפּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“he burned with anger.” or “he became very angry.” Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here.
Genesis 39:20
Then Joseph’s master took him and put him in the round-house
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֩ אֲדֹנֵ֨י יוֹסֵ֜ף אֹת֗וֹ וַֽיִּתְּנֵ֨הוּ֙ אֶל בֵּ֣ית הַסֹּ֔הַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then/So he had Joseph arrested and put in the prison/jail” or “And/Then he {had soldiers} arrest Joseph and put him in the prison/jail”. Potiphar probably had soldiers arrest Joseph for him, since he had the authority to do that as the captain of the guards. Consider again how you referred to Joseph and Joseph’s master, Potiphar, in verses 1-20. As usual, after you finish translating a section like this, it is a good practice to read the section aloud at a normal pace and listen carefully to make sure you refer to everyone accurately and naturally at each point in the text.
the place where the prisoners of the king were bound
Quote: מְק֕וֹם אֲשֶׁר אסורי הַמֶּ֖לֶךְ אֲסוּרִ֑ים (1)“where the king’s prisoners were confined/imprisoned.” or “where they kept/imprisoned people who had committed crimes against the king.”
So he was there in the round-house
Quote: וַֽיְהִי שָׁ֖ם בְּבֵ֥ית הַסֹּֽהַר (1)“So Joseph was/stayed there in the prison,” or “Joseph remained there in prison,”
Genesis 39:21
but Yahweh was with Joseph
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יְהוָה֙ אֶת יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“but Yahweh was with him”
and showed kindness to him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥ט אֵלָ֖יו חָ֑סֶד (1)“and was kind/gracious to him”. See how you translated “show kindness” in Gen 24:12.
and gave him favor in the eyes of the chief of the round-house
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן חִנּ֔וֹ בְּעֵינֵ֖י שַׂ֥ר בֵּית הַסֹּֽהַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and caused the prison warden to be pleased with him, {so that he treated him favorably/well}.” See how you translated a similar phrase (“favor in … eyes”) in verse 4.
Genesis 39:22
And the chief of the round-house gave into the hand of Joseph
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֞ן שַׂ֤ר בֵּית־הַסֹּ֨הַר֙ בְּיַד־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{Soon} the warden of the prison gave Joseph the responsibility for {taking care of}” or “So {before long} the warden put Joseph in charge of”
all the prisoners who {were} in the round-house
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל הָ֣אֲסִירִ֔ם אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּבֵ֣ית הַסֹּ֑הַר (1)“all the {other} prisoners who {were} in the/that prison,” or “all the {other} prisoners,”
and all that they were doing there, he was {the one} doing {it
Quote: וְאֵ֨ת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֤ר עֹשִׂים֙ שָׁ֔ם ה֖וּא הָיָ֥ה עֹשֶֽׂה (1)“so that he was in charge of everything that was done there.” or “so that he {was the one who} managed everything that they did there.”
Genesis 39:23
The chief of the round-house
Quote: שַׂ֣ר בֵּית הַסֹּ֗הַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
“{So} the warden” or “{As a result} the jail/prison warden”. Do what is best in your language.
did not look {at} anything
Quote: אֵ֣ין & רֹאֶ֤ה אֶֽת־כָּל־מְא֨וּמָה֙ (1)“did not {need to} supervise/oversee anything” or “did not {need to} pay attention to anything at all”
in his hand
Quote: בְּיָד֔וֹ (1)“that Joseph was in charge of,” or “that Joseph was managing,”
because Yahweh was with him
Quote: בַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה אִתּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because Yahweh was with Joseph”. For some languages, it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Because/Since Yahweh was with Joseph and helped him to succeed in whatever he did, the warden did not need to supervise/oversee anything that Joseph was in charge of.” Do what is best in your language.
and Yahweh made what he was doing successful
Quote: וַֽאֲשֶׁר ה֥וּא עֹשֶׂ֖ה יְהוָ֥ה מַצְלִֽיחַ (1)“and gave him success in whatever/everything he did.” or “and helped/enabled him to succeed at everything he did.” See how you translated a similar clause (“Yahweh made all that he was doing successful”) in verse 3.
Genesis 40
Genesis 40:1
Then it happened after those things {that
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)“Sometime after that,” or “After some time, {one day}”
the cupbearer of the king of Egypt and the baker
Quote: מַשְׁקֵ֥ה מֶֽלֶךְ מִצְרַ֖יִם וְהָאֹפֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“the {chief/head} wine-server and the {chief/head} baker for the king of/over Egypt” or “the man {who was in charge of those} who served wine to the king of/over Egypt and the man {who was in charge of those} who made/baked bread/food {for the king}”. The chief cupbearer was one of Pharaoh’s most trusted servants. He was in charge of serving Pharaoh anything that he wanted to drink, especially wine. It was his job to test the drink before Pharaoh had some, to make sure it was high quality and not poisoned. Some of that information could be put in a footnote. Also, it may be more natural to include here in verse 1 the fact that these were the head officials in these jobs, rather than wait until verse 2 to introduce that. Do what is best in your language.
sinned
Quote: חָֽטְא֛וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“disobeyed/displeased” or “offended”. The text does not say what the officials did wrong that angered Pharaoh. They may have done their jobs poorly in some way. Translate this phrase in a way that fits this context well in your language.
against their lord, against the king of Egypt
Quote: לַאֲדֹנֵיהֶ֖ם לְמֶ֥לֶךְ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“their master, {who was} {Pharaoh} the king of/over Egypt.” For some languages it is more natural to include here in verse 1 the fact that the king of Egypt was Pharaoh, rather than wait until verse 2 to introduce that. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 40:2
And Pharaoh broke out in anger
Quote: וַיִּקְצֹ֣ף פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“So Pharaoh/he” or “As a result, {King} Pharaoh” or “So the king”. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Pharaoh (verse 2) is the same person as the king of Egypt (verse 1). See how you translated “Pharaoh” in Gen 12:15, and see the important note about this there.
And Pharaoh broke out in anger against
Quote: וַיִּקְצֹ֣ף פַּרְעֹ֔ה עַ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“was very angry at/with” or “was furious with”. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom similar to “broke out in anger” that fits well here.
his two officials, against the chief of the cupbearers and against the chief of the bakers
Quote: שְׁנֵ֣י סָרִיסָ֑יו עַ֚ל שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֔ים וְעַ֖ל שַׂ֥ר הָאוֹפִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
“the official in charge of serving wine to him and the official in charge of baking bread for him” or “his chief/head wine-server and chief/head baker” or “those two officials/officers.” It may be more natural to combine verses 1 and 2 and say, “Sometime after that, Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, became very angry at two of his officials, his chief wine-server and chief baker, because they had displeased him.” In this case, you would also combine the verse numbers (1-2) to show it is a verse bridge combining two verses. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 40:3
and he put them
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן אֹתָ֜ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So he had them {arrested and} put” or “So he {had his soldiers arrest them and} put them”. Often in the Bible (as here), when it says that a king (or someone else with authority) did something, it is implied that he had people who were under his authority actually do it. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 39:20.
in custody
Quote: בְּמִשְׁמַ֗ר (1)“under guard” or “in prison”
in the house of the chief of the guards
Quote: בֵּ֛ית שַׂ֥ר הַטַבָּחִ֖ים (1)“in/at the house of the captain of/over the guards,” Apparently the round-house prison was part of the house where the chief of the guards lived and worked, perhaps a lower part (See: Joseph’s use of the word “pit” in verse 15 to refer to this prison). See how you translated “chief/captain of the guards” in Gen 37:36 and 39:1.
in the round-house, the place where Joseph was bound
Quote: אֶל בֵּ֣ית הַסֹּ֑הַר מְק֕וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר יוֹסֵ֖ף אָס֥וּר (1)“{that is,} in the round-house {prison/jail}, the {same} place/prison where Joseph was imprisoned/confined.” or “in the same prison where Joseph was.” See how you translated “bound” in Gen 39:20.
Genesis 40:4
And the chief of the guards assigned Joseph to them
Quote: וַ֠יִּפְקֹד שַׂ֣ר הַטַּבָּחִ֧ים אֶת יוֹסֵ֛ף אִתָּ֖ם (1)“{There} the captain of/over the guards assigned/appointed Joseph {to take care of them},”
so he attended them
Quote: וַיְשָׁ֣רֶת אֹתָ֑ם (1)“so he served them,” or “and so he waited on them,”
and they were in custody
Quote: וַיִּהְי֥וּ & בְּמִשְׁמָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and they were {kept} in custody/prison” or “and they remained in custody/prison”. Some translations begin a new paragraph and sentence here that continues into verse 5 and say, “After they had been in prison {for} a while, 5 one night the king’s head wine-server and head baker dreamed …”
for} days
Quote: יָמִ֖ים (1)“{for} some days/time,” or “{for} a while,” The phrase “{for} days” is a general expression that refers to an unspecified length of time.
Genesis 40:5
Then the two of them dreamed a dream. Each {had} his {own} dream in the same night
Quote: וַיַּֽחַלְמוּ֩ חֲל֨וֹם שְׁנֵיהֶ֜ם אִ֤ישׁ חֲלֹמוֹ֙ בְּלַ֣יְלָה אֶחָ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Then one night the two of them each had a dream,” or “One night they both/each had a dream,”
and} each {man’s} dream had its own interpretation
Quote: אִ֖ישׁ כְּפִתְר֣וֹן חֲלֹמ֑וֹ (1)“{and} each of the dreams had its own interpretation/meaning.” or “each with its own interpretation/meaning.” or “Each {one’s} dream had its own meaning.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
They were} the cupbearer and the baker who {belonged} to the king of Egypt, who were bound in the round-house
Quote: הַמַּשְׁקֶ֣ה וְהָאֹפֶ֗ה אֲשֶׁר֙ לְמֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרַ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲסוּרִ֖ים בְּבֵ֥ית הַסֹּֽהַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{This is talking about} the wine-server and the baker, who had served the king of Egypt and/but were in prison.” Many translations leave this sentence implied because it repeats information from the previous verses and may sound too repetitive. Or you could put this sentence earlier in this verse and say, “One night, the king of Egypt’s wine server and baker each had a dream while they were in prison, and each {man’s/one’s} dream had its own interpretation/meaning.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the cupbearer and baker in verse 5 are the same officials as those in verses 2-4.
Genesis 40:6
And Joseph came to them in the morning and saw them, and behold
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֧א אֲלֵיהֶ֛ם יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּבֹּ֑קֶר וַיַּ֣רְא אֹתָ֔ם וְהִנָּ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“In the morning, Joseph came to {serve} them and was surprised to see that” or “The next morning, when Joseph came to {serve} them, he saw/noticed that”. Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to have the time phrase “in the morning” first this verse.
they were upset
Quote: זֹעֲפִֽים (1)“they were troubled.” or “they looked distressed/sad.”
Genesis 40:7
So he asked Pharaoh’s officials who {were} with him in custody {in} the house of his master, saying
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֞ל אֶת סְרִיסֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר אִתּ֧וֹ בְמִשְׁמַ֛ר בֵּ֥ית אֲדֹנָ֖יו לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So/And he asked {King} Pharaoh’s officials/officers who {were} in prison with him in his master’s house,” or “So/And he asked them,”
Why {are} your faces sad today
Quote: מַדּ֛וּעַ פְּנֵיכֶ֥ם רָעִ֖ים הַיּֽוֹם (1)“Why do your faces look so sad/downcast today?” or “Why do you look {so} sad/unhappy today?” Some languages have an idiom that fits well here. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 40:8
And they said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They answered him,” or “They replied,”
We dreamed a dream
Quote: חֲל֣וֹם חָלַ֔מְנוּ (1)“We {each} had a dream {last night},” or “{Last night} we {both/each} had a dream,”
but {there is} no one to interpret it
Quote: וּפֹתֵ֖ר אֵ֣ין אֹת֑וֹ (1)“but there is no one {here} who can tell {us} what our dreams mean.” or “but we do not have anyone {here} to interpret/explain them {for us}.”
Then Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֜ם יוֹסֵ֗ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So Joseph replied,” or “Joseph replied,”
Don’t interpretations {belong} to God
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא לֵֽאלֹהִים֙ פִּתְרֹנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“God is the {only} one who can explain the meaning {of dreams}.” or “God is the {only} one who gives someone/people the ability to interpret {the meaning of dreams}.” Joseph uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that God is the only one who interprets dreams. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Please tell {them} to me
Quote: סַפְּרוּ נָ֖א לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Please tell me {what you dreamed}.” or “Please tell/describe {your dreams} to me {and God will reveal to me what they mean}.” Make sure that your translation of the last two sentences in this verse does not sound like Joseph is claiming to be God. Rather, he is saying that if the two officials tell their dreams to him, God will enable him to interpret the dreams.
Genesis 40:9
Then the chief of the cupbearers told his dream to Joseph
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֧ר שַֽׂר הַמַּשְׁקִ֛ים אֶת־חֲלֹמ֖וֹ לְיוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“Then/So the head wine-server told Joseph what was in his dream” or “So the one/officer who was in charge of/over the wine-servers related/described to Joseph what he had seen in his dream”. See how you translated “chief of the cupbearers” in verse 2.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)“by saying,” or “He said,” or “This is what he said:” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
And behold, in my dream a grapevine
Quote: בַּחֲלוֹמִ֕י וְהִנֵּה גֶ֖פֶן (1)“In my dream there was a grapevine/vine” or “While I was dreaming, I saw a grapevine/vine”. If grapevines and grapes are not known in your area, you could be more general in verses 9-11 and say “vine” and “fruit”. See how you translated “vineyard” in Gen 9:20.
was} before me
Quote: לְפָנָֽי (1)“in front of me”
Genesis 40:10
and on the grapevine {were} three branches
Quote: וּבַגֶּ֖פֶן שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה שָׂרִיגִ֑ם (1)“The grapevine/vine had three branches.” or “that had three branches.” Consider whether or not it is more natural to begin a new sentence here in your language.
Then while it was budding
Quote: וְהִ֤יא כְפֹרַ֨חַת֙ (1)“As soon as it started budding,” or “Soon buds started forming {on the vine/branches}. {Then}”
its blossoms came out
Quote: עָלְתָ֣ה נִצָּ֔הּ (1)“{suddenly} there were blossoms/flowers,” or “{the buds} became blossoms/flowers,”
and} its clusters ripened {into} grapes
Quote: הִבְשִׁ֥ילוּ אַשְׁכְּלֹתֶ֖יהָ עֲנָבִֽים (1)“{and} its/the clusters {of flowers} became {clusters/bunches of} ripe grapes/fruit.” or “{and the blossoms/flowers} became clusters/bunches of ripe grapes/fruit.”
Genesis 40:11
Then the cup of Pharaoh {was} in my hand
Quote: וְכ֥וֹס פַּרְעֹ֖ה בְּיָדִ֑י (1)“Then/Next {I saw that} I was holding {King} Pharaoh’s cup,” or “… holding the king’s cup,”
and I took the grapes
Quote: וָאֶקַּ֣ח אֶת הָֽעֲנָבִ֗ים (1)“and/so I picked {some} grapes/fruit {from the vine}”
and squeezed them
Quote: וָֽאֶשְׂחַ֤ט אֹתָם֙ (1)“and squeezed juice from them” or “and squeezed them {so that the juice went/flowed}”
into the cup of Pharaoh
Quote: אֶל כּ֣וֹס פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)“into Pharaoh’s cup.” or “into the cup.”
Then I put the cup into the hand of Pharaoh
Quote: וָאֶתֵּ֥ן אֶת הַכּ֖וֹס עַל כַּ֥ף פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then I put the cup into Pharaoh’s hand {to drink from}.” or “Then I gave/handed the cup to Pharaoh {and he drank from it}.”
Genesis 40:12
Then Joseph said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“Joseph said to him,” or “Then Joseph told him,”
This {is} its interpretation
Quote: זֶ֖ה פִּתְרֹנ֑וֹ (1)“This is the interpretation/meaning of your dream:” or “This/Here {is} what your dream means:”
The three branches {are} three days
Quote: שְׁלֹ֨שֶׁת֙ הַשָּׂ֣רִגִ֔ים שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת יָמִ֖ים (1)“The three branches {represent/symbolize} three days.”
Genesis 40:13
Within three days
Quote: בְּע֣וֹד שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים (1)“In three {more} days” or “Three days from now”
Pharaoh
Quote: פַרְעֹה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“{King} Pharaoh” or “the king”. Consider what is the best way to refer to Pharaoh here in your language. Some languages need to include an honorific title with his name more often than other languages.
will lift up your head
Quote: יִשָּׂ֤א & אֶת רֹאשֶׁ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“will summon you” or “will have you brought up {out of prison}”. The idiom “lift up your head” means that the wine-server will be summoned or brought out from the lowly or shameful place where he had been staying.
and restore you to your position
Quote: וַהֲשִֽׁיבְךָ֖ עַל כַּנֶּ֑ךָ (1)“and reappoint/reinstate/return you to your {previous} position/work,” or “and give you back your job/status,”
and you will put Pharaoh’s cup into his hand
Quote: וְנָתַתָּ֤ כוֹס פַּרְעֹה֙ בְּיָד֔וֹ (1)“so that you will {again} serve wine to Pharaoh/him,” or “so that you will {again} have the duty of serving Pharaoh/him his cup of wine,”
according to the former custom when you were his cupbearer
Quote: כַּמִּשְׁפָּט֙ הָֽרִאשׁ֔וֹן אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיִ֖יתָ מַשְׁקֵֽהוּ (1)“as you used to do when you were his cupbearer/wine-server.” or “the way you did before as his cupbearer/wine-server.”
Genesis 40:14
But if you remember me with you, when it goes well for you
Quote: כִּ֧י אִם זְכַרְתַּ֣נִי אִתְּךָ֗ כַּאֲשֶׁר֙ יִ֣יטַב לָ֔ךְ (1)“When {you are out of prison and} everything is going well for you, remember that I was {here} with you,” or “Also, when {you get out of prison and} your life is good, remember {how well} I served/treated you,”
then please show kindness to me
Quote: וְעָשִֽׂיתָ נָּ֥א עִמָּדִ֖י חָ֑סֶד (1)“and please be kind/gracious to me,” or “and please do me a favor,” See how you translated “showed kindness to” in Gen 39:21. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
and mention me to Pharaoh
Quote: וְהִזְכַּרְתַּ֨נִי֙ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“and mention my situation to {King} Pharaoh,” or “and tell {King} Pharaoh about me {and how I was falsely accused},” Make sure that the way Joseph refers to King Pharaoh sounds respectful in your translation.
and get me out from this house
Quote: וְהוֹצֵאתַ֖נִי מִן הַבַּ֥יִת הַזֶּֽה (1)“so that I can get out of this prison.” or “so that he releases/frees me from this prison.”
Genesis 40:15
For indeed, I was stolen
Quote: כִּֽי גֻנֹּ֣ב גֻּנַּ֔בְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“Surely I was taken by force” or “People brought me {here} by force”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language to emphasize Joseph.
from the land of the Hebrews
Quote: מֵאֶ֖רֶץ הָעִבְרִ֑ים (1)“from the land where the Hebrew people live.” or “from the land where {my people,} the Hebrews, live.” The Hebrew people were the descendants of Abraham (See: note at Gen 14:13), and Joseph’s people were known as “Hebrews” in Egypt (Gen 39:14, 17). Their land, which God gave them, was the land of Canaan (Gen 13:12, 14-15; 17:8, 23:19; 37:1). Some of that information could be put in a footnote.
And also here
Quote: וְגַם פֹּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“And {while I have been} here {in Egypt},” or “Even here {in Egypt}”
I did not do anything
Quote: לֹא עָשִׂ֣יתִֽי מְא֔וּמָה (1)“I have not done anything {wrong}” or “I have done nothing {wrong}”
that they should put me in the pit
Quote: כִּֽי שָׂמ֥וּ אֹתִ֖י בַּבּֽוֹר (1)“to be put/thrown into this dungeon/prison.” or “to deserve being in a dungeon/prison.”
Genesis 40:16
And the chief of the bakers saw that he interpreted favorably
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא שַׂר הָאֹפִ֖ים כִּ֣י ט֣וֹב פָּתָ֑ר (1)“When the head baker heard Joseph interpret/explain that dream in a favorable/positive way,” or “When the head baker heard the positive interpretation/meaning that Joseph gave {for the first dream},” See how you translated a related word (“interpreter”) in verse 8.
so he said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“he said to him,” or “he told him,”
I also {was} in my dream, and behold
Quote: אַף אֲנִי֙ בַּחֲלוֹמִ֔י וְהִנֵּ֗ה (1)“I also had a dream, and in it there were” or “I also {had a dream}, and while I was dreaming, I saw”
there were} three baskets of white bread
Quote: שְׁלֹשָׁ֛ה סַלֵּ֥י חֹרִ֖י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “three baskets {full} of white/fine bread/cakes” or “three bread baskets” or (2) “three white/wicker baskets”. These baskets were open on top and were probably woven out of flexible strips of cane or willow branches.
on my head
Quote: עַל רֹאשִֽׁי (1)“{stacked} {on top of each other} on my head.” These baskets would have been carried on the head, each one above the other.
Genesis 40:17
And in the top basket {were} all {kinds} of
Quote: וּבַסַּ֣ל הָֽעֶלְי֔וֹן מִכֹּ֛ל (1)“In the top basket {there were}” or “The top basket {was full of}”
all {kinds} of food for Pharaoh, baker’s goods
Quote: מִכֹּ֛ל מַאֲכַ֥ל פַּרְעֹ֖ה מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה אֹפֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
“all/many {kinds} of baked goods for {King} Pharaoh to eat,” or “all/many {kinds} of {fine/special} bread and cakes {that had been made/baked} for {King} Pharaoh {to eat},” Make sure that the way the chief baker refers to King Pharaoh sounds respectful in your translation.
but the birds were eating them out of the basket on my head
Quote: וְהָע֗וֹף אֹכֵ֥ל אֹתָ֛ם מִן הַסַּ֖ל מֵעַ֥ל רֹאשִֽׁי (1)“but {some} birds were eating/gobbling them/everything {up} from the basket.” or “but {instead,} {some} birds {came and} ate/devoured {all} the food/bread in the basket on my head.”
Genesis 40:18
Then Joseph responded and said
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַן יוֹסֵף֙ וַיֹּ֔אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Joseph said {to him},” or “Joseph told {the baker},”
This {is} its interpretation
Quote: זֶ֖ה פִּתְרֹנ֑וֹ (1)“This is the interpretation/meaning of your dream:” or “This/Here {is} what your dream means:” See how you translated this in verse 12.
The three baskets {are} three days
Quote: שְׁלֹ֨שֶׁת֙ הַסַּלִּ֔ים שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת יָמִ֖ים (1)“The three baskets {represent/symbolize} three days.” See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 12.
Genesis 40:19
Within three days
Quote: בְּע֣וֹד שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים (1)“In three days” or “Three days from now”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 13.
Pharaoh
Quote: פַרְעֹ֤ה (1)“{King} Pharaoh” or “the king”
will lift up your head from you
Quote: יִשָּׂ֨א & אֶת רֹֽאשְׁךָ֙ מֵֽעָלֶ֔יךָ (1)“will {have his soldiers} cut/chop off your head” or “will have you beheaded”. This phrase seems to have a literal meaning here (of having the baker beheaded) in contrast to the meaning of “lift up your head” in verse 13 (where it means to summon from a lowly or shameful place). Make sure your translation of this phrase is accurate and clear in both contexts.
and hang you on a tree
Quote: וְתָלָ֥ה אוֹתְךָ֖ עַל עֵ֑ץ (1)“and hang your body on a tree/stake,” or “and impale your body on a {sharp} pole,”
and the birds will eat your flesh from you
Quote: וְאָכַ֥ל הָע֛וֹף אֶת־בְּשָׂרְךָ֖ מֵעָלֶֽיךָ (1)“and/where birds/vultures will eat/devour {all} your flesh off your bones.” These were birds such as vultures, buzzards, or condors, which eat carrion (dead animals); these were not birds that eat seeds or hunt live prey. You could use the name of a type of bird that is well-known in your language area. See how you translated “eating” in verse 17.
Genesis 40:20
Then it happened on the third day, the day Pharaoh was born
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֗י י֚וֹם הֻלֶּ֣דֶת אֶת פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)“Then sure enough, three days later {it was} {King} Pharaoh’s birthday, and” or “And it so happened that three days later, {it was} Pharaoh’s birthday, and”. The phrase “Then it happened” introduces and emphasizes a set of important events. Do what is natural in your language.
that he made a feast for all his servants
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַשׂ מִשְׁתֶּ֖ה לְכָל עֲבָדָ֑יו (1)“he held a feast/banquet for all of his officials/officers {to attend}.” or “he invited all his officials/officers to attend a/his {birthday} feast/banquet.” See how you translated “feast” or “banquet” in Gen 21:8.
And he lifted up the head of the chief of the cupbearers and the head of the chief of the bakers
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֞א אֶת רֹ֣אשׁ שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֗ים וְאֶת רֹ֛אשׁ שַׂ֥ר הָאֹפִ֖ים (1)“{During the feast/banquet,} he {had soldiers} bring {his} head/chief wine-server and head/chief baker {out of prison} {to the feast/banquet}”. See how you translated similar clauses in verses 3 (See: note), 13, and 19, where Pharaoh had his soldiers do something. Also see how you translated “lifted up your head” in verse 13, where it has a similar meaning.
in the presence of his servants
Quote: בְּת֥וֹךְ עֲבָדָֽיו (1)“in front of {all} his {other} officials/officers.” or “where all his {other} officials/officers were.”
Genesis 40:21
Then he restored
Quote: וַיָּ֛שֶׁב (1)“Then he reinstated/reappointed/returned”. See how you translated “restore … to … position” in verse 13.
the chief of the cupbearers to his position
Quote: אֶת שַׂ֥ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֖ים עַל מַשְׁקֵ֑הוּ (1)“the chief/head wine-server to his {former/previous} position/work,”
and he put the cup into the hand of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן הַכּ֖וֹס עַל כַּ֥ף פַּרְעֹֽה (1)“so that {once again} he served wine to him.” or “so that {once again} he had the duty of serving him his cup of wine.” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 13.
Genesis 40:22
but the chief of the bakers he hanged
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת שַׂ֥ר הָאֹפִ֖ים תָּלָ֑ה (1)“But {as for} the chief/head baker, he/Pharaoh had him {executed/beheaded and} hanged/impaled {on a tree/pole}.” or “But he/Pharaoh {had his soldiers execute/behead} the head baker {and} impale {his body on a pole/stake}.” It is implied here that the baker was beheaded before his body was impaled on a stake (verse 19). Also, notice that “the chief of the bakers” is at the beginning of this clause in the Hebrew text to emphasize him and contrast him with what happened to the chief cupbearer. Do what is natural in your language. See how you translated “hang … on a tree” in verse 19.
just as Joseph had interpreted for them
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר פָּתַ֛ר לָהֶ֖ם יוֹסֵֽף (1)“{Everything happened} exactly the way Joseph had interpreted/explained {their dreams} to them.” or “which was exactly what Joseph had said would happen.”
Genesis 40:23
However, the chief of the cupbearers did not remember Joseph but forgot him
Quote: וְלֹֽא־זָכַ֧ר שַֽׂר הַמַּשְׁקִ֛ים אֶת־יוֹסֵ֖ף וַיִּשְׁכָּחֵֽהוּ (1)“But the chief/head cupbearer/wine-server did not remember {to tell Pharaoh about} Joseph, but {rather/instead,} he forgot {about} him.” or “… {completely} forgot about Joseph and did not remember {to tell Pharaoh about} him.”
Genesis 41
Genesis 41:1
Then it happened {at} the end of two years of days
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י מִקֵּ֖ץ שְׁנָתַ֣יִם יָמִ֑ים (1)“After two full years had passed,” or “Two whole/complete years later,”
that Pharaoh was dreaming and behold, he was standing
Quote: וּפַרְעֹ֣ה חֹלֵ֔ם וְהִנֵּ֖ה עֹמֵ֥ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“{King} Pharaoh had a dream. {In the dream} he saw himself standing” or “{King} Pharaoh dreamed that he was standing”. See how you translated “Pharaoh” in Gen 40:2.
beside the river
Quote: עַל הַיְאֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“beside the {Nile} River.” This phrase usually refers to the Nile River, which was the most important river in Egypt and was so well known by everyone there that it was referred to as “the river”. See how you translated a different Hebrew word for “river” in Gen 36:37.
Genesis 41:2
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)“Then suddenly,” or “Then he saw that” or “Suddenly,”
from the river came up seven cows, fine-looking and fat-fleshed
Quote: מִן הַיְאֹ֗ר עֹלֹת֙ שֶׁ֣בַע פָּר֔וֹת יְפ֥וֹת מַרְאֶ֖ה וּבְרִיאֹ֣ת בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)“seven cows {that were} healthy-looking and fat/well-fed came/walked up out of the river {onto the bank/land}” or “seven healthy-looking, fat/well-fed cows came/walked up out of the river {onto the bank/land}”. Make sure your translation does not sound like the cows rose up out of the water into the air. Also see how you translated “cows” in Gen 32:15.
and they grazed among the reeds
Quote: וַתִּרְעֶ֖ינָה בָּאָֽחוּ (1)“and started grazing/feeding on the grass {that was there}.” or “and started eating the tall/marsh grass {beside the river}.”
Genesis 41:3
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֞ה (1)“Then suddenly,” or “Then/Next he saw that”
seven other cows came up after them from the river, ugly-looking and thin-fleshed
Quote: שֶׁ֧בַע פָּר֣וֹת אֲחֵר֗וֹת עֹל֤וֹת אַחֲרֵיהֶן֙ מִן הַיְאֹ֔ר רָע֥וֹת מַרְאֶ֖ה וְדַקּ֣וֹת בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“seven cows {that were} sickly-looking and scrawny/skinny walked up out of the river” or “seven sickly-looking, scrawny/skinny cows came/walked up out of the river”
and they stood beside the {other} cows
Quote: וַֽתַּעֲמֹ֛דְנָה אֵ֥צֶל הַפָּר֖וֹת (1)“and stood next to the {first/healthy} cows”
on the bank of the river
Quote: עַל שְׂפַ֥ת הַיְאֹֽר (1)“on the bank of the river.” or “on the river bank.” Consider again how you refer to “the river” in verses 1-3. If you refer to it as “the {Nile} River” in verse 1, it may be more natural to refer to it as “the river” after that. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 41:4
Then the ugly-looking and thin-fleshed cows ate
Quote: וַתֹּאכַ֣לְנָה הַפָּר֗וֹת רָע֤וֹת הַמַּרְאֶה֙ וְדַקֹּ֣ת הַבָּשָׂ֔ר (1)“Then the sickly-looking, scrawny/skinny cows devoured” or “Then the cows {that were} sickly-looking and scrawny/skinny ate/swallowed {up/down}”. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
the seven fine-looking and fat cows
Quote: אֵ֚ת שֶׁ֣בַע הַפָּר֔וֹת יְפֹ֥ת הַמַּרְאֶ֖ה וְהַבְּרִיאֹ֑ת (1)“the seven healthy-looking, fat/well-fed cows.” or “the seven cows {that were} healthy-looking and fat/well-fed.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 2.
and Pharaoh woke up
Quote: וַיִּיקַ֖ץ פַּרְעֹֽה (1)“{Just} then {King} Pharaoh woke up.” or “After that, the king woke up.” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Pharaoh at each point/occurrence in this chapter.
Genesis 41:5
Then he fell asleep
Quote: וַיִּישָׁ֕ן (1)“Then Pharaoh” or “Then the king”
Then he fell asleep
Quote: וַיִּישָׁ֕ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Pharaoh/he went to sleep {again}” or “The the king went {back} to sleep”
and dreamed a second {time
Quote: וַֽיַּחֲלֹ֖ם שֵׁנִ֑ית (1)“and had a second {dream}.” or “and started dreaming again.”
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)“{This time} he saw” or “{In this dream} there were”
seven heads of grain came up on one stalk, fat and good
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֗ים עֹל֛וֹת בְּקָנֶ֥ה אֶחָ֖ד בְּרִיא֥וֹת וְטֹבֽוֹת (1)“seven big/plump, beautiful/well-formed heads of grain growing on the same stem/plant.” The phrase “heads of grain” is one word in the Hebrew text. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a word or phrase to translate this.
Genesis 41:6
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)“Then suddenly,” or “Suddenly,” or “Then/Next he saw {that}”
seven heads of grain, thin and scorched {by} the east wind
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים דַּקּ֖וֹת וּשְׁדוּפֹ֣ת קָדִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“seven small/shriveled heads of grain that were dried out {by} the {hot} east/desert wind” or “seven thin/shriveled heads of grain that the {hot} east/desert wind had dried out”. This wind was from the desert in the east, so it was hot and dry.
sprouted
Quote: צֹמְח֖וֹת (1)“grew/sprang up” or “started/were growing”
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֵיהֶֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“next to them {on the same stalk/plant}.” or “{on the same stalk/plant} beside the first/well-formed heads.” Consider whether it is better in your language to refer to the first heads here with a pronoun (“them”) or a noun phrase.
Genesis 41:7
Then the thin heads of grain swallowed up
Quote: וַתִּבְלַ֨עְנָה֙ הַשִּׁבֳּלִ֣ים הַדַּקּ֔וֹת (1)“Next, the small/shriveled heads of grain devoured” or “... ate/gobbled up/down”. See how you translated “thin” in verse 6 and “heads of grain” in verses 5-6.
the seven fat and full heads
Quote: אֵ֚ת שֶׁ֣בַע הַֽשִּׁבֳּלִ֔ים הַבְּרִיא֖וֹת וְהַמְּלֵא֑וֹת (1)“the seven big/plump, well-formed heads.” The word “full” here describes heads of grain that have many seeds in them. See how you translated “fat” in verse 5.
Then Pharaoh woke up
Quote: וַיִּיקַ֥ץ פַּרְעֹ֖ה (1)“{Just} then Pharaoh woke up” or “After that, Pharaoh woke up” or “At that point, Pharaoh woke up”. See how you translated this clause in verse 4.
and behold, {it was} a dream
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה חֲלֽוֹם (1)“and {suddenly} realized/knew that {he had been} dreaming.”
Genesis 41:8
Then it happened in the morning
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י בַבֹּ֨קֶר֙ (1)“In the morning” or “The next morning”. The phrase “Then it happened” introduces and emphasizes an important event. It also increases suspense so that the audience wonders what the outcome will be. Many English translations do not include this phrase, possibly for reasons of naturalness. Do what is natural in your language.
that his spirit was agitated
Quote: וַתִּפָּ֣עֶם רוּח֔וֹ (1)“his/Pharaoh’s spirit/mind was disturbed/troubled {about what the dreams might mean},” or “Pharaoh was/felt upset/distressed {about the/his dreams},”
so he sent and called for
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֗ח וַיִּקְרָ֛א (1)“so he sent {servants/messengers} to summon” or “so he had {servants/messengers} summon”
all the magicians of Egypt and all its wise men
Quote: אֶת כָּל חַרְטֻמֵּ֥י מִצְרַ֖יִם וְאֶת כָּל חֲכָמֶ֑יהָ (1)“all the magicians/sorcerers and {other} wise men in {the country of} Egypt {to come to him}.” Magicians were some of the wise men whom Pharaoh regularly consulted for advice. They had power from demons to do miracles (Exodus 7:11, 22; 8:7) and to communicate with the spirits of people who had died. They may have also been astrologers or Egyptian priests who were skilled in sacred writings. Some of that information could be put in a footnote.
Then Pharaoh told his dreams to them
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֨ר פַּרְעֹ֤ה לָהֶם֙ אֶת חֲלֹמ֔וֹ (1)“{When they arrived,} Pharaoh/he told them what he had dreamed,” or “Then Pharaoh/he related/described to them what {he had seen} in his dreams,”
but no one
Quote: וְאֵין (1)“but none of them” or “but none of those men”
could interpret them for Pharaoh
Quote: פּוֹתֵ֥ר אוֹתָ֖ם לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)“was able to explain to him {what} the dreams {meant}.” or “could tell him what the dreams meant.”
Genesis 41:9
the chief of the cupbearers
Quote: שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֔ים (1)“Then/But the head wine-server”. Consider again how you translated “chief of the cupbearers” and “cupbearer” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:1-2, 5, 9, 13, 20-21, 23; 41:9.
Then the chief of the cupbearers spoke with Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּר֙ שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֔ים אֶת־פַּרְעֹ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/But the head wine-server spoke {up} and said to Pharaoh,” or “Then/But the head wine-server said to Pharaoh,” Consider again how you translated “chief of the cupbearers” and “cupbearer” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:1-2, 5, 9, 13, 20-21, 23; 41:9.
Today I remember
Quote: אֲנִ֖י מַזְכִּ֥יר הַיּֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“{Sir,} today I remember” or “{Your Majesty/Honor,} I now remember”. For many languages, it is necessary to use a respectful title to address a person of high status like Pharaoh. Do what is best in your language.
my offenses
Quote: אֶת חֲטָאַ֕י (1)“my sins/failures.” The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{the time} when I offended/displeased/wronged {you}.” or (2) “something {important} I failed/forgot to do.” The second interpretation refers to the cupbearer forgetting to tell Pharaoh about Joseph.
Genesis 41:10
Pharaoh broke out in anger against
Quote: פַּרְעֹ֖ה קָצַ֣ף עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{Some time ago,} {King} Pharaoh, {you} were very angry at/with”. The events in verses 10-13 had happened two years earlier (verse 1); chapter 40 gives the details about those events. See how you translated the idiom “broke out in anger against” in Gen 40:2.
his servants
Quote: עֲבָדָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“his/your officials/officers,” In verses 10 and 13, the cupbearer uses third person (“Pharaoh … his … he…”) to show respect for Pharaoh. For some languages, it is confusing to do that, so second person (“you … your …you …”) must be used instead. Some languages have an honorific such as “your Majesty/Honor” that could be used occasionally in these verses instead of third person. Do what is best in your language.
and he put me in custody {in} the house of the chief of the guards, me and the chief of the bakers
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן אֹתִ֜י בְּמִשְׁמַ֗ר בֵּ֚ית שַׂ֣ר הַטַּבָּחִ֔ים אֹתִ֕י וְאֵ֖ת שַׂ֥ר הָאֹפִֽים (1)“{including} me and the chief/head baker, and he/you put us in custody/prison at the captain of the guards’ house.” or “and he/you put the head baker and me in the prison that is in the house of the captain of the guards.” See how you translated “put … in custody in the house of the chief of the guards” in Gen 40:3. Also consider again how you translated “chief of the bakers” and “baker” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:1-2, 4-5, 16-17, 20, 22; 41:10, 13.
Genesis 41:11
And we dreamed a dream in the same night, he and I
Quote: וַנַּֽחַלְמָ֥ה חֲל֛וֹם בְּלַ֥יְלָה אֶחָ֖ד אֲנִ֣י וָה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“{One time while we were there,} we {each} dreamed/had a dream in/during the same night,” or “{While we were there,} one night we {each} had a dream,” See how you translated a similar sentence in Gen 40:5. In verses 11-13, the pronouns “we” and “us” exclude Pharaoh.
each of us dreamed according to the interpretation of his dream
Quote: אִ֛ישׁ כְּפִתְר֥וֹן חֲלֹמ֖וֹ חָלָֽמְנוּ (1)“{and} each of our dreams had a different meaning.” or “{and} each of our dreams had its own meaning.” Consider again how you translated “interpretation” in Gen 40:5, 8, 12, 18; 41:11 and the related verb “interpret” in Gen 40:16, 22.
Genesis 41:12
Now there with us {was} a young Hebrew man
Quote: וְשָׁ֨ם אִתָּ֜נוּ נַ֣עַר עִבְרִ֗י (1)“There was a young Hebrew man with us,” Translate “young … man” in a way that fits with the fact that Joseph was 30 years old (verse 46) and was not yet married.
a servant for the chief of the guards
Quote: עֶ֚בֶד לְשַׂ֣ר הַטַּבָּחִ֔ים (1)“{who was} a servant for the captain of/over the guards.” Consider again how you translated “chief of the guards” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 37:36; 39:1; 40:3-4; 41:10, 12.
And we told {our dreams} to him
Quote: וַנְּ֨סַפֶּר ל֔וֹ (1)“After we told him {our dreams},” or “After we related/described {our dreams} to him,” Consider again how you translated “told” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 24:66; 29:13; 37:9-10; 40:8-9; 41:8, 12.
and he interpreted our dreams for us
Quote: וַיִּפְתָּר לָ֖נוּ אֶת חֲלֹמֹתֵ֑ינוּ (1)“he explained them to us.” or “he told us what they meant.”
He interpreted {for} each according to his dream
Quote: אִ֥ישׁ כַּחֲלֹמ֖וֹ פָּתָֽר (1)“He interpreted each man’s dream.” or “He told each of us the meaning of our dreams.” or “He told us what each of our dreams meant.”
Genesis 41:13
And it happened, just as he interpreted for us, so it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֛י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר פָּֽתַר לָ֖נוּ כֵּ֣ן הָיָ֑ה (1)“And sure enough, everything happened exactly the way he had interpreted/explained {the dreams} to us:”
me he restored to my position
Quote: אֹתִ֛י הֵשִׁ֥יב עַל כַּנִּ֖י (1)“you reinstated/reappointed/returned me to my {former/previous} position/work {as your cupbearer/wine-server},” See how you translated “restored to … position” in Gen 40:21.
and him he hanged
Quote: וְאֹת֥וֹ תָלָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“and/but you {had your soldiers execute} the baker {and} hang/impale his body {on a pole/stake}.” or “but you {had your soldiers} execute the baker.” Consider again whether you referred to Pharaoh in third person (“he”) or second person (“you”) in verses 10 and 13. Also see how you translated “hanged/impaled {on a tree/pole}” in Gen 40:22.
Genesis 41:14
Then Pharaoh sent and called for Joseph
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח פַּרְעֹה֙ וַיִּקְרָ֣א אֶת־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“{Immediately} Pharaoh sent {servants/messengers} to summon/get Joseph.” or “{When Pharaoh heard that,} {immediately} he had {servants/messengers} summon Joseph.” See how you translated “sent and called for” in verse 8.
So they quickly brought him from the pit
Quote: וַיְרִיצֻ֖הוּ מִן־הַבּ֑וֹר (1)“So they hurriedly brought/got him/Joseph out of the dungeon/prison.” or “So they went right away and brought/got …” See how you translated “pit” in Gen 40:15.
Then he shaved and changed his clothes
Quote: וַיְגַלַּח֙ וַיְחַלֵּ֣ף שִׂמְלֹתָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then he shaved {his head and face}, changed into suitable/better clothes and” or “Then after he shaved {his head and face} and changed into appropriate/clean clothing, he”. Since Joseph lived in Egypt and Egyptian men kept their heads and faces clean-shaven, Joseph probably also shaved his head and his face. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to make this implied information explicit in your translation.
and came to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א אֶל פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“came/went before Pharaoh.” or “came/went into Pharaoh’s presence.” Your choice of “came” versus “went” in this context depends on whose perspective you take: “came” reflects things from Pharaoh’s point of view, and “went” reflects things from Joseph’s point of view. Do what is most natural in your language.
Genesis 41:15
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Pharaoh said to him,” or “Then Pharaoh told Joseph/him,”
I dreamed a dream
Quote: חֲל֣וֹם חָלַ֔מְתִּי (1)“I had a dream,”
but no one could interpret it
Quote: וּפֹתֵ֖ר אֵ֣ין אֹת֑וֹ (1)“but no one has been able to explain {to me} what it means.” or “but there isn’t anyone who can interpret/explain it {for/to me}.” See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 40:8.
But I heard about you, saying
Quote: וַאֲנִ֗י שָׁמַ֤עְתִּי עָלֶ֨יךָ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“But someone told me about you,” or “But I was told”
that} you hear a dream {and are able} to interpret it
Quote: תִּשְׁמַ֥ע חֲל֖וֹם לִפְתֹּ֥ר אֹתֽוֹ (1)“{that} when you hear a dream, {you are able} to interpret/explain what it means.” or “{that} when someone tells you a dream, {you are able} to interpret/explain its meaning.” Consider again how you translated “interpret” and “interpreter” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:8, 16, 22; 41:8, 12, 13, 15, 16.
Genesis 41:16
And Joseph responded to Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן יוֹסֵ֧ף אֶת פַּרְעֹ֛ה לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Joseph replied to Pharaoh/him,”
It is} not in me
Quote: בִּלְעָדָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“{Sir,} I do not have that ability {on my own},” or “{Your Majesty,} I cannot do that {by myself},” Make sure your translation of Joseph’s response sounds polite. See what you did in verse 9.
God will answer
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֕ים יַעֲנֶ֖ה (1)“{but/rather} God will explain/interpret {your dream}”
with Pharaoh’s peace
Quote: אֶת שְׁל֥וֹם פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“for your well-being/good, {King} Pharaoh.” or “so that {you,} {King} Pharaoh, will have peace {in your heart/spirit}.” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to use Pharaoh’s name at the beginning of this quote (instead of here) and say, “{King} Pharaoh, I do not have that ability…”
Genesis 41:17
Then Pharaoh spoke to Joseph
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So Pharaoh told Joseph/him,”
In my dream, behold, I was standing
Quote: בַּחֲלֹמִ֕י הִנְנִ֥י עֹמֵ֖ד (1)“As I was dreaming, I saw myself standing” or “I dreamed that I was standing”
on the bank of the river
Quote: עַל שְׂפַ֥ת הַיְאֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“on the bank of the {Nile} River.” or “beside the {Nile} River.” See how you translated “the {Nile} River” in verse 1. Since this is the first time that Pharaoh mentions “the river” to Joseph, consider whether this is a good place in your translation to make it explicit again that this is the Nile River.
Genesis 41:18
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)“Then suddenly,” or “Then I saw that”. Compare how you translated verse 2, which is similar but not identical to verse 18.
from the river came up seven cows, fat-fleshed and of fine form
Quote: מִן הַיְאֹ֗ר עֹלֹת֙ שֶׁ֣בַע פָּר֔וֹת בְּרִיא֥וֹת בָּשָׂ֖ר וִיפֹ֣ת תֹּ֑אַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“seven cows {that were} fat and healthy-looking came/walked up out of the river {onto the bank/land}” or “seven fat/well-fed, healthy-looking cows came/walked up out of the river {onto the bank/land}”
and they grazed among the reeds
Quote: וַתִּרְעֶ֖ינָה בָּאָֽחוּ (1)“and started grazing/feeding on” or “and started eating”
among the reeds
Quote: בָּאָֽחוּ (1)“the reeds/plants {that were there}.” or “the tall/marsh grass {beside the river}.”
Genesis 41:19
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֞ה (1)“Then suddenly,” or “Then/Next I saw that”. See how you translated verse 3, which is similar to the first half of verse 19.
seven other cows came up after them
Quote: שֶֽׁבַע פָּר֤וֹת אֲחֵרוֹת֙ עֹל֣וֹת אַחֲרֵיהֶ֔ן (1)“seven other cows came/walked up {out of the river} behind the first cows;”
poor and very ugly of form and thin-fleshed
Quote: דַּלּ֨וֹת וְרָע֥וֹת תֹּ֛אַר מְאֹ֖ד וְרַקּ֣וֹת בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“they were in terrible/horrible condition, very sickly-looking and scrawny/skinny.” For some languages it is more natural to put this information earlier in this sentence and say, “Then behold, seven poor/weak, very sickly-looking, scrawny cows came up {out of the river} behind the first cows/ones.” Do what is best in your language.
I have not seen
Quote: לֹֽא רָאִ֧יתִי (1)“{In fact,} I have not/never seen”
cows} as ugly as those
Quote: כָהֵ֛נָּה & לָרֹֽעַ (1)“such awful-looking {cows}” or “{cows} in such poor/terrible/bad condition”
in all the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּכָל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם (1)“in the whole/entire country of Egypt!” or “anywhere in the country of Egypt!”
Genesis 41:20
Then the thin and ugly cows ate
Quote: וַתֹּאכַ֨לְנָה֙ הַפָּר֔וֹת הָרַקּ֖וֹת וְהָרָע֑וֹת (1)“Then the scrawny/skinny, sickly/unhealthy cows devoured” or “Then the cows {that were} scrawny/skinny and sickly/unhealthy ate/swallowed {up/down}”. See how you translated “ate” in verse 4.”
the first seven fat cows
Quote: אֵ֣ת שֶׁ֧בַע הַפָּר֛וֹת הָרִאשֹׁנ֖וֹת הַבְּרִיאֹֽת (1)“the seven fat/well-fed cows.” See how you translated “fat” or “fat-fleshed” in verses 2, 4, 18 and 20.
Genesis 41:21
So they went into their bellies, but it could not be known
Quote: וַתָּבֹ֣אנָה אֶל קִרְבֶּ֗נָה וְלֹ֤א נוֹדַע֙ (1)“But {even} after they had eaten/devoured them, no one would {ever} know” or “But although the scrawny/skinny cows had eaten/swallowed the fat/well-fed cows/ones, it could not be seen”
that they had gone into their bellies
Quote: כִּי בָ֣אוּ אֶל קִרְבֶּ֔נָה (1)“that they had eaten/devoured them,”
and their appearance {was} just as ugly as at the beginning
Quote: וּמַרְאֵיהֶ֣ן רַ֔ע כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר בַּתְּחִלָּ֑ה (1)“because they {still} looked just as ugly/terrible/scrawny as {they had} before.”
Then I woke up
Quote: וָאִיקָֽץ (1)“That’s when I woke up.” or “At that point, I woke up.”
Genesis 41:22
Then I saw in my dream, and behold
Quote: וָאֵ֖רֶא בַּחֲלֹמִ֑י וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)“Then I {fell asleep again and} continued dreaming. {This time} I saw that there were” or “Then I {went back to sleep and} had {another} dream. {In this dream} there were”
seven heads of grain came up on one stalk, full and good
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֗ים עֹלֹ֛ת בְּקָנֶ֥ה אֶחָ֖ד מְלֵאֹ֥ת וְטֹבֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“seven heads of grain growing on a single stalk/plant. They were full of ripe grain kernels.” or “seven full/big, beautiful/well-formed heads of grain growing on the same stalk/plant.” See how you translated verse 5, which is similar to verse 22.
Genesis 41:23
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)“Then suddenly,” or “Then/Next I saw {that}”. See how you translated verse 6, which is similar to verse 23.
seven heads of grain, withered, thin {and} scorched {by} the east wind
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים צְנֻמ֥וֹת דַּקּ֖וֹת שְׁדֻפ֣וֹת קָדִ֑ים (1)“seven heads of grain {that were} small and withered/wilted because they were dried out by the {hot} east/desert wind” or “seven small, withered/wilted heads of grain that the {hot} east/desert wind had dried out”
sprouted
Quote: צֹמְח֖וֹת (1)“grew/sprang up” or “started/were growing”
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“next to them {on the same stalk/plant}.” or “{on the same stalk/plant} beside the first/well-formed heads/ones.” For some languages it is more natural to change the order of phrases in this verse and say, “Then seven small heads of grain sprouted {on the same plant} next to the first heads/ones. {These had} withered/wilted because the {hot} east/desert wind had dried them out.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 41:24
Then the thin heads of grain swallowed up
Quote: וַתִּבְלַ֨עְןָ֙ הָשִׁבֳּלִ֣ים הַדַּקֹּ֔ת (1)“Then the small/shriveled heads of grain ate/gobbled up/down” or “… swallowed down” or “… devoured”. See how you translated the first half of verse 7, which is similar to the first half of verse 24.
the seven good heads of grain
Quote: אֵ֛ת שֶׁ֥בַע הַֽשִׁבֳּלִ֖ים הַטֹּב֑וֹת (1)“the seven beautiful/well-formed heads/ones.” See how you translated “good” in verses 5 and 22.
And I told {this} to the magicians
Quote: וָֽאֹמַר֙ אֶל הַֽחַרְטֻמִּ֔ים (1)“I told {my dreams} to {my} magicians/sorcerers,” See how you translated “magicians” in verse 8.
but no one {could} explain {it} to me
Quote: וְאֵ֥ין מַגִּ֖יד לִֽי (1)“but none of them could explain to me {what the dreams meant}.” or “but they could not explain/interpret {them} for me.” See how you translated a different Hebrew word that means “explain” or “interpret” in verse 8.
Genesis 41:25
Then Joseph said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Joseph told {King} Pharaoh,” or “Then Joseph responded to Pharaoh,”
Pharaoh’s dreams {are} one
Quote: חֲל֥וֹם פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶחָ֣ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{Both} Pharaoh’s/your dreams have the same meaning.” or “Your Majesty/Honor, {both of} your dreams mean the same thing.” In verses 25, 28, 32-35, Joseph uses third person (“Pharaoh … his … he…”) to show respect for Pharaoh. For some languages, it is confusing to do that, so second person (“you … your… you …”) must be used instead. Some languages have an honorific such as “your Majesty/Honor” that could be used occasionally in these verses instead of third person. Do what is best in your language. Also see what you did in verses 10 and 13.
What God is doing he has shown to Pharaoh
Quote: ה֑וּא אֵ֣ת אֲשֶׁ֧ר הָאֱלֹהִ֛ים עֹשֶׂ֖ה הִגִּ֥יד לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{Through them,} God is revealing/showing to you what he will do.” or “God has revealed to {you,} {King} Pharaoh, what he is planning/about to do.” The Hebrew text emphasizes “what God is doing” by putting that phrase first in the sentence. Consider what is the most natural phrase order for this sentence in your language.
Genesis 41:26
The seven good cows {are} seven years
Quote: שֶׁ֧בַע פָּרֹ֣ת הַטֹּבֹ֗ת שֶׁ֤בַע שָׁנִים֙ (1)“The seven healthy cows {in your dream} {represent/symbolize} seven years,”
and the seven good heads of grain {are} seven years
Quote: וְשֶׁ֤בַע הַֽשִּׁבֳּלִים֙ הַטֹּבֹ֔ת שֶׁ֥בַע שָׁנִ֖ים (1)“and the seven beautiful/well-formed heads of grain {represent/symbolize} {the same} seven years.”
The dreams {are} one
Quote: חֲל֖וֹם אֶחָ֥ד (1)“{Both} dreams mean the same thing.” or “{Both} dreams have the same meaning.” See how you translated “dreams {are} one” in verse 25.
Genesis 41:27
And the seven thin and ugly cows
Quote: וְשֶׁ֣בַע הַ֠פָּרוֹת הָֽרַקּ֨וֹת וְהָרָעֹ֜ת (1)“The seven scrawny/skinny and sickly/unhealthy cows”. See how you translated “thin and ugly cows” in verse 20, and how you translated “thin” in verse 19.
that came up after them
Quote: הָעֹלֹ֣ת אַחֲרֵיהֶ֗ן (1)“that came/walked up {out of the river} behind the first cows/ones”
are} seven years, and {so are} the seven thin heads of grain
Quote: שֶׁ֤בַע שָׁנִים֙ הֵ֔נָּה וְשֶׁ֤בַע הַֽשִׁבֳּלִים֙ הָרֵק֔וֹת (1)“{represent/symbolize} {a different} seven years, and {so do} the seven small heads of grain”. See how you translated “thin” in verses 6 and 23, and consider again how you translated “heads of grain” in verses 5-7, 22-24, 26-27.
scorched by the east wind
Quote: שְׁדֻפ֖וֹת הַקָּדִ֑ים (1)“that the {hot/dry} east/desert wind had dried out/up.” or “that the {desert} wind from the east had dried out/up.” See how you translated this phrase in verses 6 and 23. Also consider again how you translated “east” in the book of Genesis; see Gen 2:8; 3:24; 10:30; 11:2; 12:8; 13:11; 14; 25:6; 28:14; 29:1, 41:6, 23, 27. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
There will be seven years of famine
Quote: יִהְי֕וּ שֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֥י רָעָֽב (1)“{They both mean that} there will be a famine that lasts seven years.” or “{Both dreams mean that} there will be seven years when food will be very/extremely scarce.” A “famine” is a prolonged period of time when people are starving because crops are failing, often due to a lack of rain or other severe weather conditions. See how you translated this term in Gen 12:10 and 26:1.
Genesis 41:28
That {is} the word that I have spoken to Pharaoh
Quote: ה֣וּא הַדָּבָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי אֶל פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{King} Pharaoh, that {is} what I was talking about when I told you {that}” or “Your Majesty/Honor, as I told you previously/before,” Consider what is the best way to refer to Pharaoh here in your language. See what you did in verse 25.
What God is doing he has shown to Pharaoh
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֧ר הָאֱלֹהִ֛ים עֹשֶׂ֖ה הֶרְאָ֥ה אֶת פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“God is showing/revealing to you what he will do.” or “God has shown/revealed to you what he is going/about to do.” See how you translated this clause in verse 25.
Genesis 41:29
Behold, seven years are coming
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה שֶׁ֥בַע שָׁנִ֖ים בָּא֑וֹת (1)“Listen, {first} there will be seven years”
of} great abundance
Quote: שָׂבָ֥ע גָּד֖וֹל (1)“when crops/harvests are abundant” or “when people will have more than enough food {to eat}” or “when everyone will have plenty of food {to eat}”
in all the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּכָל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“throughout the entire/whole land/country of Egypt.”
Genesis 41:30
But seven years of famine will rise up after them
Quote: וְ֠קָמוּ שֶׁ֜בַע שְׁנֵ֤י רָעָב֙ אַחֲרֵיהֶ֔ן (1)“But after them/that, there will be a famine that lasts seven years,” or “But after those {prosperous} years, there will be seven years when food is very/extremely scarce,” See how you translated “famine” in verse 27.
so that all the abundance in the land of Egypt will be forgotten
Quote: וְנִשְׁכַּ֥ח כָּל הַשָּׂבָ֖ע בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“So people/everyone in the country of Egypt will forget how good it was during the time/years when they had plenty of food,” or “As a result, the people in Egypt will forget what it was like in their country during all the years when they had more than enough {food} {to eat},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and the famine will consume the land
Quote: וְכִלָּ֥ה הָרָעָ֖ב אֶת־הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“because the famine will devastate/destroy the land/country {and the people}.” or “because the severe food shortage will devastate/ravage the land/country {so that many people will starve}.” The phrase “the land” here probably also includes the people who lived in that country.
Genesis 41:31
And the abundance in the land will not be remembered
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יִוָּדַ֤ע הַשָּׂבָע֙ בָּאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
“That’s right, people will completely forget about the time/years when food was plentiful,” or “Yes/Indeed, there will be no evidence/trace left that there were years when there was more than enough food,” Verse 31 restates much of the content of verse 30, so keep that it mind as you translate the beginning of this verse.
because of that famine after it, because it {will be} very heavy
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֛י הָרָעָ֥ב הַה֖וּא אַחֲרֵי כֵ֑ן כִּֽי כָבֵ֥ד ה֖וּא מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because the famine {that comes/happens} after that {will be} very/so severe/oppressive.” or “because the following years when food is scarce {will be} so severe/terrible.” For some languages, it clearer and more natural to put this clause near the beginning of this verse and say, “Yes, the famine that is coming will be so severe/terrible that people will completely forget about the time/years when food was abundant/plentiful in the land.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 41:32
And as for the repeating of the dream to Pharaoh twice, {it is} because
Quote: וְעַ֨ל הִשָּׁנ֧וֹת הַחֲל֛וֹם אֶל פַּרְעֹ֖ה פַּעֲמָ֑יִם כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“The reason you dreamed/had the same dream in two different ways/forms is that” or “The fact that you, {King} Pharaoh, had two {different} dreams that mean the same thing shows that”
the matter has been established by God
Quote: נָכ֤וֹן הַדָּבָר֙ מֵעִ֣ם הָאֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“God has {firmly} decided/determined what he is going to do,” or “God wants you to know that this will {definitely} happen,”
and God will soon do it
Quote: וּמְמַהֵ֥ר הָאֱלֹהִ֖ים לַעֲשֹׂתֽוֹ (1)“and he will make it happen soon.” or “and he will cause it to happen {very} soon.”
Genesis 41:33
And now let Pharaoh seek a man
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ יֵרֶ֣א פַרְעֹ֔ה אִ֖ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“So {King} Pharaoh, you should now look for a man” or “So now, {your Majesty/Highness,} I recommend that you choose a man”
who is} discerning and wise
Quote: נָב֣וֹן וְחָכָ֑ם (1)“{who is} intelligent/insightful and knows what to do,” or “who is wise and can make good decisions,”
and set him over
Quote: וִישִׁיתֵ֖הוּ עַל (1)“and put him in charge of/over” or “and give him authority over”
the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“the country of Egypt {and its people}.” See how you translated “the land” in verse 30.
Genesis 41:34
Let Pharaoh do {this}: Let him set supervisors
Quote: יַעֲשֶׂ֣ה פַרְעֹ֔ה וְיַפְקֵ֥ד פְּקִדִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{King} Pharaoh, I also recommend that you appoint/assign {regional} administrators/overseers” or “Sir, you should {also} appoint …”
over the land
Quote: עַל הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“to be in charge of/over {different regions/parts of} the country,” or “to supervise/manage {different regions/parts of} the country,”
and let him take a fifth
Quote: וְחִמֵּשׁ֙ (1)“and {have them} collect/gather {from the people} one-fifth” or “Then {command/order them to} collect …” Consider whether or not it is more natural to begin a new sentence here in your language.
of the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶת־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“of {all} {the crops/grain/food that people/they harvest in/throughout} the country of Egypt” or “of {everything} the land/country of Egypt produces”. In this context, “the land/country” refers to the crops that were growing in Egypt. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
in the seven years of abundance
Quote: בְּשֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֥י הַשָּׂבָֽע (1)“during the seven years when harvests/crops are abundant/plentiful.” or “during the seven years when there will be more than enough crops/food.” See how you translated “abundance” in verses 29-31.
Genesis 41:35
And they should gather
Quote: וְיִקְבְּצ֗וּ (1)“Have them gather/collect”
all the food of the good years that are coming
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־אֹ֨כֶל֙ הַשָּׁנִ֣ים הַטֹּבֹ֔ת הַבָּאֹ֖ת הָאֵ֑לֶּה (1)“all the/that {surplus/extra} food/grain from/during the prosperous years that will come.” or “all the/that {surplus/extra} food/grain during the good/prosperous years ahead {when there will be plenty of food}.”
And they should store {that} grain
Quote: וְיִצְבְּרוּ בָ֞ר (1)“Have them stockpile {that} grain” or “Command/Order them to store up {that} grain”
under Pharaoh’s hand
Quote: תַּ֧חַת יַד פַּרְעֹ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“under Pharaoh’s/your direction/authority” or “with/using your authority, {King} Pharaoh,” Consider again how you translated the use of the third person to address Pharaoh respectfully in verses 10, 13, 25, 32-35. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this phrase earlier and say, “Using your authority, {King} Pharaoh, have them stockpile {that} grain {in storehouses}...” Do what is best in your language.
for} food in the cities and guard {it
Quote: אֹ֥כֶל בֶּעָרִ֖ים וְשָׁמָֽרוּ (1)“in the cities {for/as} food and {have soldiers} keep {it} safe.” or “{in storehouses} in the cities and {have soldiers} guard it, so that there will be food {for the people}.”
Genesis 41:36
And the food should be in reserve
Quote: וְהָיָ֨ה הָאֹ֤כֶל לְפִקָּדוֹן֙ (1)“That {surplus/extra} food/grain should be kept/held in storage” or “That food/grain should stay in storage” or “They must/should continue to store that {surplus/extra} food/grain”
for the land
Quote: לָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“for {the people of} the land/country {to eat}” or “so that {the people of} the land/country have it {to eat}”. The phrase “the land” refers here to the people who live in the land of Egypt. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
for the seven years of famine that will come
Quote: לְשֶׁ֨בַע֙ שְׁנֵ֣י הָרָעָ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר תִּהְיֶ֖יןָ (1)“during the famine that will last seven years” or “during the seven years when food is very scarce”
on the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“in the country of Egypt,” or “in Egypt,” Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to repeat “the land/country” in this sentence.
so that the land will not be cut off
Quote: וְלֹֽא־תִכָּרֵ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“so that {the people of/in} the land/country” or “so that the people” or “so that they”. Make sure the way you translated “{the people of/in} the land/country” at the beginning of this verse fits with how you translate it here. It is helpful to read your translation aloud to make sure it is clear and natural.
so that the land will not be cut off
Quote: וְלֹֽא־תִכָּרֵ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“will not be devastated/destroyed by” or “will not starve to death because of”. See how you translated the idiom “cut off” in Gen 9:11. It may be necessary to translate it differently here because of the different context.
by the famine
Quote: בָּרָעָֽב (1)“the severe food scarcity/shortage.” or “the severe lack of food.”
Genesis 41:37
And the word was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all his servants
Quote: וַיִּיטַ֥ב הַדָּבָ֖ר בְּעֵינֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה וּבְעֵינֵ֖י כָּל עֲבָדָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“What Joseph said/proposed seemed like a good plan to {King} Pharaoh and all his servants/officials.” or “{King} Pharaoh and all his servants/officials agreed that what Joseph had said/proposed was good.” See how you translated the idiom “in the eyes of” in Gen 34:18.
Genesis 41:38
Then Pharaoh said to his servants
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל עֲבָדָ֑יו (1)“So Pharaoh said to his officials,” or “So Pharaoh exclaimed to them,”
Can we find a man like this
Quote: הֲנִמְצָ֣א כָזֶ֔ה אִ֕ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“{Certainly} we cannot find anyone else more qualified than this man,” or “{It is obvious that} we will never find a man as qualified as this/Joseph,” Pharaoh uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize that no one is more qualified than Joseph. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this quote using a question or a statement.
who {has} the Spirit of God in him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֛ר ר֥וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֖ים בּֽוֹ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “who has God’s Spirit in him” or “whom God’s Spirit guides” or (2) “who has a divine spirit in him” or “who has a spirit of {the} gods in him”. Most translations follow the first interpretation, since Joseph had just talked to Pharaoh about God (verses 16, 28, 32) and Pharaoh acknowledges God in verse 39.
Genesis 41:39
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“Then he said to Joseph,” or “Then Pharaoh/he {turned} to Joseph and said,”
Since God has shown all this to you
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֨י הוֹדִ֧יעַ אֱלֹהִ֛ים אוֹתְךָ֖ אֶת כָּל זֹ֑את (1)“Since God has made all this known to you,” or “God has revealed to you what he is going to do, so”
there is} no one {as} discerning and wise as you
Quote: אֵין נָב֥וֹן וְחָכָ֖ם כָּמֽוֹךָ (1)“no one {else} is {as} intelligent/insightful as you {are} or/and knows what to do {in this situation}.” or “… or knows how to manage {this situation} wisely.” See how you translated “discerning and wise” in verse 33.
Genesis 41:40
You will be over my house
Quote: אַתָּה֙ תִּהְיֶ֣ה עַל בֵּיתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{So} I am putting you in charge of my household {and my kingdom/country},” or “{So} I am giving you authority over {the people in} my palace {and the rest of my kingdom/country},” The phrase “my house” refers here to Pharaoh’s household and all the other people he rules as king.
and all my people will kiss on your mouth
Quote: וְעַל פִּ֖יךָ יִשַּׁ֣ק כָּל־עַמִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so that all the people in my country/kingdom must obey/do whatever you say/command.” or “so that all the people I reign over will/must respect and obey whatever you tell them to do.” Consider whether you have a similar idiom in your language or if you need to say this without an idiom.
Only I {on} the throne will be greater than you
Quote: רַ֥ק הַכִּסֵּ֖א אֶגְדַּ֥ל מִמֶּֽךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Only I {who sit} {on} the throne {as king} will have higher/more authority than you.” or “Only I who am king will …” In this context, “the throne” refers to Pharaoh’s position as the king. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
Genesis 41:41
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Pharaoh said,” or “Pharaoh continued/added,” Some languages leave “Joseph” or even this entire quote margin implied here, since Pharaoh is still talking to the same person. Do what is best in your language.
See, I have put you over
Quote: רְאֵה֙ נָתַ֣תִּי אֹֽתְךָ֔ עַ֖ל (1)“Look/Listen, I hereby/now put you in charge of” or “I am now appointing/installing you to be {the manager/supervisor} over”. The word “See” emphasizes what Pharaoh says next.
all the land of Egypt
Quote: כָּל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“the whole/entire land/country of Egypt.”
Genesis 41:42
Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his hand
Quote: וַיָּ֨סַר פַּרְעֹ֤ה אֶת טַבַּעְתּוֹ֙ מֵעַ֣ל יָד֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“Then Pharaoh/he took off his {official/royal} identification ring” or “Then Pharaoh took from his finger the ring that he used to mark/seal {documents/letters}”. The signet ring was the identification ring that the king used to seal official documents. See how you translated “signet” in Gen 38:18.
and put it on Joseph’s hand
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֖הּ עַל יַ֣ד יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and put it on Joseph’s finger {to show that he had appointed him}.” or “and placed it on Joseph’s finger {showing he now had Pharaoh’s authority}”. The signet ring showed that Joseph represented Pharaoh and had his complete authority.
And he dressed him {in} garments of fine linen
Quote: וַיַּלְבֵּ֤שׁ אֹתוֹ֙ בִּגְדֵי שֵׁ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“He {also} had Joseph put on fine/expensive linen clothes/robes” or “He {also} gave Joseph high-quality/expensive clothes/robes to wear”. The Hebrew word for “fine linen” refers to a special kind of white cloth that was woven out of flax and had a fine texture. Clothes made from linen were expensive and were worn by the king and high officials. If linen is not known in your language area, you could be more general and refer to expensive, high-quality clothes.
and put a gold chain on his neck
Quote: וַיָּ֛שֶׂם רְבִ֥ד הַזָּהָ֖ב עַל צַוָּארֽוֹ (1)“and put a chain/collar {made} of gold around his neck.” or “and put around his neck a chain/necklace {made} of gold.”
Genesis 41:43
Then he had him ride
Quote: וַיַּרְכֵּ֣ב אֹת֗וֹ (1)“Then Pharaoh had Joseph ride {around}”
in the second chariot that {belonged} to him
Quote: בְּמִרְכֶּ֤בֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה֙ אֲשֶׁר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“in a royal {horse-drawn} chariot/cart as his second-in-command” or “in the {horse-drawn} chariot/cart that showed he was the second highest ruler in the country.” A chariot is a cart with two or four wheels that was pulled by one or more horses. It was used as transportation and was especially used in battles. Translate this in a way that fits with this description. It may be helpful to include a picture of a chariot in your translation.
and they shouted before him
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֥וּ לְפָנָ֖יו (1)“{As he rode,} heralds/messengers {walked} {in the road/streets} ahead of him calling out {to everyone},” Make sure the way you translate “shouted” does not sound angry. Rather they were calling out loudly enough for people to hear them.
Bow down
Quote: אַבְרֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could be: (1) a transliteration of an Egyptian word that means “Bow down {in reverence/respect}!” or “Make way {for the king’s appointed one}!” or “Welcome/Honor {your new leader}!” which is what people would be told to do to honor an important person; or (2) a combination of Hebrew words that means “{This is} {the} father of {the} king!”, which is similar to what Joseph says in Gen 45:8.
So he put him over
Quote: וְנָת֣וֹן אֹת֔וֹ עַ֖ל (1)“So Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of” or “In that way, Pharaoh {officially} appointed/installed Joseph to be {the manager/supervisor} over/of”. See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 41.
all the land of Egypt
Quote: כָּל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“the whole/entire land/country of Egypt.”
Genesis 41:44
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֛ה אֶל יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)“Pharaoh {also} told Joseph,”
I {am} Pharaoh
Quote: אֲנִ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה (1)“I, Pharaoh, {hereby command/decree} that”
and without you a person will not lift his hand or his foot in all the land of Egypt
Quote: וּבִלְעָדֶ֗יךָ לֹֽא יָרִ֨ים אִ֧ישׁ אֶת יָד֛וֹ וְאֶת רַגְל֖וֹ בְּכָל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“no one throughout the whole/entire country of Egypt may do anything unless you tell them to do it!” or “throughout the whole/entire country of Egypt, everyone must only do what you tell them to do!” The phrase “will not lift his hand or foot” is hyperbole (exaggeration) that is used to emphasize Joseph’s authority. Consider whether or not it is clear and natural to do that here in your language.
Genesis 41:45
Then Pharaoh called Joseph’s name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א פַרְעֹ֣ה שֵׁם יוֹסֵף֮ (1)“Then Pharaoh called Joseph by the {Egyptian} name” or “Then Pharaoh gave Joseph the {Egyptian} name”
Zaphenath-Paneah
Quote: צָֽפְנַ֣ת פַּעְנֵחַ֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Zaphenath-Paneah, {which means “explainer/revealer of secrets,”}” or “Zaphenath-Paneah, {which means “the one who explains/reveals secrets,”}”
and he gave to him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera the priest of On, as a wife
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן ל֣וֹ אֶת אָֽסְנַ֗ת בַּת פּ֥וֹטִי פֶ֛רַע כֹּהֵ֥ן אֹ֖ן לְאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)“and he gave him {a woman named} Asenath to be {his} wife. {She was} the daughter of Potiphera, {who was} a priest {at the temple} in/at {the city of} On.” Potiphera was a pagan priest, and he led people in worshiping the Egyptians’ gods, not Yahweh. See how you translated “priest” in Gen 14:18.
Then Joseph went out over the land of Egypt
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֖ף עַל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“Then Joseph started going/traveling around all over the land/country of Egypt.” or “Then Joseph {started his duties/work and} traveled throughout the land/country of Egypt.”
Genesis 41:46
Now Joseph {was} a son of thirty years
Quote: וְיוֹסֵף֙ בֶּן שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה (1)“Joseph {was} thirty years old”. Consider what is the best way to begin this new paragraph in your language.
when he stood before
Quote: בְּעָמְד֕וֹ לִפְנֵ֖י (1)“when he had that meeting/audience with” or “when he started serving”. This phrase refers to when Joseph stood before Pharaoh and was commissioned to serve as the second-highest ruler in Egypt.
Pharaoh king of Egypt
Quote: פַּרְעֹ֣ה מֶֽלֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“Pharaoh, the king over Egypt.”
And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֤א יוֹסֵף֙ מִלִּפְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה (1)“Then Joseph left Pharaoh’s presence” or “{After Pharaoh appointed him,} Joseph left him”
and passed through all the land of Egypt
Quote: וַֽיַּעְבֹ֖ר בְּכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“and traveled throughout the whole/entire country of Egypt {doing his work}.” or “and began traveling from place to place throughout …”
Genesis 41:47
in the seven years of abundance
Quote: בְּשֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֣י הַשָּׂבָ֑ע (1)“During the seven years when food was abundant/plentiful,” or “For seven years the crops/harvests were abundant/plentiful and”. Compare how you translated “seven years of abundance” in verse 34.
And … the land produced {grain} by the handfuls
Quote: וַתַּ֣עַשׂ הָאָ֔רֶץ & לִקְמָצִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“the land produced huge/large amounts of grain.” or “the people harvested huge/large amounts of grain from the land.” The idiom “by the handfuls” refers here to large amounts of grain. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom you could use here.
Genesis 41:48
So he gathered
Quote: וַיִּקְבֹּ֞ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So Joseph {told the supervisors/administrators under him} to gather/collect” or “So Joseph {had his helpers} gather/collect”. When the Bible says that a leader such as Joseph did something, it often means that he had it done by people under his authority. Decide whether you want to include this information in your translation or in a footnote.
all the food of the seven years that were in the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶת כָּל אֹ֣כֶל שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֤ר הָיוּ֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“all the {extra/surplus} food/grain that was produced/harvested in the land/country of Egypt during {those} seven years,” or “all the {extra/surplus} grain {that people harvested/produced} during {those} seven years in the land/country of Egypt,” See how you translated “all the food” in verse 35.
and he put the food in the cities
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן אֹ֖כֶל בֶּעָרִ֑ים (1)“and he {had them} store/stockpile {that} grain in the cities.”
The food of the fields that surrounded {each} city he put inside it
Quote: אֹ֧כֶל שְׂדֵה הָעִ֛יר אֲשֶׁ֥ר סְבִיבֹתֶ֖יהָ נָתַ֥ן בְּתוֹכָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“The food/grain {that people had harvested} from the fields, he {had his supervisors/helpers} store/stockpile in the nearby cities.” or “In each city he {had them} store/stockpile the food/grain {that people had harvested} from the surrounding/nearby fields.” Consider what phrase order is best for this sentence in your language.
Genesis 41:49
So Joseph stored up
Quote: וַיִּצְבֹּ֨ר יוֹסֵ֥ף (1)“In that way, Joseph stockpiled” or “Joseph {had his helpers} store up”. See how you translated “store/stockpile” in verse 35.
grain like the sand of the sea
Quote: בָּ֛ר כְּח֥וֹל הַיָּ֖ם (1)“so much grain that it was/seemed/looked as {plentiful as} {grains of} sand beside the sea/ocean.” or “… as {plentiful as} the {grains of} sand on the seashore/beach.” See how you translated “as the sand of the sea” in Gen 32:12 and a similar phrase in Gen 22:17.
very much, until
Quote: הַרְבֵּ֣ה מְאֹ֑ד עַ֛ד כִּי (1)“{In fact,} there was so much that” or “{In fact,} it was so plentiful that {after a while}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
he stopped measuring {it
Quote: חָדַ֥ל לִסְפֹּ֖ר (1)“he {had them} stop keeping records/track {of it}” or “he/they had to stop writing down how much there was,” It was probably Joseph’s helpers who measured the grain and kept records of it. See how you handled this at the beginning of this verse.
because it was without number
Quote: כִּי אֵ֥ין מִסְפָּֽר (1)“because {there was so much that} he/they could no longer measure/record it.” or “because it was too much to keep track of.”
Genesis 41:50
before the years of the famine came
Quote: בְּטֶ֥רֶם תָּב֖וֹא שְׁנַ֣ת הָרָעָ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Before the {seven} famine years started,” or “Now {it so happened that} before the {seven} years of famine came/started,” Consider what is the best way to change topics and begin this new paragraph in your language.
And … two sons were born to Joseph, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, the priest of On, bore for him
Quote: וּלְיוֹסֵ֤ף יֻלַּד֙ שְׁנֵ֣י בָנִ֔ים & אֲשֶׁ֤ר יָֽלְדָה לּוֹ֙ אָֽסְנַ֔ת בַּת פּ֥וֹטִי פֶ֖רַע כֹּהֵ֥ן אֽוֹן (1)“Joseph had two sons with {his wife} Asenath, a daughter of Potiphera, {who was} a priest in {the city of} On.” or “Joseph and {his wife} Asenath had two sons. {Remember that} Asenath was a daughter of Potiphera, a priest {in the city} of On.” See how you translated “Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, the priest of On” in verse 45.
Genesis 41:51
And Joseph called the name of
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת שֵׁ֥ם (1)“Joseph named”. See how you translated the idiom “called the name of” in Gen 21:3.
the firstborn {son
Quote: הַבְּכ֖וֹר (1)“{his} first/oldest {son}”
Manasseh
Quote: מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Manasseh, {which means “forget,”}” or “Manasseh, {which means “stop/not thinking about,”}” If you include the meaning of the name “Manasseh” in your translation or in a footnote, it should fit with the way you translate “forget” in the following clause.
because {he said}, “God has made me forget
Quote: כִּֽי־נַשַּׁ֤נִי אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“{and he said/explained,} “{It is} because God has enabled/helped me to forget about” or “… to stop thinking about”. Your translation should not sound like Joseph had lost his memory of these things, rather God had blessed him so much that it helped him stop thinking about those things.
all my toil and
Quote: אֶת כָּל עֲמָלִ֔י וְאֵ֖ת (1)“all my troubles/hardships and {about}”
all of my father’s house
Quote: כָּל בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי (1)“{how much I have missed} all of my family {back home}.” or “{how much I have missed} my father and the rest of my family {back home}.”
Genesis 41:52
And the name of the second {son} he called
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת שֵׁ֥ם הַשֵּׁנִ֖י קָרָ֣א (1)“And he/Joseph named {his} second son”
Ephraim
Quote: אֶפְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Ephraim, {which means “twice fruitful/prosperous,”}” If you include the meaning of Ephraim’s name in your translation or in a footnote, it should fit with the way you translate “fruitful” in the following clause.
because {he said}, “God has made me fruitful
Quote: כִּֽי הִפְרַ֥נִי אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{and he said/explained,} “{It is} because God has enabled/helped me to prosper”. Consider again how you translated the idiom “fruitful” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 17:6; 26:22; 41:52.
in the land of my affliction
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ עָנְיִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“in the country where I have suffered {so much}.”
Genesis 41:53
Then the seven years of abundance that was … ended
Quote: וַתִּכְלֶ֕ינָה שֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֣י הַשָּׂבָ֑ע אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיָ֖ה (1)“Finally the seven years when food was abundant/plentiful”. See how you translated “the seven years of abundance” in verses 34 and 47, and a similar phrase in verse 29.
in the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“in the country of Egypt.”
Then … ended
Quote: וַתִּכְלֶ֕ינָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“came to an end,” or “were over,” For some languages it is better to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “Finally the seven years were over when food was plentiful in the country of Egypt. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 41:54
and the seven years of famine started to come
Quote: וַתְּחִלֶּ֜ינָה שֶׁ֣בַע שְׁנֵ֤י הָרָעָב֙ לָב֔וֹא (1)“Then the seven years of famine began,” or “Then the seven years began when there was a severe lack of food,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
just as Joseph had said
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר אָמַ֣ר יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“just as Joseph had predicted {would happen}.” or “which is exactly what Joseph had said/predicted {would happen}.”
And there was famine in all the lands
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י רָעָב֙ בְּכָל הָ֣אֲרָצ֔וֹת (1)“The famine spread to every country,” or “The severe food shortage began to affect all countries,”
but in all the land of Egypt
Quote: וּבְכָל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם (1)“but everywhere in the land/country of Egypt” or “but throughout the whole/entire land/country of Egypt”
there was bread
Quote: הָ֥יָה לָֽחֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“there was {still} food {in the storehouses}.” or “there was {still} {plenty of} food {stored up}.” In this context, “bread” refers to all food in general.
Genesis 41:55
Then all the land of Egypt became famished
Quote: וַתִּרְעַב֙ כָּל אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Then all {the people in} the land/country of Egypt began to suffer from the famine, so” or “When everyone in Egypt became very hungry {because of the famine,}” The phrase “all the land” refers here to the people living in Egypt. Consider whether or not you need to make that explicit in your language.
and the people cried to Pharaoh for the bread
Quote: וַיִּצְעַ֥ק הָעָ֛ם אֶל פַּרְעֹ֖ה לַלָּ֑חֶם (1)“they begged Pharaoh for food.” or “they pleaded with Pharaoh to give them food.”
So Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֤ה לְכָל־מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ (1)“So/Then {King} Pharaoh commanded/told them,” or “So/Then he commanded/told them,”
Go to Joseph
Quote: לְכ֣וּ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“Go ask Joseph {for help/food},” or “You must go to Joseph {and ask him for help},”
Whatever he says to you, do {it
Quote: אֲשֶׁר יֹאמַ֥ר לָכֶ֖ם תַּעֲשֽׂוּ (1)“{and} do whatever he commands/tells you {to do}.” Consider whether or not it is best to begin a new sentence here in your language.
Genesis 41:56
And the famine was over all the face of the land, so … opened
Quote: וְהָרָעָ֣ב הָיָ֔ה עַ֖ל כָּל פְּנֵ֣י הָאָ֑רֶץ וַיִּפְתַּ֨ח (1)“Since the famine had spread throughout the whole country,” or “Since the severe food shortage was affecting the entire/whole country,”
so Joseph opened
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֨ח יוֹסֵ֜ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Joseph {had his helpers} open up” or “Joseph {ordered the supervisors/administrators under him to} open up”. See how you translated verses 48 and 49, where Joseph is said to do something that he had his helpers do.
all {the buildings} that {had grain} in them
Quote: אֶֽת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֤ר בָּהֶם֙ (1)“all {the storage buildings/barns} where {grain} was being stored,” or “all the storehouses {full of grain},”
and sold {grain} to the Egyptians
Quote: וַיִּשְׁבֹּ֣ר לְמִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“and he/they started selling {the grain} to the people of Egypt.”
And the famine was severe
Quote: וַיֶּחֱזַ֥ק הָֽרָעָ֖ב (1)“Then the famine became worse {and worse}” or “Then the famine kept getting more and more severe”
in the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“throughout the land/country of Egypt.” or “throughout the/their country.”
Genesis 41:57
Then all the earth
Quote: וְכָל הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“In fact, {people from} all over the earth/world”. This phrase refers to the people living on the earth. Consider whether or not you need to make that explicit in your language. See how you translated a similar metonymy (“all the land”) in verse 55.
came to Egypt to Joseph to buy {grain
Quote: בָּ֣אוּ מִצְרַ֔יְמָה לִשְׁבֹּ֖ר אֶל יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“started coming/traveling to Egypt to buy {grain/food} from Joseph,”
because the famine was severe in all the earth
Quote: כִּֽי חָזַ֥ק הָרָעָ֖ב בְּכָל הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because the food shortage was {so} severe/terrible throughout the entire/whole world.” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause near the beginning of verse 57 and say, “In fact, the famine was/became so severe/terrible in/throughout the entire/whole world that {people} started coming/traveling to Egypt from all over the world to buy {grain} from Joseph.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “severe/terrible” in verse 56.
Genesis 42
Genesis 42:1
Then Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא יַעֲקֹ֔ב כִּ֥י יֶשׁ־שֶׁ֖בֶר בְּמִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“Meanwhile {in the land/region of Canaan}, when Jacob heard/learned that there was grain {for sale} in {the country of} Egypt,” or “… when Jacob found out that {he/they could buy} grain in Egypt,” This verse begins a new episode which overlaps in time with some of what was happening in chapter 41. Consider what is the best way to begin this episode in your language.
so Jacob said to his sons
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ לְבָנָ֔יו (1)“he asked/told his sons,”
Why are you looking at each other
Quote: לָ֖מָּה תִּתְרָאֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“What are you waiting for?” or “Do not {just stand/sit here} looking/staring at each other!” or “Do not just {stand around/there} doing nothing!” Jacob uses this rhetorical question to get his sons to take action and do what he says next. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Genesis 42:2
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then he continued/added,” For some languages it is more natural to omit the quote margin here, because the same person (Jacob) is still talking to the same people (his sons). Do what is best in your language.
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)“Listen {to this}!” or “Look,”
I have heard
Quote: שָׁמַ֔עְתִּי (1)“I heard/learned” or “Someone told me”
that there is grain in Egypt
Quote: כִּ֥י יֶשׁ שֶׁ֖בֶר בְּמִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“that there is {much} grain {for sale} in {the country of} Egypt.” or “that {the country of} Egypt has {a lot of} grain {that people can buy}.”
Go down there
Quote: רְדוּ שָׁ֨מָּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
“{So} {I want/need you to} go/travel there” or “{So} {please} go/travel down there”. Make sure that the way you translate Jacob’s command to his sons does not sound rude or harsh.
and buy {some} for us from there
Quote: וְשִׁבְרוּ לָ֣נוּ מִשָּׁ֔ם (1)“and buy {some} {grain} for us {all}” or “and buy {some} for us {and our families} {to eat}”
so that we will live
Quote: וְנִחְיֶ֖ה (1)“so that we will/can survive” or “so that we will/can stay alive”
and not die
Quote: וְלֹ֥א נָמֽוּת (1)“and not die {from hunger}.” or “and not starve to death.”
Genesis 42:3
Then ten of Joseph’s brothers went down
Quote: וַיֵּרְד֥וּ אֲחֵֽי יוֹסֵ֖ף עֲשָׂרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“Then/So Joseph’s ten {older} brothers {left home/Canaan and} went/traveled down”. These ten brothers were older than Joseph and had different mothers than he did. Also, the verb “went down” refers to the fact that Egypt was lower in elevation than the land of Canaan. It is also located southwest of Canaan. See how you translated “go down” in verse 2 and “went down” in Gen 12:10.
to buy grain from Egypt
Quote: לִשְׁבֹּ֥ר בָּ֖ר מִמִּצְרָֽיִם (1)“to Egypt to buy {some} grain {there}.”
Genesis 42:4
But Jacob did not send Benjamin, the brother of Joseph
Quote: וְאֶת בִּנְיָמִין֙ אֲחִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף לֹא שָׁלַ֥ח יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“But Jacob did not send Joseph’s {younger} brother Benjamin {to Egypt}” or “But Jacob did not allow/permit Joseph’s {younger} brother to go {to Egypt}”. Benjamin was younger than Joseph and had the same mother (Rachel) and father.
with his brothers
Quote: אֶת אֶחָ֑יו (1)“with his {other} brothers,” or “with {the rest of} his brothers,”
because he said, “So that harm does not meet him
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔ר פֶּן יִקְרָאֶ֖נּוּ אָסֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“because he/Jacob thought that he/Benjamin might be harmed.” or “because he/Jacob was afraid/concerned that something bad/terrible might happen to him.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “But Jacob was concerned that harm might come to Joseph’s {younger} brother Benjamin, so he did not send him with {the rest of} his brothers {to Egypt}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 42:5
And the sons of Israel came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So Israel’s sons” or “The sons of Israel {that is, Jacob}” or “So the sons of {Jacob, who was also called} Israel,” If it is not clear that “Israel” (verse 5) and “Jacob” (verse 4) refer to the same person, you could include the name Jacob here in your translation or in a footnote.
And … came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“came/went {to Egypt}” or “arrived {in Egypt}”
among {those} who came
Quote: בְּת֣וֹךְ הַבָּאִ֑ים (1)“along with {many} other people who were coming/going {there}” or “along with {many} other travelers”
to buy {grain
Quote: לִשְׁבֹּ֖ר (1)“to buy {food},”
because the famine
Quote: כִּֽי & הָרָעָ֖ב (1)“because the severe/extreme food shortage” or “because the extreme lack/scarcity of food”. See how you translated “because the famine” in Gen 41:57.
was in the land of Canaan
Quote: הָיָ֥ה & בְּאֶ֥רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)“was {also} {affecting everyone} in the land/region of Canaan.” or “was {also} affecting/devastating the {entire} land/region of Canaan.”
Genesis 42:6
Now Joseph {was} the governor over the land
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֗ף ה֚וּא הַשַּׁלִּ֣יט עַל הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“{Since} Joseph {was} the administrator over the land/country {of Egypt},”
It was} he who was selling {grain
Quote: ה֥וּא הַמַּשְׁבִּ֖יר (1)“he {was} the one selling {grain}”
to all the people of
Quote: לְכָל עַ֣ם (1)“to people {who came to him} from all over”
the land
Quote: הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the country {of Egypt}”, which is what it means earlier in verse 6; or (2) “the earth/world.”
So the brothers of Joseph came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ אֲחֵ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)So/Then Joseph’s brothers {also} came/went
and bowed down to him {with} {their} noses to the ground
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּֽחֲווּ ל֥וֹ אַפַּ֖יִם אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“before him {like everyone else} and bowed down {with} {their} faces/foreheads to/toward the ground {to show him respect}.” or “{to him} and prostrated themselves before him {to show respect}.” See how you translated “bow down” in Gen 37:7, 9-10.
Genesis 42:7
And Joseph saw his brothers and recognized them
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת אֶחָ֖יו וַיַּכִּרֵ֑ם (1)“When Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them,” or “Joseph immediately recognized his brothers”
but he acted like a stranger to them
Quote: וַיִּתְנַכֵּ֨ר אֲלֵיהֶ֜ם (1)“but he treated them like strangers” or “But he pretended that he did not {know} {them}”. For some languages it is better to divide the first sentence in this verse into shorter sentences. Do what is best in your language.
and he spoke with them harshly
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֧ר אִתָּ֣ם קָשׁ֗וֹת (1)“and spoke to them in a harsh/stern way/manner” or “In fact, he spoke to them sternly/roughly”. Consider whether or not it is more natural to begin a new sentence here in your language.
and said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)“and asked/questioned them,” or “and demanded,”
Where did you come from
Quote: מֵאַ֣יִן בָּאתֶ֔ם (1)“Where are you from?” or “What country are you from?”
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They answered {him},”
From the land of Canaan to buy food
Quote: מֵאֶ֥רֶץ כְּנַ֖עַן לִשְׁבָּר אֹֽכֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“{Sir,} {we came} from the land/region of Canaan to buy {some} grain.” or “{Sir,} {we are} from the land/region of Canaan {and we came} to buy {some} grain.” For some languages it is necessary to begin with a respectful title or form of address when someone talks to a person of high status like Joseph. See how Joseph’s brothers address him in verse 10.
Genesis 42:8
And Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֥ר יוֹסֵ֖ף אֶת אֶחָ֑יו וְהֵ֖ם לֹ֥א הִכִּרֻֽהוּ (1)“Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not realize/know who he was.”
Genesis 42:9
Then Joseph remembered the dreams that he had dreamed
Quote: וַיִּזְכֹּ֣ר יוֹסֵ֔ף אֵ֚ת הַחֲלֹמ֔וֹת אֲשֶׁ֥ר חָלַ֖ם (1)“Then Joseph remembered what he had dreamed”
about them
Quote: לָהֶ֑ם (1)“about them {long ago},” or “about his brothers {long ago},”
and he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)“so he told/accused them,”
You {are} spies
Quote: מְרַגְּלִ֣ים אַתֶּ֔ם (1)“You are spying {on our country}!” or “You are secretly gathering information {about our country}!”
You have come
Quote: בָּאתֶֽם (1)“You came {here}” or “{The reason} you came {here} {is}”
to see the nakedness of the land
Quote: לִרְא֛וֹת אֶת עֶרְוַ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“to see/learn our country’s weaknesses!” or “to find out where {our} country is weak/vulnerable!”
Genesis 42:10
But they said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֥וּ אֵלָ֖יו (1)“But his brothers replied to him,”
No, my lord
Quote: לֹ֣א אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
“No, sir,” or “Sir, we are not {spies},” Make sure your translation of this phrase sounds polite. In some cultures it is rude to say “No” too directly. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 23:11.
but your servants have come
Quote: וַעֲבָדֶ֥יךָ בָּ֖אוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“but rather {we} come {before you} respectfully/humbly” or “Rather, {we are} {just} humble men {who} have come {here}”. The brothers referred to themselves as “your servants” to show respect to Joseph and to acknowledge his high position. Translate this phrase in a polite way that shows respect toward Joseph.
to buy food
Quote: לִשְׁבָּר אֹֽכֶל (1)“{only} to buy {some} food/grain.”
Genesis 42:11
All of us {are
Quote: כֻּלָּ֕נוּ (1)“We {are} all”
sons of one man
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י אִישׁ אֶחָ֖ד (1)“{the} sons of the same man/father.” or “brothers who have the same father.”
We {are} honest. Your servants are not spies
Quote: נָ֑חְנוּ כֵּנִ֣ים אֲנַ֔חְנוּ לֹא־הָי֥וּ עֲבָדֶ֖יךָ מְרַגְּלִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“We {are} honest/trustworthy men/people who {highly} respect you. We are not spies.” or “We {are} humble, honest/trustworthy men/people, not spies.”
Genesis 42:12
But he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But/Then Joseph replied,” or “But he/Joseph accused them,”
No, indeed you have come
Quote: לֹ֕א כִּֽי & בָּאתֶ֥ם (1)“No/Yes, {you are spies!} {I’m sure} you must have come {here}” or “{That is} not {true}! You have definitely come {here}”. Different languages use “yes” and “no” in different ways, depending on the context. Do what is accurate and natural in this context in your language. Also see how you translated “No” in Gen 18:15.
to see the nakedness of the land
Quote: עֶרְוַ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ & לִרְאֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“to see/learn our country’s weaknesses!” or “to find out where {our} country is weak/vulnerable!” See how you translated this phrase in verse 9.
Genesis 42:13
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But/Then they responded,” or “But they replied {to him},”
Your servants {are} twelve brothers
Quote: שְׁנֵ֣ים עָשָׂר֩ עֲבָדֶ֨יךָ אַחִ֧ים (1)“Sir, {there are/were} twelve of us brothers.”
We {are} sons of one man
Quote: אֲנַ֛חְנוּ בְּנֵ֥י אִישׁ אֶחָ֖ד (1)“We {are} {all} sons of the same man/father” or “We {all} have the same father”
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)“{who lives} in the land/region of Canaan.” or “{and we live} in the land/region of Canaan.”
And behold, the youngest
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה הַקָּטֹ֤ן (1)“In fact, {our} youngest {brother}” or “{Our} youngest {brother}”. The word “behold” calls attention to what the brothers say next. Some translations leave it implied. Do what is best in your language.
is} with our father today
Quote: אֶת אָבִ֨ינוּ֙ הַיּ֔וֹם (1)“{is} presently {back at home} with our father,” or “{is} {there} with our father right now,”
and the one
Quote: וְהָאֶחָ֖ד (1)“but the {other} one” or “but {our other} brother”
is not {alive
Quote: אֵינֶֽנּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“is no more.” or “is no longer {with us}.” or “has died.” In this context, “is not” is an idiom that means “has died.” Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here.
Genesis 42:14
Then Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֖ם יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/But Joseph accused them,” or “Then/But Joseph responded,”
It {is} just as I told you, saying, ‘You {are} spies
Quote: ה֗וּא אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבַּ֧רְתִּי אֲלֵכֶ֛ם לֵאמֹ֖ר מְרַגְּלִ֥ים אַתֶּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“What I told you is right/true! You are spying {on our country}!” or “I was right when I said that you are secretly gathering information {about our country}!” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate the embedded quote “You {are} spies” as a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 42:15
By this
Quote: בְּזֹ֖את (1)“{So now,} this is how” or “In this way”
you will be tested
Quote: תִּבָּחֵ֑נוּ (1)“I will test/verify whether {or not} you {told me the truth}:” or “I am going to test you to find out if your claims are true:”
By} the life of Pharaoh
Quote: חֵ֤י פַרְעֹה֙ (1)“{I swear/vow} by Pharaoh’s life/authority {that}” or “As certain as {King} Pharaoh lives, {I swear/vow that}”. Joseph uses King Pharaoh’s name here to make an oath that emphasizes the certainty of what he says next. Make sure that the way he refers to Pharaoh sounds respectful in your translation. See how you translated other vows in Gen 14:22 and 21:23-24.
you will not leave
Quote: אִם תֵּצְא֣וּ (1)“you will {definitely} not/never leave” or “I will not/never let you leave”
from this {place
Quote: מִזֶּ֔ה (1)“from here” or “Egypt”
unless your youngest brother comes here
Quote: כִּ֧י אִם בְּב֛וֹא אֲחִיכֶ֥ם הַקָּטֹ֖ן הֵֽנָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“until your youngest brother comes/is here.” or “unless/until {I see that} your youngest brother is here.” For some languages it may be better to change the wording of this sentence and say, “{By} the life of Pharaoh, the only way you will ever leave Egypt is if your youngest brother comes here.” or “{By} the life of Pharaoh, your youngest brother must come here, or else you will {definitely} not/never leave Egypt!” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 42:16
Send one of you
Quote: שִׁלְח֨וּ מִכֶּ֣ם אֶחָד֮ (1)“{So} one of you must go {back home}” or “Choose one of you to go {home}”
and let him bring your brother
Quote: וְיִקַּ֣ח אֶת אֲחִיכֶם֒ (1)“and bring your {youngest} brother back {here}.” or “to get your {youngest} brother {and bring him here}.”
and you
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“You {who are left}” or “{The rest of} you”. In this verse, the pronouns “you” and “your” are plural.
will be bound
Quote: הֵאָ֣סְר֔וּ (1)“will be put/kept in prison.” or “must stay here in prison.” See how you translated “bound” in Gen 39:20; 40:3, 5. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Then your words will be tested {as to whether} the truth {is} in you
Quote: וְיִבָּֽחֲנוּ֙ דִּבְרֵיכֶ֔ם הַֽאֱמֶ֖ת אִתְּכֶ֑ם (1)“That way I can verify {whether or not} you told me the truth.” or “If you do that, I will know that what you told me is true.”
And if not
Quote: וְאִם לֹ֕א (1)“But if {you are} not {telling the truth},” or “But if you are lying,”
by} the life of Pharaoh
Quote: חֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה (1)“{I swear/vow} by Pharaoh’s life/authority,” or “as certain as {King} Pharaoh lives,” See how you translated this phrase in verse 15.
surely you {are} spies
Quote: כִּ֥י מְרַגְּלִ֖ים אַתֶּֽם (1)“{that means} you {are} definitely spies!” or “{that means} you really are spying {on our country}!”
Genesis 42:17
Then he put them together in custody {for} three days
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ף אֹתָ֛ם אֶל מִשְׁמָ֖ר שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת יָמִֽים (1)“Then Joseph {had his soldiers} put them in custody/prison {for} three days.” or “Then Joseph {had his soldiers} lock up his brothers in prison {for} three days.” See how you translated “in custody” in Gen 40:3-4, 7.
Genesis 42:18
Then Joseph said to them on the third day
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֤ם יוֹסֵף֙ בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י (1)“Three days later, Joseph said to them,” or “After three days, Joseph said to them,” See how you translated “on the third day” in Gen 22:4, 31:22, 40:20. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
Do this
Quote: זֹ֥את עֲשׂ֖וּ (1)“Do what I say and” or “If you do this,” or “If you do what I say,”
and live
Quote: וִֽחְי֑וּ (1)“{you will} live,” or “{I will let} you live,” or “{I will} spare your lives,”
because} I fear God
Quote: אֶת הָאֱלֹהִ֖ים אֲנִ֥י יָרֵֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{because/since} I revere/respect and obey God:” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “I {am a man who} reveres/respects God. So if you do what I say, {I will let} you live.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “fear God” in Gen 22:12.
Genesis 42:19
If you {are} honest
Quote: אִם כֵּנִ֣ים אַתֶּ֔ם (1)“If you {truly/really} {are} honest/trustworthy {men} {as you say/claim},” or “Since you {claim to be} honest/trustworthy {men},” See how you translated “honest” in verse 11.
let one of your brothers be bound in your prison house
Quote: אֲחִיכֶ֣ם אֶחָ֔ד יֵאָסֵ֖ר בְּבֵ֣ית מִשְׁמַרְכֶ֑ם (1)“I will make {just} one of you brothers stay/remain where you have been, in prison,” or “{just} one of you brothers must remain confined/imprisoned where you have been,” See how you translated “be bound” in verse 16.
and you go take grain back
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ לְכ֣וּ הָבִ֔יאוּ שֶׁ֖בֶר (1)“while {the rest of} you go back {home} {now} with/taking grain/food” or “{The rest of} you {may} go {and} take/carry grain/food back {home}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for} the famine of your households
Quote: רַעֲב֥וֹן בָּתֵּיכֶֽם (1)“for your hungry/starving households/families {to eat}.” or “to feed your hungry/starving households/families.”
Genesis 42:20
Then you will bring your youngest brother to me
Quote: וְאֶת אֲחִיכֶ֤ם הַקָּטֹן֙ תָּבִ֣יאוּ אֵלַ֔י (1)“But you must bring your youngest brother {back} {here} to me” or “After that, you must come back {here} to me with your youngest brother”
so that your words will be verified
Quote: וְיֵאָמְנ֥וּ דִבְרֵיכֶ֖ם (1)“so that what you have told me will be proven/confirmed to be true,” or “That way I will know that you are telling the truth,” See how you translated a similar clause in verse 16.
and you will not die
Quote: וְלֹ֣א תָמ֑וּתוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
“and I will {spare your lives and} not execute you {for being spies}.” or “and I will let you live.” In this context, the word “die” refers to execution, not death by natural causes.
And they did so
Quote: וַיַּעֲשׂוּ כֵֽן (1)“So/Then Joseph’s brothers {agreed to} do that.” or “… {agreed to} do what he said/proposed.” or “… accepted his proposal.”
Genesis 42:21
Then each {man} said to his brother
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל אָחִ֗יו (1)“Then the/Joseph’s brothers said to each other,” or “{While they were still standing there,} they said to each other,”
We {are} truly guilty concerning our brother
Quote: אֲבָל֮ אֲשֵׁמִ֣ים אֲנַחְנוּ֮ עַל אָחִינוּ֒ (1)“{This is happening because} we sinned badly against our brother {Joseph} {long ago}.” or “Surely what we did to our brother {Joseph} {long ago} was {very} wrong.”
because we saw the distress of his soul
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר רָאִ֜ינוּ צָרַ֥ת נַפְשׁ֛וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“We saw how distressed he was” or “We saw how {terribly} he was suffering”. The phrase “his soul” refers here to Joseph.
when he pleaded with us
Quote: בְּהִתְחַֽנְנ֥וֹ אֵלֵ֖ינוּ (1)“when he urgently asked us {to free him},” or “when he begged us {not to harm him},”
but we did not listen
Quote: וְלֹ֣א שָׁמָ֑עְנוּ (1)“but we refused to listen {to him}.” or “but we refused {to let him go}.”
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּן֙ (1)“That is the reason {that}” or “That is why”
this distress has come upon us
Quote: בָּ֣אָה אֵלֵ֔ינוּ הַצָּרָ֖ה הַזֹּֽאת (1)“we are now experiencing so much distress/trouble.” or “we are suffering like this now.”
Genesis 42:22
Then Reuben responded to them, saying
Quote: וַיַּעַן֩ רְאוּבֵ֨ן אֹתָ֜ם לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)“Reuben scolded/reproached them by saying,”
Did I not tell you, saying
Quote: הֲלוֹא֩ אָמַ֨רְתִּי אֲלֵיכֶ֧ם לֵאמֹ֛ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Remember that I told you” or “I told you”. Reuben uses this rhetorical question to scold his brothers. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Do not sin against the lad
Quote: אַל תֶּחֶטְא֥וּ בַיֶּ֖לֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“{that} you should/must not harm the boy!” or “{that} you should not do anything bad to him!” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, see how you translated “lad” in Gen 37:30, and keep in mind that Joseph was seventeen years old when his brothers sold him.
But you did not listen
Quote: וְלֹ֣א שְׁמַעְתֶּ֑ם (1)“But you refused to listen {to me},” or “But you did/would not obey me,”
so now behold
Quote: וְגַם & הִנֵּ֥ה (1)“so now, see {what is happening}:” or “so/and now look,”
his blood is being accounted for
Quote: דָּמ֖וֹ & נִדְרָֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“we are being held accountable/responsible {by God} for his blood/death!” or “God is holding us responsible for causing him to die!” or “We are getting what we deserve for causing his death!” The phrase “his blood” refers to Joseph’s death; if you do not translate that phrase literally, you could put the literal text in a footnote since “blood” is such an important term throughout the Bible.
Genesis 42:23
And they did not know
Quote: וְהֵם֙ לֹ֣א יָֽדְע֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Joseph’s brothers did not know/realize” or “Joseph’s brothers were not aware”.
that Joseph understood {them
Quote: כִּ֥י שֹׁמֵ֖עַ יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“that Joseph/he {could} understand {what they were saying to each other},” or “that Joseph/he was listening {to what they were saying},”
because the interpreter {was} between them
Quote: כִּ֥י הַמֵּלִ֖יץ בֵּינֹתָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because he had been speaking to them using a translator {as if he did not know their language}.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Now Joseph had been using an interpreter to speak to his brothers, so they did not realize that Joseph could understand them.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 42:24
And he turned away
Quote: וַיִּסֹּ֥ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then/So he/Joseph turned” or “{When Joseph heard what they were saying,} he turned”. Throughout this section make sure it is clear at each point who is being referred to, using nouns (including names) and pronouns naturally in your language.
And he turned away from them
Quote: וַיִּסֹּ֥ב מֵֽעֲלֵיהֶ֖ם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “turned his back to them” or (2) “went/stepped away from them”. Either way, Joseph was hiding his face from his brothers so they could not see that he was crying.
and cried
Quote: וַיֵּ֑בְךְּ (1)“and started crying.” or “to hide his tears.”
Then he turned back toward them
Quote: וַיָּ֤שָׁב אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)“Then {after he recovered,} he/Joseph turned back around” or “{When he had composed himself,} he/Joseph came back to them”. Make sure that the way you translate this sentence fits with the way you translated the last sentence in verse 23.
and spoke to them
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם (1)“and spoke to them {again} {through/using his interpreter/translator}.” or “and continued speaking to them.”
Then he took Simeon from them
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח מֵֽאִתָּם֙ אֶת שִׁמְע֔וֹן (1)“Then/Next he chose Simeon from {among} them” or “Then he separated Simeon from {the rest of} the/his brothers”.
and bound him
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ר אֹת֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and had him bound/imprisoned” or “and {had his soldiers} bind/confine him {with chains/ropes}”. Joseph probably had soldiers bind Simeon. See how you translated a similar case in Gen 40:3.
before their eyes
Quote: לְעֵינֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“while/as they watched.” or “in front of them.”
Genesis 42:25
Then Joseph ordered {his servants} and they filled
Quote: וַיְצַ֣ו יוֹסֵ֗ף וַיְמַלְא֣וּ (1)“Then Joseph commanded/told his servants to fill” or “Then Joseph had his servants fill”
their bags {with} grain
Quote: אֶת כְּלֵיהֶם֮ בָּר֒ (1)“his brothers’ bags/sacks {with} grain.” Two different words, “bag” and “sack”, are used in this verse to refer to the bags of grain that the brothers had. Some languages use just one of these terms in order to prevent confusion. Do what is best in your language.
And {he ordered them} to return {each} man’s silver to his sack
Quote: וּלְהָשִׁ֤יב כַּסְפֵּיהֶם֙ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל שַׂקּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{He} also {ordered/told them} to {secretly} put in each brother’s sack/bag the money {they had paid for the grain}” or “{He} also {ordered/told them} to {secretly} put the/his brothers’ {grain/food} money in their sacks/bags”. Joseph had his servants to do this without his brothers knowing about it.
and to give provisions to them for the road
Quote: וְלָתֵ֥ת לָהֶ֛ם צֵדָ֖ה לַדָּ֑רֶךְ (1)“and to provide/supply them {with} food to eat on the/their trip/journey {home}.” or “and to give them food to eat as they traveled {home}.”
And he did that for them
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַשׂ לָהֶ֖ם כֵּֽן (1)“So, that is what was done for them.” or “That is what Joseph did for them.” or “After Joseph did that for his brothers,” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to end this sentence here (and begin verse 26 with a new sentence) or to continue this sentence into verse 26.
Genesis 42:26
Then they loaded
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֥וּ (1)“Then his brothers loaded/put” or “they loaded/put” or “his brothers loaded/put”. Make sure your choice here fits with the way you translated the end of verse 25.
their grain onto their donkeys
Quote: אֶת שִׁבְרָ֖ם עַל חֲמֹרֵיהֶ֑ם (1)“their {sacks of} grain on their donkeys’ {backs}”
and went from there
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֖וּ מִשָּֽׁם (1)“and left there {to go home}.” or “and started traveling {home}.” The way you translate this phrase should reflect the fact that Joseph’s brothers were just starting their journey back home; they did not reach their home until several days later (verse 29).
Genesis 42:27
Then one {of them} opened his sack to give fodder to his donkey at the lodging place
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֨ח הָאֶחָ֜ד אֶת שַׂקּ֗וֹ לָתֵ֥ת מִסְפּ֛וֹא לַחֲמֹר֖וֹ בַּמָּל֑וֹן (1)“Later, {when they stopped} at a place to lodge/stay for the night, one {of them} opened his sack to get {some} feed/grain to feed his donkey.” See how you translated “fodder” in Gen 24:25, 32.
and he saw his silver, and behold, it {was} in the mouth of his sack
Quote: וַיַּרְא֙ אֶת כַּסְפּ֔וֹ וְהִנֵּה ה֖וּא בְּפִ֥י אַמְתַּחְתּֽוֹ (1)“Suddenly he saw that the silver/money he had paid {for the grain} was right there in the opening/top of his sack!” or “There in the top of his sack he saw the money that he had paid/used {to buy grain}!” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 42:28
So he said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֶל אֶחָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“So/Then he exclaimed to his brothers,” or “So/Then he exclaimed to the others,”
My silver has been returned
Quote: הוּשַׁ֣ב כַּסְפִּ֔י (1)“Somebody has returned my {grain} money {to me}!” or “Someone gave my {grain} money back {to me}!”
And indeed behold, {it is} in my sack
Quote: וְגַ֖ם הִנֵּ֣ה בְאַמְתַּחְתִּ֑י (1)“Here it is in my {grain} sack!” or “It is right here in my {grain} sack!”
Then their hearts went out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֣א לִבָּ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{They looked, and} their hearts sank,” or “{When they saw it,} they were {completely} shocked,” Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language.
and each {man} trembled to his brother, saying
Quote: וַיֶּֽחֶרְד֞וּ אִ֤ישׁ אֶל אָחִיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“and they all started trembling/shaking {with fear} and said/exclaimed to each other,” or “and they trembled/shook {with fear}. They asked each other,”
What {is} this God has done to us
Quote: מַה זֹּ֛את עָשָׂ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים לָֽנוּ (1)“What is God doing to us?” or “Why is God doing this to us?” or “Why is God making this happen to us?”
Genesis 42:29
Then they came to Jacob their father in the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֛אוּ אֶל יַעֲקֹ֥ב אֲבִיהֶ֖ם אַ֣רְצָה כְּנָ֑עַן (1)“{When} they came/got back {home} to their father Jacob in the land/region of Canaan,” or “{When} they reached {their home in} the land/region of Canaan where their father Jacob was,”
and they reported to him all
Quote: וַיַּגִּ֣ידוּ ל֔וֹ אֵ֛ת כָּל (1)“they related/explained to him all/everything” or “they told him everything”. See how you translated “reported to” in Gen 38:13.
that had happened to them, saying
Quote: הַקֹּרֹ֥ת אֹתָ֖ם לֵאמֹֽר (1)“they had experienced. They said,”
Genesis 42:30
The man, the lord of the land
Quote: הָאִ֨ישׁ אֲדֹנֵ֥י הָאָ֛רֶץ (1)“The man {who is} the ruler/governor over the land/country {of Egypt}” or “The man who governs/controls the land/country {of Egypt}”
spoke to us harshly
Quote: דִּ֠בֶּר & אִתָּ֖נוּ קָשׁ֑וֹת (1)“spoke to us sternly/roughly” or “was very harsh/stern when he spoke to us”. See how you translated “harshly” in verse 7.
and treated us as {if we were} spying out
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן אֹתָ֔נוּ כִּֽמְרַגְּלִ֖ים (1)“and accused us of spying {on} {their} country!” or “He even accused us of being spies!”
Genesis 42:31
But we said to him, ‘We {are} honest. We are not spies
Quote: וַנֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו כֵּנִ֣ים אֲנָ֑חְנוּ לֹ֥א הָיִ֖ינוּ מְרַגְּלִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“But we told him, ‘We {are} trustworthy {men}; not spies.” or “We told him that we are not spies, but rather honest/trustworthy {men}.” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, see how you translated “… honest … not spies” in verse 11.
Genesis 42:32
We {are} twelve brothers
Quote: שְׁנֵים עָשָׂ֥ר אֲנַ֛חְנוּ אַחִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“There {were} twelve of us brothers,” or “{We told him that} we {are} twelve brothers,” Make sure that the way you translate verse 32 fits with whether you used a direct or indirect quote in verse 31.
the sons of our father
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י אָבִ֑ינוּ (1)“sons of one father.” or “{and} {we are} the sons of the same father.”
The one
Quote: הָאֶחָ֣ד (1)“One {of our brothers}”
is not {alive
Quote: אֵינֶ֔נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“is no more,” or “is no longer {with us},” or “has died,” See how you translated this idiom in verse 13.
and the youngest
Quote: וְהַקָּטֹ֥ן (1)“and the/our youngest {brother/one}”
is} with our father today
Quote: הַיּ֛וֹם אֶת אָבִ֖ינוּ (1)“{is} {at home} with our father right now” or “{is} right now with our father {at home}”
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)“in the region of Canaan.”
Genesis 42:33
Then the man, the lord of the land, said to us
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלֵ֗ינוּ הָאִישׁ֙ אֲדֹנֵ֣י הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)“Then the ruler/governor of the land/country said/replied to us,” or “But the man who governs/rules the land/country told us,” See how you translated “the man, the lord of the land” in verse 30.
By this
Quote: בְּזֹ֣את (1)“This is how” or “In this way”. See how you translated “By this” in verse 15.
I will know that you {are} honest
Quote: אֵדַ֔ע כִּ֥י כֵנִ֖ים אַתֶּ֑ם (1)“I will know that/if you {are} trustworthy {men/people}:”
Leave one of your brothers with me
Quote: אֲחִיכֶ֤ם הָֽאֶחָד֙ הַנִּ֣יחוּ אִתִּ֔י (1)“You must leave one of you here with me,” or “One of you brothers will/must stay {here} with me,”
and take {grain} {for} the famine of your households and go
Quote: וְאֶת רַעֲב֥וֹן בָּתֵּיכֶ֖ם קְח֥וּ וָלֵֽכוּ (1)“while {the rest of} you take/buy {grain} {to relieve} the hunger of your families and go {home}.” or “and/while {the rest of} you go {home} with {grain/food for} your hungry/starving households/families.”
Genesis 42:34
Then bring your youngest brother to me
Quote: וְ֠הָבִיאוּ אֶת אֲחִיכֶ֣ם הַקָּטֹן֮ אֵלַי֒ (1)“Then/But bring your youngest brother {back} {here} to me” or “After that, you must come back {here} to me with your youngest brother.” See how you translated a similar clause at the beginning of verse 20.
so that I will know that you {are} not spies
Quote: וְאֵֽדְעָ֗ה כִּ֣י לֹ֤א מְרַגְּלִים֙ אַתֶּ֔ם (1)“Then I will know that you {are} not spies,” Consider again how you translated “spies” in Gen 42:9-11, 14, 16, 30, 31, 34.
that you {are} honest
Quote: כִּ֥י כֵנִ֖ים אַתֶּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{but} {are} honest/trustworthy {men/people}.” For some languages it is more natural to change the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “Then I will know that you {are} honest/trustworthy {men/people} and not spies.” Do what is best in your language.
Then} I will give your brother to you
Quote: אֶת אֲחִיכֶם֙ אֶתֵּ֣ן לָכֶ֔ם (1)“{Then} I will return your brother to you {from prison},” or “{Then} I will release to you your brother {who is in prison},”
and you {can} trade {in} the land
Quote: וְאֶת הָאָ֖רֶץ תִּסְחָֽרוּ (1)“and I will allow {all of} you to travel {and trade} throughout my country.’ ” or “and you can travel around my country {and trade} {freely}.’ ”
Genesis 42:35
Then it happened they were emptying their sacks
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י הֵ֚ם מְרִיקִ֣ים שַׂקֵּיהֶ֔ם (1)“Then Joseph’s brothers started/began to empty their {grain} sacks,” or “Sometime after that, the brothers began to empty {the grain} from their sacks,”
and behold, each {man’s} pouch of his silver {was} inside his sack
Quote: וְהִנֵּה אִ֥ישׁ צְרוֹר כַּסְפּ֖וֹ בְּשַׂקּ֑וֹ (1)“and there inside each man’s sack was his pouch/bag of money {that he had paid for the grain}!” or “and they were surprised to find/see their pouches/bags of silver/money inside their sacks!”
And they and their father saw the pouches of their silver, and they were afraid
Quote: וַיִּרְא֞וּ אֶת צְרֹר֧וֹת כַּסְפֵּיהֶ֛ם הֵ֥מָּה וַאֲבִיהֶ֖ם וַיִּירָֽאוּ (1)“When they and their father {Jacob} saw the pouches/bags of silver/money, they were terrified.”
Genesis 42:36
Then Jacob their father said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ יַעֲקֹ֣ב אֲבִיהֶ֔ם (1)“Then their father said/exclaimed to them,” If you make “Jacob” explicit in verse 35, you could leave it implied here in verse 36.
You have bereaved me
Quote: אֹתִ֖י שִׁכַּלְתֶּ֑ם (1)“You have bereaved/deprived me {of my sons}!” or “You have caused me {terrible} loss!”
Joseph is not {here}! And Simeon is not {here
Quote: יוֹסֵ֤ף אֵינֶ֨נּוּ֙ וְשִׁמְע֣וֹן אֵינֶ֔נּוּ (1)“Joseph is gone! Simeon is gone!” or “Joseph and Simeon are no longer {with us}!”
And you will take Benjamin
Quote: וְאֶת בִּנְיָמִ֣ן תִּקָּ֔חוּ (1)“And {now} you {want to} take Benjamin {away} {from me} {too}!”
All {these} things are against me
Quote: עָלַ֖י הָי֥וּ כֻלָּֽנָה (1)“Everything is against me!” or “Everything is going terribly/badly for me!”
Genesis 42:37
Then Reuben said to his father, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר רְאוּבֵן֙ אֶל אָבִ֣יו לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Reuben said/responded to his father,” or “Reuben replied,”
You may kill my two sons if I do not bring him to you
Quote: אֶת שְׁנֵ֤י בָנַי֙ תָּמִ֔ית אִם לֹ֥א אֲבִיאֶ֖נּוּ אֵלֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“You may punish me by killing my sons if I do not bring Benjamin back to you.” or “If I fail to bring Benjamin/him {back} to you {safely}, you can {punish me by} killing my two sons.” For some languages, it is necessary to change the order of clauses in this sentence (so that the condition comes first), as in the second alternate above. Do what is best in your language.
Put him in my hand
Quote: תְּנָ֤ה אֹתוֹ֙ עַל יָדִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Entrust him/Benjamin to my care {as we travel to Egypt},” or “Let me be responsible for {taking care of} him/Benjamin {on our trip to Egypt},” The phrase “in my hand” is used here as an idiom that means that Reuben was going to be responsible for Benjamin’s welfare.
and I will return him to you
Quote: וַאֲנִ֖י אֲשִׁיבֶ֥נּוּ אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and {I promise that} I will bring him back to you {safely}.” For some languages it is more natural to change the order of clauses in this quote and say, “{Father,} let me be responsible for {taking} Benjamin {down to Egypt}. If I fail to bring him {back} to you {safely}, you can {punish me by} killing my two sons.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 42:38
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But his father replied/insisted,”
My son will not go down with you
Quote: לֹֽא יֵרֵ֥ד בְּנִ֖י עִמָּכֶ֑ם (1)“My son {Benjamin} will/may not go with you {to Egypt},” or “{No,} I will not let my son {Benjamin} go down {to Egypt} with you.” Notice that the pronoun “you” is plural in this verse. Also, see how you translated “go down” in verse 2.
because his brother is dead
Quote: כִּֽי אָחִ֨יו מֵ֜ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“His brother is dead,” Joseph was Benjamin’s older brother from the same father and mother. Consider whether your language has a special kinship term for that. Also consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
and he alone is left
Quote: וְה֧וּא לְבַדּ֣וֹ נִשְׁאָ֗ר (1)“so he is the only one {of his mother’s sons} {who is} still alive.” or “and/so he is the only one/son {I have} left {from his mother}.” You could include a footnote here that explains that Joseph and Benjamin were the only two sons of Rachel, Jacob’s favorite wife who died after giving birth to Benjamin (Gen 35:16-20).
And {if} harm were to meet him on the road that you are going on
Quote: וּקְרָאָ֤הוּ אָסוֹן֙ בַּדֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תֵּֽלְכוּ בָ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“And/So if he were to be harmed/killed during your journey,” or “So if anything bad happened to him while you are traveling,” Jacob is saying what would happen if he lost Benjamin too. Consider what is the best way to translate this hypothetical statement in your language. Also, see how you translated “harm … meet him” in verse 4.
then you would bring my gray head down in sorrow
Quote: וְהוֹרַדְתֶּ֧ם אֶת שֵׂיבָתִ֛י בְּיָג֖וֹן (1)“you would cause me, your gray-haired/elderly father, to grieve so deeply/badly that I would {die and} go down” or “you would cause me, your gray-haired/elderly father, so much sorrow/grief that I would {die and} go down”. Jacob uses the phrase “my gray head” to refer to himself as their aged father. Consider whether your language has a similar phrase that is natural and works well here.
to Sheol
Quote: שְׁאֽוֹלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“to the afterworld!” The Hebrew term “Sheol” is the name of the place where the spirits of people went after they died. If you transliterate the name “Sheol” in your translation, you could put its meaning in a footnote. See how you translated this term in Gen 37:35, and see the note about that there.
Genesis 43
Genesis 43:1
Now the famine
Quote: וְהָרָעָ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“The famine” or “The food shortage”. The setting changes here to focus on what is happening in Canaan. Some languages use a special conjunction (like “Now”) to indicate that, while others do not use a conjunction here. Do what is best in your language.
was} heavy
Quote: כָּבֵ֥ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{was} oppressive/severe” or “{continued to be} severe”. The word “heavy” is used here as an idiom that means the famine caused everyone much suffering. See how you translated the same idiom in Gen 12:10 and Gen 41:31.
in the land
Quote: בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)“in the land/region {of Canaan}.”
Genesis 43:2
So it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י (1)“So it happened {that}” or “So”. This phrase introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit “it happened” because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language.
when they finished
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֤ר כִּלּוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“when Jacob and his family {had} finished eating” or “… {had} used/eaten up”. Consider whether it is clearer in your language to use a pronoun or a noun phrase here.
the grain that they had brought
Quote: אֶת הַשֶּׁ֔בֶר אֲשֶׁ֥ר הֵבִ֖יאוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{all} the grain that his sons had {bought and} brought {home}”. The pronoun “they” refers here to Jacob’s sons, not Jacob’s family (as it did earlier in this sentence).
from Egypt
Quote: מִמִּצְרָ֑יִם (1)“from {the country of} Egypt,”
then their father said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵיהֶם֙ אֲבִיהֶ֔ם (1)“their father {Jacob} told/commanded them,” or “he/Jacob told/commanded them,”
Return
Quote: שֻׁ֖בוּ (1)“Go back {to Egypt}”
buy a little food
Quote: שִׁבְרוּ & מְעַט אֹֽכֶל (1)“{and} buy some {more} food/grain”
for us
Quote: לָ֥נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“for us {and our families}.” or “for the/our family.” The pronoun “us” includes Jacob and his sons and their families here.
Genesis 43:3
But Judah said to him, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר אֵלָ֛יו יְהוּדָ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But {his son} Judah replied to him,” or “{His son} Judah replied,”
The man
Quote: הָאִ֤ישׁ (1)“The man {who governs/controls the country there}” or “The governor {there}”. The brothers did not realize yet that Joseph was the governor they had spoken to in Egypt, so Judah referred to him generally here as “the man.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 42:30.
strongly warned us, saying
Quote: הָעֵ֣ד הֵעִד֩ בָּ֨נוּ & לֵאמֹר֙ (1)“sternly warned/told us” or “was serious when he warned us”
You will not see my face
Quote: לֹֽא תִרְא֣וּ פָנַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“that we cannot see him {again}” or “that we cannot go/come to him {again} {to buy grain}”. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
unless your brother {is} with you
Quote: בִּלְתִּ֖י אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אִתְּכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“unless our {youngest} brother is with us!” or “if our {youngest} brother {is} not with us.” Make sure that the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the previous part of this sentence. For some languages it is necessary to put this clause before the previous clause and say, “… that our {youngest} brother must be with us or else we will not {be permitted to} see him {again}!”
Genesis 43:4
If you will send our brother with us
Quote: אִם יֶשְׁךָ֛ מְשַׁלֵּ֥חַ אֶת אָחִ֖ינוּ אִתָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“{So} if you will allow/permit our {youngest} brother to go with us,” or “{So} if you will let our {youngest} brother go with us,” In verses 3-5, the pronouns “us” and “we” are exclusive since they do not include Jacob (whom Judah is talking to).
we will go down
Quote: נֵרְדָ֕ה (1)“{then} we will/can go/travel {to Egypt}”
and buy food for you
Quote: וְנִשְׁבְּרָ֥ה לְךָ֖ אֹֽכֶל (1)“and buy {more} food/grain for you {and the rest of the family}.”
Genesis 43:5
But if you will not
Quote: וְאִם אֵינְךָ֥ (1)“However if you refuse to”
send {him
Quote: מְשַׁלֵּ֖חַ (1)“allow/permit him to go {with us},” or “let him go {with us},” See how you translated “send” in verse 4.
we will not go down
Quote: לֹ֣א נֵרֵ֑ד (1)“we cannot go down {there},” or “we must not go {there} {to buy grain},” See how you translated “go down” and “went down” in Gen 42:2-3.
because the man said to us
Quote: כִּֽי הָאִ֞ישׁ אָמַ֤ר אֵלֵ֨ינוּ֙ (1)“because the man/governor told/warned us”
You will not see my face
Quote: לֹֽא תִרְא֣וּ פָנַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“that we cannot see him {again}” or “that we cannot go to him {again} {to buy grain}”. See how you translated this quote in verse 3.
unless your brother {is} with you
Quote: בִּלְתִּ֖י אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אִתְּכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
“unless our {youngest} brother {is} with us!” or “if our {youngest} brother {is} not with us!” See how you translated this clause in verse 3.
Genesis 43:6
Then Israel said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then {their father} Israel asked {them},” If it is not clear that “Israel” (verse 6) and “their father” (verse 2) refer to the same person, you could include “their father” here in your translation or in a footnote. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 42:5.
Why did you treat me badly by telling
Quote: לָמָ֥ה הֲרֵעֹתֶ֖ם לִ֑י לְהַגִּ֣יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why did you cause trouble/distress for me by telling” or “You caused me a lot of trouble/distress because you told”. Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to scold his sons and to show how upset he is. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
the man
Quote: לָאִ֔ישׁ (1)“that man” or “the/that governor”. See how you translated “the man” in verses 3 and 5.
you have yet {another} brother
Quote: הַע֥וֹד לָכֶ֖ם אָֽח (1)“that you have another brother!” or “that you have a younger brother?” If you translate this rhetorical question as a statement, make sure that you end it with a period or exclamation point.
Genesis 43:7
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֡וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They answered {him},”
The man asked persistently
Quote: שָׁא֣וֹל שָֽׁאַל הָ֠אִישׁ (1)“The man/governor questioned {us} intensely/thoroughly” or “The man asked {us} many questions”
about us and our relatives, saying
Quote: לָ֣נוּ וּלְמֽוֹלַדְתֵּ֜נוּ לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“about ourselves and about {the rest of} our family.” In verses 7-8, the pronouns “us,” “our,” and “we” are exclusive since they do not include Jacob (whom the sons are talking to).
Is your father still alive? Do you have {another} brother
Quote: הַע֨וֹד אֲבִיכֶ֥ם חַי֙ הֲיֵ֣שׁ לָכֶ֣ם אָ֔ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“He {specifically} asked {us} if/whether our father was still alive and if/whether we had {another} brother.” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote.
And we answered him according to those words
Quote: וַנַ֨גֶּד ל֔וֹ עַל פִּ֖י הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֑לֶּה (1)“So we {just/simply} answered his questions {honestly/truthfully}.” or “All we did was answer his questions.”
How could we possibly know
Quote: הֲיָד֣וֹעַ נֵדַ֔ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“We could not possibly have known” or “There is no way we could have known”. Jacob’s sons use a rhetorical question here to emphasize their innocence and express strong emotion. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
that he would say, ‘Bring your brother down
Quote: כִּ֣י יֹאמַ֔ר הוֹרִ֖ידוּ אֶת אֲחִיכֶֽם (1)“that he would tell/require us to bring/take our brother down {there} {to him}!” If you translate this rhetorical question as a statement, make sure that you end it with a period or exclamation point.
Genesis 43:8
Then Judah said to Israel his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוּדָ֜ה אֶל יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל אָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then Judah urged his father Israel {about Benjamin},” For some languages it is necessary to make “Benjamin” explicit here in the quote margin so that it is clear that “young man” refers to him in the following quote. Do what is best in your language.
Send the young man with me
Quote: שִׁלְחָ֥ה הַנַּ֛עַר אִתִּ֖י (1)“Allow/Permit the young man to come with me/us {and I will watch over him}” or “Entrust the young man to me {to take care of}”. See how you translated “young man” in Gen 37:2; 41:12. Use a term here in your language that fits with the fact that Benjamin was probably in his 30’s.
and we will get up and go
Quote: וְנָק֣וּמָה וְנֵלֵ֑כָה (1)“and/so we can leave right away {to buy grain in Egypt}” or “so that we can go immediately {to Egypt} {to buy grain}.”
so that both we and you and our little ones will live
Quote: וְנִֽחְיֶה֙ & גַּם אֲנַ֥חְנוּ גַם אַתָּ֖ה גַּם טַפֵּֽנוּ (1)“Then all of us, including our children, will survive” or “… will/can stay alive”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, see how you translated “will live and not die” in Gen 42:2.
and not die
Quote: וְלֹ֣א נָמ֔וּת (1)“and not die {from hunger}.” or “and not starve to death.”
Genesis 43:9
I myself will guarantee him
Quote: אָֽנֹכִי֙ אֶֽעֶרְבֶ֔נּוּ (1)“I personally guarantee/promise to keep him safe.” or “I personally guarantee his safety.”
From my hand you can require him
Quote: מִיָּדִ֖י תְּבַקְשֶׁ֑נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“You can hold/make me responsible/liable for him,” See how you translated a similar idiom in Gen 31:39.
If I do not bring him {back} to you and set him before you
Quote: אִם לֹ֨א הֲבִיאֹתִ֤יו אֵלֶ֨יךָ֙ וְהִצַּגְתִּ֣יו לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“{so that} if I do not bring him {back} {home} to you alive/safely,” Consider what is the best way to translate this hypothetical sentence in your language.
then I will have sinned against you
Quote: וְחָטָ֥אתִֽי לְךָ֖ (1)“I will be guilty of this sin against you” or “you can blame me for this sin”
all the days
Quote: כָּל הַיָּמִֽים (1)“all the days {of my life}.” or “for the rest of my life.” or “forever.”
Genesis 43:10
Surely if we had not delayed
Quote: כִּ֖י לוּלֵ֣א הִתְמַהְמָ֑הְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“As it is, if we had not delayed/waited {such a long time},” or “In any case, if we had not delayed/waited {this long},” This sentence refers to something that could have happened, but did not actually happen. Consider what is the best way to translate this contrary-to-fact statement in your language.
surely we could have returned here twice by now
Quote: כִּֽי עַתָּ֥ה שַׁ֖בְנוּ זֶ֥ה פַעֲמָֽיִם (1)“certainly we could have made two {round} trips {there and back} by now.” or “we certainly would have had enough time to go down there and back two times already.”
Genesis 43:11
Then Israel their father said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֜ם יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל אֲבִיהֶ֗ם (1)“Then their father Israel said to them,” See how you translated “Israel their father” in verse 8.
If {it must be} so
Quote: אִם כֵּ֣ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“If/Since that is how it must be,” or “{Okay,} if that is the only way {we can get more grain},”
then do this
Quote: אֵפוֹא֮ זֹ֣את עֲשׂוּ֒ (1)“then this is what you must/should do:”
Take {some} of the choice produce of the land in your bags
Quote: קְח֞וּ מִזִּמְרַ֤ת הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ בִּכְלֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“Put {some} of the best things/goods from {our} land in your sacks,” or “Put in your sacks some of the most valuable things that {our} land produces,”
and take {it} down to the man
Quote: וְהוֹרִ֥ידוּ לָאִ֖ישׁ (1)“and take {them} to the man/governor {in Egypt}”
as} a gift
Quote: מִנְחָ֑ה (1)“{as} gifts,” or “{as} gifts.” Consider what punctuation is best to use here in your language.
a little balm, and a little honey
Quote: מְעַ֤ט צֳרִי֙ וּמְעַ֣ט דְּבַ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“{including} some sweet-smelling tree resin/sap, some honey,” or “{Include} some healing salve, honey,” Consider what is the best way to make a list of things like this in your language. Also see how you translated “balm” in Gen 37:25.
spices and myrrh
Quote: נְכֹ֣את וָלֹ֔ט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“{some} {food} spices/seasonings and incense,” See how you translated “spices” and “myrrh” in Gen 37:25.
pistachio nuts and almonds
Quote: בָּטְנִ֖ים וּשְׁקֵדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns
“{and} {some} pistachio nuts and almonds.” or “{and} {some} sweet-tasting tree nuts.”
Genesis 43:12
And take double the silver in your hand{s
Quote: וְכֶ֥סֶף מִשְׁנֶ֖ה קְח֣וּ בְיֶדְכֶ֑ם (1)“{Also} take with you twice {as much} silver/money {as you took the first time},”
because you must return in your hand{s} the silver
Quote: וְאֶת הַכֶּ֜סֶף & תָּשִׁ֣יבוּ בְיֶדְכֶ֔ם (1)“because you must take/give back the silver/money” or “You must give back the silver/money”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
that was returned
Quote: הַמּוּשָׁ֨ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“that was given back {to you} {by someone}” or “that someone gave back {to you}”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a passive or active clause here.
in the mouth of your sacks
Quote: בְּפִ֤י אַמְתְּחֹֽתֵיכֶם֙ (1)“in the opening/top of your sacks.” or “in your sacks.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 42:27.
Perhaps it {was} a mistake
Quote: אוּלַ֥י מִשְׁגֶּ֖ה הֽוּא (1)“That might have happened by mistake.” or “Maybe they/someone did that by mistake.”
Genesis 43:13
So take your brother
Quote: וְאֶת אֲחִיכֶ֖ם קָ֑חוּ (1)“So {then/now,} take your {youngest} brother”
and get up, return to the man
Quote: וְק֖וּמוּ שׁ֥וּבוּ אֶל הָאִֽישׁ (1)“and return right away to the man/governor.” or “and immediately go back to the man/governor.” See how you translated “get up and …” in verse 8.
Genesis 43:14
And may God Almighty give
Quote: וְאֵ֣ל שַׁדַּ֗י יִתֵּ֨ן (1)“May Almighty God” or “I pray that God {who is} all-powerful will”
And may God Almighty give you mercies before the man
Quote: וְאֵ֣ל שַׁדַּ֗י יִתֵּ֨ן לָכֶ֤ם רַחֲמִים֙ לִפְנֵ֣י הָאִ֔ישׁ (1)“be merciful/kind to you {as you go} before the man/governor,” or “cause the man/governor to be merciful/kind to you,” or “cause him to treat you mercifully/kindly,”
and may he send your other brother and Benjamin
Quote: וְשִׁלַּ֥ח & אֶת־אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אַחֵ֖ר וְאֶת־בִּנְיָמִ֑ין (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “so that he will” or “and I pray that the man/governor will” or (2) “and may he/God” or “and I pray that God will”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וְשִׁלַּ֥ח אֶת אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אַחֵ֖ר וְאֶת בִּנְיָמִ֑ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“allow/permit your other brother and Benjamin to come/go” or “let your brothers Simeon and Benjamin come/go”. Notice that “other brother” refers to Simeon, who is older or younger (and has the same or different mother) than his brothers that Israel is talking to here. Also see how you translated “send” in verses 4-5.
with you
Quote: לָכֶ֛ם (1)“{back} {home} with you.”
And I, if
Quote: וַאֲנִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)“{As for} me, if I” or “But {if not, and} if I”. The pronoun “I” is emphatic here in the Hebrew text. If possible, keep that emphasis in your translation.
I am bereaved, I am bereaved
Quote: שָׁכֹ֖לְתִּי שָׁכָֽלְתִּי (1)“{must} be bereaved/deprived {of them}, {then} I {will} be bereaved/deprived.” or “{must} lose them and grieve {for them}, {then} I {will} grieve.” or “{must} suffer loss, then I {will} suffer loss.” See how you translated “bereaved” in Gen 42:36.
Genesis 43:15
Then the men took that gift
Quote: וַיִּקְח֤וּ הָֽאֲנָשִׁים֙ אֶת הַמִּנְחָ֣ה הַזֹּ֔את (1)“Then/So the brothers packed those gifts {in their sacks}” or “So the brothers gathered/got {all} those gifts {and packed them}”. See how you translated “gift” in verse 11 and in Gen 33:10-11.
and they took double the silver in their hand{s
Quote: וּמִשְׁנֶה כֶּ֛סֶף לָקְח֥וּ בְיָדָ֖ם (1)“along with twice as much silver/money {as the grain would cost}.” or “and they also packed double/twice the amount of silver/money {that they needed to pay for the grain}.” See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
and Benjamin. Then they got up and went down {to} Egypt
Quote: וְאֶת בִּנְיָמִ֑ן וַיָּקֻ֨מוּ֙ וַיֵּרְד֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“They also {took/got} Benjamin and {together} they immediately/quickly traveled down to {the country of} Egypt” or “Then they {took} Benjamin {with them} and immediately/quickly traveled down to {the country of} Egypt”. See how you translated “get up and go” in verse 8.
and stood before Joseph
Quote: וַיַּֽעַמְד֖וּ לִפְנֵ֥י יוֹסֵֽף (1)“and presented themselves before/to Joseph.” or “and went/came directly to Joseph.”
Genesis 43:16
And Joseph saw Benjamin with them. Then he said
Quote: וַיַּ֨רְא יוֹסֵ֣ף אִתָּם֮ אֶת בִּנְיָמִין֒ וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“Joseph saw Benjamin with {the rest of} his brothers. So he told/ordered” or “When Joseph saw Benjamin with his {other} brothers, he told/commanded”
to {the one} who {was} over his house
Quote: לַֽאֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל בֵּית֔וֹ (1)“{the servant} who managed/supervised his household,” or “his head house-servant,”
Take the men to the house
Quote: הָבֵ֥א אֶת הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים הַבָּ֑יְתָה (1)“Bring/Lead the/these men to {my} house” or “Escort these men to {my} house.”
and slaughter an animal
Quote: וּטְבֹ֤חַ טֶ֨בַח֙ (1)“then slaughter/kill one of {the/my} livestock” or “Then slaughter/butcher an animal/calf/goat”. The Hebrew word for “animal” here is general and refers to an animal that was raised to be killed and eaten, such as a calf or goat. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
and prepare {a meal
Quote: וְהָכֵ֔ן (1)“and {use/roast/cook the meat to} prepare {a meal/feast},” or “and prepare {a feast} {with its meat},”
because the men will eat with me at noon
Quote: כִּ֥י אִתִּ֛י יֹאכְל֥וּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים בַּֽצָּהֳרָֽיִם (1)“because {I want} them to eat with me {today} at noon.” or “because {I have planned/decided that} the men will eat the noon meal with me {at my house}.”
Genesis 43:17
So the man did just as Joseph {had} said
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַשׂ הָאִ֔ישׁ כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֖ר אָמַ֣ר יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“The servant did exactly what Joseph {had} told/commanded {him to do}”
and the man brought
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א הָאִ֛ישׁ (1)“and took/led” or “and escorted”
the men to Joseph’s house
Quote: אֶת הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים בֵּ֥יתָה יוֹסֵֽף (1)“the brothers to Joseph’s house.” Make sure that the way you translate this phrase does not sound like Joseph’s brothers went inside the house yet. They did not actually go inside until later (verse 24).
Genesis 43:18
And the men were afraid when they were brought {to} Joseph’s house
Quote: וַיִּֽירְא֣וּ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֗ים כִּ֣י הֽוּבְאוּ֮ בֵּ֣ית יוֹסֵף֒ (1)“The brothers became afraid when/because they saw that the servant had brought/led them {to} Joseph’s house,” or “But when the brothers saw that he had taken them to Joseph’s house, they were afraid,”
and they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)“and they said {to each other},” or “Then they said {to each other},” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Because of the matter of the silver that was returned in our sacks the first time, we have been brought
Quote: עַל דְּבַ֤ר הַכֶּ֨סֶף֙ הַשָּׁ֤ב בְּאַמְתְּחֹתֵ֨ינוּ֙ בַּתְּחִלָּ֔ה אֲנַ֖חְנוּ מֽוּבָאִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“We have been brought {here} because of the silver/money that was returned {to us} in our sacks the first time {we came here}.” or “He has brought/taken us here because of {our} silver/money that someone gave back to us in our sacks {on} {our} first trip {here}.”
He wants} to roll himself over us and throw himself on us
Quote: לְהִתְגֹּלֵ֤ל עָלֵ֨ינוּ֙ וּלְהִתְנַפֵּ֣ל עָלֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{He is planning} to take/seize us by force” or “{He intends} to {have his soldiers} attack us and overpower us”. Consider what is the best way to translate these idioms in your language.
and take us as slaves
Quote: וְלָקַ֧חַת אֹתָ֛נוּ לַעֲבָדִ֖ים (1)“and keep us as slaves/servants,” or “and make us {his} slaves/servants,”
and our donkeys
Quote: וְאֶת חֲמֹרֵֽינוּ (1)“along with our donkeys!” or “{He will} also {take/capture} our donkeys!” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 43:19
Then they went near to
Quote: וַֽיִּגְּשׁוּ֙ אֶל (1)“Then/So they went up to” or “Then/So they approached”
the man who {was} over Joseph’s house
Quote: הָאִ֔ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל בֵּ֣ית יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“the servant who managed/supervised Joseph’s household” or “Joseph’s head house-servant”. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 16.
and spoke to him {at} the entrance of the house
Quote: וַיְדַבְּר֥וּ אֵלָ֖יו פֶּ֥תַח הַבָּֽיִת (1)“to speak to him {at/outside} the entrance/door to {his} house.” or “{at/outside} the entrance/door to the house in order to speak to him.”
Genesis 43:20
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They said {to him},” or “{One of} them said {to him} {on behalf of them all},”
Please, my lord
Quote: בִּ֣י אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“Excuse me/us, sir,” or “Master/Sir, please {allow me/us to speak to you}.” The brothers are asking the servant for permission to speak. Translate this in a way that is respectful in your language.
we surely came down {here} the first time to buy food
Quote: יָרֹ֥ד יָרַ֛דְנוּ בַּתְּחִלָּ֖ה לִשְׁבָּר אֹֽכֶל (1)“the first/previous time we came/traveled down {here} {to Egypt}, we came to buy {some} food/grain.” or “one time before this, we traveled all the way down {here} {to Egypt} and bought {some} food/grain.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 43:21
But it happened
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֞י (1)“But it {so} happened {that}” or “But {on our way home},” This phrase introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit “it happened” because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language.
when we came to the lodging place, we opened our sacks
Quote: כִּי בָ֣אנוּ אֶל הַמָּל֗וֹן וַֽנִּפְתְּחָה֙ אֶת אַמְתְּחֹתֵ֔ינוּ (1)“when we arrived at the place where we lodged/stayed for the night, we opened our sacks”. See how you translated “the lodging place” in Gen 42:27.
and behold, {each} man’s silver {was} in the mouth of his sack
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה כֶֽסֶף אִישׁ֙ בְּפִ֣י אַמְתַּחְתּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and we were surprised to see that our bags/pouches of silver/money were in the opening/top of each of our sacks!” or “There in the opening/top of each of our sacks {was} the silver/money {we had paid/given to you} {for the grain}!” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “in the mouth of … sacks” in verse 12.
our silver {was there} in its {full} weight
Quote: כַּסְפֵּ֖נוּ בְּמִשְׁקָל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
“The full/exact weight/amount of silver/money was there!” or “The silver/money was all there!” The silver was weighed in shekels (Gen 20:16; 23:15-16; 37:28) to determine how much to pay for something. See how you translated “silver” in Gen 42:25, 27, 35.
So we have brought it back
Quote: וַנָּ֥שֶׁב אֹת֖וֹ (1)“So/But we brought it {all} back” or “So/But we brought {all} that silver/money back”
in our hand{s
Quote: בְּיָדֵֽנוּ (1)“with us {to return/give to you}.”
Genesis 43:22
And we have brought down other silver
Quote: וְכֶ֧סֶף אַחֵ֛ר הוֹרַ֥דְנוּ (1)“We also brought enough extra/additional silver/money with us” or “We have {also} brought more/additional silver/money with us”
to buy food
Quote: לִשְׁבָּר אֹ֑כֶל (1)“so that we can buy {some more} food/grain {now/today}.”
We do not know
Quote: לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְנוּ (1)“We have no idea”
who put our silver in our sacks
Quote: מִי שָׂ֥ם כַּסְפֵּ֖נוּ בְּאַמְתְּחֹתֵֽינוּ (1)“who put the money in our sacks.” or “who gave that silver/money back to us in our sacks.” or “how our silver/money got into our sacks {like that}.”
Genesis 43:23
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֩ (1)“But Joseph’s servant said/replied {to them},”
Peace {be} to you
Quote: שָׁל֨וֹם לָכֶ֜ם (1)“Be at peace, {and}” or “All is well for you, {so}” or “It/Everything is all right, {so}” The phrase “Peace to you” is a blessing that wishes someone to be well and at peace. Consider whether your language has a similar blessing or possibly an idiom that would work well here.
do not be afraid
Quote: אַל תִּירָ֗אוּ (1)“do not be anxious.” or “do not worry {about it}.”
Your God and the God of your father
Quote: אֱלֹ֨הֵיכֶ֜ם וֵֽאלֹהֵ֤י אֲבִיכֶם֙ (1)“Your God, {who is} also your father’s God” or “The God whom you and your father serve/worship”. Make sure that your translation of these phrases refers to the same God, not two different Gods.
has given you hidden treasure in your sacks
Quote: נָתַ֨ן לָכֶ֤ם מַטְמוֹן֙ בְּאַמְתְּחֹ֣תֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“must have hidden/put the silver/money in your sacks,”
your silver came to me
Quote: כַּסְפְּכֶ֖ם בָּ֣א אֵלָ֑י (1)“{because} I {definitely} received your/the silver/money {that you paid for the grain}.” or “{because} {I know that} you gave/paid me silver/money {to pay for the grain}.”
Then he brought Simeon out to them
Quote: וַיּוֹצֵ֥א אֲלֵהֶ֖ם אֶת שִׁמְעֽוֹן (1)“Then the/Joseph’s head-servant brought Simeon out {of prison} to his brothers.” or “Then the/Joseph’s servant {got} Simeon out {of prison} {and} brought/took {him} to his brothers.”
Genesis 43:24
Then the man took the men into Joseph’s house
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א הָאִ֛ישׁ אֶת הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים בֵּ֣יתָה יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“Soon the man/servant took/brought them {all} into Joseph’s/the house” or “Then Joseph’s servant brought/led the brothers inside Joseph’s/the house”
and gave {them} water
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן מַ֨יִם֙ (1)“and provided {them} with water”
and they washed their feet
Quote: וַיִּרְחֲצ֣וּ רַגְלֵיהֶ֔ם (1)“and they washed {the dust/dirt off} their feet,” or “to wash {the road dust off} their feet,” Consider again how you translated “wash … feet” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 18:4; 19:2; 24:32; 43:24.
and he gave fodder to their donkeys
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן מִסְפּ֖וֹא לַחֲמֹֽרֵיהֶֽם (1)“and he provided fodder/feed for their donkeys.” or “He also fed their donkeys.” Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, see how you translated “fodder” in Gen 42:27.
Genesis 43:25
And they prepared the gift
Quote: וַיָּכִ֨ינוּ֙ אֶת הַמִּנְחָ֔ה (1)“Then/Meanwhile Joseph’s brothers got {their} gift/gifts ready”
for Joseph’s arrival at noon
Quote: עַד בּ֥וֹא יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּֽצָּהֳרָ֑יִם (1)“to give to Joseph when he came/got home at noon,”
because they had heard
Quote: כִּ֣י שָֽׁמְע֔וּ (1)“because they had been told/informed” or “because someone had told them”
that they would eat bread there
Quote: כִּי שָׁ֖ם יֹ֥אכְלוּ לָֽחֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“that they were going to eat a meal {with him} there {at his house}.” For some languages it is more natural to put the last half of this verse at the beginning of the verse and say, “When Joseph’s brothers heard that they were going to eat the noon meal with Joseph {at his house}, they got their gifts ready to give him when he came/got home.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 43:26
Then Joseph came to the house
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֤א יוֹסֵף֙ הַבַּ֔יְתָה (1)“When Joseph came to his house,” or “When Joseph came/got home,”
and they brought to him the gift that {was} in their hand{s} into the house
Quote: וַיָּבִ֥יאּוּ ל֛וֹ אֶת הַמִּנְחָ֥ה אֲשֶׁר בְּיָדָ֖ם הַבָּ֑יְתָה (1)“his brothers {gave/presented} to him the gift/gifts that they had brought with them into the house.”
and they bowed down to him to the ground
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּחֲווּ ל֖וֹ אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then they bowed {themselves} down before him {with their faces} to the ground {to show him respect/honor}.” or “Then they prostrated themselves on the ground {to respect/honor him}.” See how you translated “bowed down … ground” in Gen 42:6.
Genesis 43:27
Then he asked them about {their} wellbeing
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֤ל לָהֶם֙ לְשָׁל֔וֹם (1)“Then Joseph asked them how they were doing,” or “Then he/Joseph greeted them”
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“and he asked {them},” or “He also asked {them},” Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Are things} well {for} your aged father
Quote: הֲשָׁל֛וֹם אֲבִיכֶ֥ם הַזָּקֵ֖ן (1)“Is your aged/elderly father {doing} well” or “Is your aged/elderly father in good health,”
whom you spoke about
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֲמַרְתֶּ֑ם (1)“whom you spoke about {to me} {before}?” or “whom you mentioned {to me}?”
Is he still alive
Quote: הַעוֹדֶ֖נּוּ חָֽי (1)“Is he still living?”
Genesis 43:28
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)“They answered {him},”
Things are} well for your servant our father. He {is} still alive
Quote: שָׁל֛וֹם לְעַבְדְּךָ֥ לְאָבִ֖ינוּ עוֹדֶ֣נּוּ חָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“{Yes sir,} our father, who highly respects you, is still alive and well/blessed.” The brothers refer to their father as “your servant” here to show respect to Joseph and to acknowledge his high position. Translate this phrase in a polite way that shows respect toward Joseph. Also, the pronoun “our” is exclusive here because Joseph’s brothers did not yet know that they were talking to Joseph.
Then they bowed
Quote: וַֽיִּקְּד֖וּ (1)“Then they bowed {their heads}” or “Then they knelt”. In this verse, the terms “bowed” and “bowed down” translate two different Hebrew words that together describe and emphasize the process of bowing down to the ground.
and bowed down
Quote: וַיִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוּֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and bowed down {to the ground} {again}.” or “and prostrated themselves {in front of him} {again}.” See how you translated “bowed down” in verse 26.
Genesis 43:29
Then he lifted his eyes and saw Benjamin his brother
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֣א עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּ֞רְא אֶת־בִּנְיָמִ֣ין אָחִיו֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“Then Joseph looked up/around and saw his brother Benjamin,” or “When Joseph looked around {at them all}, he saw his brother Benjamin,” Benjamin was younger than Joseph. Also, consider again how you translated the idiom “lifted … eyes” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:10, 14; 18:2; 22:4, 13; 24:63-64; 31:10; 33:1, 5; 37:25; 39:7; 43:29.
the son of his mother
Quote: בֶּן אִמּוֹ֒ (1)“{who was} the {only other} son of his {own} mother,” or “who had the same mother that he had,”
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and he said {to them},” or “and he asked {them},”
Is this your youngest brother
Quote: הֲזֶה֙ אֲחִיכֶ֣ם הַקָּטֹ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“So this {young man} must be your youngest brother” or “I suppose this {young man} is your youngest brother”. This question could be an actual question or a rhetorical question. The fact that Joseph does not wait for an answer suggests that this is a rhetorical question, especially since he already realized that the new brother in the group was Benjamin (verse 16).
whom you spoke to me {about
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם אֵלָ֑י (1)“whom you told me about.” Make sure that your punctuation here fits with the way you translated this sentence, either as a question or a statement.
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)“Then he said {to Benjamin},”
May God be gracious to you
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֥ים יָחְנְךָ֖ (1)“I pray that God will be gracious/kind to you,” See how you translated “God has been gracious to …” in Gen 33:11. Also see how you translated “grace” in 24:12, 14 ,27, 49; 39:21.
my son
Quote: בְּנִֽי (1)“young man.” The phrase “my son” is a kind way to address a man who is younger or of lower status; it does not mean that Benjamin was Joseph’s actual son. Also, for some languages it is necessary to put this address first in this quote. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 43:30
Then Joseph hurried out
Quote: וַיְמַהֵ֣ר יוֹסֵ֗ף (1)“Then Joseph quickly/hurriedly left {the room}” or “Then/Suddenly Joseph rushed out {of the room}”
because his emotions boiled over for his brother
Quote: כִּֽי נִכְמְר֤וּ רַחֲמָיו֙ אֶל אָחִ֔יו (1)“because he was feeling deeply emotional about his brother,” or “because he felt overwhelmed with emotions for/about his brother”
and he sought to cry
Quote: וַיְבַקֵּ֖שׁ לִבְכּ֑וֹת (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and desired/wanted to cry,” or “and felt like crying,” or “and was about to cry,” or (2) “and was looking for {a place} to cry,” or “and went to find {a place} to cry,”
and he went to the inner room
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א הַחַ֖דְרָה (1)“so he went to his private room” or “So he went to his bedroom,”
and cried there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ שָֽׁמָּה (1)“so that he could cry there.” or “where he cried {privately}.”
Genesis 43:31
Then he washed his face and came out. Then he controlled himself
Quote: וַיִּרְחַ֥ץ פָּנָ֖יו וַיֵּצֵ֑א וַיִּ֨תְאַפַּ֔ק (1)“After a while, he stopped crying, washed {the tears off} his face and came out {of his room}” or “After he had gotten control of his emotions {and stopped crying}, he washed {the tears off} his face and came back out {of his room}.”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)“and told/commanded {his servants},” or “Then he told/commanded {his servants},” For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
Serve the bread
Quote: שִׂ֥ימוּ לָֽחֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“Serve/Bring the food/meal {to us}.” or “{It is time to} serve/distribute the food/meal {to us}.” The word “bread” refers to all the food they ate at this meal, not just bread.
Genesis 43:32
So they served to him by himself
Quote: וַיָּשִׂ֥ימוּ ל֛וֹ לְבַדּ֖וֹ (1)“So/Then they served/brought {food} to him/Joseph at his own table,”
and to them by themselves
Quote: וְלָהֶ֣ם לְבַדָּ֑ם (1)“and his brothers at their own table,”
and to the Egyptians who were eating with him by themselves
Quote: וְלַמִּצְרִ֞ים הָאֹכְלִ֤ים אִתּוֹ֙ לְבַדָּ֔ם (1)“and the Egyptians who were eating as his guests at their own table.” or “They also served/brought {food} to some Egyptian guests at a separate table.” For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
because Egyptians cannot eat bread with Hebrews, because that {is} an abomination to Egyptians
Quote: כִּי֩ לֹ֨א יוּכְל֜וּן הַמִּצְרִ֗ים לֶאֱכֹ֤ל אֶת הָֽעִבְרִים֙ לֶ֔חֶם כִּי תוֹעֵבָ֥ה הִ֖וא לְמִצְרָֽיִם (1)“Egyptians do not eat at the same table as Hebrew people, because Egyptians/they consider it detestable/unacceptable {to do that}.” or “{The servants did that,} because Egyptians consider it detestable/unacceptable to eat with Hebrew people at the same table.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider again how you translated “Hebrews” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:13, 39:14, 17; 40:15, 41:12; 43:32.
Genesis 43:33
And they were sitting
Quote: וַיֵּשְׁב֣וּ (1)“And/Now Joseph’s brothers were sitting {at a table}” or “Joseph’s brothers had been seated {at a table}”
before him
Quote: לְפָנָ֔יו (1)“in front of him/Joseph” or “facing his/Joseph’s table”
the firstborn according to his birthright and the youngest according to his youth
Quote: הַבְּכֹר֙ כִּבְכֹ֣רָת֔וֹ וְהַצָּעִ֖יר כִּצְעִרָת֑וֹ (1)“according to their age order, from oldest to youngest,” or “in the order of their ages, from the firstborn/oldest to the youngest,”
and the men were astonished each to his neighbor
Quote: וַיִּתְמְה֥וּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים אִ֥ישׁ אֶל רֵעֵֽהוּ (1)“so they looked/stared at each other in astonishment/amazement.” or “{When they saw/noticed that,} they were astonished/amazed {and stared} at one another.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 43:34
Then he served to them servings {of food} from before him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א מַשְׂאֹ֜ת מֵאֵ֣ת פָּנָיו֮ אֲלֵהֶם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then Joseph served his brothers food from his table,” or “Then Joseph {had his servants} serve food to his brothers from his table,” As a person of high position and status, Joseph probably had his servants serve the food rather doing it himself. Decide whether you want to make that information explicit in your translation or include it in a footnote.
but Benjamin’s serving was five times larger
Quote: וַתֵּ֜רֶב מַשְׂאַ֧ת בִּנְיָמִ֛ן & חָמֵ֣שׁ יָד֑וֹת (1)“but the amount of food that was served to Benjamin was five times more” or “but he {had them} serve Benjamin five times more {food}”
than any of their servings
Quote: מִמַּשְׂאֹ֥ת כֻּלָּ֖ם (1)“than {the amount of food that} was served to any of {the rest of} them.” or “than {they} served to any of {the rest of} his brothers.”
And they drank and became drunk with him
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתּ֥וּ וַֽיִּשְׁכְּר֖וּ עִמּֽוֹ (1)“Then they {ate food,} drank {wine} and celebrated/feasted with him.” or “Then his brothers feasted and drank {wine} freely with him.” or “Then they feasted and drank {wine} freely with him {until they were very merry}.” The Hebrew verb for “became drunk” is the same word that is used in Gen 9:21 to describe Noah when he had drunk so much wine that he had fallen asleep. Here, it probably means that they had drunk enough wine that they were feeling happy and sociable.
Genesis 44
Genesis 44:1
Then he commanded
Quote: וַיְצַ֞ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Later Joseph ordered”
the one} who {was} over his house
Quote: אֶת אֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל בֵּיתוֹ֮ (1)“{the servant} who managed/supervised his household,” or “his head house-servant,” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 43:16.
saying, “Fill the men’s sacks {with} food, as much as
Quote: לֵאמֹר֒ מַלֵּ֞א אֶת אַמְתְּחֹ֤ת הָֽאֲנָשִׁים֙ אֹ֔כֶל כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)“Fill the men’s {grain} sacks/bags with as much grain as”. These grain sacks were carried by the brother’s donkeys and were probably fairly large since donkeys are able to carry around 50 kilos (about 110 pounds).
they are able to carry
Quote: יוּכְל֖וּן שְׂאֵ֑ת (1)“they can take {with them},” or “their/the sacks/bags can hold,”
and put the silver of each {one} in the mouth of his sack
Quote: וְשִׂ֥ים כֶּֽסֶף אִ֖ישׁ בְּפִ֥י אַמְתַּחְתּֽוֹ (1)“and put their {grain} money in the top/opening of their {grain} sacks/bags.” or “and in the top/opening of their sacks/bags, put the silver/money that each {of them} paid {for the grain}.” See how you translated “silver/money” in Gen 42:25, 27-28.
Genesis 44:2
And put my cup, the silver cup
Quote: וְאֶת גְּבִיעִ֞י גְּבִ֣יעַ הַכֶּ֗סֶף תָּשִׂים֙ (1)“And put my cup, the one that is {made of} silver,” or “Also put my silver cup”. Notice that this cup was made out of silver; it was not just silver in color.
in the mouth of the sack of the youngest {one
Quote: בְּפִי֙ אַמְתַּ֣חַת הַקָּטֹ֔ן (1)“in the top/opening of the youngest {one/man}’s sack/bag,”
and his grain’s silver
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת כֶּ֣סֶף שִׁבְר֑וֹ (1)“and/with his grain money/payment.” or “along with the silver/money that he paid for the grain.”
So he did according to Joseph’s word that he spoke
Quote: וַיַּ֕עַשׂ כִּדְבַ֥ר יוֹסֵ֖ף אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֵּֽר (1)“So the servant did exactly as/what Joseph/he had told/ordered {him to do}.” See how you translated “according to … words” in Gen 43:7.
Genesis 44:3
The morning became light
Quote: הַבֹּ֖קֶר א֑וֹר (1)“The {next} morning {as it} was becoming light,” or “The {next} morning at dawn,” or “Early the next morning,”
and the men were sent off, they and their donkeys
Quote: וְהָאֲנָשִׁ֣ים שֻׁלְּח֔וּ הֵ֖מָּה וַחֲמֹרֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“the men/brothers were sent {on their way} with their donkeys {by Joseph}.” or “{Joseph} sent the men/brothers {on their way}, along with their donkeys.” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive sentence in your language.
Genesis 44:4
They had left the city, they had not gone far
Quote: הֵ֠ם יָֽצְא֣וּ אֶת הָעִיר֮ לֹ֣א הִרְחִיקוּ֒ (1)“{But} after they left the city, before they had gone very far,” or “{But} they had not gone very far out of the city when”
and Joseph said to {the one} who {was} over his house
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֤ף אָמַר֙ לַֽאֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל־בֵּית֔וֹ (1)“Joseph/he told {the servant} who managed/supervised his household,” or “Joseph/he ordered his head-servant,” See how you translated “{the one} who {was} over his house” in verse 1.”
Get up
Quote: ק֥וּם (1)“Hurry {and}” or “Immediately”
follow after the men
Quote: רְדֹ֖ף אַחֲרֵ֣י הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֑ים (1)“go/chase after the/those men” or “pursue those men”
and {when} you overtake them
Quote: וְהִשַּׂגְתָּם֙ (1)“When you catch up with them,” or “When you reach them,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
then say to them
Quote: וְאָמַרְתָּ֣ אֲלֵהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“say to them,” or “tell/ask them,” Make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits with the way you translate the following rhetorical question.
Why have you repaid evil for good
Quote: לָ֛מָּה שִׁלַּמְתֶּ֥ם רָעָ֖ה תַּ֥חַת טוֹבָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why have you treated {my master} so badly after/when {he was} so good {to you}?” or “My master was very good to you. Why have you treated him so badly?” or “My master treated you so/very well, but in return you have treated him very badly!” Joseph’s servant uses this rhetorical question to scold the brothers and express his outrage. Consider what is the best way to communicate those things in your language.
Genesis 44:5
Is this not what my lord drinks from
Quote: הֲל֣וֹא זֶ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִשְׁתֶּ֤ה אֲדֹנִי֙ בּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why {do you have} the cup that my master drinks from” or “The cup {you stole} is {the cup} that my master drinks from”. The servant uses this rhetorical question to further express his outrage about the missing cup. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
and what he indeed divines with
Quote: וְה֕וּא נַחֵ֥שׁ יְנַחֵ֖שׁ בּ֑וֹ (1)“{It is} the one he regularly uses for divination!” or “He {also} uses it to find out secret things!” The word “divines” refers to the practice of interpreting omens (signs) or using supernatural means to find out things. See how you translated a similar term (“divination”) in Gen 30:27. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
You have done evil {in} what you have done
Quote: הֲרֵעֹתֶ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֥ר עֲשִׂיתֶֽם (1)“What you have done is very evil/wrong!” The phrase “you have done” is repeated in this sentence for emphasis. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language.
Genesis 44:6
Then he overtook them
Quote: וַֽיַּשִּׂגֵ֑ם (1)“Then/So the/Joseph’s servant {left, and when he} caught up with the men/brothers,” Consider again how you translated “overtake” or “overtook” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 19:19; 31:25; 44:4, 6.
and spoke those words to them
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אֶת הַדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)“he repeated/said to them what Joseph had told him {to say}.” or “he gave/told them that/Joseph’s message.”
Genesis 44:7
But they said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But they replied/exclaimed,”
Why does my lord speak words like those
Quote: לָ֚מָּה יְדַבֵּ֣ר אֲדֹנִ֔י כַּדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵ֑לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Sir, why do you say such things?” or “Master/Sir, we do not know why you are saying that!” The brothers use this rhetorical question to express their shock at being accused of something they had not done. They also address the servant as “my lord” to show him respect. Decide what is the best way to communicate those things in your language.
Far be it from your servants to do
Quote: חָלִ֨ילָה֙ לַעֲבָדֶ֔יךָ מֵעֲשׂ֖וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“{We assure you,} sir, {that} we would never do” or “{We swear as} your {humble} servants {that we} would never {even} think of doing” or “We would never {even} consider doing”. The brothers refer to themselves as “your servants” in order to show respect to Joseph’s head-servant. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
something like that
Quote: כַּדָּבָ֥ר הַזֶּֽה (1)“anything like that!” or “such a thing!”
Genesis 44:8
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)“Remember that” or “After all,”
the silver that we found in the mouth of our sacks we brought back to you from the land of Canaan
Quote: כֶּ֗סֶף אֲשֶׁ֤ר מָצָ֨אנוּ֙ בְּפִ֣י אַמְתְּחֹתֵ֔ינוּ הֱשִׁיבֹ֥נוּ אֵלֶ֖יךָ מֵאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“we returned to you the money that we found/discovered in our {grain} sacks/bags {last time}. {We brought it} {all the way} from {our home in} the land/region of Canaan!” or “as soon as we came {back here} from the land/region of Canaan, we returned to you the money we had found/discovered inside our {grain} sacks/bags.” Consider what is the best way in your language to order the clauses in this sentence.
So how would we steal
Quote: וְאֵ֗יךְ נִגְנֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“So why would we {ever} steal/take” or “So we would never steal/take” or “So there is no reason that we would {ever} steal/take”. The brothers use this rhetorical question to strongly emphasize that they would never steal from the servant’s master. Some languages must use a statement or exclamation here instead. Do what is best in your language.
silver or gold
Quote: כֶּ֖סֶף א֥וֹ זָהָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“silver {things} or gold {things} {or anything else}”. The brothers are emphasizing that they would never steal anything from Joseph, especially not valuable things made out of gold or silver.
from the house of your lord
Quote: מִבֵּ֣ית אֲדֹנֶ֔יךָ (1)“from your master’s house!” or “from your master!”
Genesis 44:9
Whoever of your servants is found with it
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִמָּצֵ֥א אִתּ֛וֹ מֵעֲבָדֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“{In fact,} sir, if you find/discover that one/any of us does have the cup,” or “If any one of us does have the cup, sir,” The brothers refer to themselves as “your servants” in order to show respect to Joseph’s head-servant.
then he will die
Quote: וָמֵ֑ת (1)“then he must/should die,” or “then he should be executed/killed,” or “then {you may} execute/kill that person/man,”
and we also will be slaves for my lord
Quote: וְגַם אֲנַ֕חְנוּ נִֽהְיֶ֥ה לַֽאדֹנִ֖י לַעֲבָדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“and besides that, {the rest of} us will become slaves/servants for you, sir.” or “and {the rest of} us, sir, will become your slaves/servants.” See how you translated “my lord” in verse 7.
Genesis 44:10
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“The/Joseph’s servant replied {to them},”
Indeed now
Quote: גַּם עַתָּ֥ה (1)“So/Okay then,” or “Very well then,”
according to your words, so it {will be
Quote: כְדִבְרֵיכֶ֖ם כֶּן ה֑וּא (1)“based on what you have said I will do this:” or “I will do as you suggest {except for this}:”
Whoever is found with it
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִמָּצֵ֤א אִתּוֹ֙ (1)“The one whom I find with my master’s cup” or “If I find one of you with my master’s cup, that person”
will be a slave for me
Quote: יִהְיֶה לִּ֣י עָ֔בֶד (1)“{is the only one who} will be/become my slave/servant.”
but you {others} will be blameless
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֖ם תִּהְי֥וּ נְקִיִּֽם (1)“{The rest of} you will be innocent {and free to go}.” or “but {the rest of} you will be free to go/leave.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 44:11
Then they each hurried and lowered his sack to the ground
Quote: וַֽיְמַהֲר֗וּ וַיּוֹרִ֛דוּ אִ֥ישׁ אֶת אַמְתַּחְתּ֖וֹ אָ֑רְצָה (1)“So each of them quickly/immediately lowered his sack/bag {of grain} {from his donkey} to the ground,” or “Then/So each of the men/brothers quickly/immediately took his {grain} sack/bag {off his donkey} and put it on the ground,”
and they each opened his sack
Quote: וַֽיִּפְתְּח֖וּ אִ֥ישׁ אַמְתַּחְתּֽוֹ (1)“and each of them opened his {own} sack/bag.” or “and opened it.”
Genesis 44:12
Then he searched
Quote: וַיְחַפֵּ֕שׂ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then the/Joseph’s servant searched {their sacks/bags}.” Consider what is the best way to refer to Joseph’s servant in verses 6, 10 and 12. Also see how you translated “searched” in Gen 31:35.
beginning with the oldest and ending with the youngest
Quote: בַּגָּד֣וֹל הֵחֵ֔ל וּבַקָּטֹ֖ן כִּלָּ֑ה (1)“beginning/starting with the oldest {brother} and ending/finishing with the youngest {brother/one},” or “He started with the oldest {brother} and continued until he came to the youngest {brother/one},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack
Quote: וַיִּמָּצֵא֙ הַגָּבִ֔יעַ בְּאַמְתַּ֖חַת בִּנְיָמִֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and the cup was found {by him} in Benjamin’s sack/bag!” or “and {there} he found the cup in Benjamin’s sack/bag!” or “and {it was there} in Benjamin’s sack/bag that he found the cup!” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 44:13
Then they tore their clothes
Quote: וַֽיִּקְרְע֖וּ שִׂמְלֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“In response {to that}, the brothers tore their clothes {in distress/grief}.” See how you translated “tore … clothes {in distress}” in Gen 37:29, 34.
and each {one} loaded up his donkey
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲמֹס֙ אִ֣ישׁ עַל־חֲמֹר֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then each {of them} put his sack/bag {back} on his {own} donkey,” or “Then each {of the men/brothers} loaded up his {own} donkey {again},” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to the brothers in each context throughout this chapter.
and they returned to the city
Quote: וַיָּשֻׁ֖בוּ הָעִֽירָה (1)“and they {all} returned to the city.” or “and/then they {all} {turned around and} went back to the city.”
Genesis 44:14
Then Judah and his brothers came to Joseph’s house
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א יְהוּדָ֤ה וְאֶחָיו֙ בֵּ֣יתָה יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“When Judah and his brothers arrived at Joseph’s house,”
and he was still there
Quote: וְה֖וּא עוֹדֶ֣נּוּ שָׁ֑ם (1)“Joseph was still there,” or “Joseph was there {waiting for them},”
so they fell to the ground before him
Quote: וַיִּפְּל֥וּ לְפָנָ֖יו אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then/So they prostrated themselves on the ground before him {to show respect}.” or “Then/So they bowed all the way to the ground in front of him {to honor him}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 44:15
Then Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהֶם֙ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Joseph told/asked them,” or “Then Joseph exclaimed to them,” Make sure the way you translate this quote margin fits with the way you translate the following rhetorical question.
What {is} this deed that you have done
Quote: מָֽה הַמַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר עֲשִׂיתֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Why did you do such a terrible thing?” or “What you have done is terrible!” or “You should never have done such a thing!” Joseph uses rhetorical questions in this verse to express anger and scold his brothers. Some languages must use strong statements or exclamations here instead. Do what is best in your language. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 20:9.
Did you not know
Quote: הֲל֣וֹא יְדַעְתֶּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“You should have known”
that a man who {is} like me
Quote: כִּֽי & אִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֥ר כָּמֹֽנִי (1)“that a ruler like me” or “that someone in my position”
indeed divines
Quote: נַחֵ֧שׁ יְנַחֵ֛שׁ (1)“regularly practices divination!” or “knows how to discover the secret things {that people do}!” or “could use divination to find out {what you did}!” See how you translated “divines” in verse 5.
Genesis 44:16
And Judah said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Judah answered,” or “Judah replied {to him},”
What can we say to my lord
Quote: מַה נֹּאמַר֙ לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Sir, there is nothing {convincing} that we can say {to you}.” Judah uses a series of rhetorical questions in this verse to express how upset he is about what has happened and to emphasize that there is nothing that they can say to convince Joseph that they are innocent. Consider what is the best way to communicate those things in your language.
What can we speak
Quote: מַה נְּדַבֵּ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“There is no way that we can explain {this}.” or “We cannot explain {this}.”
And how can we justify ourselves
Quote: וּמַה נִּצְטַדָּ֑ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“We do not know how to show/prove {to you} that we did not do this.” or “There is no way we can prove/show {to you} that we are innocent.”
God has found out the sin of your servants
Quote: הָאֱלֹהִ֗ים מָצָא֙ אֶת עֲוֺ֣ן עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“God has uncovered/exposed our guilt {for our past sin}.” or “God is punishing {us,} your {humble} servants, for our {past} sin/sins.” or “God is using this occasion to punish us for our {past} sin.” Judah refers to himself and his brothers as “your servants” to show humility and to honor Joseph. Also, Judah is probably referring here to the sin of selling their brother Joseph into slavery years ago. You could include that information in a footnote.
Behold, we {are} slaves for my lord
Quote: הִנֶּנּ֤וּ עֲבָדִים֙ לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“Here we {all} are, {ready to be} slaves/servants for you, sir,” or “{So now,} sir, we are {all} here to be your slaves/servants,”
both we and {the one
Quote: גַּם אֲנַ֕חְנוּ גַּ֛ם אֲשֶׁר (1)“including {the one/man}”
the one} in whose hand the cup was found
Quote: אֲשֶׁר נִמְצָ֥א הַגָּבִ֖יעַ בְּיָדֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“who was found with your cup {in his grain sack/bag}.” or “in whose {grain} sack/bag {your house-servant} found the cup.” or “whom {your house-servant} found with your cup {in his sack/bag}.” Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 44:17
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But Joseph told {them},” or “But Joseph exclaimed,”
Far be it from me to do that
Quote: חָלִ֣ילָה לִּ֔י מֵעֲשׂ֖וֹת זֹ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{No,} I would never {even} consider doing such a thing!” See how you translated “Far be it from …” in verse 7.
The man in whose hand the cup was found, he
Quote: הָאִ֡ישׁ אֲשֶׁר֩ נִמְצָ֨א הַגָּבִ֜יעַ בְּיָד֗וֹ ה֚וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“{Only} the one who was found with my cup {in his sack/bag}” or “{Only} the man in whose sack/bag {my servant} found the/my cup” or “{Rather} {only} the one/man whom {my servant} found with my cup {in his sack/bag}”. See how you translated “in whose hand the cup was found” in verse 16.
will be a slave for me
Quote: יִהְיֶה לִּ֣י עָ֔בֶד (1)“will be/become my slave.” or “will {stay and} serve me as a slave.”
But you, go up in peace to your father
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֕ם עֲל֥וּ לְשָׁל֖וֹם אֶל אֲבִיכֶֽם (1)“But you {others} may return to your father in peace.” or “As for {the rest of} you, you may go {back} home to your father without any trouble.” or “{The rest of} you are free to go {back} home to your father.” The phrase “go up” refers to the fact that the land of Canaan was higher in elevation than the country of Egypt. Some translations leave “up” implied. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 44:18
Then Judah went near to him and said
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֨שׁ אֵלָ֜יו יְהוּדָ֗ה וַיֹּאמֶר֮ (1)“Then Judah went/came up/closer to Joseph and said,” or “Then Judah approached Joseph and said {to him},” See how you translated “went near” in Gen 43:19.
Please, my lord
Quote: בִּ֣י אֲדֹנִי֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“Please, sir/master,” or “Excuse me, sir/master,” Compare how you translated this phrase in Gen 43:20.
please let your servant speak a word in my lord’s ears
Quote: יְדַבֶּר נָ֨א עַבְדְּךָ֤ דָבָר֙ בְּאָזְנֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“I humbly ask you to let me speak freely/plainly to you.” or “will you please allow {me} your {humble} servant to say something to you.” Make sure your translation of “your servant” refers here to Judah, not to someone else. Throughout verses 18-34, Judah uses phrases such as “my lord,” “your servant,” and “your servants” to be polite and show respect to Joseph. At each point in these verses, make sure it is clear in your translation whom he is referring to.
and do not let your anger burn against your servant
Quote: וְאַל יִ֥חַר אַפְּךָ֖ בְּעַבְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Please do not be angry with/at me,” Compare how you translated the idiom “his anger burned” in Gen 39:19.
since you {are} like
Quote: כִּ֥י כָמ֖וֹךָ (1)“{especially} since you {are} as {powerful as}” or “even though you {are} equal {in rank/authority} to”
Pharaoh
Quote: כְּפַרְעֹֽה (1)“{King} Pharaoh {himself}.” or “the king {himself}.”
Genesis 44:19
My lord asked
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֣י שָׁאַ֔ל (1)“Sir, {previously} you asked” or “Sir, {the last/previous time we were here,} you asked”
his servants
Quote: אֶת עֲבָדָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{us} your {humble} servants” or “us”. Make sure it is clear in your translation of “his servants” that Judah is referring to himself and his brothers.
saying, ‘Do you have a father or {another} brother
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר הֲיֵשׁ לָכֶ֥ם אָ֖ב אוֹ אָֽח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Is your father still alive? Do you have {another} brother?” or “if/whether our father was {still} alive and if/whether we had {any other} brothers.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate the embedded quotes in verses 19-23 as direct or indirect quotes.
Genesis 44:20
And we said to my lord
Quote: וַנֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“And we told you, sir, {that}” or “We answered you, sir, {that}”
We have an aged father
Quote: יֶשׁ לָ֨נוּ֙ אָ֣ב זָקֵ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“our aged/elderly father is {still} alive” or “we have an elderly father”
and the youngest son of {his} old age
Quote: וְיֶ֥לֶד זְקֻנִ֖ים קָטָ֑ן (1)“and {also} a younger brother who was born when our father was {already} old.” or “and {with him is} his youngest son whom our father had when he was {already} old.”
But his brother is dead, so he is left by himself from his mother
Quote: וְאָחִ֨יו מֵ֜ת וַיִּוָּתֵ֨ר ה֧וּא לְבַדּ֛וֹ לְאִמּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“That son is the only one left {alive} from his mother, since his brother died.” or “And since that son’s brother is dead, he is his mother’s only living son/child.” or “That brother’s mother only had one other son, who is now dead.” In this sentence, “brother” refers to an older brother from the same father and mother. Some languages have a special kinship term for that. Do what is best in your language.
and his father loves him
Quote: וְאָבִ֥יו אֲהֵבֽוֹ (1)“So his/our father loves him {very much}.” or “So his/our father {especially} loves our youngest brother.”
Genesis 44:21
Then you said to your servants
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“Then you told {us, who are} your {humble} servants,” or “Then you told us, sir,” Judah uses the humble term “your servants” to show respect and honor to someone of higher status and authority.
Bring him down to me, and I will set my eyes on him
Quote: הוֹרִדֻ֖הוּ אֵלָ֑י וְאָשִׂ֥ימָה עֵינִ֖י עָלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Bring your youngest brother to me so that I can see/meet him.” or “to bring our youngest brother {here} to you so that you could/can see him for yourself.” The verb “bring … down” refers to the fact that Egypt was lower in elevation than the region of Canaan. Some translations leave “down” implied. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 44:22
And we said to my lord, ‘The young man is not able to leave his father
Quote: וַנֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל אֲדֹנִ֔י לֹא יוּכַ֥ל הַנַּ֖עַר לַעֲזֹ֣ב אֶת אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“But we told you, sir, that the young man should/must not leave his father {and come here},”
because {if} he leaves his father, then he will die
Quote: וְעָזַ֥ב אֶת אָבִ֖יו וָמֵֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“because if he did/does, his father would/will die {from anxiety}.” Make sure the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the previous clause, as either a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 44:23
But you said to your servants
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)“But then, sir, you told us {that}” or “But you told us {that}”
If your youngest brother does not come down with you
Quote: אִם לֹ֥א יֵרֵ֛ד אֲחִיכֶ֥ם הַקָּטֹ֖ן אִתְּכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“if our youngest brother did not come back here with us,” or “unless our youngest brother came with us,” Consider again whether to translate the embedded quotes in verses 19-23 as direct or indirect quotes.
you will not see my face again
Quote: לֹ֥א תֹסִפ֖וּן לִרְא֥וֹת פָּנָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“you would not permit/allow us to see you again.” or “we could never see you again.” Make sure that the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the beginning of this verse, either as a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 44:24
Then it happened when we went up
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כִּ֣י עָלִ֔ינוּ (1)“When we returned {home}” or “So after we got/came back {home again}”. The phrase, “Then it happened” introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit “it happened” because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language.
to your servant my father
Quote: אֶֽל עַבְדְּךָ֖ אָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“to my/our father, {who is} your {humble} servant,” or “to my/our father, who highly respects you,” See how you translated “your servant … father” in Gen 43:28.
then we related to him
Quote: וַנַּ֨גֶּד ל֔וֹ (1)“we reported to him” or “we told him”
the words of my lord
Quote: אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)“my/our lord’s/master’s words.” or “what you told {us}.” or “what you had said {to us}.”
Genesis 44:25
Then our father said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אָבִ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“{Months} later our father told {us},” The pronouns “our” and “{us}” are exclusive here because they do not include Joseph.
Return, buy a little food for us
Quote: שֻׁ֖בוּ שִׁבְרוּ לָ֥נוּ מְעַט אֹֽכֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“Go back {to Egypt} {and} buy some {more} grain for {all of} us.” The pronoun “us” is inclusive here because what Judah’s father (Jacob) had said included the brothers whom he was talking to. See how you translated this same quote in Gen 43:2.
Genesis 44:26
But we said
Quote: וַנֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“But we replied {to him},”
We cannot go down. {But} if our youngest brother is with us, then we will go
Quote: לֹ֥א נוּכַ֖ל לָרֶ֑דֶת אִם יֵשׁ֩ אָחִ֨ינוּ הַקָּטֹ֤ן אִתָּ֨נוּ֙ וְיָרַ֔דְנוּ (1)“We cannot go {there} unless our youngest brother is with us. Then we can go.” or “We can only go down {there} if our youngest brother is with us.” See how you translated “… down” in verses 21 and 23.
For we are not able to see the man’s face
Quote: כִּי לֹ֣א נוּכַ֗ל לִרְאוֹת֙ פְּנֵ֣י הָאִ֔ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“We will not be allowed/permitted to go before/to the man/governor {who sells grain there}” or “The man/governor {who sells grain there} will not allow/permit us to see him {again}”. The phrase “the man’s face” refers to the governor (Joseph) himself. Translate this in a way that is natural in your language.
and our youngest brother not {be} with us
Quote: וְאָחִ֥ינוּ הַקָּטֹ֖ן אֵינֶ֥נּוּ אִתָּֽנוּ (1)“if our youngest brother is not with us.” or “unless our youngest brother is with us.”
Genesis 44:27
Then your servant my father said to us
Quote: וַיֹּ֛אמֶר עַבְדְּךָ֥ אָבִ֖י אֵלֵ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“Then my/our father {who is} your {humble} servant said to us,” or “Then my/our father said to us,” See how you translated “your servant my father” in verse 24. Also notice that the pronoun “us” does not include Joseph here. Some languages use an exclusive pronoun for this. Do what is best in your language.
You know that
Quote: אַתֶּ֣ם יְדַעְתֶּ֔ם כִּ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“As you {all} know,” The pronoun “you” is plural here, referring to all the brothers.
my wife bore two {sons} for me
Quote: שְׁנַ֖יִם יָֽלְדָה לִּ֥י אִשְׁתִּֽי (1)“my wife {Rachel} bore/had {only} two {sons} for me.” or “my wife {Rachel} and I {only} had two {sons} together.”
Genesis 44:28
And the one went away from me
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֤א הָֽאֶחָד֙ מֵֽאִתִּ֔י (1)“One {of those/her sons} left here {one day},” or “One {of them} has disappeared,”
and I have said, “He was surely torn to pieces,” and I have not seen him until now
Quote: וָאֹמַ֕ר אַ֖ךְ טָרֹ֣ף טֹרָ֑ף וְלֹ֥א רְאִיתִ֖יו עַד הֵֽנָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I have thought that he must have been {killed and} torn to pieces {by a wild/fierce animal}. I have never seen him again.” or “and I have not seen him since then. I am sure that {a wild/fierce animal} must have {killed him and} torn him apart.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this doubly embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated “torn. … to pieces” in Gen 37:33.
Genesis 44:29
So {if} you also take this {one} from my presence
Quote: וּלְקַחְתֶּ֧ם גַּם אֶת זֶ֛ה מֵעִ֥ם פָּנַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“So if you also take this {son} away from me,” or “So if you also take her other son {away} from me,” Consider what is the best way to translate the hypothetical sentence in this verse. Make sure all the parts of the sentence fit together well.
and harm were to meet him
Quote: וְקָרָ֣הוּ אָס֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and something terrible happens to him,” or “and if anything bad/terrible happens to him,” or “and anything harms him,” See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 42:38.
then you would bring my gray head down in misery
Quote: וְהֽוֹרַדְתֶּ֧ם אֶת שֵׂיבָתִ֛י בְּרָעָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“you will cause me, your gray-haired/elderly father, to grieve so deeply/badly that I will {die and} go down” or “you will cause me, your gray-haired/elderly father, so much sorrow/grief that I will {die and} go down”. See how you translated “bring my gray head down” in Gen 42:38.
to Sheol
Quote: שְׁאֹֽלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“to the afterworld.” Sheol is the Hebrew name for the world of the dead, that is, the place where the spirits of all people go after they die. You could put that information in a footnote. Your translation of “Sheol” should not refer to hell or a place of punishment. Some translations have “the grave” here, but that leaves out the idea of an afterlife that this sentence implies.
Genesis 44:30
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)“So now/then,” This phrase introduces the conclusion to what Judah said in verses 24-29. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
when I go to your servant my father
Quote: כְּבֹאִי֙ אֶל עַבְדְּךָ֣ אָבִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“when I/we return {home} to my/our father, who highly respects you,” or “if I/we go {home} to my/our father, sir,” See how you translated “your servant my father” in verses 24 and 27.
and the young man is not with us
Quote: וְהַנַּ֖עַר אֵינֶ֣נּוּ אִתָּ֑נוּ (1)“but I/we don’t have his youngest son with me/us,” or “without his youngest son,”
since his soul is bound to his soul
Quote: וְנַפְשׁ֖וֹ קְשׁוּרָ֥ה בְנַפְשֽׁוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“since our father’s life depends on his son’s life,” or “since our father is deeply attached to his son,” This idiom reflects how close the relationship was between Judah’s father and youngest brother. Consider what is the best way to say this in your language.
Genesis 44:31
then it will happen when he sees that the young man is not {there}, then he will die
Quote: וְהָיָ֗ה כִּרְאוֹת֛וֹ כִּי אֵ֥ין הַנַּ֖עַר וָמֵ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“if he sees that his son is gone/missing, he will die!” or “then he will die when he sees that his youngest son is not with us!” The phrase “then it will happen” introduces an important hypothetical event here and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit the phrase because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language.
And your servants will bring the gray head of your servant our father down in sorrow
Quote: וְהוֹרִ֨ידוּ עֲבָדֶ֜יךָ אֶת־שֵׂיבַ֨ת עַבְדְּךָ֥ אָבִ֛ינוּ בְּיָג֖וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“{Yes,} we will/would bring/cause our gray-haired/elderly father so much sorrow/grief that he will/would {die and} go” or “{In that way,} we will/would be responsible for bringing/causing our gray-haired/elderly father …” Consider what is the best way to translate this hypothetical situation in your language. Also, see how you translated “bring … gray head down in sorrow to Sheol” in Gen 42:38, and a similar phrase in 44:29.
to Sheol
Quote: שְׁאֹֽלָה (1)“to the afterworld!” Consider again how you translated “Sheol” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 37:35; 42:38; 44:29, 31.
Genesis 44:32
For your servant guaranteed the young man to my father, saying
Quote: כִּ֤י עַבְדְּךָ֙ עָרַ֣ב אֶת הַנַּ֔עַר מֵעִ֥ם אָבִ֖י לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“{I myself} your {humble} servant guaranteed the young man’s safety to my father. I told/assured {him} that” or “Besides that, sir, I guaranteed/promised my father that I would return his son to him safely. I told him that”. See how you translated the verb “guarantee” in Gen 43:9.
If I do not bring him {back} to you
Quote: אִם לֹ֤א אֲבִיאֶ֨נּוּ֙ אֵלֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“if I did not bring his son {back} to him,” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
then I will have sinned against my father
Quote: וְחָטָ֥אתִי לְאָבִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“then this would be a terrible sin against him” or “I would be guilty of sinning against him”. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 43:9.
all the days
Quote: כָּל הַיָּמִֽים (1)“all the days {of my life}.” or “for the rest of my life.” or “forever.” Be consistent here with your choice in Gen 43:9.
Genesis 44:33
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)“So now/then,” This phrase introduces the conclusion to what Judah said in verses 30-32. See how you translated this phrase in verse 30.
please let your servant stay
Quote: יֵֽשֶׁב נָ֤א עַבְדְּךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“I beg/urge you to allow {me} your servant to {be the one to} stay/remain {here}” or “sir, I beg/urge you to let me stay {here}”. Consider again how you translated “your servant” and “your servants” throughout this chapter. See verses 7, 9, 18, 24, 27, 30-32.
as} a slave for my lord
Quote: עֶ֖בֶד לַֽאדֹנִ֑י (1)“{as} a slave/servant for you” or “and be your slave/servant”. Throughout this chapter, the same Hebrew word is translated as “slave” when the context has negative connotations (verses 9-10, 16-17, 33), but is translated as “servant” when the context has more positive connotations (verses 7, 9, 16, 18-19, 21, 23-24, 27, 30-32). Do what is best in your language in each context.
instead of
Quote: תַּ֣חַת (1)“in place of” or “to take the place of”
the young man
Quote: הַנַּ֔עַר (1)“our youngest {brother},”
and let the young man go up with his brothers
Quote: וְהַנַּ֖עַר יַ֥עַל עִם אֶחָֽיו (1)“and let him go back {home} with his {other} brothers.”
Genesis 44:34
For how will I go up
Quote: כִּי אֵיךְ֙ אֶֽעֱלֶ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“There is no way I can” or “I could never”. Judah uses this rhetorical question to emphasize how difficult it would be for him to return to his father without his brother. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
will I go up to my father
Quote: אֶֽעֱלֶ֣ה אֶל אָבִ֔י (1)“go back to my father” or “return {home} to my father”. Consider again how you translated “… up” in verses 17, 24, 33-34. Contrast that to how you translated “… down” in verses 21, 23, and 26. Some translations leave “up” or “down” implied. Do what is best in your language.
if the young man is not with me
Quote: וְהַנַּ֖עַר אֵינֶ֣נּוּ אִתִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“if his youngest {son} is not with me!” or “if our youngest {brother} is not with me!”
I fear to see
Quote: פֶּ֚ן אֶרְאֶ֣ה (1)“I could not bear to see” or “I do not want to see”
the misery that would find my father
Quote: בָרָ֔ע אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִמְצָ֖א אֶת אָבִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
“the terrible distress/grief that it would cause my father!” or “how much/terribly my father would suffer/grieve!” See how you translated “misery” in verse 29.
Genesis 45
Genesis 45:1
Then Joseph was not able
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יָכֹ֨ל יוֹסֵ֜ף (1)“{When Joseph heard that,} he could no {longer}” or “{When Joseph heard what Judah said,} he was no {longer} able to”
to control himself
Quote: לְהִתְאַפֵּ֗ק (1)“control/hide his emotions/feelings” or “keep himself from crying”
before all who were standing by him
Quote: לְכֹ֤ל הַנִּצָּבִים֙ עָלָ֔יו (1)“in front of all his servants who were with/attending him,” or “in front of all his attendants/servants,” Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Joseph’s servants, not his brothers.
and he called out
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֕א (1)“and/so he shouted {to them},” or “and/so he said loudly {to them},”
Have every man leave
Quote: הוֹצִ֥יאוּ כָל אִ֖ישׁ (1)“All of you, leave”
from beside me
Quote: מֵעָלָ֑י (1)“my presence!” or “the room!”
So no man stood with him when Joseph revealed himself to his brothers
Quote: וְלֹא עָ֤מַד אִישׁ֙ אִתּ֔וֹ בְּהִתְוַדַּ֥ע יוֹסֵ֖ף אֶל אֶחָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So Joseph was alone with his brothers when he made himself known to them.” or “{Immediately the/his servants/attendants left the room,} so that no one else was with him when he told his brothers who he was.” Make sure your use of nouns or pronouns to refer to Joseph and his brothers here is clear and natural in your language.
Genesis 45:2
And he gave his voice in crying
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן אֶת קֹל֖וֹ בִּבְכִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then he raised his voice and cried loudly/uncontrollably, so that” or “But he started crying so loudly that”. Consider whether your language has an idiom such as “gave his voice in crying”. Also see how you translated “cried” in Gen 42:24; 43:30.
and the Egyptians heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמְע֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם וַיִּשְׁמַ֖ע בֵּ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“{many} Egyptians heard {him/it}, including {the members of} Pharaoh’s household/family.” or “the Egyptian {servants} heard {him/it}, and so did Pharaoh’s household/family.” The word “house” refers here to Pharaoh’s family members and servants, not a literal building.
Genesis 45:3
Then Joseph said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יוֹסֵ֤ף אֶל אֶחָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“Then Joseph/he exclaimed to his brothers {in their language},” In this chapter, the word “brothers” refers to Joseph’s older brothers (from different mothers) and his younger brother (from the same mother).
I {am} Joseph
Quote: אֲנִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“I {am} {your brother} Joseph!” or “I {am} Joseph, {your brother}!”
Is my father still alive
Quote: הַע֥וֹד אָבִ֖י חָ֑י (1)“Is our father still alive?” Joseph uses “my father” to emphasize his relationship with his father. Make sure your translation does not sound like he had a different father than his brothers.
But his brothers were not able to answer him
Quote: וְלֹֽא יָכְל֤וּ אֶחָיו֙ לַעֲנ֣וֹת אֹת֔וֹ (1)“But his/Joseph’s brothers could not reply/respond to him,” or “His brothers could not say a word,”
because they were terrified at his presence
Quote: כִּ֥י נִבְהֲל֖וּ מִפָּנָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because they were terrified/shocked {to realize} that they were in his presence.” or “because they felt very afraid to be standing in front of him.” For some languages it is necessary to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “But his brothers were so terrified to see him that they could not answer him.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 45:4
Then Joseph said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יוֹסֵ֧ף אֶל אֶחָ֛יו (1)“So Joseph said to them,”
Please come close to me
Quote: גְּשׁוּ נָ֥א אֵלַ֖י (1)“Please come near/closer to me.” or “Please come here next to me.”
So they came close, and he said
Quote: וַיִּגָּ֑שׁוּ וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“After/When they went closer {to him}, he said {to them},” or “After they did that, he said {to them},”
I {am} Joseph your brother
Quote: אֲנִי֙ יוֹסֵ֣ף אֲחִיכֶ֔ם (1)“I {really/truly am} your brother Joseph,”
whom you sold into Egypt
Quote: אֲשֶׁר מְכַרְתֶּ֥ם אֹתִ֖י מִצְרָֽיְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“whom you sold {to be a slave} in {the country of} Egypt.” or “whom you sold {as a slave that was brought/taken here} to Egypt.” Joseph’s brothers sold him to slave traders who were going to Egypt. If necessary, you could make some of that information explicit in your translation.
Genesis 45:5
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֣ה (1)“But now,” or “But”
do not be grieved
Quote: אַל תֵּעָ֣צְב֗וּ (1)“do not be upset/distressed”
and do not let it burn in your eyes
Quote: וְאַל יִ֨חַר֙ בְּעֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“or/and angry with/at yourselves”. Consider again how you translated various idioms for “anger” or “be angry” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:5-6; 30:2; 31:35-36; 34:7; 44:18; 45:5. It may be necessary to translate these idioms in different ways, depending on the context.
that you sold me here
Quote: כִּֽי מְכַרְתֶּ֥ם אֹתִ֖י הֵ֑נָּה (1)“that you sold me {and caused me to be a slave} here,” or “for selling me {as a slave},”
because God sent me
Quote: כִּ֣י & שְׁלָחַ֥נִי אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“because God sent me {here}” or “because {it was actually} God {who} sent me {here}”
ahead of you
Quote: לִפְנֵיכֶֽם (1)“before you came,” or “before you got here,”
for the preservation of life
Quote: לְמִֽחְיָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“to save {many people’s} lives.” or “to keep many people from dying.”
Genesis 45:6
For this {is} two years
Quote: כִּי זֶ֛ה שְׁנָתַ֥יִם (1)“For two years {now}” or “The past two years”
the famine {has been} in the midst of the land
Quote: הָרָעָ֖ב בְּקֶ֣רֶב הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)“{there has been} a famine throughout this country/region,” or “a famine {has been affecting/devastating} this whole region,” See how you translated “famine” in Gen 12:10.
and {there are} still five years {in} which
Quote: וְעוֹד֙ חָמֵ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)“and for another five years {it will be so severe/bad that}” or “and during the next five years {it will be even worse, so that}” or “and there will be five more years when”
there will} not be plowing and harvesting
Quote: אֵין חָרִ֖ישׁ וְקָצִּֽיר (1)“{there will} be no plowing {of fields} or harvesting {of crops}.” or “no one will {be able to} plant {seeds} or harvest {crops}.”
Genesis 45:7
But God sent me
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלָחֵ֤נִי אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)“That is why God sent me {here}” or “God sent me {here}” or “God caused me to come {here}”
ahead of you
Quote: לִפְנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“before you came,” or “before you got here,”
to preserve a remnant for you
Quote: לָשׂ֥וּם לָכֶ֛ם שְׁאֵרִ֖ית (1)“so that you will have descendants survive/living” or “to help you survive and have descendants”
on the earth
Quote: בָּאָ֑רֶץ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “on the earth” or (2) “in the/this land”
and to keep you alive
Quote: וּלְהַחֲי֣וֹת לָכֶ֔ם (1)“by helping you stay live” or “by saving your lives”
by a great deliverance
Quote: לִפְלֵיטָ֖ה גְּדֹלָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“through this/his amazing/extraordinary rescue.” or “in this amazing/powerful way.” For some languages it is better to put the last two phrases earlier in this sentence and say, “But God sent me ahead of you to save your lives in this amazing way so that you will survive and have descendants on the earth.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 45:8
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)“So then,” or “So”
it was} not you
Quote: לֹֽא אַתֶּ֞ם (1)“you {are/were} not {the ones}”
who} sent me here
Quote: שְׁלַחְתֶּ֤ם אֹתִי֙ הֵ֔נָּה (1)“{who} brought me here,” or “{who} caused me to come here,”
but God
Quote: כִּ֖י הָאֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)“but {rather} {it was} God {who sent/brought me}.” or “but {rather} God {is/was the one} {who did it/that}.”
And he has made me father to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְשִׂימֵ֨נִֽי לְאָ֜ב לְפַרְעֹ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“He has {also/even} made me {like a} father to {King} Pharaoh,” Joseph was like a father to Pharaoh in that Pharaoh highly honored him and Joseph took care of Pharaoh’s household and all their needs.
and lord over all his house
Quote: וּלְאָדוֹן֙ לְכָל בֵּית֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“so that I am the master/supervisor of his entire household” or “so that I am the one in charge of his entire household”. See how you translated “lord” in Gen 42:30, 33, and how you translated “house” in Gen 41:40.
and the ruler
Quote: וּמֹשֵׁ֖ל (1)“and {also} the governor” or “and {also} the highest official”
in all the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּכָל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“in/over the entire/whole country of Egypt.”
Genesis 45:9
Hurry and go up
Quote: מַהֲרוּ֮ וַעֲל֣וּ (1)“Hurry up/back” or “Leave quickly and go back” or “Return quickly”. In this verse, the words “up” and “down” reflect the fact that Canaan was higher in elevation than Egypt. Many languages leave those words implied. Do what is best in your language.
to my father
Quote: אֶל אָבִי֒ (1)“to our father”. See how you translated “my father” in verse 3.
and say to him, ‘This {is what} your son Joseph says
Quote: וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֣ם אֵלָ֗יו כֹּ֤ה אָמַר֙ בִּנְךָ֣ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“and tell him that his son Joseph has sent him this message:” Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
God has made me lord over all Egypt
Quote: שָׂמַ֧נִי אֱלֹהִ֛ים לְאָד֖וֹן לְכָל מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“God has made/appointed me ruler/governor over the entire {country of} Egypt.” Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this doubly embedded quote (which continues through verse 11) as a direct or indirect quote. An example of an indirect quote would be: “God has made him the ruler over all Egypt. He urges you to come down there to live near him, without delay. He also says that you and your family may live in Goshen Province and that way you will live near him … He will provide for you there …”
Come down to me
Quote: רְדָ֥ה אֵלַ֖י (1)“{So} {please} come down {here} {to live} near me,”
do not delay
Quote: אַֽל תַּעֲמֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{and} do not delay/wait.” or “{and} do not take very long to come.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “{So} {please} do not take very long, but rather come down/here quickly {to live} near me.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 45:10
And you will live
Quote: וְיָשַׁבְתָּ֣ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“You {and your family} can/may live”. The pronouns “you” and “your” in this verse are singular, but Joseph’s message to his father includes the whole family.
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְאֶֽרֶץ גֹּ֗שֶׁן (1)“in the region/territory of Goshen” or “in Goshen Province/County”. Goshen was a region or territory that was part of the country of Egypt. Make sure your translation of “land” does not sound like Goshen was its own country.
so that you will be near to me
Quote: וְהָיִ֤יתָ קָרוֹב֙ אֵלַ֔י (1)“and that way you can be/live near me” or “That way you will/can live close to me”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
you and your children
Quote: אַתָּ֕ה וּבָנֶ֖יךָ (1)“with your children”
and your children’s children
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י בָנֶ֑יךָ (1)“and your grandchildren”
and your flocks and your herds
Quote: וְצֹאנְךָ֥ וּבְקָרְךָ֖ (1)“along with your flocks {of sheep and goats}, your herds {of cattle}” or “as well as all your {domestic} animals”
and all that {belongs} to you
Quote: וְכָל אֲשֶׁר לָֽךְ (1)“and all your {other} belongings.” or “and everything {else} that you own.”
Genesis 45:11
And I will provide for you there
Quote: וְכִלְכַּלְתִּ֤י אֹֽתְךָ֙ שָׁ֔ם (1)“I will take care of you there,” or “I will support you there,”
because {there are} still five years of famine
Quote: כִּי ע֛וֹד חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים רָעָ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“since {there are} still five {more} years of famine {ahead/coming}.” or “because the famine will last five {more} years.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “There are still five more years of famine ahead/coming, so I will provide for you there {in Goshen}.” Do what is best in your language.
so that you will not become impoverished, you and your household and all that {belongs} to you
Quote: פֶּן תִּוָּרֵ֛שׁ אַתָּ֥ה וּבֵֽיתְךָ֖ וְכָל אֲשֶׁר לָֽךְ (1)“That way you and your {extended} family will not become impoverished/destitute/poor {and die}.” or “{Please come} so that {the famine} will/does not cause you and your family to lose everything you own {and die}.” The verb “become impoverished” can include losing livestock, other belongings, and the lives of their servants and family members.
Genesis 45:12
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)“And/Now look/listen!” or “{Then Joseph said to his brothers,} Look!” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph’s message to his father was completed in verse 11, and that here in verse 12 he is talking directly to his brothers again.
your eyes
Quote: עֵֽינֵיכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“{I can tell that} {all of} you,” or “{All of} you,” The word “eyes” is used figuratively here (and in the next phrase) to refer to the persons themselves; it also emphasizes the fact that they were seeing Joseph in person. Consider what is the best way to translate this phrase in your language.
and the eyes of my brother Benjamin
Quote: וְעֵינֵ֖י אָחִ֣י בִנְיָמִ֑ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“including my brother Benjamin,” See how you translated “brother” in Gen 43:29.
see that {it is} my mouth
Quote: רֹא֔וֹת & כִּי פִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“{can} see that {it really is} me, {Joseph,}” or “{can} see that I {Joseph} {am the one}”. Here the phrase “my mouth” refers to Joseph himself; it also emphasizes the fact that it was Joseph himself who was talking to them. Consider what is the best way to translate this figure of speech in your language.
that is speaking to you
Quote: הַֽמְדַבֵּ֥ר אֲלֵיכֶֽם (1)“who is talking to you.”
Genesis 45:13
So report to my father
Quote: וְהִגַּדְתֶּ֣ם לְאָבִ֗י (1)“So {go and} tell my/our father”
all my glory in Egypt
Quote: אֶת כָּל כְּבוֹדִי֙ בְּמִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“{about} my powerful/high position in Egypt” or “{about} how powerful/honored I am in Egypt”
and all that you have seen
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֣ר רְאִיתֶ֑ם (1)“and {about} everything {else} that you have seen {here}.”
Then hurry and bring my father down here
Quote: וּמִֽהַרְתֶּ֛ם וְהוֹרַדְתֶּ֥ם אֶת אָבִ֖י הֵֽנָּה (1)“Then hurry and bring him down here {to me}.” or “Then quickly bring him here {to me}.” See how you translated “down” in verse 9.
Genesis 45:14
Then he fell on the neck of Benjamin his brother
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֛ל עַל צַוְּארֵ֥י בִנְיָמִֽן אָחִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Joseph threw/put his arms around his brother Benjamin’s neck/shoulders” or “Then Joseph hugged his brother Benjamin {tightly/strongly}”. See how you translated the idiom “fell on his neck” in Gen 33:4.
and cried
Quote: וַיֵּ֑בְךְּ (1)“and cried {for joy},” or “and started crying {because he was so happy}.”
and Benjamin cried on his neck
Quote: וּבִנְיָמִ֔ן בָּכָ֖ה עַל צַוָּארָֽיו (1)“and Benjamin {also} cried on his/Joseph’s neck/shoulder.” or “Benjamin {also} cried as he hugged him/Joseph {back}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 45:15
Then he kissed all his brothers
Quote: וַיְנַשֵּׁ֥ק לְכָל אֶחָ֖יו (1)“Then/Next Joseph kissed all his brothers {on their cheeks}” or “Then/Next Joseph greeted all his brothers with a kiss {on their cheeks}”. See how you translated “kissed … {on the cheeks}” in Gen 33:4.
and cried over them
Quote: וַיֵּ֣בְךְּ עֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“as he continued to cry {for joy}.” or “with tears {of joy}.” For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Then as Joseph continued to cry, he kissed all his brothers {on the/their cheeks}.” Do what is best in your language.
And after that his brothers talked with him
Quote: וְאַ֣חֲרֵי כֵ֔ן דִּבְּר֥וּ אֶחָ֖יו אִתּֽוֹ (1)“After {he did} that, his brothers started talking with him.” Previously Joseph’s brothers had been too afraid to speak (verse 3). Now they felt free to start talking to him.
Genesis 45:16
And the report was heard {in} the house of Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וְהַקֹּ֣ל נִשְׁמַ֗ע בֵּ֤ית פַּרְעֹה֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“When the news reached Pharaoh’s palace/household” or “When Pharaoh’s household heard the news”
The brothers of Joseph have come
Quote: בָּ֖אוּ אֲחֵ֣י יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“that Joseph’s brothers had come/arrived {there},” Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
And it was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants
Quote: וַיִּיטַב֙ בְּעֵינֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה וּבְעֵינֵ֖י עֲבָדָֽיו (1)“it was pleasing to Pharaoh and {all} his servants/officials.” or “Pharaoh and {all} his servants/officials were pleased/happy.”
Genesis 45:17
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/So Pharaoh told/instructed Joseph,” or “Then/So Pharaoh gave these instructions to Joseph:”
Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals
Quote: אֱמֹ֥ר אֶל אַחֶ֖יךָ זֹ֣את עֲשׂ֑וּ טַֽעֲנוּ֙ אֶת בְּעִ֣ירְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Give your brothers this message {from me}: ‘Load your donkeys {with grain}” or “Tell your brothers to load their {pack} animals {with grain}”. These animals were donkeys (Gen 43:18, 44:3), not any other kind of animal. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote.
and leave; go
Quote: וּלְכוּ בֹ֖אוּ (1)“and go quickly {back}” or “and quickly return”. The two verbs “leave” and “go” emphasize that Joseph’s brothers should go back immediately to their father in Canaan.
to the land of Canaan
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה כְּנָֽעַן (1)“to region of Canaan.” or “to Canaan.”
Genesis 45:18
Then get your father and your households, and come to me
Quote: וּקְח֧וּ אֶת אֲבִיכֶ֛ם וְאֶת בָּתֵּיכֶ֖ם וּבֹ֣אוּ אֵלָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Then bring your father and your families back {here} to me,” or “Then {tell them to} bring their father and their families back {here} to me.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that verse 18 is still part of Pharaoh’s message to Joseph’s brothers. Also make sure the pronouns that you use throughout verses 17 and 18 fit with whether you translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote.
and I will give to you
Quote: וְאֶתְּנָ֣ה לָכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“I will give you” or “I will give them”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the best of the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶת טוּב֙ אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“the best {region/area/land} in the country of Egypt {to live in},”
and you will eat the fat of the land
Quote: וְאִכְל֖וּ אֶת חֵ֥לֶב הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“so that you/they will live well/comfortably with the best/abundance of everything in the country.’ ” This idiom means that they would live comfortably with the best of everything; it does not just refer to food. Consider whether or not you have a similar idiom in your language.
Genesis 45:19
And you are commanded
Quote: וְאַתָּ֥ה צֻוֵּ֖יתָה (1)“You are also directed/instructed {to tell them}” or “{Then Pharaoh said to Joseph,} “I also command/want you {to tell them}”. The pronoun “you” is singular here and refers to Joseph. This clause is not part of Pharaoh’s message to Joseph’s brothers (verses 17-20). Make sure that is clear in your translation.
Do this: Take carts with you
Quote: זֹ֣את עֲשׂ֑וּ קְחוּ לָכֶם֩ & עֲגָל֗וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“Take {some of} {my} carts/wagons with you” or “to take {some of} {my} carts/wagons with them”. These carts or wagons had two or four wheels and were pulled by animals such as oxen or donkeys. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. See what you did for a similar case in verses 17-18.
from the land of Egypt
Quote: מֵאֶ֨רֶץ מִצְרַ֜יִם (1)“from the country of Egypt”
for your little ones and for your wives
Quote: לְטַפְּכֶם֙ וְלִנְשֵׁיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“for your/their {young} children and wives {to travel/ride in},” or “for your/their wives and {young} children {to travel/ride in},” For some languages it is more natural (and respectful) to put “wives” before “little ones” in this phrase. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “little ones” in Gen 43:8.
and get your father and come
Quote: וּנְשָׂאתֶ֥ם אֶת אֲבִיכֶ֖ם וּבָאתֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“then bring {them and} your father {back} {here to live}.” or “Then {tell them} to bring their father {and their families} {back} {here to live}.” Make sure the pronouns you use throughout verses 19 and 20 fit with whether you translate the embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated “get your father” in verse 18.
Genesis 45:20
And do not let your eyes grieve
Quote: וְעֵ֣ינְכֶ֔ם אַל תָּחֹ֖ס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“And do not be concerned” or “You/They should not worry”
over your belongings
Quote: עַל כְּלֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“about {leaving some of} your/their belongings {behind},” or “if you/they have to leave behind {some of} your/their belongings/possessions,”
because the best of all the land of Egypt
Quote: כִּי ט֛וּב כָּל אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם (1)“because the best of everything in the land/country of Egypt” or “because the most valuable {things} in all the land/country of Egypt”. This phrase refers generally to the wealth of Egypt that will be available to Jacob’s family, including fertile land and anything else that they need.
belongs} to you
Quote: לָכֶ֥ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“{will be} yours.’ ” or “{will be} theirs.”
Genesis 45:21
Then the sons of Israel did so
Quote: וַיַּֽעֲשׂוּ־כֵן֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)“Then/So Israel’s sons {agreed to} do that.” or “… {agreed to} do what Pharaoh said/commanded.” Jacob is referred to by his other name Israel here (also in verse 28). If that is not clear in your translation, you could put that information in a footnote. If possible in your translation, it is best to keep the name that the author chose to use in each case so that you do not change what is being emphasized.
And Joseph gave to them carts
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן לָהֶ֥ם יוֹסֵ֛ף עֲגָל֖וֹת (1)“Then Joseph gave them carts/wagons {to use}”
according to the mouth of Pharaoh
Quote: עַל פִּ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“according to Pharaoh’s words/command,” or “as {King} Pharaoh had commanded/directed {him},” This phrase refers to what Pharaoh said.
and he gave provisions to them
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן לָהֶ֛ם צֵדָ֖ה (1)“and he provided/supplied them with food {to eat}” or “and he gave them food”
for the road
Quote: לַדָּֽרֶךְ (1)“to eat on their trip/journey {home}.” or “to eat as they traveled {home}.”
Genesis 45:22
To all of them, to each {one}, he gave changes of clothes
Quote: לְכֻלָּ֥ם נָתַ֛ן לָאִ֖ישׁ חֲלִפ֣וֹת שְׂמָלֹ֑ת (1)“To each of them he gave a {new} change/set of clothes,” or “He {also} gave a {new} change/set of clothes to each one of his brothers,”
but to Benjamin he gave 300 {shekels} of silver and five changes of clothes
Quote: וּלְבִנְיָמִ֤ן נָתַן֙ שְׁלֹ֣שׁ מֵא֣וֹת כֶּ֔סֶף וְחָמֵ֖שׁ חֲלִפֹ֥ת שְׂמָלֹֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“but to Benjamin he gave 300 {pieces} of silver {money} and five {new} changes/sets of clothes.” or “but to Benjamin he gave five {new} changes/sets of clothes and/plus 300 {pieces} of silver {money}.” For some languages it is better to mention the gift of clothes to Benjamin before the gift of silver, to more clearly contrast how many clothes he received with how many his brothers received. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “{shekels} of silver” in Gen 20:16 (and see the note there). Three hundred shekels of silver was equal to about 3.5 kilos (7.5 pounds).
Genesis 45:23
And to his father he sent this
Quote: וּלְאָבִ֞יו שָׁלַ֤ח כְּזֹאת֙ (1)“Besides that, he sent {with them} the following gifts for his father:” or “He also gave {them} the following gifts/things to give to his father:”
ten he-donkeys loaded
Quote: עֲשָׂרָ֣ה חֲמֹרִ֔ים נֹשְׂאִ֖ים (1)“ten male donkeys that were carrying”
with the best of Egypt
Quote: מִטּ֣וּב מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“{some of} the best/finest {things/products} from Egypt,” or “{some of} the most valuable {things} produced in {the land/country of} Egypt,”
and ten she-donkeys loaded {with
Quote: וְעֶ֣שֶׂר אֲתֹנֹ֡ת נֹֽ֠שְׂאֹת (1)“and ten female donkeys that were carrying”
grain and bread and provisions
Quote: בָּ֣ר וָלֶ֧חֶם וּמָז֛וֹן (1)“{bags of} grain, bread, and {other} provisions/food” or “{food} provisions, including grain and bread,”
for his father
Quote: לְאָבִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“for his father {and family}” or “for him {and his family}”
for the road
Quote: לַדָּֽרֶךְ (1)“to eat on his/their trip/journey {to Egypt}.” or “to eat as he/they traveled {to Egypt}.” See how you translated “provisions … for the road” in verse 21 and Gen 42:25.
Genesis 45:24
Then he sent his brothers
Quote: וַיְשַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־אֶחָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Joseph sent/saw his brothers off {on their way/journey home}.” or “After that, he/Joseph got his brothers started {on their journey home}.”
and {as} they left
Quote: וַיֵּלֵ֑כוּ (1)“As they were leaving,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
then he said to them, “Do not quarrel
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אַֽל תִּרְגְּז֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“he told/urged them, “Do not argue {with each other}” or “he told/urged them not to argue {with one another}”. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here.
on the road
Quote: בַּדָּֽרֶךְ (1)“on the way/journey.” or “as you travel.”
Genesis 45:25
Then they went up from Egypt
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲל֖וּ מִמִּצְרָ֑יִם (1)“Then Joseph’s brothers left Egypt”. See how you translated “up” in verse 9.
and came {to} the land of Canaan, to Jacob their father
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ אֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)“and went/traveled {back} {home} to their father Jacob in the land/region of Canaan.”
Genesis 45:26
And they reported to him, saying
Quote: וַיַּגִּ֨דוּ ל֜וֹ לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)“They {immediately} announced to him,” or “{When they arrived,} they exclaimed/announced to him,”
Joseph {is} still alive! And in fact, he {is} the ruler over all the land of Egypt
Quote: ע֚וֹד יוֹסֵ֣ף חַ֔י וְכִֽי ה֥וּא מֹשֵׁ֖ל בְּכָל אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“Joseph {is} still alive! In fact, he {is} the governor over/of the entire country of Egypt!” See how you translated “ruler” in verse 8.
But his heart went numb
Quote: וַיָּ֣פָג לִבּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{When their father heard that news,} he was stunned {and silent},” or “{When Jacob heard that,} he was completely shocked,” This idiom means that Jacob was so shocked that he did not know which way to go with his emotions or what to think, say, or do; it does not mean that he died. Some languages have a similar idiom. Do what is best in your language.
because he did not believe them
Quote: כִּ֥י לֹא הֶאֱמִ֖ין לָהֶֽם (1)“because he could not believe them.” or “because he thought it could not be true.”
Genesis 45:27
Then they told him
Quote: וַיְדַבְּר֣וּ אֵלָ֗יו (1)“But then they reported to him” or “But {after} they told him”
all the words of Joseph that he had spoken to them
Quote: אֵ֣ת כָּל דִּבְרֵ֤י יוֹסֵף֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר דִּבֶּ֣ר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם (1)“everything that Joseph had said to them,”
and he saw the carts
Quote: וַיַּרְא֙ אֶת הָ֣עֲגָל֔וֹת (1)“and {when/after} he saw the carts/wagons”. See how you translated “carts” in verses 19 and 21.
that Joseph had sent to carry him
Quote: אֲשֶׁר שָׁלַ֥ח יוֹסֵ֖ף לָשֵׂ֣את אֹת֑וֹ (1)“that Joseph had sent to carry him {and his family} {to Egypt},”
then the spirit of Jacob their father revived
Quote: וַתְּחִ֕י ר֖וּחַ יַעֲקֹ֥ב אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)“their father Jacob felt much better.” or “he recovered {from the shock}.”
Genesis 45:28
And Israel said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)“Then Israel/he exclaimed {to them},” Consider again whether to include in this chapter a footnote which explains that “Israel” (verses 21 and 28) and “Jacob” (verses 25 and 27) refer to the same person, not two different people.
Enough
Quote: רַ֛ב (1)“{That’s} enough! {It must be true!}” or “{I have heard} enough! {I’m convinced!}”
Joseph my son {is} still alive
Quote: עוֹד יוֹסֵ֥ף בְּנִ֖י חָ֑י (1)“My son Joseph must still be alive!” or “My son Joseph really is alive!”
I will go and see him before I die
Quote: אֵֽלְכָ֥ה וְאֶרְאֶ֖נּוּ בְּטֶ֥רֶם אָמֽוּת (1)“I must go {now} and see him {again} before I die.”
Genesis 46
Genesis 46:1
Then Israel set out and all that {belonged} to him
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֤ע יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וְכָל אֲשֶׁר ל֔וֹ (1)“So Israel started the journey {to Egypt} with all his {family members and} belongings/possessions.” or “So Israel {and his family} started traveling {toward Egypt} with all his/their belongings.”
Then he came to Beersheba
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א בְּאֵ֣רָה שָּׁ֑בַע (1)“When they reached {the city of} Beersheba,”
and he sacrificed sacrifices
Quote: וַיִּזְבַּ֣ח זְבָחִ֔ים (1)“he offered sacrifices/offerings” or “offered/burned some of his animals {on an altar} {there} as sacrifices”. See how you translated “sacrificed” in Gen 31:54.
to the God of his father Isaac
Quote: לֵאלֹהֵ֖י אָבִ֥יו יִצְחָֽק (1)“to God, whom his father Isaac had worshiped/served.”
Genesis 46:2
And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, “Jacob! Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֤ים לְיִשְׂרָאֵל֙ בְּמַרְאֹ֣ת הַלַּ֔יְלָה וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֣ב יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“During the night God spoke/called to Israel in a vision, “Jacob! Jacob!” ” or “That night, God {appeared/came to} Israel in a vision and said to him, “Jacob, Jacob.” ” God repeats Jacob’s name to communicate that he has something urgent or important to tell him. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound angry or critical. Also see how you translated “vision” in Gen 15:1.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Israel/Jacob replied {to him},” For some languages, it is more natural to put this quotation margin (“he said”) after the quote. Do what is best in your language.
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Here I am, {Lord/Master}.” or “Yes, {Lord/Master}?” or “I am listening, {Lord}.” Consider again how you translated the idiom “Behold me” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 22:1, 7, 11; 27:1, 18; 31:11; 37:13; 46:2.
Genesis 46:3
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then God said {to him},”
I {am} God, the God of your father
Quote: אָנֹכִ֥י הָאֵ֖ל אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ (1)“I {am} God, the God whom your father served/worshiped.” See how you translated “the God of” in verse 1.
Do not be afraid
Quote: אַל תִּירָא֙ (1)“Don’t be afraid” or “You must not be afraid”
to go down to Egypt
Quote: מֵרְדָ֣ה מִצְרַ֔יְמָה (1)“to move down to {the country of} Egypt,” or “to go/travel to {the country of} Egypt {and settle there},”
because I will make you
Quote: כִּֽי & אֲשִֽׂימְךָ֥ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“because I will make you {and your family/descendants}” or “because I will make your family/descendants” or “because I will give you {many} descendants, who will”. See how you translated “I will make you into a great nation” (and similar phrases) in Gen 12:2; 17:20; 18:18; 21:13, 18.
into a great nation there
Quote: לְג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל & שָֽׁם (1)“{multiply and} become an important/large ethnic/people group there.”
Genesis 46:4
I myself will go down with you to Egypt
Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י אֵרֵ֤ד עִמְּךָ֙ מִצְרַ֔יְמָה (1)“I myself/personally will go with you to Egypt,” or “I will personally go with you down to Egypt {and take care of you there}.” Consider what is the best way to translate the emphatic pronoun “I” here and in the next clause. Also see how you translated “down” and “up” in Gen 45:9.
and I myself will also surely bring you up
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י אַֽעַלְךָ֣ גַם עָלֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Later I will definitely bring your descendants {back} {here} {to Canaan}.” The pronoun “you” refers here to Jacob’s descendants.
And Joseph will put his hand over your eyes
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֕ף יָשִׁ֥ית יָד֖וֹ עַל עֵינֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“And {when you die}, Joseph will {be right there to} close your eyes.” or “When you die, Joseph will be with you.” This clause refers to the custom of closing a person’s eyes after he died and means that Joseph would be with Jacob when he died.
Genesis 46:5
Then Jacob got up from Beersheba
Quote: וַיָּ֥קָם יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִבְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)“Then/So Jacob left {the city of} Beersheba,” or “After that, Jacob {whose other name was Israel} left {the city of} Beersheba,” Be consistent with how you spell “Beersheba” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 21:14, 31-33; 22:19; 26:23, 33; 28:10; 46:1, 5.
and the sons of Israel carried Jacob their father
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֨וּ בְנֵֽי יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל אֶת יַעֲקֹ֣ב אֲבִיהֶ֗ם (1)“and his sons, the sons of Israel, took/transported {him} their father” or “and his sons, {that is} the sons of Israel, took/transported him” or “and his sons took/transported him”. “Israel” is the name that God gave to Jacob (Gen 32:28, 35:10). In chapters 45 and 46, the text repeatedly switches back and forth between both of Jacob’s names. Make sure it is clear in your translation that these two names refer to the same person. You could include a footnote that helps readers understand what is happening.
and their little ones and their wives
Quote: וְאֶת טַפָּם֙ וְאֶת נְשֵׁיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“as well as their children and wives” or “and their wives and children”. See how you translated “little ones and … wives” in Gen 45:19.
in the carts
Quote: בָּעֲגָל֕וֹת (1)“in the wagons”. See how you translated “carts” in Gen 45:19, 21, 27.
that Pharaoh
Quote: אֲשֶׁר & פַּרְעֹ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“that {King} Pharaoh” or “that Pharaoh {the king of Egypt}” or “that the king {of/over Egypt}”. For a note about how “Pharaoh” is used like a name in the Bible, see Gen 12:15.
had sent
Quote: שָׁלַ֥ח (1)“had sent {to Canaan}” or “had provided”
to carry him
Quote: לָשֵׂ֥את אֹתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“to transport him/them {to Egypt}.” or “for them to ride in/on {to Egypt}.” The pronoun “him” refers to Jacob, the head of his family, and includes Jacob’s wives and children. It may be necessary to use the plural pronoun “them” to make that clear.
Genesis 46:6
And they took their livestock
Quote: וַיִּקְח֣וּ אֶת מִקְנֵיהֶ֗ם (1)“They {also} took/brought {with them} their livestock/animals”
and their possessions
Quote: וְאֶת רְכוּשָׁם֙ (1)“and their {other} belongings”. Consider again how you translated “possessions” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:5 (and note); 13:6; 14:11-12, 16, 21; 15:14; 31:18; 36:7; 46:6. It may be necessary to translate this term in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
that they had acquired
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר רָֽכְשׁוּ֙ (1)“that they had accumulated/gotten”. Consider again how you translated “acquired” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:5; 31:18; 36:6; 46:6.
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)“in the region of Canaan.” or “in Canaan.”
Then they came to Egypt, Jacob and all of his offspring with him
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖אוּ מִצְרָ֑יְמָה יַעֲקֹ֖ב וְכָל זַרְע֥וֹ אִתּֽוֹ (1)“Then Jacob and all of his descendants arrived in Egypt,”
Genesis 46:7
his sons and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters and his sons’ daughters
Quote: בָּנָ֞יו וּבְנֵ֤י בָנָיו֙ אִתּ֔וֹ בְּנֹתָ֛יו וּבְנ֥וֹת בָּנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
“{including} his sons and grandsons, {and} his daughters and granddaughters.” or “{including} his sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters.” or “{including} his sons and daughters, {and} his grandsons and granddaughters.” Consider what is the best way in your language to list these descendants.
So all his offspring he brought with him to Egypt
Quote: וְכָל זַרְע֑וֹ הֵבִ֥יא אִתּ֖וֹ מִצְרָֽיְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{Yes,} he/Jacob brought his entire family with him to Egypt.” or “He/Jacob had all his offspring/descendants with him when he arrived in Egypt.” For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “He/Jacob brought his entire {extended} family with him to Egypt, {including} his sons …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 46:8
Now these {are} the names of the sons of Israel who went to Egypt, Jacob and his sons
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה שְׁמ֧וֹת בְּנֵֽי יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל הַבָּאִ֥ים מִצְרַ֖יְמָה יַעֲקֹ֣ב וּבָנָ֑יו (1)“Here is a list of the names of Israel’s descendants who went/came {with him} to Egypt, {that is,} Jacob’s descendants:” or “The following list gives the names of Israel’s descendants, {that is,} Jacob’s descendants, who went/came {with him} to Egypt:”
the firstborn of Jacob {was} Reuben
Quote: בְּכֹ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב רְאוּבֵֽן (1)“Reuben, {who was} his/Jacob’s firstborn/oldest {son},” Some translations put verses 8-14, 16-17, and 19-24 in list format, beginning a new paragraph with each of Jacob’s sons.
Genesis 46:9
And the sons of Reuben {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י רְאוּבֵ֑ן (1)“and Reuben’s sons, {who were}” or “and Reuben’s sons:” Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from the previous verse. Also, throughout this section (verses 9-27), some translations use a colon before each list of names instead of “{were}” or “{who were}”. Do what is best in your language.
Hanoch and Pallu and Hezron and Carmi
Quote: חֲנ֥וֹךְ וּפַלּ֖וּא וְחֶצְר֥וֹן וְכַרְמִֽי (1)“Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi.” For some languages it is more natural to include “and” between every name in a list like this. For other languages it is more natural to use commas between names and leave “and” implied, except before the last name in the list. See how you translated similar lists of names in Genesis 10.
Genesis 46:10
And the sons of Simeon {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י שִׁמְע֗וֹן (1)“{Simeon and} Simeon’s/his sons, {who were}”
Jemuel and Jamin and Ohad and Jakin and Zohar
Quote: יְמוּאֵ֧ל וְיָמִ֛ין וְאֹ֖הַד וְיָכִ֣ין וְצֹ֑חַר (1)“Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar,”
and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman
Quote: וְשָׁא֖וּל בֶּן הַֽכְּנַעֲנִֽית (1)“and Shaul, who had a Canaanite mother.” or “and Shaul, whose mother was a Canaanite.” or “and Shaul. (Shaul had a Canaanite mother.)” In this list, only Shaul had a Canaanite mother. See how you translated “Canaanite” in Gen 38:2.
Genesis 46:11
And the sons of Levi {were} Gershon, Kohath, and Merari
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י לֵוִ֑י גֵּרְשׁ֕וֹן קְהָ֖ת וּמְרָרִֽי (1)“{Levi and} Levi’s sons, {who were} Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.”
Genesis 46:12
And the sons of Judah {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)“{Judah and} Judah’s sons, {who were}”
Er and Onan and Shelah and Perez and Zerah
Quote: עֵ֧ר וְאוֹנָ֛ן וְשֵׁלָ֖ה וָפֶ֣רֶץ וָזָ֑רַח (1)“Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez, and Zerah;” Be consistent here with how you spelled these names in Gen 38:3-11, 26, 29-30.
but Er and Onan had died in the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיָּ֨מָת עֵ֤ר וְאוֹנָן֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)“actually, Er and Onan had {already} died in the land/region of Canaan.”
And the sons of Perez were Hezron and Hamul
Quote: וַיִּהְי֥וּ בְנֵי פֶ֖רֶץ חֶצְר֥וֹן וְחָמֽוּל (1)“Perez’s sons were Hezron and Hamul.” or “Perez had sons {named} Hezron and Hamul.”
Genesis 46:13
And the sons of Issachar {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י יִשָׂשכָ֑ר (1)“{Issachar and} Issachar’s sons, {who were}”
Tola and Puvah and Job and Shimron
Quote: תּוֹלָ֥ע וּפֻוָּ֖ה וְי֥וֹב וְשִׁמְרֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Tola, Puvah/Puah, Job/Jashub, and Shimron.” Numbers 26:24 and 1 Chronicles 7:1 have the same list of Issachar’s sons as here, but instead of “Puvah” and “Job,” they have “Puah” and “Jashub.” Some translations keep the spelling for these names the same in all three locations to avoid confusion. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 46:14
And the sons of Zebulun {were} Sered
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י זְבוּלֻ֑ן סֶ֥רֶד (1)“{Zebulun and} Zebulun’s sons, {who were}”
Sered and Elon and Jahleel
Quote: סֶ֥רֶד וְאֵל֖וֹן וְיַחְלְאֵֽל (1)“Sered, Elon, and Jahleel.”
Genesis 46:15
Those {were} the sons of
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י (1)“Those {were} the sons {and grandsons}” or “{All} those {were} the descendants”
Leah, whom she bore for Jacob
Quote: לֵאָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָֽלְדָ֤ה לְיַעֲקֹב֙ (1)“of Leah and Jacob who were born” or “that Jacob’s wife Leah had” or “whom Jacob and {his wife} Leah had together”
in Paddan Aram
Quote: בְּפַדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֔ם (1)“in {the land/region of} Paddan Aram,”
and Dinah his daughter
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת דִּינָ֣ה בִתּ֑וֹ (1)“as well as Dinah their daughter.” or “in addition to their daughter Dinah.” or “They also had a daughter {named} Dinah.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, be consistent with how you spell the name “Dinah” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 30:21; 34:1-5, 11, 13, 25-26; 46:15.
All the souls of his sons and his daughters {were} thirty-three
Quote: כָּל נֶ֧פֶשׁ בָּנָ֛יו וּבְנוֹתָ֖יו שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים וְשָׁלֹֽשׁ (1)“All {together} those sons, daughters {and grandchildren} {totaled} thirty-three persons/people.” or “The {total} number of those descendants {was} thirty-three.”
Genesis 46:16
And the sons of Gad {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י גָ֔ד (1)“{Jacob’s other descendants who came with him included} {his/Jacob’s son Gad and} Gad’s sons, {who were}” or “{Other descendants were/included} {Jacob’s son Gad and} Gad’s sons:” This verse begins a new section in the list of Jacob’s descendants. Decide what is the best way to begin this new section in your language.
Ziphion and Haggi, Shuni and Ezbon, Eri and Arodi and Areli
Quote: צִפְי֥וֹן וְחַגִּ֖י שׁוּנִ֣י וְאֶצְבֹּ֑ן עֵרִ֥י וַֽאֲרוֹדִ֖י וְאַרְאֵלִֽי (1)“Ziphion, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli.”
Genesis 46:17
And the sons of Asher {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י אָשֵׁ֗ר (1)“{He/Jacob also took} {his son Asher and} Asher’s sons, {who were}”
Imnah and Ishvah and Ishvi and Beriah
Quote: יִמְנָ֧ה וְיִשְׁוָ֛ה וְיִשְׁוִ֥י וּבְרִיעָ֖ה (1)“Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, and Beriah,”
and Serah their sister
Quote: וְשֶׂ֣רַח אֲחֹתָ֑ם (1)“and their sister, {who was} Serah.” or “and their sister, {whose name was} Serah.” or “Their sister {was} Serah.”
And the sons of Beriah {were} Heber and Malkiel
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י בְרִיעָ֔ה חֶ֖בֶר וּמַלְכִּיאֵֽל (1)“Beriah’s sons {were} Heber and Malkiel.” or “Beriah had sons {named} Heber and Malkiel.”
Genesis 46:18
Those {were} the sons of Zilpah
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י זִלְפָּ֔ה (1)“Those {were} the descendants of {Jacob and} Zilpah,” or “Those {were} the children {and grandchildren} {that Jacob had} with Zilpah,” Be consistent with how you spell the name “Zilpah” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 29:24; 30:9-10,12; 35:26; 37:2; 46:18.
whom Laban had given to Leah his daughter
Quote: אֲשֶׁר נָתַ֥ן לָבָ֖ן לְלֵאָ֣ה בִתּ֑וֹ (1)“{who was the servant woman} that Laban had given to his daughter Leah.”
And she bore those sixteen souls for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֤לֶד אֶת אֵ֨לֶּה֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב שֵׁ֥שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה נָֽפֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“Zilpah and Jacob had those sixteen descendants.” or “{The total number of} those descendants that Zilpah and Jacob had together was sixteen.” Consider whether it is better in your language to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Those {were} sixteen descendants that Jacob had with {his concubine} Zilpah, whom Laban had given to his daughter Leah {as a maidservant/servant}.”
Genesis 46:19
The sons of Rachel, the wife of Jacob, {were} Joseph and Benjamin
Quote: בְּנֵ֤י רָחֵל֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת יַֽעֲקֹ֔ב יוֹסֵ֖ף וּבִנְיָמִֽן (1)“{Then} there were the sons of Jacob’s wife Rachel, {who were} Joseph and Benjamin.” or “The sons that Jacob had with his wife Rachel {were} Joseph and Benjamin.” This verse begins a new section in the list of Jacob’s descendants. Decide what is the best way to begin this new section in your language.
Genesis 46:20
And Manasseh and Ephraim were born to Joseph in the land of Egypt
Quote: וַיִּוָּלֵ֣ד לְיוֹסֵף֮ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַיִם֒ & אֶת מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה וְאֶת אֶפְרָֽיִם (1)“Joseph’s {sons} who were born in the land/country of Egypt {were} Manasseh and Ephraim.” or “Joseph’s sons were Manasseh and Ephraim, and they were born in the land/country of Egypt.”
whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera the priest of On, bore for him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר יָֽלְדָה לּוֹ֙ אָֽסְנַ֔ת בַּת פּ֥וֹטִי פֶ֖רַע כֹּהֵ֣ן אֹ֑ן (1)“{Joseph’s/His wife} Asenath bore/had those sons for him; she was the daughter of Potiphera, the priest in/at {the city of} On.” or “Their mother was {Joseph’s wife} Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, {who was} the priest in/at {the city of} On.” See how you translated “Asenath … daughter of Potiphera the priest of On” in Gen 41:45.
Genesis 46:21
And the sons of Benjamin {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י בִנְיָמִ֗ן (1)“{Benjamin and} Benjamin’s sons, {who were}” or “Benjamin’s sons {were}”
Bela and Beker and Ashbel, Gera and Naaman
Quote: בֶּ֤לַע וָבֶ֨כֶר֙ וְאַשְׁבֵּ֔ל גֵּרָ֥א וְנַעֲמָ֖ן (1)“Bela, Beker, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman,”
Ehi and Rosh, Muppim and Huppim and Ard
Quote: אֵחִ֣י וָרֹ֑אשׁ מֻפִּ֥ים וְחֻפִּ֖ים וָאָֽרְדְּ (1)“Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard.” Remember to use (or not use) “and” between the names in this list in a way that is natural in your language.
Genesis 46:22
Those {were} the sons of
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י (1)“Those {were} the sons {and grandsons}” or “{All} those {were} the descendants”
Rachel, whom she bore for Jacob
Quote: רָחֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר יֻלַּ֖ד לְיַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“that Jacob’s wife Rachel had,” or “that Jacob and {his wife} Rachel had together,” or “who descended/came from Rachel and Jacob.” Your punctuation here will depend on how you translate the rest of this verse.
all the souls {were} fourteen
Quote: כָּל נֶ֖פֶשׁ אַרְבָּעָ֥ה עָשָֽׂר (1)“a total of fourteen descendants.” or “The total {number} of those descendants {was} fourteen.”
Genesis 46:23
And the sons of Dan {were} Hushim
Quote: וּבְנֵי דָ֖ן חֻשִֽׁים (1)“{Other descendants who came with Jacob included:} {his son Dan and} Dan’s son Hushim.” This verse begins a new section in the list of Jacob’s descendants. See how you started verse 16, which is similar.
Genesis 46:24
And the sons of Naphtali {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י נַפְתָּלִ֑י (1)“{Naphtali and} Naphtali’s sons, {who were}”
Jahziel and Guni and Jezer and Shillem
Quote: יַחְצְאֵ֥ל וְגוּנִ֖י וְיֵ֥צֶר וְשִׁלֵּֽם (1)“Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem.” Consider again how you translated these lists of names in this chapter (verses 9-24).
Genesis 46:25
Those {were} the sons of Bilhah
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י בִלְהָ֔ה (1)“Those {were} the descendants of {Jacob and} Bilhah,” or “Those {were all} the sons {and grandsons} that Jacob had with Bilhah,” Be consistent in how you spell “Bilhah” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 29:29; 30:3-5, 7; 35:22, 25; 37:2; 46:25. Also see how you translated verse 18, which is similar in structure to verse 25.
whom Laban had given to Rachel his daughter
Quote: אֲשֶׁר נָתַ֥ן לָבָ֖ן לְרָחֵ֣ל בִּתּ֑וֹ (1)“{who was} {the servant woman} whom Laban had given to his daughter Rachel.”
And she bore those for Jacob; all the souls {were} seven
Quote: וַתֵּ֧לֶד אֶת אֵ֛לֶּה לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב כָּל נֶ֥פֶשׁ שִׁבְעָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“The total {number} of those descendants that Bilhah and Jacob had together {was} seven.” or “Those descendants that Bilhah had with Jacob totaled seven {persons/people}.” For some languages it is better to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “All those {were} seven descendants that Jacob had with {his concubine} Bilhah, whom Laban had given to his daughter Rachel {as a maidservant/servant}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 46:26
All the souls who went with Jacob to Egypt
Quote: כָּל הַ֠נֶּפֶשׁ הַבָּאָ֨ה לְיַעֲקֹ֤ב מִצְרַ֨יְמָה֙ (1)“The total number of persons/people who traveled with Jacob to Egypt,”
who came out of his thigh
Quote: יֹצְאֵ֣י יְרֵכ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“who came/descended from him,” or “who were his blood relatives,” or “who were his biological descendants,” Make sure that your translation of this idiom can be read in public without offending or embarrassing listeners. See how you translated a similar idiom in Gen 35:11.
apart from the wives of Jacob’s sons
Quote: מִלְּבַ֖ד נְשֵׁ֣י בְנֵי יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“not counting/including {his wives or} the wives of his sons,”
all the souls {were} sixty-six
Quote: כָּל נֶ֖פֶשׁ שִׁשִּׁ֥ים וָשֵֽׁשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“was sixty-six people in all.” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Altogether Jacob had sixty-six blood relatives who went with him to Egypt. That {number} does not include {his wives or} his sons’ wives.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 46:27
And the sons of Joseph who were born for him in Egypt {were} two souls
Quote: וּבְנֵ֥י יוֹסֵ֛ף אֲשֶׁר יֻלַּד ל֥וֹ בְמִצְרַ֖יִם נֶ֣פֶשׁ שְׁנָ֑יִם (1)“{If you include/count} {Jacob, Joseph, and} Joseph’s two sons, who were born in Egypt, {then}” or “Joseph {and his} two sons were already in Egypt, {so, including Jacob,}”
All the souls {belonging} to the house of Jacob who went to Egypt {were} seventy
Quote: כָּל הַנֶּ֧פֶשׁ לְבֵֽית יַעֲקֹ֛ב הַבָּ֥אָה מִצְרַ֖יְמָה שִׁבְעִֽים (1)“all the people in Jacob’s family who were in Egypt {totaled} seventy.” or “there was a total of seventy members of Jacob’s family in Egypt.”
Genesis 46:28
And he sent Judah
Quote: וְאֶת יְהוּדָ֞ה שָׁלַ֤ח (1)“Then he/Jacob told Judah to go” or “{When they reached Egypt,} he/Jacob had Judah go”
before him to Joseph
Quote: לְפָנָיו֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“ahead of them to Joseph” or “to Joseph ahead of them”
to show {the way} before him
Quote: לְהוֹרֹ֥ת לְפָנָ֖יו (1)“to find out {which way} to go” or “to ask him how to get” or “to get directions {from him}”
to Goshen
Quote: גֹּ֑שְׁנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“to {the region/territory of} Goshen.” or “to Goshen {Province/County}.” Goshen was a region or territory that was part of the country of Egypt. For some languages it is better to make that explicit here, rather than wait until the end of the verse. Do what is best in your language. Also be consistent here with how you spelled “Goshen” in Gen 45:10.
And they came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖אוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Jacob and his family traveled to” or “After that, Jacob’s family arrived in”. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here.
to the land of Goshen
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)“the region/territory of Goshen.” or “Goshen Province/County.” or “Goshen.” If you use “the land of Goshen” earlier in this verse, it may be better to just say “Goshen” here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 46:29
Then Joseph harnessed his chariot
Quote: וַיֶּאְסֹ֤ר יוֹסֵף֙ מֶרְכַּבְתּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Then Joseph got his chariot/cart ready” or “Then Joseph {had his servants} get his chariot/cart ready”. Joseph may have harnessed his horses to his chariot himself, or he may have had his servants do that for him (which was usual for a powerful person like him). Consider how you translated similar situations in Gen 41:48. Also see how you translated “chariot” in Gen 41:43.
and went up to meet Israel his father in Goshen
Quote: וַיַּ֛עַל לִקְרַֽאת יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל אָבִ֖יו גֹּ֑שְׁנָה (1)“and went to Goshen to meet his father Israel.” See how you translated “went up” in Gen 13:1 and “go up” in Gen 45:9.
And he appeared to him
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֣א אֵלָ֗יו (1)“{When he got there,} Joseph went/came up to his father” or “{There} Joseph greeted his father”
and he fell on his neck
Quote: וַיִּפֹּל֙ עַל צַוָּארָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and threw/put his arms around his neck/shoulders” or “and hugged him {tightly/strongly}”. See how you translated “fell on … neck” in Gen 45:14.
and cried on his neck a long time
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ עַל צַוָּארָ֖יו עֽוֹד (1)“and cried {for joy} on his shoulder {for} a long time.”
Genesis 46:30
Then Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל אֶל יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)“Then Israel exclaimed to Joseph/him,”
Now I can die
Quote: אָמ֣וּתָה הַפָּ֑עַם (1)“Now I can/will die {happy},” or “Now when I die {I will be at peace},” Jacob did not die until 17 years later (Genesis 47:28). Make sure your translation of this clause does not mean or imply that Jacob wanted to die soon or that he thought he would die soon.
since I have seen your face
Quote: אַחֲרֵי֙ רְאוֹתִ֣י אֶת פָּנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“since/because I have seen you face to face” or “since/because I have seen you in person”. In this context, “your face” refers to Joseph, not just his face. Decide what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
that you {are} still alive
Quote: כִּ֥י עוֹדְךָ֖ חָֽי (1)“{and know} that you {are} still alive!”
Genesis 46:31
Then Joseph said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יוֹסֵ֤ף אֶל אֶחָיו֙ (1)“Then Joseph announced to his brothers” or “Then Joseph told his brothers”
and to the household of his father
Quote: וְאֶל בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔יו (1)“and {the rest of} his father’s household/family,”
I will go up and report to Pharaoh, and I will say to him
Quote: אֶעֱלֶ֖ה וְאַגִּ֣ידָה לְפַרְעֹ֑ה וְאֹֽמְרָ֣ה אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
“I will go to {King} Pharaoh and tell/inform him,” Make sure that the way Joseph refers to Pharaoh here sounds respectful in your translation. See what you did in Gen 41:35.
My brothers and the household of my father
Quote: אַחַ֧י וּבֵית אָבִ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“My brothers and {the rest of} my father’s family” or “that my brothers and {the rest of} my father’s household/family”. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote (in verses 31-32) with a direct or indirect quote.
who {were living} in the land of Canaan have come to me
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּאֶֽרֶץ כְּנַ֖עַן בָּ֥אוּ אֵלָֽי (1)“have come/traveled {here} from the land/region of Canaan to live near me.”
Genesis 46:32
And the men {are} herders of sheep
Quote: וְהָאֲנָשִׁים֙ רֹ֣עֵי צֹ֔אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“The men {of my family} raise/tend sheep {and goats}.” or “{I will} also {tell him that} the/you men {in my family} raise sheep {and goats}.” Be consistent here with whether you are translating this embedded quote (that began in verse 31) as an direct or indirect quote.
for they are livestock men
Quote: כִּֽי אַנְשֵׁ֥י מִקְנֶ֖ה הָי֑וּ (1)“for/because they are livestock raisers/herders,” or “In fact, they raise {all kinds of} livestock {for a living},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and they have brought their flock{s} and their herd{s
Quote: וְצֹאנָ֧ם וּבְקָרָ֛ם & הֵבִֽיאוּ (1)“and they have brought {with them} {all} their sheep {and goats} and cattle”
and everything
Quote: וְכָל (1)“and everything {else}” or “as well as everything {else}”
that {belongs} to them
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר לָהֶ֖ם (1)“that they own/have.” or “that is theirs.”
Genesis 46:33
Then it will be
Quote: וְהָיָ֕ה (1)“Then” or “So then,” This phrase introduces and emphasizes what Joseph says next. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
when Pharaoh
Quote: כִּֽי & פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)“when {King} Pharaoh” or “when the king”
calls for you and says, ‘What {is} your work
Quote: יִקְרָ֥א לָכֶ֖ם & וְאָמַ֖ר מַה מַּעֲשֵׂיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
“summons you and asks {you} what your work/occupation is,” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quotation with a direct or indirect quote.
Genesis 46:34
then you should say
Quote: וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“you should/must tell {him},”
Your servants have been livestock men from our youth and until now
Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֨י מִקְנֶ֜ה הָי֤וּ עֲבָדֶ֨יךָ֙ מִנְּעוּרֵ֣ינוּ וְעַד עַ֔תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“Your Majesty/Highness, we have raised livestock since the time we were youths/young,” or “Sir, ever since the time we were young until now, we have been raising livestock,” The phrase “your servants” shows respect to Pharaoh and acknowledges his high position; it does not mean that Pharaoh actually owns Joseph’s brothers as servants. Translate this in a polite way that shows respect toward Pharaoh. Also, see how you translated “livestock men” in verse 32.
both we {and} also our fathers
Quote: גַּם אֲנַ֖חְנוּ גַּם אֲבֹתֵ֑ינוּ (1)“{which is} the same occupation that our forefathers/ancestors had.” See how you translated “fathers” in Gen 15:15.
so that
Quote: בַּעֲב֗וּר (1)“That way” or “If {you say} that, {then}”
you can settle
Quote: תֵּשְׁבוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“you will be permitted/allowed to live {separately/privately}” or “{he/Pharaoh} will permit/allow you to live {separately/privately}”. The idea here is that Jacob’s family would be permitted to live in rural areas to raise their livestock away from most Egyptians, who despised sheep herders.
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ גֹּ֔שֶׁן (1)“in the region/territory of Goshen,” or “in Goshen Province/County,”
because
Quote: כִּֽי (1)“{especially} because/since”
every herder of sheep {is} an abomination {to} Egyptians
Quote: תוֹעֲבַ֥ת מִצְרַ֖יִם כָּל רֹ֥עֵה צֹֽאן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“sheep herders are detestable {to} Egyptians.” or “the people of Egypt have disdain/contempt for sheep herders.” or “Egyptians despise/detest everyone who raises sheep.” For some languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of phrases in this clause. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “abomination” in Gen 43:32.
Genesis 47
Genesis 47:1
Then Joseph went and reported to Pharaoh and said
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֣א יוֹסֵף֮ וַיַּגֵּ֣ד לְפַרְעֹה֒ וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)“Then/So Joseph went to {King} Pharaoh and informed/told {him},” See how you translated “report to Pharaoh” in Gen 46:31.
My father and my brothers
Quote: אָבִ֨י וְאַחַ֜י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“My father, my brothers {and their families},” It is implied that the brothers brought their families with them. Consider whether or not to make that explicit in your translation.
and their flock{s} and their herd{s
Quote: וְצֹאנָ֤ם וּבְקָרָם֙ (1)“and/with their flock{s} {of sheep and goats} and their herd{s} {of cattle}” or “{along} with their sheep, {goats,} cattle,”
and all that {belongs} to them
Quote: וְכָל אֲשֶׁ֣ר לָהֶ֔ם (1)“and everything {else} that they own,“ or “and all {the rest of} their belongings/possessions,”
have come from the land of Canaan
Quote: בָּ֖אוּ מֵאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“have come {here} from the land/region of Canaan.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause and the rest of this verse earlier in this sentence. For example: “My father and my brothers {and their families} have come {to Egypt} from the region of Canaan and {are} now in Goshen Province. {They brought with them} their sheep …” Do what is best in your language.
and behold, they {are
Quote: וְהִנָּ֖ם (1)“They {are staying} now” or “and they have {already} arrived”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)“in the region/territory of Goshen.” or “in Goshen Province/County.”
Genesis 47:2
Then he took five men from among his brothers, and he presented them before Pharaoh
Quote: וּמִקְצֵ֣ה אֶחָ֔יו לָקַ֖ח חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה אֲנָשִׁ֑ים וַיַּצִּגֵ֖ם לִפְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה (1)“Then he/Joseph took/brought five of his brothers before/to Pharaoh and presented/introduced them {to him}.” or “Joseph had brought five of his brothers {with him} {from Goshen}, so he took/brought them before Pharaoh and presented/introduced them {to him}.” Joseph probably brought his father and brothers with him from Goshen (46:31) to Pharaoh’s palace. It is not clear whether or not they were in the room yet when Joseph spoke to Pharaoh about them (47:1).
Genesis 47:3
Then Pharaoh said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֛ה אֶל אֶחָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Pharaoh asked Joseph’s brothers,” or “Then Pharaoh asked them,” Make sure that your translation of “his brothers” refers to Joseph’s brothers, not Pharaoh’s.
What {is} your work
Quote: מַה מַּעֲשֵׂיכֶ֑ם (1)“What {is} your occupation?” or “What {kind of} work do you do?” or “What do you do for a living?”
And they said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֗ה (1)“They answered Pharaoh/him,” or “{One of} them said/replied,”
Your servants
Quote: עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{We,} your {humble} servants,” or “Your Majesty/Highness, we” or “Sir, we”. See how you translated “your servants” in Gen 46:34.
are} herders of sheep
Quote: רֹעֵ֥ה צֹאן֙ (1)“{are} shepherds/herdsmen,” or “raise sheep {for a living},”
both we and our fathers
Quote: גַּם אֲנַ֖חְנוּ גַּם אֲבוֹתֵֽינוּ (1)“just like/as our forefathers/ancestors were/did.” or “{which is} the same {kind of} work/occupation that our forefathers/ancestors did/had.”
Genesis 47:4
Then they said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“They {also} said to him,” or “Then they added,” For some languages it is more natural here to omit this quote margin, because the same people (Joseph’s brothers) are still talking to the same person (Pharaoh). However, the words emphasize what Joseph’s five brothers say next and may indicate that there was a pause between what they said in verse 3 and verse 4. Do what is best in your language.
We have come to sojourn
Quote: לָג֣וּר & בָּאנוּ֒ (1)“We have come {here} to live/stay for a while” or “We came {here} to live/stay temporarily”
in the land
Quote: בָּאָרֶץ֮ (1)“in this country,” or “in {your} land/country,”
because there is not pasture for the flock{s} that {belong} to your servants
Quote: כִּי אֵ֣ין מִרְעֶ֗ה לַצֹּאן֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לַעֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)“because there was not enough pasture/grass for our flock{s} {of sheep and goats}” or “Our flocks, sir, did not have enough grass to eat”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
because the famine {is} heavy in the land of Canaan
Quote: כִּֽי כָבֵ֥ד הָרָעָ֖ב בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“in the region of Canaan {where we are/come from}, because the famine {is} very/so severe/terrible {there}.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence. For example: “The famine is so severe/terrible in the region of Canaan {where we are/come from} that there is not enough grass {in the fields} for our flocks.” Do what is best in your language.
So now, please let your servants settle
Quote: וְעַתָּ֛ה יֵֽשְׁבוּ נָ֥א עֲבָדֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“So now/then, please let {us} your {humble} servants settle/live” or “So then, sir, please let us settle/live”. See how you translated “your servants” in verse 3 to show respect.
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)“in the region/territory of Goshen.” or “in Goshen Province.”
Genesis 47:5
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֔ה אֶל יוֹסֵ֖ף לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“Then Pharaoh {turned} to Joseph and said,” or “{When Pharaoh heard that,} Pharaoh/he said to Joseph,”
Your father and your brothers have come to you
Quote: אָבִ֥יךָ וְאַחֶ֖יךָ בָּ֥אוּ אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)“{Now that} your father and brothers have come {to live} near you,” Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like Pharaoh was telling Joseph something he did not already know. Rather, he is stating shared knowledge as the basis for what he says next.
Genesis 47:6
The land of Egypt {is} before you
Quote: אֶ֤רֶץ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לְפָנֶ֣יךָ (1)“the {entire} land of Egypt {is} available to you {to choose from}.” or “you may choose any part of the land of Egypt {for them to live in}.” Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 5.
Settle your father and your brothers
Quote: הוֹשֵׁ֥ב אֶת אָבִ֖יךָ וְאֶת אַחֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{So} have your father and your brothers settle” or “{In fact,} they may settle/live”
in the best land; let them settle in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּמֵיטַ֣ב הָאָ֔רֶץ & יֵשְׁבוּ֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ גֹּ֔שֶׁן (1)“in the best/finest land {in the country}, in Goshen Province.” or “in the region/territory of Goshen, {which is} the best/finest land {in the country}.”
And if you know that there are men of ability among them
Quote: וְאִם יָדַ֗עְתָּ וְיֶשׁ בָּם֙ אַנְשֵׁי חַ֔יִל (1)“And if you know that some of them are especially/very talented/skilled {at/in raising livestock},”
then appoint them overseers of livestock over {those} that {belong} to me
Quote: וְשַׂמְתָּ֛ם שָׂרֵ֥י מִקְנֶ֖ה עַל אֲשֶׁר לִֽי (1)“then make them herdsmen over my livestock {also}.” or “then put them in charge of raising my livestock {also}.”
Genesis 47:7
Then Joseph brought Jacob his father
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֤א יוֹסֵף֙ אֶת יַֽעֲקֹ֣ב אָבִ֔יו (1)“Then Joseph brought/took his father Jacob”
and presented him before Pharaoh
Quote: וַיַּֽעֲמִדֵ֖הוּ לִפְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה (1)“and presented/introduced him to {King} Pharaoh,” or “to {King} Pharaoh and introduced them to each other,” See how you translated “presented” in verse 2.
and Jacob blessed Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶת פַּרְעֹֽה (1)“and Jacob {greeted and} blessed Pharaoh.” or “and Jacob {asked God to} bless/prosper Pharaoh.” or “and Jacob greeted Pharaoh with a blessing.” In Hebrew, there is a common greeting which means “peace be to you,” so it is possible that Jacob used this blessing of peace here to greet Pharaoh.
Genesis 47:8
Then Pharaoh said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶֽל יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)“Then Pharaoh asked Jacob,”
How many {are} the days of the years of your life
Quote: כַּמָּ֕ה יְמֵ֖י שְׁנֵ֥י חַיֶּֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
“{Sir,} how old are you now?” Make sure your translation of Pharaoh’s question about Jacob’s age sounds polite. Also, for some languages, a title of respect (such as “Sir”) is necessary whenever someone addresses a distinguished old man such as Jacob.
Genesis 47:9
And Jacob said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Jacob answered him,” or “Jacob replied,”
The days of the years of my sojournings {are} 130 years
Quote: יְמֵי֙ שְׁנֵ֣י מְגוּרַ֔י שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים וּמְאַ֖ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“I have been living {in this world} for 130 years.” or “The length of my life {so far} has been 130 years.” Consider again how you translated “sojournings,” “sojourn,” and “sojourner” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:10; 15:13; 17:8; 19:9; 20:1; 21:23, 34; 23:4; 26:3; 28:4; 32:4; 35:27; 37:1; 47:4, 9. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context.
The days of the years of my life have been few and difficult
Quote: מְעַ֣ט וְרָעִ֗ים הָיוּ֙ יְמֵי֙ שְׁנֵ֣י חַיַּ֔י (1)“I have not lived very long, and I have faced/had many difficulties/hardships.” or “My life has been short, with many difficulties/hardships.”
and they have not reached the days of the years of my fathers’ lives
Quote: וְלֹ֣א הִשִּׂ֗יגוּ אֶת יְמֵי֙ שְׁנֵי֙ חַיֵּ֣י אֲבֹתַ֔י (1)“In fact, I have lived less years than my forefathers/ancestors did” or “In fact, I have not lived {nearly} as long as my forefathers/ancestors did”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
in the days of their sojournings
Quote: בִּימֵ֖י מְגוּרֵיהֶֽם (1)“during the days/years/time that they lived {on earth}.” or “during their years/time {on earth}.”
Genesis 47:10
Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶת פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)“Then Jacob {again} {asked God to} bless Pharaoh” or “Then Jacob {said goodbye} to Pharaoh with a blessing”. It was customary in Hebrew to use the blessing “peace be to you” both when greeting and when leaving someone. See how you translated “blessed” in verse 7.
and left from the presence of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֖א מִלִּפְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה (1)“and left his presence.” or “and left him.” or “and left Pharaoh’s {throne} room.”
Genesis 47:11
Then Joseph settled his father and his brothers, and he gave them property in the land of Egypt, in the best land, in the land of Rameses
Quote: וַיּוֹשֵׁ֣ב יוֹסֵף֮ אֶת אָבִ֣יו וְאֶת אֶחָיו֒ וַיִּתֵּ֨ן לָהֶ֤ם אֲחֻזָּה֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם בְּמֵיטַ֥ב הָאָ֖רֶץ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ רַעְמְסֵ֑ס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So Joseph gave his father and his brothers the best/choicest property/land in the country of Egypt, and they {and their families} settled there. {The property was} in Rameses Province/Count, {that is, Goshen Province/County},” or “After that, Joseph helped his father and brothers settle in the country of Egypt. He gave them the choicest property {in Egypt}, which was in {Goshen Province, also known as} Rameses Province.” It is implied that Rameses (verse 11) was another name for Goshen (verses 1, 4, 6). If necessary, you could make that information explicit in your translation or put it in a footnote. Later in Egypt’s history, some of the Pharaohs were named Rameses and a city was named after one of them (Exodus 1:11).
as Pharaoh had commanded
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר צִוָּ֥ה פַרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“just as Pharaoh had commanded/told him {to do}.” or “{He/Joseph did} {exactly} as Pharaoh had commanded/told him {to do}.” It may be more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “After that, Joseph did what Pharaoh had commanded/told him {to do}: He helped his father and brothers settle in the country of Egypt. He gave them property in Rameses Province/County, {that is, Goshen Province/County,} {which was} the choicest land {in Egypt}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 47:12
And Joseph provided his father and his brothers and all the household of his father {with
Quote: וַיְכַלְכֵּ֤ל יוֹסֵף֙ אֶת אָבִ֣יו וְאֶת אֶחָ֔יו וְאֵ֖ת כָּל בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֑יו (1)“Joseph {also} provided/supported his father and brothers and all {the rest of} his father’s household/family {with}”
bread, according to the mouth{s} of the little ones
Quote: לֶ֖חֶם לְפִ֥י הַטָּֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“food, based on how many children/people were in each family.” or “as much food as {each family} needed to feed {all} the children/people in their family.” The children are mentioned to emphasize that all the members of the families were well-provided for, including the youngest ones. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph was providing food for everyone in each family, not just the children.
Genesis 47:13
Now there was no bread
Quote: וְלֶ֤חֶם אֵין֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“Now {meanwhile,} there was no {more} food” or “{Meanwhile,} there was {almost} no food” or “{After a while,} there was very little food {available}”. This clause is probably an exaggeration to emphasize that there was so little food that the people were starving. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Also consider what is the best way in your language to begin this new section that returns to the famine and how it was progressing.
in all the earth
Quote: בְּכָל הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)This phrase is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It could mean: (1) “in all the earth,” or “in the entire {known} world,” or “anywhere,” which might be an exaggeration (like the previous phrase); or (2) “in all the land,” or “in the/that entire area/region {of the earth/world},” which includes Egypt and Canaan (mentioned later in the verse) and other nearby regions and countries. See how you translated “all the earth” in Gen 41:57.
because the famine {was} very heavy
Quote: כִּֽי כָבֵ֥ד הָרָעָ֖ב מְאֹ֑ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“because the famine {was} very/so severe/oppressive/terrible.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, for example: “Now {after a while,} the famine was/became so severe/terrible in the entire world that there was very little food {available} {anywhere}.” Do what is best in your language.
and the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan were languishing
Quote: וַתֵּ֜לַהּ אֶ֤רֶץ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ וְאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“As a result, {the people of/in} the country of Egypt and the region of Canaan” or “In fact, {the people living in} the lands of Egypt and Canaan”. Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to the people who live in Egypt and Canaan, not just the lands.
and … were languishing
Quote: וַתֵּ֜לַהּ (1)“were fainting/weak” or “were suffering badly/terribly” or “were wasting away”. The verb “languishing” refers in general to the suffering that the famine was causing, including things such as weakness, fainting and other distress. Some languages have an idiom (like “were wasting away”) that fits well here. Do what is best in your language.
because of the famine
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י הָרָעָֽב (1)“because of the severe lack of food.” or “because they did not have enough to eat.” or “from hunger.”
Genesis 47:14
And Joseph collected all the silver that was found in the land of Egypt and in the land of Canaan for the grain which they were buying
Quote: וַיְלַקֵּ֣ט יוֹסֵ֗ף אֶת כָּל הַכֶּ֨סֶף֙ הַנִּמְצָ֤א בְאֶֽרֶץ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ וּבְאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן בַּשֶּׁ֖בֶר אֲשֶׁר הֵ֣ם שֹׁבְרִ֑ים (1)“So the people spent their money buying grain from Joseph until he had collected/received all their money.” or “So they bought grain from Joseph until there was no more silver/money left in the country of Egypt or the land/region of Canaan.”
and Joseph brought the silver to the house of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת הַכֶּ֖סֶף בֵּ֥יתָה פַרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Then Joseph/He {had his servants} take the silver/money to Pharaoh’s palace.” or “Joseph/He stored that silver/money in Pharaoh’s palace.” Joseph probably had servants do this for him. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 41:48.
Genesis 47:15
So the silver was consumed from the land of Egypt and from the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיִּתֹּ֣ם הַכֶּ֗סֶף מֵאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַיִם֮ וּמֵאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַעַן֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“So {when} {all} the silver/money in the land/country of Egypt and the land/region of Canaan had been used up,” or “When/After {the people in} Egypt and Canaan had spent all their silver/money,” Consider whether it is better in your language to use a passive or active clause here.
all Egypt
Quote: כָל מִצְרַ֨יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
“all {the people} in Egypt” or “the Egyptians all” or “{people from} all over Egypt”. The word “all” is an exaggeration (hyperbole) which emphasizes that a large number of Egyptians went to Joseph. Consider whether or not it is best to use hyperbole here in your language.
and … came to Joseph
Quote: וַיָּבֹאוּ֩ & אֶל יוֹסֵ֤ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“went to Joseph”. Consider whether “came” or “went” is more natural here in your language.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and pleaded {with him},” or “and begged {him},”
Give us bread
Quote: הָֽבָה לָּ֣נוּ לֶ֔חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“{Sir,} {please} give us food”. Make sure your translation of the people’s request sounds polite, not rude or disrespectful. Also see how you translated “bread” in verses 12-13.
And why should we die before you
Quote: וְלָ֥מָּה נָמ֖וּת נֶגְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“so that we do not die {right here} in front of you!” or “and do not watch/let us starve to death!” or “so that we do not starve to death!” The people use a rhetorical question here to emphasize how desperate they feel. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
For the silver is gone
Quote: כִּ֥י אָפֵ֖ס כָּֽסֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“There is no more money {to buy food/grain}!” or “We have no more money {to buy food/grain}!” It may be more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “{Sir,} we have no more money {to buy grain/food}! Please give us food so that we do not starve to death!” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 47:16
And Joseph said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Joseph said/responded {to them},” or “Joseph replied,”
Bring your livestock
Quote: הָב֣וּ מִקְנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“Bring/Give {me} your livestock/animals”. The word “livestock” is general here and includes all the different kinds of animals that are specified in verse 17.
and I will give {grain} to you {in exchange} for your livestock
Quote: וְאֶתְּנָ֥ה לָכֶ֖ם בְּמִקְנֵיכֶ֑ם (1)“and I will give/sell you {grain/food} if/when you give me your livestock/animals {to pay for it},” or “and in exchange for them I will give you {grain/food},”
since the silver is gone
Quote: אִם אָפֵ֖ס כָּֽסֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“since {all} your money is gone.” or “since you have spent {all} your silver/money.” For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “Since your silver/money is gone, bring/give {me} your livestock to pay for the grain/food that I will give you.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 47:17
So they brought their livestock to Joseph
Quote: וַיָּבִ֣יאוּ אֶת מִקְנֵיהֶם֮ אֶל יוֹסֵף֒ (1)“So the people brought/took their livestock/animals to Joseph.”
and Joseph gave bread to them {in exchange} for the horses and for the herd{s} of sheep and for the herd{s} of cattle and for the donkeys
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן לָהֶם֩ יוֹסֵ֨ף לֶ֜חֶם בַּסּוּסִ֗ים וּבְמִקְנֵ֥ה הַצֹּ֛אן וּבְמִקְנֵ֥ה הַבָּקָ֖ר וּבַחֲמֹרִ֑ים (1)“and gave Joseph/him {their} horses, sheep, goats, cattle, and donkeys to pay for the grain/food that he gave them.” or “They gave Joseph/him {their} horses, …” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
So he provided them with bread in that year
Quote: וַיְנַהֲלֵ֤ם בַּלֶּ֨חֶם֙ & בַּשָּׁנָ֖ה הַהִֽוא (1)“In that way Joseph supplied the people with grain/food that year,”
in exchange} for all their livestock
Quote: בְּכָל מִקְנֵהֶ֔ם (1)“{and they gave him} all their livestock/animals {to pay} for it.”
Genesis 47:18
And {when} that year had ended
Quote: וַתִּתֹּם֮ הַשָּׁנָ֣ה הַהִוא֒ (1)“When/After that year was over,”
then they came to him in the second year
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ אֵלָ֜יו בַּשָּׁנָ֣ה הַשֵּׁנִ֗ית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
“the people came/went to Joseph {again} in the next/following year”
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמְרוּ לוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and told him,” or “and pleaded with him,”
We cannot hide {it} from my lord that since
Quote: לֹֽא נְכַחֵ֣ד מֵֽאֲדֹנִ֔י כִּ֚י אִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
“Our lord/master, we cannot hide from you {the fact} that” or “Sir, as you know,” For some languages, it may be more natural to put the address “my/our lord” or “sir” first in this quote. Also notice that this address is used three times in this verse to show extra respect to Joseph. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
the silver is consumed and the herd{s} of livestock
Quote: תַּ֣ם הַכֶּ֔סֶף וּמִקְנֵ֥ה הַבְּהֵמָ֖ה (1)“{our} silver/money is gone and our livestock/animals” or “not only is {our} silver/money {all} gone, but {all} {our} livestock/animals {also}”. Consider again how you translated “silver” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:2; 20:16; 23:15-16; 24:35, 53; 31:15; 37:28; 42:25, 27-28, 35; 43:12, 15, 18, 21-23; 44:1-2, 8; 45:22; 47:14-16, 18. It may be necessary to translate this word in different ways, depending on the context.
belong} to my lord
Quote: אֶל אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{belong} to {you,} our lord/master.” or “are yours, sir.” or “{belong} to you.” In this verse, the people use the third person (“my/our lord”) to address Joseph in a respectful manner. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.
there is nothing left before my lord except our bodies and our lands
Quote: לֹ֤א נִשְׁאַר֙ לִפְנֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י בִּלְתִּ֥י אִם גְּוִיָּתֵ֖נוּ וְאַדְמָתֵֽנוּ (1)“We have nothing left to pay/give you, sir, {for grain/food}, except ourselves and our land/fields.” or “The only way we can pay you {for grain/food} is to give you our land/farmland and work for you, sir.” Consider what is the best way to translate the Hebrew word for “land” here (and In verses 19-26), which refers to cultivated land (such as farmland or fields), not to the planet earth or to a country. It is different from the word for “land” in the rest of this chapter (in verses 1, 4, 6, 11, 13-15, 27-28).
Genesis 47:19
Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land
Quote: לָ֧מָּה נָמ֣וּת לְעֵינֶ֗יךָ גַּם אֲנַ֨חְנוּ֙ גַּ֣ם אַדְמָתֵ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“What good would it do for us to die and our farmland/fields {to become ruined/empty}?” or “Please do not {just} watch us die or let our land/fields {become wasteland/desolate/empty}.” For many languages, the verb “die” does not fit with both people and land, so a different verb must be used for each one. The end of verse 19 specifies how the land would “die.” See how you translated a similar rhetorical question in verse 15.
Buy us and our land {in exchange} for the bread
Quote: קְנֵֽה אֹתָ֥נוּ וְאֶת אַדְמָתֵ֖נוּ בַּלָּ֑חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“{Instead,} {please} take us and our farmland/fields {in exchange} for food.” or “{Instead} {please} give us food and we will give you our farmland/fields and ourselves {to pay} for it.” Consider again how you translated the synecdoche “bread” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 3:19 (and note); 14:18; 21:14; 28:20; 37:25; 38:6; 41:54-55; 43:31; 47:12, 15, 17, 19. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and we and our land will be slaves to Pharaoh
Quote: וְנִֽהְיֶ֞ה אֲנַ֤חְנוּ וְאַדְמָתֵ֨נוּ֙ עֲבָדִ֣ים לְפַרְעֹ֔ה (1)“Then we will be {King} Pharaoh’s slaves/servants, and our land/fields {will also be his}.” or “Then our land/fields will belong to {King} Pharaoh and we will work for him as his slaves/servants.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Give {us} seed
Quote: וְתֶן זֶ֗רַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{Please} give {us} seeds {to sow/plant}”
so that we will live
Quote: וְנִֽחְיֶה֙ (1)“so that we will/can survive” or “so that we will/can stay alive”
and not die
Quote: וְלֹ֣א נָמ֔וּת (1)“and not die {from hunger},” or “and not {starve} to death,” See how you translated “so that we will live and not die” in Gen 42:2.
and the land will not be desolate
Quote: וְהָאֲדָמָ֖ה לֹ֥א תֵשָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and {so that} the land will not become a desert!” or “and {so that} the land will produce/grow plants/crops {again}!” For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “{Please} {just} give {us} seeds {to plant} so that the land will produce/grow {food} crops {again} and then we will survive and not die {from hunger}!” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 47:20
Then Joseph bought
Quote: וַיִּ֨קֶן יוֹסֵ֜ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“So Joseph {agreed and} bought/acquired/obtained” or “Joseph {did what they asked and} bought/acquired”. For some languages it may be necessary to make explicit that Joseph agreed to do what the people suggested. Do what is best in your language.
all the {farm}land of Egypt for Pharaoh
Quote: אֶת כָּל אַדְמַ֤ת מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לְפַרְעֹ֔ה (1)“all the land/farmland in {the country of} Egypt for Pharaoh.”
because every Egyptian sold his field
Quote: כִּֽי מָכְר֤וּ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ אִ֣ישׁ שָׂדֵ֔הוּ (1)“All the Egyptians sold/gave their fields {to him} {in exchange for grain/food},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: כִּֽי־ & הָרָעָ֑ב (2)“because the food shortage/scarcity”. Consider again how you translated “famine” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:10; 26:1; 41:27, 30-31, 36, 50, 54-57; 42:5; 43:1; 45:6, 11; 47:4, 13, 20. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context.
was heavy for them
Quote: חָזַ֥ק עֲלֵהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“was {so/very} severe/oppressive.” or “was so severe/terrible that they did not have enough to eat.” See how you translated “heavy” in verses 4 and 13. For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “The famine was {very} severe for all the Egyptian people, so Joseph {agreed with their request/suggestion and} let them sell their fields {to him} {in exchange for grain/food}. In that way, Joseph/he bought/acquired all the land/farmland in {the country of} Egypt for {King} Pharaoh, so that {all} the land became Pharaoh’s {property}.” Do what is best in your language.
So the land became Pharaoh’s
Quote: וַתְּהִ֥י הָאָ֖רֶץ לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)“In that way, {all} the farmland became Pharaoh’s {property}.” or “That is how {all} the farmland {eventually} belonged to {King} Pharaoh.”
Genesis 47:21
And {as for} the people, he moved them to the cities
Quote: וְאֶ֨ת הָעָ֔ם הֶעֱבִ֥יר אֹת֖וֹ לֶעָרִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
“Joseph {also} moved/relocated {all} the people {from their farmlands} to the {nearby} cities”. The Masoretic Hebrew text has “moved them to the cities” here, which Joseph may have done in order to make the grain more readily accessible to them. The Samaritan Pentateuch (a different Hebrew version) and the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Hebrew text) have “made the people slaves” instead, which may refer to the fact that all the people would now be working for Pharaoh, since all the fields belonged to him. The textual variant that is not used in your translation could be put in a footnote.
from {one} end of the border of Egypt to its {other} end
Quote: מִקְצֵ֥ה גְבוּל מִצְרַ֖יִם וְעַד קָצֵֽהוּ (1)“in every part of {the country of} Egypt.” or “throughout the entire {country of} Egypt.”
Genesis 47:22
Only the land of the priests he did not buy
Quote: רַ֛ק אַדְמַ֥ת הַכֹּהֲנִ֖ים לֹ֣א קָנָ֑ה (1)“The only land/farmland that he/Joseph did not buy was the priests’ {land},” or “The priests’ land/farmland was the only land he/Joseph did not buy,”
because {there was} an allotment for the priests from Pharaoh
Quote: כִּי֩ חֹ֨ק לַכֹּהֲנִ֜ים מֵאֵ֣ת פַּרְעֹ֗ה (1)“because they regularly received a certain amount {of food} from Pharaoh,” or “because Pharaoh gave them a regular {food} allotment/allowance,”
and they ate {from} their allotment that Pharaoh gave to them
Quote: וְאָֽכְל֤וּ אֶת חֻקָּם֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָתַ֤ן לָהֶם֙ פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)“and they had enough to eat from what he gave to them.” or “so that they had plenty to eat.”
For that {reason} they did not sell their land
Quote: עַל כֵּ֕ן לֹ֥א מָכְר֖וּ אֶת אַדְמָתָֽם (1)“That is why they did not {need to} sell their land/farmland {to buy food}.”
Genesis 47:23
Then Joseph said to the people
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל הָעָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then/Next Joseph announced/declared to the {Egyptian} people,”
Behold
Quote: הֵן֩ (1)“Look/Listen,”
today I have bought you and your land for Pharaoh
Quote: קָנִ֨יתִי אֶתְכֶ֥ם הַיּ֛וֹם וְאֶת אַדְמַתְכֶ֖ם לְפַרְעֹ֑ה (1)“now that I have bought/acquired you and your land/farmland/fields for {King} Pharaoh,” or “now that you and your land/farmland/fields belong to {King} Pharaoh,”
Here {is} seed for you
Quote: הֵֽא לָכֶ֣ם זֶ֔רַע (1)“here {are} {some} seeds for you” or “I am giving you {some} seeds”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
so that you can sow the ground
Quote: וּזְרַעְתֶּ֖ם אֶת הָאֲדָמָֽה (1)“so that you can plant {them in} the fields.” or “to plant {in} the fields.” See how you translated “sowed” in Gen 26:12.
Genesis 47:24
And it will happen in the harvests
Quote: וְהָיָה֙ בַּתְּבוּאֹ֔ת (1)“Then whenever you harvest/gather {the crops},” or “Then every harvest season/time,”
that you must give a fifth to Pharaoh
Quote: וּנְתַתֶּ֥ם חֲמִישִׁ֖ית לְפַרְעֹ֑ה (1)“you are required to give one-fifth {of the harvest/crops} to Pharaoh/him,” or “you must give Pharaoh/him one-fifth {of the crops you harvest/gather}.”
and the four parts
Quote: וְאַרְבַּ֣ע הַיָּדֹ֡ת (1)“but the {remaining/other} four-fifths” or “The {remaining/other} four-fifths {of your harvest}” or “The rest {of what you harvest/gather}”. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here.
will be for you
Quote: יִהְיֶ֣ה לָכֶם֩ (1)“will be yours” or “you may keep for yourselves”
as seed of the field
Quote: לְזֶ֨רַע הַשָּׂדֶ֧ה (1)“as seed/seeds to plant the fields” or “to plant seeds {in} the fields”
and as your food and for those in your houses
Quote: וּֽלְאָכְלְכֶ֛ם וְלַאֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּבָתֵּיכֶ֖ם (1)“and as food for you and your households/families,” or “and for you and your households/families to eat,”
and for your little ones to eat
Quote: וְלֶאֱכֹ֥ל לְטַפְּכֶֽם (1)“including your children.”
Genesis 47:25
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then they responded,” or “The people said/replied {to him},”
You have kept us alive
Quote: הֶחֱיִתָ֑נוּ (1)“You have saved our lives!” or “You have made it so we can live!”
Let us find favor in the eyes of my lord
Quote: נִמְצָא חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)“May we {continue to} find favor in your eyes/sight, master/sir,” or “Please {continue to} be kind to us, master/sir,”
and we will be slaves for Pharaoh
Quote: וְהָיִ֥ינוּ עֲבָדִ֖ים לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)“and we will {agree to} be/become {King} Pharaoh’s slaves/servants.” or “and we will serve {King} Pharaoh as his slaves/servants.”
Genesis 47:26
And Joseph established it as a law
Quote: וַיָּ֣שֶׂם אֹתָ֣הּ יוֹסֵ֡ף לְחֹק֩ (1)“So Joseph established/made a law”
to this day
Quote: עַד הַיּ֨וֹם הַזֶּ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{that is} still {in effect/force} today/now”. This phrase refers to the time that Moses was writing the book of Genesis. You could put that information in a footnote. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase at the end of the sentence and say, “{That law} is still {in effect/force} today/now.” Do what is best in your language.
concerning the {farm}land of Egypt, {that} the fifth {belongs} to Pharaoh
Quote: עַל אַדְמַ֥ת מִצְרַ֛יִם לְפַרְעֹ֖ה לַחֹ֑מֶשׁ (1)“concerning/about the farmland/fields in {the country of} Egypt: one-fifth {of the harvest/crops} {belongs} to Pharaoh.” or “{that required} {people to give} to Pharaoh one-fifth {of all the crops they harvested} from the farmland/fields in Egypt.” See how you translated “a fifth” in verse 24.
Only the land of the priests by itself did not become Pharaoh’s
Quote: רַ֞ק אַדְמַ֤ת הַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙ לְבַדָּ֔ם לֹ֥א הָיְתָ֖ה לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)“The priests’ land was the only land {in Egypt} that did not belong to Pharaoh.” or “The only land that Pharaoh did not own was the land that belonged to the priests.” See how you translated “only the land of the priests” in verse 22. Also, consider again how you translated “land/farmland” in verses 18-26.
Genesis 47:27
And … settled
Quote: וַיֵּ֧שֶׁב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
“So/Now” or “Meanwhile”. It was already mentioned in verse 11 that Israel (Jacob) had settled in the country of Egypt. Your translation of verse 27 should not imply that he settled there again.
Israel
Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{Jacob, whose other name was} Israel,” or “Israel {that is, Jacob,}” The name “Israel” and the name “Jacob” refer to the same person. To make that clear, you could make “Jacob” explicit here in your translation or in a footnote.
And … settled
Quote: וַיֵּ֧שֶׁב (1)“had settled {with his family}” or “was living/dwelling {with his family}”
in the land of Egypt, in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם בְּאֶ֣רֶץ גֹּ֑שֶׁן (1)“in the region/territory of Goshen in the land/country of Egypt,” or “in Goshen Province/County in the country of Egypt,” See how you translated “in the land of Goshen” in Gen 45:10.
and they acquired {possessions
Quote: וַיֵּאָחֲז֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and they acquired/gained {many possessions}” or “and owned/possessed {much property/land}”. This phrase is general here and refers to acquiring land and other possessions.
in it
Quote: בָ֔הּ (1)“in that {region/territory}.” or “there.”
And they were fruitful
Quote: וַיִּפְר֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“They were fruitful” or “They had many children”. See how you translated a similar phrase (“be fruitful and multiply”) in Gen 35:11.
and multiplied greatly
Quote: וַיִּרְבּ֖וּ מְאֹֽד (1)“and their numbers increased greatly.” or “and became very numerous/many.”
Genesis 47:28
And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years
Quote: וַיְחִ֤י יַעֲקֹב֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם שְׁבַ֥ע עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה שָׁנָ֑ה (1)“{When/After} Jacob had lived in the country of Egypt {for} seventeen years,”
and the days of Jacob, the years of his life, were 147 years
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יְמֵֽי יַעֲקֹב֙ שְׁנֵ֣י חַיָּ֔יו שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֔ים וְאַרְבָּעִ֥ים וּמְאַ֖ת שָׁנָֽה (1)“he reached the age of 147 years.” or “he was 147 years old.”
Genesis 47:29
and the days of Israel drew near {for him} to die
Quote: וַיִּקְרְב֣וּ יְמֵֽי יִשְׂרָאֵ֘ל לָמוּת֒ (1)“{When} it was almost time for Israel/him to die,” or “Israel/He {knew that} it was almost time for him to die, so”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
So he called for his son, for Joseph
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֣א לִבְנ֣וֹ לְיוֹסֵ֗ף (1)“he summoned his son Joseph” or “he asked for his son Joseph {to come to him}”
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“and urged him,”
If, please, I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Please show your favor/kindness toward me {and}” or “Please do this favor for me:” or “Please, if you {truly} love me,”
please put your hand under my thigh
Quote: שִֽׂים נָ֥א יָדְךָ֖ תַּ֣חַת יְרֵכִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“put your hand under my thigh/leg {to show/vow that you will do what I ask},” or “{make a vow by} putting your hand under my thigh/leg,” See how you translated this clause in Gen 24:2, and see the note about this custom there.
and deal with me {in} kindness and faithfulness
Quote: וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ עִמָּדִי֙ חֶ֣סֶד וֶאֱמֶ֔ת (1)“and {promise me that} {after I die,} you will be kind and faithful to me.” Consider again how you translated “kindness” in Gen 19:19; 20:13; 21:23; 24:12, 14, 27, 49; 32:10; 39:21; 40:14; 47:29, and how you translated “faithfulness” in Gen 24:27, 48, 49; 32:10; 42:16; 47:29.
Please do not bury me
Quote: אַל נָ֥א תִקְבְּרֵ֖נִי (1)“Please {promise that you will} not bury my body/bones”. Make sure your translation of “bury me” does not sound like Israel would still be alive when he was buried.
in Egypt
Quote: בְּמִצְרָֽיִם (1)“{here} in {the land/country of} Egypt.”
Genesis 47:30
And {when} I lie down with my fathers
Quote: וְשָֽׁכַבְתִּי֙ עִם אֲבֹתַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“{When/After} I die and rest/sleep with my ancestors,” or “Rather, after I die and join my ancestors {who have died/gone before me},” The phrase “lie down with my fathers” is a idiom that refers to Jacob’s death. See how you translated an idiom with a similar meaning in Gen 15:15.
then carry me out of Egypt
Quote: וּנְשָׂאתַ֨נִי֙ מִמִּצְרַ֔יִם (1)“carry/take my body out of Egypt {to the region of Canaan}”. See how you translated “me” in verse 29.
and bury me in their tomb
Quote: וּקְבַרְתַּ֖נִי בִּקְבֻרָתָ֑ם (1)“and bury me/it in the same burial place where their bodies are.” Jacob is referring here to the cave near the city of Hebron that Abraham had bought as a family burial place, to bury Sarah there. Abraham, Isaac and Rebekah were also buried there (Gen 23:19-20; 25:9-10; 49:31). You could put some of that information in a footnote. Also see how you translated “grave” in Gen 35:20 and a different word with a similar meaning (“burial place”) in Gen 23:4, 6, 9, 20.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Joseph replied {to him},” or “Joseph promised {him},” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph is the one speaking here. It may be helpful to read this paragraph aloud to make sure it is clear who is talking at each point in the conversation.
I will do according to your word
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֥ה כִדְבָרֶֽךָ (1)“I will do as/what you requested {of me}.” or “I will do exactly what you asked {me to do}.”
Genesis 47:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“But he urged {him},” or “But his/Joseph’s father insisted,” Consider what is the best way to refer to Joseph’s father Israel here in your language.
Swear to me
Quote: הִשָּֽׁבְעָה֙ לִ֔י (1)“Swear/Vow to me {by/before God/Yahweh} {that you will do it/that}.” or “{With God/Yahweh as your witness,} make an oath/vow to me {that you will do it/that}.” See how you translated “swear to me” in Gen 21:23.
And he swore to him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבַ֖ע ל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So Joseph swore/vowed {that he would do it/that}.” or “So Joseph promised his father with an oath/vow {to do what he had requested}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph is the one speaking here.
Then Israel bowed
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then Israel bowed {down} {to worship/thank God}” or “Then {his father} Israel bowed {his head} {and worshiped/thanked God}”. If it is not clear in your culture why Israel bowed, you could make that explicit.
at the head of the bed
Quote: עַל רֹ֥אשׁ הַמִּטָּֽה (1)“{as he sat} at the head/top of {his} bed.” or “{as he was sitting/lying} on {his} bed.” The Hebrew text has “at the head of the bed” here, while the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament) has “on the top of his staff” instead, which is quoted in Hebrews 11:21. You could include some of that information in a footnote. The difference between versions may be due to the fact that the Hebrew words for “bed” and “staff” are very similar in spelling. Or it could be that Jacob did both; for example, he may have been sitting at the head of his bed and leaning on his staff when he bowed his head and worshiped God.
Genesis 48
Genesis 48:1
Then it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחֲרֵי֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
“{Some time} after those things happened,” Consider again how you translated these two phrases in the book of Genesis. See Gen 22:1, 20; 39:7; 40:1; 48:1.
that {someone} said to Joseph, “Behold, your father is sick
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְיוֹסֵ֔ף הִנֵּ֥ה אָבִ֖יךָ חֹלֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“{someone} told Joseph, “Look/Listen, your father is sick.” or “Joseph was told/informed {by someone} that his father was sick.” For some languages it may be more natural to use an indirect quote here. Do what is best in your language.
So he took his two sons with him, Manasseh and Ephraim
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח אֶת־שְׁנֵ֤י בָנָיו֙ עִמּ֔וֹ אֶת־מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה וְאֶת־אֶפְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So/Then he/Joseph took his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim with him {to visit his father}.” or “So/Then he/Joseph {went to visit his father and} took his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim with him.” Consider what is the best way to refer to Joseph in this sentence in your language.
Genesis 48:2
And {someone} announced to Jacob and said, “Behold, your son Joseph has come to you
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֣ד לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב וַיֹּ֕אמֶר הִנֵּ֛ה בִּנְךָ֥ יוֹסֵ֖ף בָּ֣א אֵלֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“{When they got there,} {someone/they} informed/told Jacob, “Look, your son Joseph has come to see/visit you.” ” or “{When they arrived,} Jacob was informed/told {by someone} that his son Joseph had come to see/visit him.” Consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here.
Then Israel gathered his strength
Quote: וַיִּתְחַזֵּק֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Israel rallied/mustered his strength” or “{Immediately} Israel{, who was lying down,} used all his strength” or “{Immediately} Israel exerted himself”. Consider whether you language has a similar idiom that fits well here. Also, make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that “Israel” (verses 2, 8, 11, 13-14, 21) and “Jacob” (verses 2-3) refer to the same person, not two different people.
and sat up on the bed
Quote: וַיֵּ֖שֶׁב עַל הַמִּטָּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“and sat up on/at {the edge/head of} {his} bed {and they greeted each other}.” The context (verse 12) shows that Jacob sat on the edge of his bed with his feet resting on the floor and his knees facing Joseph’s sons. Also, for some languages it may be necessary (for politeness) to make it explicit that they greeted each other first before continuing their conversation. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 48:3
Then Jacob said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Jacob recounted/related to Joseph {the following}:” or “Then Jacob told Joseph,”
God Almighty
Quote: אֵ֥ל שַׁדַּ֛י (1)“Almighty/All-powerful God” or “God {who is} all-powerful”. Consider again how you translated “God Almighty” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 17:1; 28:3; 35:11; 43:14.
appeared to me
Quote: נִרְאָֽה אֵלַ֥י (1)“appeared to me {long ago}” or “came to me in a vision {long ago}”. Consider again how you translated “appear” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 8:5; 12:7; 17:1; 18:1; 26:2, 24; 35:1, 9; 46:29; 48:3. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
at Luz in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּל֖וּז בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{when I was} at {the town of} Luz in the land/region of Canaan,” or “in the land/region of Canaan at {the town of} Luz,” For some languages it is more natural to put the larger place (Canaan) first before the smaller place (Luz) that is located inside it. It may also be more natural to put the time and place phrases first in this verse and say, “{Long ago} {when I was} at {the town of} Luz in the land/region of Canaan, God Almighty …” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you spelled the name “Luz” in Gen 28:19 and 35:6.
and he blessed me
Quote: וַיְבָ֖רֶךְ אֹתִֽי (1)“He blessed me {there}” or “He pronounced a blessing over me {there}”. For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 48:4
and said to me
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלַ֗י (1)“by saying to me,” or “He said,” Make sure your translation of “blessed … and said” (verses 3-4) refers to the same event, not two separate events.
Behold, I am making you fruitful, and I will multiply you and make you
Quote: הִנְנִ֤י מַפְרְךָ֙ וְהִרְבִּיתִ֔ךָ וּנְתַתִּ֖יךָ (1)“Look/Listen, I will give you many descendants who will increase {in number} and become” or “Look/Listen, I will give you {and your descendants} many children so that your descendants will become”. See how you translated “make you fruitful and multiply you” in Gen 28:3 and “make him fruitful and … multiply him” in Gen 17:20.
into a community of peoples
Quote: לִקְהַ֣ל עַמִּ֑ים (1)“many people/ethnic groups.” See how you translated this phrase in Gen 28:3, and a similar phrase (“a community of nations”) in 35:11.
And I will give this land to your offspring after you
Quote: וְנָ֨תַתִּ֜י אֶת הָאָ֧רֶץ הַזֹּ֛את לְזַרְעֲךָ֥ אַחֲרֶ֖יךָ (1)“I will {also} give this land to your descendants”
as} an everlasting possession
Quote: אֲחֻזַּ֥ת עוֹלָֽם (1)“{as/for} an eternal/permanent possession.” or “to own forever.” or “and it will always belong to them.”
Genesis 48:5
And now, your two sons
Quote: וְעַתָּ֡ה שְׁנֵֽי בָנֶיךָ֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“{Then Jacob said to Joseph,} “Now then, your two sons”. The phrase “And now” shows that there is a change of topic. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob is no longer quoting God’s words in verse 5.
who were born for you
Quote: הַנּוֹלָדִ֨ים לְךָ֜ (1)“who were born to you” or “who were born”
in the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֗יִם (1)“{here} in the land/country of Egypt”
before I came to you in Egypt
Quote: עַד בֹּאִ֥י אֵלֶ֛יךָ מִצְרַ֖יְמָה (1)“before I joined you here,” or “before I arrived,”
they {are} mine, Ephraim and Manasseh
Quote: לִי הֵ֑ם אֶפְרַ֨יִם֙ וּמְנַשֶּׁ֔ה (1)“Ephraim and Manasseh, they {now} belong to me,” or “Ephraim and Manasseh, {will be} my sons,”
just as Reuben and Simeon are mine
Quote: כִּרְאוּבֵ֥ן וְשִׁמְע֖וֹן יִֽהְיוּ לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“just as/like Reuben and Simeon are my sons.” or “just as/like my sons Reuben and Simeon.” For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to put the names of these sons earlier in the verse and say, “Now then, your two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who were born to you here in the country of Egypt before I joined you here, {I will treat as} my sons, just as/like …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 48:6
But your children whom you father after them will be yours
Quote: וּמוֹלַדְתְּךָ֛ אֲשֶׁר הוֹלַ֥דְתָּ אַחֲרֵיהֶ֖ם לְךָ֣ יִהְי֑וּ (1)“But any {other} children that you father/have later on will be yours.” or “If you father/have any more/other children, they will belong to you.”
They will be called by the name of their brothers in their inheritance
Quote: עַ֣ל שֵׁ֧ם אֲחֵיהֶ֛ם יִקָּרְא֖וּ בְּנַחֲלָתָֽם (1)“So they will share in some of what their brothers inherit {from me}.” or “{so that} what they inherit {from me} will be some of what their brothers {Ephraim and Manasseh} inherit {from me}.” Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence.
Genesis 48:7
And I
Quote: וַאֲנִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“I {want it this way because}” or “I {am doing this because}”. Jacob is probably explaining in verse 7 that since his favorite wife Rachel died with only two sons, that is why he is treating her son Joseph’s two sons as his sons (verses 5-6). You could make some of that information explicit in your translation or include it in a footnote.
as I was coming
Quote: בְּבֹאִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“as I {and our family} were coming/returning {home}” or “as our family was coming/returning {home}”. Jacob is in focus here, but he was traveling with his family, not alone. Decide whether or not it is necessary to make that explicit in your translation.
from Paddan
Quote: מִפַּדָּ֗ן (1)“from {the land/region of} Paddan {Aram},” Consider again how you translated “{the land/region of} Paddan Aram” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 25:20 (and note); 28:2, 5-7; 31:18; 33:18; 35:9, 26; 46:15; 48:7. Also, be consistent with how you spelled “Aram” in those verses and in Gen 10:22-23; 22:21; 24:10.
Rachel
Quote: רָחֵ֜ל (1)“{your mother} Rachel” or “{my beloved wife} Rachel”
died beside me
Quote: מֵ֩תָה֩ עָלַ֨י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here because the preposition can have different meanings. It could mean: (1) “died beside me” or “died by my side”; or (2) “died, {bringing sorrow/grief} on/to me”
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֤רֶץ כְּנַ֨עַן֙ (1)“in the region of Canaan”
on the way, while {there was} still a distance of land to go to Ephrath
Quote: בַּדֶּ֔רֶךְ בְּע֥וֹד כִּבְרַת אֶ֖רֶץ לָבֹ֣א אֶפְרָ֑תָה (1)“while we were still traveling and some distance away from {the town of} Ephrath.” Be consistent here with how you spelled “Ephrath” in Gen 35:16, 19, and how you spelled “Bethlehem” in 35:19.
And I buried her there beside the road of Ephrath
Quote: וָאֶקְבְּרֶ֤הָ שָּׁם֙ בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ אֶפְרָ֔ת (1)“{As you know,} I buried her body there by the road that goes to Ephrath,”
which {is} Bethlehem
Quote: הִ֖וא בֵּ֥ית לָֽחֶם (1)“which {now has the name} Bethlehem.” The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. This phrase might be: (1) Jacob’s words; or (2) the author’s words. If you follow the second interpretation, you could put this phrase within parentheses, outside of the quote marks.
Genesis 48:8
Then Israel saw the sons of Joseph
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל אֶת בְּנֵ֣י יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“Then Israel saw/noticed Joseph’s {two} sons”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)“and asked {him/Joseph},”
Who {are} these
Quote: מִי אֵֽלֶּה (1)“Who {are} these {young men}?” or “Whose {sons} {are} these?” Joseph’s two sons were in their 20s at this time, so refer to them here with a term that fits with that fact. They were born before the famine started (Gen 41:50-52), and Jacob had now been in Egypt for 17 years (47:28).
Genesis 48:9
And Joseph said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל אָבִ֔יו (1)“Joseph said/replied to him,” or “Joseph replied/answered,”
They {are} my sons whom God has given to me
Quote: בָּנַ֣י הֵ֔ם אֲשֶׁר נָֽתַן לִ֥י אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)“They/These {are} my sons whom God gave to me”
in this {place
Quote: בָּזֶ֑ה (1)“here {in Egypt}.”
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Then Israel said {to Joseph/him},” Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking here.
Please bring them to me
Quote: קָֽחֶם נָ֥א אֵלַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
“Please bring them {closer} to me”. Some languages have a dual pronoun that works well to refer to Joseph’s two sons here (and throughout chapter 48). Do what is best in your language.
and I will bless them
Quote: וַאֲבָרֲכֵֽם (1)“so that I can {ask God to} bless/prosper them.”
Genesis 48:10
Now the eyes of Israel were heavy
Quote: וְעֵינֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ כָּבְד֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
“Now Israel’s eyes were weak/failing” or “Israel was almost blind” or “Israel had very poor/bad eyesight”. Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to use a conjunction (“Now”) to begin this clause that gives background information about Israel. Also, the word “heavy” is used here as an idiom that means Israel’s eyesight was getting bad, but he could still see some (as indicated in verses 8 and 11). Many languages have a similar idiom. A translation of verse 10 should not imply that Israel was completely blind.
from age
Quote: מִזֹּ֔קֶן (1)“because of old age,” or “because he was {very} old,”
so that} he was not able to see
Quote: לֹ֥א יוּכַ֖ל לִרְא֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“{so that} he could not see {very clearly/well}.” For some languages it is more natural to switch the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Now Israel was {very} old, so his eyesight was failing and he was not able to see {very well}.” Do what is best in your language.
So he brought them near to him
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֤שׁ אֹתָם֙ אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So Joseph brought/took his sons near/closer to his father,” or “So he/Joseph had his sons stand near/close to his father,” Make sure it is clear in your translation whom is being referred to at each point in this sentence.
and he kissed them
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁ֥ק לָהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“and Israel kissed them {on the cheeks/cheek}” or “and his father kissed …” It may be helpful to read this sentence aloud in your translation to make sure the use of nouns and pronouns is natural and accurate in your language.
and embraced them
Quote: וַיְחַבֵּ֥ק לָהֶֽם (1)“and hugged them.” Consider again how you translated the word “embraced” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 29:13; 33:4; 48:10. Also compare that to how you translated an idiom (“fell on … neck”) that has a similar meaning in Gen 33:4; 45:14, 46:29. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 48:11
Then Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Israel exclaimed to Joseph,”
I did not expect to see your face
Quote: רְאֹ֥ה פָנֶ֖יךָ לֹ֣א פִלָּ֑לְתִּי (1)“I did not think I would ever see you {again},” or “I never thought I would see you {again},”
but behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)“but surprisingly/amazingly,” or “but {now} look,”
God has let me see also your offspring
Quote: הֶרְאָ֥ה אֹתִ֛י אֱלֹהִ֖ים גַּ֥ם אֶת זַרְעֶֽךָ (1)“God has allowed me to see/meet also/even your offspring/children!” or “God has also/even allowed me to see/meet your offspring/children!”
Genesis 48:12
Then Joseph removed them
Quote: וַיּוֹצֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֹתָ֖ם (1)“Then Joseph moved/took his sons away” or “Then Joseph had his sons move/step away/back”
from beside his knees
Quote: מֵעִ֣ם בִּרְכָּ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“from beside his father’s knees,” or “from beside/near his father,” Joseph’s sons (who were in their 20s) were near Israel's knees, so that he could hug them; they were not sitting on his knees or lap. Also make sure your translation of “his” refers to Joseph's father (Israel/Jacob), not Joseph.
and he bowed down
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ (1)“and he bowed {before his father}” or “and he prostrated himself {before him}”
with his nose to the ground
Quote: לְאַפָּ֖יו אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“with his nose/face toward the ground {in thankfulness and respect}.” or “and touched the ground with his forehead {to show him respect}.” Joseph bowed to the ground to show thankfulness and respect to his father and possibly also to God. If necessary, you could make that information explicit in your translation or put it in a footnote.
Genesis 48:13
Then Joseph took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח יוֹסֵף֮ (1)“Then Joseph/he took/positioned”
both of them
Quote: אֶת שְׁנֵיהֶם֒ (1)“both of his sons,” or “his sons”
Ephraim on his right
Quote: אֶת אֶפְרַ֤יִם בִּֽימִינוֹ֙ (1)“{with} Ephraim on/at his right {hand/side}”
toward Israel’s left
Quote: מִשְּׂמֹ֣אל יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)“facing Israel’s left {hand/side}” or “in front of Israel’s left {hand/side}”
and Manasseh on his left
Quote: וְאֶת מְנַשֶּׁ֥ה בִשְׂמֹאל֖וֹ (1)“and {with} Manasseh on/at his left {hand/side}”
toward Israel’s right
Quote: מִימִ֣ין יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)“facing Israel’s right {hand/side},” or “in front of Israel’s right {hand/side},”
and brought {them} near to him
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֖שׁ אֵלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and he brought/took {them} close to his father {again}.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Then he took/brought his sons close to his father {again}. He had Ephraim stand in front of Israel’s left {hand/side}, and he had Manasseh stand in front of Israel’s right {hand/side}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 48:14
But Israel extended his right hand
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַח֩ יִשְׂרָאֵ֨ל אֶת יְמִינ֜וֹ (1)“But Israel {intentionally} reached out his right hand”
and placed {it} on the head of Ephraim
Quote: וַיָּ֨שֶׁת עַל רֹ֤אשׁ אֶפְרַ֨יִם֙ (1)“and put/rested/laid {it} on Ephraim’s head,”
and he {was} the younger
Quote: וְה֣וּא הַצָּעִ֔יר (1)“even though Ephraim {was} the/{Joseph’s} younger {son}.”
and {he placed} his left hand on the head of Manasseh. He guided his hands
Quote: וְאֶת שְׂמֹאל֖וֹ עַל רֹ֣אשׁ מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה שִׂכֵּל֙ אֶת יָדָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“Then he {intentionally} {put/rested} his left hand on Manasseh’s head. He crossed his arms {to do that}” or “Then he crossed his arms and {put} his left hand on Manasseh’s head,” In the Hebrew culture, the right side was the place of highest honor and using the right hand to bless someone was symbolic of giving greater honor to that person. The oldest son was also the one who normally received the greater blessing. Israel reverses that here and gives Joseph’s younger son the greater blessing. It may be important to include a footnote in your translation that gives this information.
because
Quote: כִּ֥י (1)“{even} though” or “in spite of the fact that”. Make sure that the way you translate “because” fits with the fact that Israel wanted to place his right hand on Ephraim (to give him the greater blessing), even though Manasseh was the firstborn (who would normally receive the greater blessing in that culture).
Manasseh {was} the firstborn
Quote: מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה הַבְּכֽוֹר (1)“Manasseh {was} the/{Joseph’s} firstborn/oldest {son}.”
Genesis 48:15
Then he blessed Joseph and said
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ אֶת יוֹסֵ֖ף וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)“Then Israel blessed Joseph {and his sons} by saying,” or “Then Israel blessed Joseph by {blessing his sons and} saying,” Israel blessed Joseph by blessing Joseph’s sons (verses 15-16, 19-20).
May the God
Quote: הָֽאֱלֹהִ֡ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“May {God bless your sons,} the God” or “I pray that {God will bless your sons,} the God” or “I ask God {to bless your sons}. He is the God”. For some languages it may be necessary to make it explicit here that this prayer is a blessing for Joseph’s sons (rather than waiting until that is made clear in verse 16). Do what is best in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to break up the long sentence in verses 15-16 into shorter sentences.
whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ & אֲבֹתַ֤י & אַבְרָהָ֣ם וְיִצְחָ֔ק (1)“whom my forefathers/ancestors Abraham and Isaac”
walked before
Quote: הִתְהַלְּכ֨וּ & לְפָנָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“walked/lived before/with {according to his will},” or “walked/lived {obediently} in the presence of,” or “served/obeyed,” See how you translated the idiom “walk/live before” in Gen 17:1 and 24:40. You may need to translate it differently in different contexts.
the God who has been shepherding me
Quote: הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ הָרֹעֶ֣ה אֹתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“the {same} God who has watched over me” or “He is the {same} God who has taken care of me”. The word “shepherded” includes guiding, protecting, and providing food and water, such as a shepherd would do for his sheep. Here it is used as a metaphor that refers to God’s complete care of Israel throughout his life. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to use a similar metaphor here. For example, you could say, “He is the {same} God who, for my entire life, has taken care of all my needs, just as a {good} shepherd takes care of his sheep.”
from since I {was born} until this day
Quote: מֵעוֹדִ֖י עַד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)“from {the beginning of} my {life} until the present day/time,” or “my entire life,”
Genesis 48:16
the Angel who has redeemed me from all evil
Quote: הַמַּלְאָךְ֩ הַגֹּאֵ֨ל אֹתִ֜י מִכָּל רָ֗ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms
“{He is also} the Angel who saved/rescued me {continually} from all/every harm/trouble.” Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider again how you translated “angel” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 16:7, 9-11; 19:1, 15; 21:17; 22:11, 15; 24:7, 40; 28:12; 31:11; 32:3, 6; 48:16.
may he bless {these} boys
Quote: יְבָרֵךְ֮ אֶת הַנְּעָרִים֒ (1)“I pray/ask that he will cause {these} young men to prosper {greatly},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here; your decision will depend on how you translated verse 15. Also, since Joseph’s sons were probably in their 20s, make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like they were little boys. The Hebrew word for “boy” here can also be translated as “lad,” “servant,” or “young man,” depending on the context and who is speaking to whom. With that in mind, consider again how you translated this word in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:24; 18:7; 19:4; 21:12, 17-20; 22:3, 5, 12, 19; 25:27; 34:19; 37:2; 41:12; 43:8; 44:22, 30-34; 48:16.
and may my name be called in them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and may they grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth
Quote: וְיִקָּרֵ֤א בָהֶם֙ שְׁמִ֔י וְשֵׁ֥ם אֲבֹתַ֖י אַבְרָהָ֣ם וְיִצְחָ֑ק וְיִדְגּ֥וּ לָרֹ֖ב בְּקֶ֥רֶב הָאָֽרֶץ (1)“so that my family name/line and the family name/line of my ancestors Abraham and Isaac will continue through them and so that they will have many descendants on the earth.” or “I pray that they will have many descendants on the earth who will carry on the family name/line for me and for my forefathers/ancestors Abraham and Isaac.”
Genesis 48:17
And Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on the head of Ephraim
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא יוֹסֵ֗ף כִּי יָשִׁ֨ית אָבִ֧יו יַד יְמִינ֛וֹ עַל רֹ֥אשׁ אֶפְרַ֖יִם (1)“{When} Joseph saw/noticed that his father had put/rested/laid his right hand on Ephraim’s head,” See how you translated “placed” in verse 14.
and it was displeasing in his eyes
Quote: וַיֵּ֣רַע בְּעֵינָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“it displeased him,” or “he was displeased/unhappy {about it},” or “he thought it was a mistake,”
so he took hold of the hand of his father
Quote: וַיִּתְמֹ֣ךְ יַד אָבִ֗יו (1)“So he took hold of his father’s hand”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to move it from the head of Ephraim
Quote: לְהָסִ֥יר אֹתָ֛הּ מֵעַ֥ל רֹאשׁ אֶפְרַ֖יִם (1)“{in order} to move/take it from Ephraim’s head” or “{and started} to move/take it from Ephraim’s head”
to the head of Manasseh
Quote: עַל רֹ֥אשׁ מְנַשֶּֽׁה (1)“and {place/put it on} Manasseh’s head.”
Genesis 48:18
And Joseph said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶל אָבִ֖יו (1)“Then he said to his father,”
Not so, my father, because that {one} {is} the firstborn son
Quote: לֹא כֵ֣ן אָבִ֑י כִּי זֶ֣ה הַבְּכֹ֔ר (1)“Not like that, Father. {It is} the other son {who is} the/my firstborn/oldest.” or “That is the wrong one/son, Father. The other {one} {is} {my} firstborn/oldest son.”
Put your right hand on his head
Quote: שִׂ֥ים יְמִינְךָ֖ עַל רֹאשֽׁוֹ (1)“{So} {you need to} put/have your right hand on his head.”
Genesis 48:19
But his father refused
Quote: וַיְמָאֵ֣ן אָבִ֗יו (1)“But his father refused {to move his hands}” or “But his father would not {move his hands}”
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)“and replied,”
I know, my son, I know
Quote: יָדַ֤עְתִּֽי בְנִי֙ יָדַ֔עְתִּי (1)“I know {it/that}, my son, I know {what I am doing}.” or “I know {what I am doing}, my son.”
He will also become a people, and he will also be great
Quote: גַּם ה֥וּא יִֽהְיֶה לְּעָ֖ם וְגַם ה֣וּא יִגְדָּ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“{In fact,} {the descendants of} your firstborn/oldest son will also become a people/ethnic group, and he will be/become a great/important man.” or “{In fact,} your firstborn/oldest son will also be/become a great/important man, and he will be/become {the ancestor of} a people/ethnic group.” Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Joseph’s firstborn in these two clauses.
Nevertheless his younger brother will be greater than he
Quote: וְאוּלָ֗ם אָחִ֤יו הַקָּטֹן֙ יִגְדַּ֣ל מִמֶּ֔נּוּ (1)“However, his younger brother {Ephraim} will be {even} greater than he {will be},”
and his offspring
Quote: וְזַרְע֖וֹ (1)“and his/Ephraim’s offspring/descendants” or “with {many} descendants, who”. Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Ephraim’s descendants, not Manasseh’s.
will become a multitude of nations
Quote: יִהְיֶ֥ה מְלֹֽא הַגּוֹיִֽם (1)“will become many people/ethnic groups.” Compare how you translated a similar phrase (“a community of peoples”) in verse 4.
Genesis 48:20
And he blessed them on that day
Quote: וַיְבָ֨רֲכֵ֜ם בַּיּ֣וֹם הַהוּא֮ (1)“So Israel blessed Ephraim and Manasseh that day” or “That {same} day, Israel blessed {both of} them”
saying
Quote: לֵאמוֹר֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“by saying {to them},” or “and said,”
By you Israel will bless {people
Quote: בְּךָ֗ יְבָרֵ֤ךְ יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)“{The people of} Israel will use your names when they bless {someone/people}” or “When {the people of} Israel say/pronounce a blessing over {someone}, they will use your names”
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)“and say,”
May God make you
Quote: יְשִֽׂמְךָ֣ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)“May God bless/prosper you” or “We ask God to make you {great/prosperous}”
like Ephraim and like Manasseh
Quote: כְּאֶפְרַ֖יִם וְכִמְנַשֶּׁ֑ה (1)“like {he blessed/prospered} Ephraim and Manasseh.”
So he put Ephraim before Manasseh
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם אֶת אֶפְרַ֖יִם לִפְנֵ֥י מְנַשֶּֽׁה (1)“When he/Israel said that, he/Israel put/ranked Ephraim ahead of Manasseh.” or “In that way, he/Israel made Ephraim greater than Manasseh.”
Genesis 48:21
Then Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ אֶל יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“After that, Israel {turned} to Joseph {and} said {to him},” or “Next Israel spoke to Joseph. {He said,}”
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה (1)“Look/Listen,” or “As you can see,”
I am dying
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י מֵ֑ת (1)“I am about to die,” or “I will die soon,”
and God will be with you
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה אֱלֹהִים֙ עִמָּכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
“but God will {always} be/stay with {all of} you {and help you},” or “but God will {always} be/stay with you and your brothers {and all your descendants} {and help you}.” The pronouns “you” and “your” are plural throughout this verse and probably refer to all Israel’s family, including Joseph, his brothers, and their descendants.
and he will bring you back
Quote: וְהֵשִׁ֣יב אֶתְכֶ֔ם (1)“He will also bring/take you back”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to the land of your fathers
Quote: אֶל אֶ֖רֶץ אֲבֹתֵיכֶֽם (1)“to the land that {he gave} to your forefathers/ancestors.”
Genesis 48:22
And I give you
Quote: וַאֲנִ֞י נָתַ֧תִּֽי לְךָ֛ (1)“And I give/bequeath to you {as part of your inheritance}” or “Besides that, {as part of your inheritance from me,} I {hereby} give you”. The pronouns “you” and “your” shift to singular in verse 22.
Shechem
Quote: שְׁכֶ֥ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could refer to: (1) “{the city of} Shechem,” or (2) “a mountain slope/ridge,” This second interpretation comes from the meaning of the Hebrew word “shekem” (“shoulder”), which can be used as a metaphor to refer to a mountain slope or ridge.
one {portion} above your brothers
Quote: אַחַ֖ד עַל אַחֶ֑יךָ (1)“which is more {land} than I am giving to your brothers and”
which I took from the hand of
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר לָקַ֨חְתִּי֙ מִיַּ֣ד (1)“which I took control of from” or “which I took/captured from” or “I took/captured that land from”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the Amorite{s} with my sword and with my bow
Quote: הָֽאֱמֹרִ֔י בְּחַרְבִּ֖י וּבְקַשְׁתִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“the Amorite{s} {in battle} using my sword and my bow.” or “the Amorite{s} when I defeated them in battle.” For some languages it may be clearer to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Besides that, I {hereby} give you {the city of} Shechem, {which} I took/captured from the Amorite{s} when I defeated them in battle. This is more {land} than I am giving to your brothers.” Do what is best in your language. Also consider again how you translated “Amorite{s}” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:16; 14:7, 13; 15:16, 21; 48:22.
Genesis 49
Genesis 49:1
Then Jacob called for his sons
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶל בָּנָ֑יו (1)“Then Jacob summoned {all} his sons”. The events in chapter 49 may have occurred on the same day as the events in chapter 48, or not very long after that. Consider again how you translated “called for” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:18; 14:14; 20:2, 8-9; 24:57-58; 26:9; 27:1, 42; 28:1; 31:4; 39:14; 41:8, 14; 46:33; 47:29; 49:1.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“He said {to them},” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Gather together
Quote: הֵאָֽסְפוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
“Gather {yourselves} together {before me},” or “Come together {here},” Much of what Jacob says to his sons in verses 1-27 is Hebrew poetry, which is characterized by the use of parallelisms and metaphors to emphasize important points. Many translations put these verses in poetry format (starting here); many others use regular paragraph formatting. Do what is best in your language. For a complete list of verses that some translations treat as poetry in the book of Genesis, see the introduction to the book.
and I will reveal to you
Quote: וְאַגִּ֣ידָה לָכֶ֔ם (1)“and I will declare to you” or “so that I can tell/inform you”
what will meet you
Quote: אֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר יִקְרָ֥א אֶתְכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“what will happen to you {and your descendants}”. Much of what Jacob prophesies in this chapter about his sons also applies to their descendants. Some translation teams may prefer to put that information in a footnote rather than make it explicit in the text. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “meet” in Gen 42:4, 38.
in the end of days
Quote: בְּאַחֲרִ֥ית הַיָּמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“in the days/years ahead.” or “in future days/years.” In this context, this phrase refers to a period of years in the future. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Genesis 49:2
Assemble and listen, sons of Jacob
Quote: הִקָּבְצ֥וּ וְשִׁמְע֖וּ בְּנֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{Yes/Indeed,} Jacob’s/my sons, come/gather {here} and hear {what I have to say},” or “My sons, gather around {me,} {your father} Jacob, and listen {to me}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation of this verse that Jacob is talking to his own sons and is referring to himself as both Jacob and as Israel. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put the address “sons of Jacob” first in verse 2, or even first in the quote (which begins in verse 1). Do what is best in your language.
and listen to Israel your father
Quote: וְשִׁמְע֖וּ אֶל יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל אֲבִיכֶֽם (1)“Pay attention to {me,} your father Israel.” or “{I,} your father Israel, have something {important} to tell you.” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause to emphasize that Jacob wants his sons to listen to him carefully. Try to keep both halves of this parallelism in your translation, since each half has a slightly different focus. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 49:3
Reuben, you {are} my firstborn
Quote: רְאוּבֵן֙ בְּכֹ֣רִי אַ֔תָּה (1)“Reuben, you {are} my oldest {son},” Consider again how you translated “firstborn” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:4; 10:15; 19:31, 33-34, 37; 22:21; 25:13, 27; 27:19, 32; 29:26; 35:23; 36:15; 38:6-7; 41:51; 43:33; 46:8, 14; 48:18; 49:3. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
my might and the first of my strength
Quote: כֹּחִ֖י וְרֵאשִׁ֣ית אוֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“{the result of} my strength/fertility, and the first child I had as a young man.” or “{You are} the first {evidence/sign} of my manhood and strength/virility.” This phrase is used here as a euphemistic idiom that refers to Jacob’s ability to have children. Other languages may have a similar idiom. Translate this in a way that will not embarrass or offend listeners.
excelling {in} rank and excelling {in} power
Quote: יֶ֥תֶר שְׂאֵ֖ת וְיֶ֥תֶר עָֽז (1)“{You had} higher/more honor and authority {than all your brothers}.” or “{You had} high status and great authority {in our family}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 49:4
Turbulent
Quote: פַּ֤חַז (1)“{However,} {you are} uncontrollable” or “{However,} {you are} unstable/reckless”
like waters
Quote: כַּמַּ֨יִם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“like a flood of water,” or “like {rushing} water,” Here Jacob compares Reuben’s reckless, uncontrolled sexual behavior to turbulent water that is out of control and destructive. Consider whether or not you have a similar simile in your language that would fit well here.
you will not excel
Quote: אַל תּוֹתַ֔ר (1)“{so} you will no longer have your high/important status/position {in our family},” or “{so} you will no longer be first {among your brothers},”
because you went up {onto} your father’s bed, and you defiled {it
Quote: כִּ֥י עָלִ֖יתָ מִשְׁכְּבֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ אָ֥ז חִלַּ֖לְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“because you climbed/got {into} my bed {with my concubine/wife} {and} dishonored me!” or “because you dishonored me by getting into my bed and committing adultery {with my concubine/wife}!” This clause, along with the rest of the verse, is a euphemistic way of referring to Reuben committing adultery by sleeping with his father’s concubine (secondary wife) Bilhah (Genesis 35:22).
He went up {onto} my couch
Quote: יְצוּעִ֥י עָלָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{Then Jacob exclaimed,} “He went up {onto} my couch!” ” or “He/You {actually} climbed/got up {onto} my couch/bed {and dishonored me}!” or “{You dishonored me when} you slept with my concubine/wife!” Here Jacob repeats part of what he said in the previous clause, in order to emphasize Reuben’s sin against him and to communicate how upset he is about it. He may have still been talking to Reuben (switching from second to third person), or he may have been exclaiming about Reuben to himself and the rest of his sons.
Genesis 49:5
Simeon and Levi
Quote: שִׁמְע֥וֹן וְלֵוִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{As for} Simeon and Levi, {they}” or “Simeon and Levi, {you}”. In verses 3-27, Jacob sometimes refers to his sons using second person (“you”), and sometimes (as here) he uses third person (“they” or “he”). Consider whether or not it is better in your language to use second person throughout these verses, especially since Jacob is talking to his sons who are right there with him. Also, some languages have dual pronouns that fit well in verses 5-7.
are} brothers
Quote: אַחִ֑ים (1)“{are} {true/close} brothers.” or “{are} partners {in crime}.” or “do {evil} things together.” This phrase is used here as an idiom that emphasizes the fact that Simeon and Levi thought alike and acted together to do evil things.
Their swords {are} weapons of violence
Quote: כְּלֵ֥י חָמָ֖ס מְכֵרֹתֵיהֶֽם (1)“They/You use their/your swords/weapons to do violent things {together}.” Make sure in your translation that the pronouns you use here (and in verses 6-7) fit with the way you translated the beginning of this verse.
Genesis 49:6
Do not let my soul enter
Quote: אַל תָּבֹ֣א נַפְשִׁ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“Do not ever let me” or “May I never” or “I will never”. Here Jacob uses the phrase “my soul” to refer to himself and to emphasize how strongly he feels about what he is saying. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
Do not let … enter into their council
Quote: בְּסֹדָם֙ אַל־תָּבֹ֣א (1)“take part in their/your {evil} plans/schemes!” or “participate with them/you when they/you plan {evil} things!” In verses 5-7, Jacob is probably referring to the time when Simeon and Levi killed all the males in the city of Shechem out of revenge (Genesis 34:25-26, 30). Jacob was very upset that they did that.
Do not let my glory join in their assembly
Quote: בִּקְהָלָ֖ם אַל תֵּחַ֣ד כְּבֹדִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Do not let my honor/presence be connected/associated with their/your {evil} plans,” or “I never want to be linked/associated with their/your {evil} plans,” or “I refuse to make {evil} plans with them/you,” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes that Jacob is upset and does not want to participate with these two sons in their evil behavior. Consider what is the best way to translate that in your language.
because in their anger they killed a man
Quote: כִּ֤י בְאַפָּם֙ הָ֣רְגוּ אִ֔ישׁ (1)“because they/you became angry and murdered {many} men/people,” The phrase “a man” probably refers collectively here to all the men whom these two sons killed in the city of Shechem (Gen 34:25-26, 30).
and for their pleasure they hamstrung an ox
Quote: וּבִרְצֹנָ֖ם עִקְּרוּ שֽׁוֹר (1)“and {just} to please/entertain themselves/yourselves, they/you crippled/maimed {some} oxen/cattle {so they could not walk}.” or “and they/you cut the leg tendons of {some} oxen/cattle, {just} for the fun of it.” This may have happened during the time that Simeon and Levi took revenge on the people of Shechem.
Genesis 49:7
Cursed {be} their anger because {it is} strong, and their fury because {it is} cruel
Quote: אָר֤וּר אַפָּם֙ כִּ֣י עָ֔ז וְעֶבְרָתָ֖ם כִּ֣י קָשָׁ֑תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“{May God} curse {them/you for} their/your intense/terrible anger and {their/your} cruel/malicious fury!” or “{I ask God to} curse/punish them/you for being so intensely/fiercely angry and cruel/malicious!” Consider what is the best way to translate this parallelism in your language. Also, consider again how you translated “cursed” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 3:14 (and note), 17; 4:11; 5:29; 8:21; 9:25; 12:3; 27:12-13, 29; 49:7.
I will divide them
Quote: אֲחַלְּקֵ֣ם (1)“I {ask God to} scatter/disperse them/you {and their/your descendants}” or “May {God/he} cause them/you {and their/your descendants} to be spread out”. The last half of verse 7 specifies how Jacob is asking God to curse Simeon and Levi.
in Jacob
Quote: בְּיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“among {the family/descendants of} Jacob.” In this context, the name “Jacob” refers to his family and especially his descendants.
and I will scatter them
Quote: וַאֲפִיצֵ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Yes, I/God will” or “That’s right, I {ask God/him to}”. The clauses “I will divide …” and “I will scatter …” form a parallelism that emphasizes the way Jacob is asking God to curse Simeon and Levi. If possible, it is best to keep both parts of a parallelism in your translation.
and I will scatter them
Quote: וַאֲפִיצֵ֖ם (1)“scatter/disperse them/you” or “cause them/you to be spread out”. Consider again how you translated “scatter” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:18, 32; 11:4, 8-9; 49:7. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. If the pronoun “you” is used here in your translation, it should be plural.
in Israel
Quote: בְּיִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)“throughout {the descendants/land of} Israel.” Jacob’s prophecy in verse 7 came true many years later: the tribe of Simeon was absorbed by the tribe of Judah (Joshua 19:1), and the tribe of Levi never had its own territory, but rather lived in cities scattered throughout the other tribes of Israel (Joshua 21:1-42). You could put this information in a footnote.
Genesis 49:8
Judah, {it is} you your brothers will praise
Quote: יְהוּדָ֗ה אַתָּה֙ יוֹד֣וּךָ אַחֶ֔יךָ (1)“Judah, you {are the one whom} your brothers will praise.” or “Judah, you {and your descendants} will be {highly} praised by your brothers {and their descendants}.” or “Judah, your brothers {and their descendants} will {highly} praise you {and your descendants}.” In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “you” is emphatic, and it has an emphatic position in the sentence. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language.
Your hand {will be} on the neck of
Quote: יָדְךָ֖ בְּעֹ֣רֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“You will be victorious over” or “You will conquer/defeat”. Consider what is the best way to translate this Hebrew idiom in your language. Also, if your translation includes Judah’s descendants in the previous sentence, make sure that the pronouns “your” and “you” are plural in this sentence.
those opposing you
Quote: אֹיְבֶ֑יךָ (1)“those who are against you.” or “your enemies/adversaries.”
The sons of your father
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י אָבִֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“Your father’s {other} sons” or “{Then} my {other} sons” or “Your brothers”. Make sure that your translation of “your father” refers to Jacob.
will bow down to you
Quote: יִשְׁתַּחֲוּ֥וּ לְךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“{and their descendants} will bow/prostrate themselves before you {and your descendants} {in respect/submission}.” Consider again how you translated “bow down” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 18:2; 19:1; 22:5; 23:7, 12; 24:26, 48, 52; 27:29; 33:3, 6-7; 37:7, 9-10; 42:6; 43:26, 28; 47:31; 48:12; 49:8. Also see how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 17:3, 17.
Genesis 49:9
Judah {is} the cub of a lion. From the prey, my son, you have gone up
Quote: גּ֤וּר אַרְיֵה֙ יְהוּדָ֔ה מִטֶּ֖רֶף בְּנִ֣י עָלִ֑יתָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
“Judah, my son, {you are} {powerful} {like} a young lion that has returned {to its den} after {killing} {its} prey.” or “Judah, {you,} my son, {are} {like} a {powerful} young lion that {kills its} prey and returns {to its den}.”
He crouches {and} lies down like a lion
Quote: כָּרַ֨ע רָבַ֧ץ כְּאַרְיֵ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
“You {are} like a lion that stretches out {and} lies down {to sleep/rest} {after eating}.” or “It stretches out {and} lies down {to sleep}.” Here in verse 9 Jacob switches to using third person references (“he, his, him”) for Judah. For some languages it is better to use second person references (“you, your”) throughout verses 8-12. Do what is best in your language.
And like a lioness, who will rouse him
Quote: וּכְלָבִ֖יא מִ֥י יְקִימֶֽנּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“Yes, {you are} like a lioness/lion that no one dares to awaken/disturb.” or “No one dares to disturb/disrespect that lion.” This sentence forms a parallelism with the previous sentence to emphasize Judah’s authority. Also, Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize the respect that people will have for Judah. Some languages must use a statement here instead. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 49:10
The scepter will not depart from Judah
Quote: לֹֽא יָס֥וּר שֵׁ֨בֶט֙ מִֽיהוּדָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Judah, the authority to rule will always belong to you {and your descendants}.” or “Judah, there will always be one of your descendants ruling as king.” A scepter, or a king’s staff, is a special, decorated rod that a king holds to symbolize his authority to rule the people who are under him.
nor the staff from between his feet
Quote: וּמְחֹקֵ֖ק מִבֵּ֣ין רַגְלָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“The {king’s/ruler’s} staff will never leave his/your descendants/family” or “In fact, your descendants will rule”. This phrase forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes the authority that Judah and his descendants will have.
until Shiloh comes
Quote: עַ֚ד כִּֽי יָבֹ֣א שִׁיל֔וֹ (1)“until the {highest} king comes/arrives” or “until the One whom the scepter/kingdom belongs to comes/arrives”. Jacob is probably prophesying here about the coming of the Messiah/Christ. This fits with the fact that Jesus was a descendant of the tribe of Judah and is now ruling as the true King over heaven and earth. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
and to him {belongs} the obedience of the peoples
Quote: וְל֖וֹ יִקְּהַ֥ת עַמִּֽים (1)“and the peoples/nations {of the earth} obey him.” or “and all people obey him.” or “All people/nations will obey him.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 49:11
He will tether
Quote: אֹסְרִ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“Judah {and his descendants}” or “You {and your descendants}”. In verse 11, the pronouns “he” and “his” refer to Judah and his descendants. To make that clear, you could make that explicit here and then use plural pronouns “they” and “their” throughout the verse. Or if you are using the second person throughout this section, you could say, “You {and your descendants} …” and use plural pronouns “you” and “your” after that.
He will tether his donkey to the {grape}vine
Quote: אֹסְרִ֤י לַגֶּ֨פֶן֙ עִיר֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“will {be so wealthy that they/you will/could} tether/tie their/your donkey{s} to {their/your} {grape}vine{s} {to eat the valuable fruit}.” or “let your donkey{s} eat your choice/valuable {grape}vine{s}.” In Jacob’s culture grapevines were valuable plants, so unless a person was very rich, he would never tether a donkey to his grapevines because it would eat the fruit and the vines. If necessary, you could make some of that information explicit in your translation.
and the son of his donkey to the choice branch
Quote: וְלַשֹּׂרֵקָ֖ה בְּנִ֣י אֲתֹנ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“Their/Your donkeys’ colts will/could eat the best/finest grapevines.” or “{It will not matter if} their/your donkeys’ colts eat {their/your} best/finest {grapevine} branch{es}.” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous one to emphasize how wealthy Judah and his descendants will be.
He will wash his garment{s} in wine and his robe{s} in the blood of grapes
Quote: כִּבֵּ֤ס בַּיַּ֨יִן֙ לְבֻשׁ֔וֹ וּבְדַם עֲנָבִ֖ים סוּתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“{They/You will still have so much wine from other vines/grapevines that} they/you could {even} use the wine like water to wash their/your robes and {other} clothes.” This sentence is another parallelism that emphasizes how wealthy Judah and his descendants will be. The phrase “blood of grapes” is an idiom that refers to red wine made from the juice of grapes.
Genesis 49:12
His} eyes
Quote: עֵינַ֖יִם (1)“{Their/Your} eyes” or “{They/You will be so blessed/wealthy that} {their/your} eyes”
will be} brilliant from wine
Quote: חַכְלִילִ֥י & מִיָּ֑יִן (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{will be} bright from {drinking} {abundant} wine,” or (2) “{will be} darker than wine,” In both interpretations the emphasis is that Judah’s descendants will be blessed with an abundance of the best foods, including wine and milk, which are examples of the most valuable foods that were produced in the land.
and {his} teeth {will be} white from milk
Quote: וּלְבֶן־שִׁנַּ֖יִם מֵחָלָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and {their/your} teeth {will be} white from {drinking} {abundant} milk.” or (2) “and {their/your} teeth {will be} whiter than milk.” Make sure that the way you translate this phrase fits with the interpretation you used for the first part of this verse. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of some of these phrases and say, “{They/You will be so blessed/wealthy that} they/you will have plenty of the best foods, including {abundant} wine and milk.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 49:13
Zebulun
Quote: זְבוּלֻ֕ן (1)“{As for} Zebulun, {he} {and his descendants}” or “Zebulun, {you} {and your descendants}”. Throughout this chapter, decide whether it is best in your language to use third person or second person when Jacob refers to each of his sons (and their descendants).
will settle at the shore of the sea
Quote: לְח֥וֹף יַמִּ֖ים יִשְׁכֹּ֑ן (1)“will settle/live at/near the seashore/coast,”
and he {will live} at the shore of ships
Quote: וְהוּא֙ לְח֣וֹף אֳנִיּ֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“yes, they/you {will settle/live} at/near a harbor for ships,” or “where there will be a {safe} harbor/place for ships {to load and unload their cargo},” This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause to emphasize where Zebulun and his descendants will live.
and his border {will reach
Quote: וְיַרְכָת֖וֹ (1)“Their/Your territory {will extend}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to Sidon
Quote: עַל צִידֹֽן (1)“{all the way north/up} to {the city of} Sidon.” or “as far {north} as {the city of} Sidon.”
Genesis 49:14
Issachar
Quote: יִשָּׂשכָ֖ר (1)“{As for} Issachar, {he} {and his descendants}” or “Issachar, {you} {and your descendants}”
is} a strong donkey
Quote: חֲמֹ֣ר גָּ֑רֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
“{will be} {like} a strong/sturdy donkey”. Consider again how you translated “donkey” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16; 16:12; 22:3, 5, 6; 24:35; 30:43; 32:5, 15; 34:28; 36:24; 42:26-27; 43:18, 24; 44:3, 13; 45:23; 47:17; 49:14.
lying down
Quote: רֹבֵ֖ץ (1)“crouching/lying down {resting}” or “{that is} resting {on the ground}”
between two saddlebags
Quote: בֵּ֥ין הַֽמִּשְׁפְּתָֽיִם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “between two saddlebags/loads.” or (2) “between the two parts of a sheep pen.” Both interpretations imply that the donkey is lying down to rest after it worked hard.
Genesis 49:15
And he sees {his} resting place that {it is} good and the land that it is pleasant
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא מְנֻחָה֙ כִּ֣י ט֔וֹב וְאֶת הָאָ֖רֶץ כִּ֣י נָעֵ֑מָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
“They/You will have a good place to rest/live, in a pleasant/enjoyable land.”
Then he will bend his shoulder
Quote: וַיֵּ֤ט שִׁכְמוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“However, they/you will {also} have to exert themselves/yourselves” or “But they/you will labor/work hard”. Consider what is the best way to translate this Hebrew idiom in your language.
to bear {the loads
Quote: לִסְבֹּ֔ל (1)“to/and carry {heavy loads},”
and he will be a forced labor servant
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י לְמַס עֹבֵֽד (1)“In fact, they/you will be forced to be slaves.” or “They/You will have to work {very} hard {for others} as slaves.” or “People will force you to be their slaves.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 49:16
Dan
Quote: דָּ֖ן (1)“{As for} Dan, he {and his descendants}” or “Dan, you {and your descendants}”
will judge his people
Quote: יָדִ֣ין עַמּ֑וֹ (1)“will govern/rule their/your {own} people group”
as one of the tribes of Israel
Quote: כְּאַחַ֖ד שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)“just as the other tribes of Israel {judge/govern/rule their own people}.” or “and have equal status with {the rest of} the tribes of Israel.”
Genesis 49:17
Dan
Quote: דָן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“They/You”. Be consistent with your choice of third person or second person (singular or plural) references to Dan (and his descendants) throughout verses 16 and 17.
will be a snake beside the road, a viper beside the path
Quote: יְהִי & נָחָ֣שׁ עֲלֵי דֶ֔רֶךְ שְׁפִיפֹ֖ן עֲלֵי אֹ֑רַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
“will be {clever/cunning} {like} a poisonous snake {lying} beside a road”
that bites the heels of a horse
Quote: הַנֹּשֵׁךְ֙ עִקְּבֵי ס֔וּס (1)“that strikes the feet of {its enemy’s} horse,”
and its rider falls off backward
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל רֹכְב֖וֹ אָחֽוֹר (1)“so that {it rears up and} the rider/enemy falls off backward {to the ground}.” or “… is thrown off the horse {and defeated}.”
Genesis 49:18
I am waiting for your salvation, Yahweh
Quote: לִֽישׁוּעָתְךָ֖ קִוִּ֥יתִי יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“{Then Jacob paused and exclaimed to God,} “Yahweh, I am looking expectantly to you to save {me}!” Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob is talking to God in verse 18, not Dan any more.
Genesis 49:19
As for} Gad
Quote: גָּ֖ד (1)“{Then Jacob/he continued,} “{As for you,} Gad,”
raider{s} will attack him
Quote: גְּד֣וּד יְגוּדֶ֑נּוּ (1)“a group of robbers will attack him/you {and his/your descendants},” or “you {and your descendants} will be attacked by raiders/enemies,”
but he will attack {their} heel{s
Quote: וְה֖וּא יָגֻ֥ד עָקֵֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“but they/you will chase/hunt them {down} {and defeat them}.” Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to at each point in this sentence.
Genesis 49:20
From Asher, his bread {will be} fat
Quote: מֵאָשֵׁ֖ר שְׁמֵנָ֣ה לַחְמ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“Asher {and his descendants} will produce rich/fine food,” or “Asher, you {and your descendants} will {be wealthy and} produce/eat the best/finest food.” Here the word “bread” refers to food in general and “fat” refers to the best kinds of food.
and he will provide king’s delicacies
Quote: וְה֥וּא יִתֵּ֖ן מַֽעֲדַנֵּי מֶֽלֶךְ (1)“He/They/You will {even} supply/produce food that is rich/fancy enough for a king.” or “In fact, he/they/you will supply/produce delicious/fine foods {that are fit} for kings {to eat}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, the word “delicacies” refers to special, delicious foods that only rich people can afford to eat.
Genesis 49:21
Naphtali
Quote: נַפְתָּלִ֖י (1)“{As for} Naphtali, {he} {and his descendants}” or “Naphtali, {you} {and your descendants}”
is} a doe
Quote: אַיָּלָ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“{will be} {swift} {like} a doe/deer” or “{will be warriors who are} {swift} {like} a deer”. This metaphor pictures a deer that swiftly runs away after being released from captivity.
that is let loose
Quote: שְׁלֻחָ֑ה (1)“that is set free.” or “that has been released {to run freely}.” or “that is free to run/go wherever it wants.”
He gives words of beauty
Quote: הַנֹּתֵ֖ן אִמְרֵי שָֽׁפֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “He/They/You will {also} speak eloquently.” or “They/You will {also} be gifted/excellent speakers/negotiators.” or (2) “and that bears/has beautiful/healthy fawns.” or “He/They/You will have beautiful children.” If you made Naphtali’s descendants explicit at the beginning of this verse, make sure you use a plural pronoun (“they” or “you”) here.
Genesis 49:22
Joseph {is
Quote: יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“{As for} Joseph, {he} {and his descendants}” or “Joseph, {you} {and your descendants}”
the son of a fruit-bearing {vine}, the son of a fruit-bearing {vine
Quote: בֵּ֤ן פֹּרָת֙ & בֵּ֥ן פֹּרָ֖ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
“{will be} {like} the branch of a fruitful {vine/tree}, {yes,} {like} a fruitful/productive {vine/tree}” or “{will be} very successful/prosperous and flourish {like} a fruitful/productive branch {of a vine/tree}” or “{will be/become} very fruitful/numerous {like} {the fruit on} a fruitful/productive {vine/tree}”. The same phrase is repeated here to emphasize how prosperous and productive Joseph (and his descendants) will be. Instead of saying the same phrase twice, many translations combine the two phrases and form one clause that communicates the emphasis in a different way. Do what is accurate and natural in your language.
beside a spring
Quote: עֲלֵי עָ֑יִן (1)“{that is growing/planted} next to a spring/stream {of water},”
whose} daughters go up
Quote: בָּנ֕וֹת צָעֲדָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
“{with} branches extending/hanging” or “{with} branches {full of fruit} that extend/hang”. This phrase probably continues the metaphor of the fruitful vine that symbolizes how prosperous and numerous Joseph and his descendants will be. Consider what is the best way to translate this metaphor in your language.
over a wall
Quote: עֲלֵי שֽׁוּר (1)“over a/the {surrounding} wall.” or “over a {nearby} wall.”
Genesis 49:23
And … will attack him
Quote: וַֽיְמָרֲרֻ֖הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“Expert/Skillful bowmen/archers will {fiercely} attack them/you {and their/your descendants}” or “Enemy warriors/soldiers will …” or “His/Their/Your enemies will …” Be consistent with your choice of third person or second person (singular or plural) references to Joseph (and his descendants) throughout verses 22-26.
and shoot
Quote: וָרֹ֑בּוּ (1)“and shoot {arrows} {at them/you}”
and harass him
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׂטְמֻ֖הוּ (1)“and treat them/you hatefully.” or “and try to destroy them/you.”
Genesis 49:24
But his bow will remain in strength
Quote: וַתֵּ֤שֶׁב בְּאֵיתָן֙ קַשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)“But {as they/you fight back,} they/you will hold/keep their/your bows/weapons steady” or “… they/you will use their/your bows/weapons well/effectively”. Make sure that the way you translate “his” in this verse fits with whether you use second or third person (singular or plural) to refer to Joseph (and his descendants) in verses 22-26.
and the arms of his hands will be made limber
Quote: וַיָּפֹ֖זּוּ זְרֹעֵ֣י יָדָ֑יו (1)“and their/your strong/powerful arms will remain/stay agile/nimble”
by the hands of the Mighty {One} of Jacob
Quote: מִידֵי֙ אֲבִ֣יר יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“because of the power/strength”. Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language.
the Mighty {One} of Jacob
Quote: אֲבִ֣יר יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“of the Mighty/Powerful {One/God} whom I worship/serve,” or “that the Mighty/Powerful {God} of Jacob gives them/you,” For some languages, it is clearer or more natural to change the order of the phrases in this verse and say, “But the Mighty/Powerful {God} whom I worship/serve will keep you strong and help you use your bows/weapons well/effectively {as you fight back}.” Do what is best in your language.
by the name of the Shepherd
Quote: מִשָּׁ֥ם רֹעֶ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
“{that’s right,} by the name/power of the/our Shepherd.” or “He takes care of {his people} the way that a shepherd takes care of his sheep.” A shepherd takes care of his sheep and provides for all of their needs. In the same way God takes care of his people and provides for all of their needs. See Psalm 23 which also talks about God as our Shepherd. You could put some of that information in a footnote.
the Rock of Israel
Quote: אֶ֥בֶן יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“{He is} Israel’s/my Rock/Fortress.” or “{He is} {like} a rock {fortress} who protects Israel {and his descendants}.” In verses 24 and 25, several different titles are used to refer to Yahweh, the only true God. Make sure that your translation of these verses does not sound like there is more than one God. Also make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that Jacob is referring to himself in this verse as Jacob and Israel.
Genesis 49:25
by the God of
Quote: מֵאֵ֨ל (1)“{That strength/power is/comes} from”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
by the God of your father, and he will help you
Quote: מֵאֵ֨ל אָבִ֜יךָ וְיַעְזְרֶ֗ךָּ (1)“your father’s God, who will help you {and your descendants}.” or “the God {who has always taken care} of {me,} your father. He will {also} help you {and your descendants}.”
and with the Almighty, and he will bless you
Quote: וְאֵ֤ת שַׁדַּי֙ וִיבָ֣רְכֶ֔ךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“He is the all-powerful {God}, who will bless you {all}”. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of some of the clauses in the first half of this verse and say, “{That strength/power comes} from the God {who has always taken care} of {me,} your father. He is the all-powerful {God} who will help you {and your descendants} and bless you {all}”. Do what is best in your language. Also, compare how you translated “God Almighty” in Gen 48:3.
with} blessings of the heavens above
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֤ת שָׁמַ֨יִם֙ מֵעָ֔ל (1)“{with} rain from above” or “{He will} bless/provide {you} with rain from the heavens/sky”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
blessings of the deep that lies below
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֥ת תְּה֖וֹם רֹבֶ֣צֶת תָּ֑חַת (1)“and water from deep in the ground.” or “and bless/provide {you} with water from under the ground.” This phrase refers to water that comes from under the ground and supplies springs, wells, and rivers.
blessings of breasts and womb
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֥ת שָׁדַ֖יִם וָרָֽחַם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“He will {also} bless {you} with many children {and much livestock}.” or “May your women/wives bear/have many children {and your animals bear/have many offspring/young}.” Consider what is the best way to translate this metonymy in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 49:26
The blessings of your father have surpassed the blessings of my ancestors
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֣ת אָבִ֗יךָ גָּֽבְרוּ֙ עַל בִּרְכֹ֣ת הוֹרַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “{God} has blessed {me} your father more than he blessed my ancestors,” or (2) “The blessings your father is blessing {you} {with} are greater than the blessings my ancestors blessed me with,” or (3) “The blessings of your father have surpassed the blessings/riches of the ancient mountains,” The third interpretation is based on the Greek Septuagint, which interprets the Hebrew word for “ancestors” as “mountains” (which has a similar spelling in Hebrew).
even to the bounties of
Quote: עַֽד תַּאֲוַ֖ת (1)The meaning of the Hebrew text is uncertain here. It could mean: (1) “{He has blessed me with bounties/riches that are} greater than the bounties/riches {that come} from” or (2) “{My blessings are} {so great that they extend} to the utmost/farthest boundaries/limits of”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the eternal hills
Quote: גִּבְעֹ֣ת עוֹלָ֑ם (1)“the everlasting/ancient mountains.”
May they rest on the head of Joseph
Quote: תִּֽהְיֶ֨ין֙ לְרֹ֣אשׁ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
“May {God} {also} give those/abundant blessings to {you} Joseph, {as}” or “I pray that {God} will abundantly bless {you too,} Joseph, {since you are}”. The words “head” and “top of the head” refer to Joseph and are connected with the custom of laying hands on the head of the person being blessed.
the one consecrated from {among
Quote: נְזִ֥יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“the one who has been set apart {by God} {as ruler/leader}” or “the one who is distinguished/honored {by God}” or “the one whom he/God chose to set apart {and honor}”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive phrase in your language.
his brothers
Quote: אֶחָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“above/over his/your brothers.” Make sure your choice of “his” or “your” here fits with how you translated the beginning of this sentence.
Genesis 49:27
Benjamin
Quote: בִּנְיָמִין֙ (1)“{As for} Benjamin, {he} {and his descendants}” or “Benjamin, {you} {and your descendants}”. Consider again whether you make “and … descendants” explicit for each of Jacob’s sons in this chapter or whether you leave it implied and possibly put that information in a footnote. See verses 1, 7-8, 11, 13-14, 16, 19-23, 27.
is} a ravenous wolf
Quote: זְאֵ֣ב יִטְרָ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
“{is/are} {like} a fierce wolf.” or “{will be} {fierce warriors} {like} ravenous/hungry wolves.” Wolves are a type of large, fierce, wild dog that lives and hunts together in groups. If wolves are unknown in your language area, you could say “wild dog” or “a pack of wild dogs.” Consider again how you translated the metaphors and similes that Jacob uses in verses 4, 9-11, 14, 17, 21-22, 24, 27.
In the morning it devours {its} prey, and in the evening it divides the plunder
Quote: בַּבֹּ֖קֶר יֹ֣אכַל עַ֑ד וְלָעֶ֖רֶב יְחַלֵּ֥ק שָׁלָֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
“They/You defeat their/your enemies in the morning and share the plunder/spoils of battle {with their/your family/warriors} in the evening.” or “You will always defeat your enemies and take their possessions and wealth.” Consider again whether to use second person or third person (singular or plural) in verses 3-27, and make sure your translation of the pronouns is clear and natural. To do that, it is helpful to read your translation of this section aloud.
Genesis 49:28
All those {are} the twelve tribes of Israel
Quote: כָּל אֵ֛לֶּה שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל שְׁנֵ֣ים עָשָׂ֑ר (1)“Those {twelve sons} {are} {the forefathers/ancestors of} the twelve tribes that descended/came from Israel,” This clause refers back to Jacob’s sons who are mentioned in verses 1-27.
and that {is} what their father said to them
Quote: וְ֠זֹאת אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֨ר לָהֶ֤ם אֲבִיהֶם֙ (1)“and those {were} the words/blessings that their father spoke to them.”
And he blessed
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ (1)“when he blessed” or “He blessed”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
them, each one
Quote: אוֹתָ֔ם אִ֛ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)“each one of them” or “each of them” or “each one/son”
according to his blessing he blessed them
Quote: כְּבִרְכָת֖וֹ בֵּרַ֥ךְ אֹתָֽם (1)“with blessings that were right/appropriate for them {and their descendants}.” or “in a way that was fitting/appropriate for them {and their descendants}.”
Genesis 49:29
Then he commanded them
Quote: וַיְצַ֣ו אוֹתָ֗ם (1)“After that, he/Jacob instructed his sons”
and said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“by saying to them,” Make sure that your translation of “commanded … and said …” refers to a single action, not two different actions.
I am being gathered to
Quote: אֲנִי֙ נֶאֱסָ֣ף אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“I will soon {die and} be gathered/taken {by God} to be with” or “{God} will soon take my spirit to be with” or “I am about to {die and} join”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
my people
Quote: עַמִּ֔י (1)“my ancestors/relatives {who have already died}.” or “my ancestors/relatives {who have gone/died before me}.” or “my {deceased} ancestors/relatives.”
Bury me
Quote: קִבְר֥וּ אֹתִ֖י (1)“{Please} bury my body” or “{When that happens,} {please} bury me”. Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not mean or imply that Jacob was asking to be buried while he was still physically alive.
with my fathers
Quote: אֶל אֲבֹתָ֑י (1)“with/beside {the bodies of} my forefathers/ancestors” or “next to their {bodies}” or “next to them”
in the cave that {is} in the field of Ephron the Hittite
Quote: אֶל הַ֨מְּעָרָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר בִּשְׂדֵ֖ה עֶפְר֥וֹן הַֽחִתִּֽי (1)“inside the cave that {is located} in the field that Ephron the Hittite used to own.” or “… the field that used to belong to Ephron the Hittite.” Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like Ephron still owned that property.”
Genesis 49:30
in the cave that {is} in the field of Machpelah
Quote: בַּמְּעָרָ֞ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר בִּשְׂדֵ֧ה הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֛ה (1)“That cave and field are in the Machpelah {area}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “Machpelah” in Gen 23:9.
that {is} in front of Mamre
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל פְּנֵי מַמְרֵ֖א (1)“that is near {the city of} Mamre” or “that is east of {the city of} Mamre”
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)“in the region of Canaan.”
that Abraham bought with the field from Ephron the Hittite
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ קָנָ֨ה אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת הַשָּׂדֶ֗ה מֵאֵ֛ת עֶפְרֹ֥ן הַחִתִּ֖י (1)“{That is the cave} that {my grandfather} Abraham bought, along with the field, from Ephron the Hittite,”
as property {for} a burial place
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּת קָֽבֶר (1)“to possess/use for a {family} burial place/site.” or “in order to possess/have a place to bury {his dead relatives}.”
Genesis 49:31
There they buried Abraham and Sarah his wife
Quote: שָׁ֣מָּה קָֽבְר֞וּ אֶת אַבְרָהָ֗ם וְאֵת֙ שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)“That is where {the bodies of} Abraham and his wife Sarah are buried,” The pronoun “they” is general in this verse and does not specify who buried these people. Many languages have a similar general word. Other languages make this a passive clause without specifying the subject. Do what is best in your language.
there they buried Isaac and Rebekah his wife
Quote: שָׁ֚מָּה קָבְר֣וּ אֶת יִצְחָ֔ק וְאֵ֖ת רִבְקָ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֑וֹ (1)“{and} where {the bodies of} Isaac and his wife Rebekah are buried,”
and there
Quote: וְשָׁ֥מָּה (1)“and that is where” or “That is also where”
I buried Leah
Quote: קָבַ֖רְתִּי אֶת לֵאָֽה (1)“I buried {the body of} {my wife} Leah.”
Genesis 49:32
The purchase of the field and the cave that {is} in it {was
Quote: מִקְנֵ֧ה הַשָּׂדֶ֛ה וְהַמְּעָרָ֥ה אֲשֶׁר בּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“That field and cave were bought {by Abraham}” or “{Abraham} bought that field and cave”. In verse 32, Jacob repeats some of what he said in verses 29-30. Make sure your translation does not sound like it was the first time he said this. Also consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
from the sons of Heth
Quote: מֵאֵ֥ת בְּנֵי חֵֽת (1)“from the descendants of Heth.” or “from the Hittites.” or “from the Hittite people.” Compare how you translated “Hittite” in verse 29, which refers to the same people group as here.
Genesis 49:33
Then Jacob finished commanding his sons
Quote: וַיְכַ֤ל יַעֲקֹב֙ לְצַוֺּ֣ת אֶת בָּנָ֔יו (1)“When Jacob had finished giving those instructions to his sons,”
and he drew his feet into the bed
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ף רַגְלָ֖יו אֶל הַמִּטָּ֑ה (1)“he {lay down and} pulled/lifted his feet {up} into {his} bed.” This clause means that Jacob lay back down after being in a sitting position on the side of his bed (Gen 48:2).
and exhaled
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֖ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
“and breathed out {his last/final breath}” or “Then he took his last/final breath {and died}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider again how you translated the idiom “exhaled” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 6:17; 7:21; 25:8, 17; 35:29; 49:33.
and was gathered to his people
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֥סֶף אֶל עַמָּֽיו (1)“and was gathered/taken {by God} to be with his {deceased} relatives/ancestors.” or “and joined his ancestors {who had died before him}.” Consider again how you translated this phrase in the book of Genesis. See Gen 25:8 (and note), 17; 35:29; 49:29, 33.
Genesis 50
Genesis 50:1
Then Joseph fell on
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל יוֹסֵ֖ף עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“Then Joseph threw/flung himself on his father’s face/body,” or “Then/Immediately Joseph embraced/hugged his father {in sorrow/grief},” Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not imply that Joseph fell down accidently. Rather he intentionally threw himself on his father to embrace him and express his love and grief for him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 46:29.
and he wept over him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ עָלָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“and he cried over him” For some languages it may be better to put this clause earlier and say, “Then Joseph cried {in his sorrow/grief}, and he hugged his father {tightly} and kissed him.” Do what is best in your language.
and kissed him
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁק לֽוֹ (1)“and kissed him {goodbye} {on the cheek/forehead}.” Consider again how you translated “kissed” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 27:26-27; 29:11, 13; 31:28, 55; 33:4; 45:15; 48:10; 50:1.
Genesis 50:2
Then Joseph commanded
Quote: וַיְצַ֨ו יוֹסֵ֤ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
“Then Joseph/he ordered/told”
his servants the physicians
Quote: אֶת עֲבָדָיו֙ אֶת הָרֹ֣פְאִ֔ים (1)“his servants {who were} physicians/doctors/morticians” or “his physicians/doctors who served him”
to embalm his father
Quote: לַחֲנֹ֖ט אֶת אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
“to prepare/preserve his father{’s body} for burial.” The word “embalm” refers here to the special process that the Egyptians did to slow down the decaying process of a dead body in order to preserve it for burial.
So the physicians embalmed
Quote: וַיַּחַנְט֥וּ הָרֹפְאִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So his doctors/morticians embalmed/preserved/prepared {his father} Israel{’s body} for burial,” or “So they did that,”
Genesis 50:3
and they completed forty days for him
Quote: וַיִּמְלְאוּ לוֹ֙ אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם (1)“which took them forty days,” or “The process/work required/took forty days,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for so they complete the days of embalmings
Quote: כִּ֛י כֵּ֥ן יִמְלְא֖וּ יְמֵ֣י הַחֲנֻטִ֑ים (1)“because that is the {usual/normal} amount of days/time {required/needed} to embalm/prepare/preserve a body.” or “which is how long it {normally/usually} takes to embalm/prepare/preserve a body.”
And the Egyptians wept for him seventy days
Quote: וַיִּבְכּ֥וּ אֹת֛וֹ מִצְרַ֖יִם שִׁבְעִ֥ים יֽוֹם (1)“The people in Egypt wept/mourned for him/Israel {for} seventy days.” or “For seventy days the people in/of Egypt mourned for him/Israel.” The seventy days of mourning included the forty days of embalming, so do not begin your translation of this sentence with a word like “Then”.
Genesis 50:4
And the days of his mourning passed
Quote: וַיַּֽעַבְרוּ֙ יְמֵ֣י בְכִית֔וֹ (1)“When those {seventy} days of mourning for him/Israel were over/finished,” or “After that time of mourning his/Israel’s death,”
then Joseph spoke to the house of Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר יוֹסֵ֔ף אֶל בֵּ֥ית פַּרְעֹ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Joseph spoke to the people/officials in Pharaoh’s household/court and said,” or “Joseph said to Pharaoh’s officials,” The phrase “the house of Pharaoh” refers to members of the royal court.
Please, if I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)“Please do this favor/kindness for me:” or “Please show me kindness and do this:”
please speak in the ears of Pharaoh, saying
Quote: דַּבְּרוּ נָ֕א בְּאָזְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹ֖ה לֵאמֹֽר (1)“please speak to {King} Pharaoh {for me} and say {to him},” or “please take a message to {King} Pharaoh {for me} and tell {him},”
Genesis 50:5
My father made me swear, saying, “Behold, I am dying. In my grave that I dug for myself in the land of Canaan, there you must bury me
Quote: אָבִ֞י הִשְׁבִּיעַ֣נִי לֵאמֹ֗ר הִנֵּ֣ה אָנֹכִי֮ מֵת֒ בְּקִבְרִ֗י אֲשֶׁ֨ר כָּרִ֤יתִי לִי֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן שָׁ֖מָּה תִּקְבְּרֵ֑נִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“ ‘{Just before he died,} my father had me make a vow/oath to him. He said, “Look/Listen, I am about to die. {Swear/Promise to me} {with an oath} {that} you will bury my body in the tomb that I dug/made for myself in the region of Canaan.” ” For some languages it may be better to translate this embedded quote as an indirect quote and say, “that when my father was about to die, he had me swear/vow/promise to him that I would bury his body in the region of Canaan, in a grave/tomb that he had prepared for himself there.” Do what is best in your language.
So now, please let me go up {there} and bury my father
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה אֶֽעֱלֶה נָּ֛א וְאֶקְבְּרָ֥ה אֶת אָבִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“{Joseph continued,} “So now, please allow/permit me to go and bury my father {there},” or “So {ask the king to} please let me go {to Canaan} and bury my father{’s body} {there}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as an indirect quote. Also see how you translated “go up” in Gen 45:9.
then I will return
Quote: וְאָשֽׁוּבָה (1)“After that, I will come back {here}.” or “After I/we have done that, I will return {to Egypt}.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 50:6
And Pharaoh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)“{When Pharaoh heard Joseph’s message,} he replied,” or “Pharaoh {sent back} this reply {to him/Joseph}:”
Go up and bury your father just as he made you swear
Quote: עֲלֵ֛ה וּקְבֹ֥ר אֶת אָבִ֖יךָ כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר הִשְׁבִּיעֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“{You may} go {to Canaan} to bury your father{’s body}, just as he made you swear/vow/promise {to do}.” or “{Tell Joseph that} he may go {to Canaan} and bury his father{’s body} just as his father made him swear/vow/promise {that he would do}.” Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this sentence as a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated “go up” in verse 5.
Genesis 50:7
So Joseph went up
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)“So Joseph started traveling {to/toward Canaan}” or “So Joseph started the trip/journey {to Canaan}” or “So Joseph left {Egypt/Goshen}”. Joseph did not arrive in Canaan until later (verse 10).
to bury his father
Quote: לִקְבֹּ֣ר אֶת אָבִ֑יו (1)“to bury his father{’s body},”
and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיַּֽעֲל֨וּ אִתּ֜וֹ כָּל עַבְדֵ֤י פַרְעֹה֙ (1)“All the officials of Pharaoh went with him {to escort him},” or “and all Pharaoh’s officials escorted him,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, consider again how you translated “Pharaoh” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:15 (and note), 16-18, 20; 37:36; 39:1; 40:2, 11, 13, 14, 17, 19; 41:1, 4, 7-10, 14-17, 25, 28, 32-35, 37-39, 41-46, 55; 42:15-16; 44:18; 45:2, 8, 16-17, 21; 46:5, 31, 33-34; 47:1-5, 7-11, 14, 19-26; 50:4, 6-7. Also consider again how you translated “servants” and “officials” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 20:8; 40:2, 4, 7, 20; 41:10, 37-38; 45:16; 50:7.
the elders of his house
Quote: זִקְנֵ֣י בֵית֔וֹ (1)“{including} the senior/important men/leaders in/from his/Pharaoh’s household/court”. The “elders” were probably older men who had served Pharaoh for a long time and held important positions in his court.
and all elders of the land of Egypt
Quote: וְכֹ֖ל זִקְנֵ֥י אֶֽרֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)“and all the {other} senior/important men/leaders in/from the country of Egypt.”
Genesis 50:8
and all of the house of Joseph
Quote: וְכֹל֙ בֵּ֣ית יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)“All of Joseph’s family also {went with him,}” The word “house” refers here to Joseph’s whole extended family, not just to the people in his own household. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and his brothers
Quote: וְאֶחָ֖יו (1)“including his brothers”
and the house of his father
Quote: וּבֵ֣ית אָבִ֑יו (1)“and {the rest of} his father’s family.”
Only their little ones
Quote: רַ֗ק טַפָּם֙ (1)“Only their children”
and their flock{s} and their herd{s
Quote: וְצֹאנָ֣ם וּבְקָרָ֔ם (1)“and their sheep and cattle” or “and their livestock”. Consider again how you translated “flock{s} and herd{s}” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16; 13:5; 20:14; 21:27; 24:35; 26:14; 32:8; 33:13; 34:28; 45:10; 46:32; 47:1, 17; 50:8. Also see how you translated “herd” in Gen 18:7-8, and how you translated “flock” in Gen 4:2, 4; 21:28; 27:9; 29:2-3, 6-10; 30:31, 32, 36, 38-43; 31:4, 8, 10, 12, 19, 38, 41, 43; 32:6; 37:2, 12, 14; 38:12, 13, 17; 46:34; 47:1, 17. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context.
they left
Quote: עָזְב֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“they left {behind}” or “were left {behind} {with servants/caretakers}”. The children and animals were probably left with servants who took care of them during the funeral. For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “They left {behind} only their children and their livestock in Goshen Province.” Do what is best in your language.
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)“in the region of Goshen.” or “in Goshen Province.” Consider again how you translated “the land/region of Goshen” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 45:10; 46:28-29, 34; 47:1, 4, 6, 27; 50:8.
Genesis 50:9
And with him went up both chariot{s} and horsemen
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַל עִמּ֔וֹ גַּם רֶ֖כֶב גַּם פָּרָשִׁ֑ים (1)“There were men/soldiers riding chariots and men/soldiers riding horses who also went with him/Joseph,” or “{Many} soldiers also escorted him/Joseph, {including} those {who were} riding chariots and those {who were} riding horses,” Consider again how you translated “chariot” in Gen 41:43; 46:29; 50:9.
and the company was very great
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י הַֽמַּחֲנֶ֖ה כָּבֵ֥ד מְאֹֽד (1)“so that the {entire} procession/group {of people} was very large.” or “so that there was a very large group {of people} {traveling together}.”
Genesis 50:10
Then they came to
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֜אוּ עַד (1)“Then {when} they came to” or “When they arrived at”
the threshing floor of Atad
Quote: גֹּ֣רֶן הָאָטָ֗ד (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “Atad’s threshing floor/place,” or “a place owned by {a man named} Atad where people separated grain {from chaff},” or (2) “the threshing floor/place near {the city/town of} Atad,” or “Goren Ha-Atad,” or (3) “the {grain/wheat} threshing place that was surrounded by thornbushes,” The Hebrew word “atad” means “thorns,” but most Bible scholars think it refers here to the name of a person or city.
which {is} beyond the Jordan, and they lamented
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ בְּעֵ֣בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן וַיִּ֨סְפְּדוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“which {was} located beyond/across the Jordan {River},” For some languages it may be better to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “They traveled to the other side of the Jordan {River} and stopped at a {grain} threshing place owned by {a man named} Atad.” The location of Atad’s threshing floor is not certain. It was most likely on the west side of the Jordan River, since that is where the cave was located and that is where the Canaanites would have been most likely to observe Joseph’s family and the Egyptians mourning (verse 11). However, since its location is not certain, it is best to translate “beyond the Jordan” in a general way (like the Hebrew text is).
and they lamented there
Quote: וַיִּ֨סְפְּדוּ שָׁ֔ם (1)“they mourned/grieved there for Joseph’s father” or “they began to mourn/grieve”
with} a very great and heavy lamentation
Quote: מִסְפֵּ֛ד גָּד֥וֹל וְכָבֵ֖ד מְאֹ֑ד (1)“{with} a very loud and sorrowful lamentation/mourning.” or “very loudly and sorrowfully.”
And he did seven days {of} mourning for his father
Quote: וַיַּ֧עַשׂ לְאָבִ֛יו אֵ֖בֶל שִׁבְעַ֥ת יָמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“For seven days Joseph {and the others} mourned/grieved/lamented the death of his father.” or “and for seven days, he/Joseph led everyone in mourning/lamenting the death of his father.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to combine the last two sentences in this verse and say, “There Joseph {and the others} mourned for his father very loudly and sorrowfully for seven days.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 50:11
And the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, saw the mourning at the threshing floor of Atad
Quote: וַיַּ֡רְא יוֹשֵׁב֩ הָאָ֨רֶץ הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֜י אֶת הָאֵ֗בֶל בְּגֹ֨רֶן֙ הָֽאָטָ֔ד (1)“When the Canaanites who lived in the area saw them mourning {like that} at Atad’s threshing floor/place,” See how you translated “threshing floor of Atad” in verse 10.
and they said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)“they exclaimed {to each other},”
This {is} a heavy mourning for the Egyptians
Quote: אֵֽבֶל כָּבֵ֥ד זֶ֖ה לְמִצְרָ֑יִם (1)“{Wow!} Those people of/from Egypt are mourning {very} sorrowfully {for someone who died}!” Consider again how you translated “Egyptian” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:14; 16:1, 3; 21:9; 25:12; 39:1, 2, 5; 41:55-56; 43:32; 45:2; 46:34; 47:15, 20; 50:3, 11. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
For that {reason
Quote: עַל כֵּ֞ן (1)“That is the reason that” or “That is why”
they called its name
Quote: קָרָ֤א שְׁמָהּ֙ (1)“people call that place” or “the name of that place is” or “that place is called/named”. Consider again how you translated “For that (reason) he/they called/call …” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:9; 16:14; 19:22; 21:31; 25:26, 30; 31:48; 33:17; 35:8; 38:29-30; 50:11.
Abel Mizraim
Quote: אָבֵ֣ל מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“Abel Mizraim, {which means “Egyptians’ mourning place,”}”
which {is} beyond
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּעֵ֥בֶר (1)“which {is located}” or “The/That place {is}”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
beyond the Jordan
Quote: בְּעֵ֥בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“on the other side of the Jordan {River}.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “That is why the name of that place on the other side of the Jordan {River} is Abel Mizraim, {which means “Egyptians’ mourning place.”}” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translate this phrase in verse 10.
Genesis 50:12
And his sons did for him just as
Quote: וַיַּעֲשׂ֥וּ בָנָ֖יו ל֑וֹ כֵּ֖ן כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)“So his/Jacob’s sons did for him exactly what” or “Jacob’s sons did {everything} for him just as”
he had commanded them
Quote: צִוָּֽם (1)“he had instructed/told them {to do}:”
Genesis 50:13
And his sons carried him
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֨וּ אֹת֤וֹ בָנָיו֙ (1)“They took/brought his body”
to the land of Canaan
Quote: אַ֣רְצָה כְּנַ֔עַן (1)“to the region of Canaan”. Consider again how you translated “the land/region of Canaan” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:31; 12:5; 13:12, 14; 16:3; 17:8; 23:2, 19; 31:18; 33:18; 35:6; 36:5-6; 37:1; 42:5, 7, 13, 29, 32; 44:8; 45:17, 25; 46:6, 12, 31; 47:1, 4, 13, 15, 27; 48:3, 7; 49:30; 50:5, 13. Also be consistent with how you spelled the name of the man named Canaan in 9:18, 22, 25-27; 10:6, 15, and compare that to how you translated “the Canaanites” in 10:18-19; 12:6; 13:7; 15:21; 24:3, 37; 28:1, 6, 8; 34:30; 36:2; 38:2; 46:10; 50:11.
and buried him in the cave of the field of Machpelah
Quote: וַיִּקְבְּר֣וּ אֹת֔וֹ בִּמְעָרַ֖ת שְׂדֵ֣ה הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֑ה (1)“and buried him/it in the cave {that is} in the field in the Machpelah {area},” Consider again how you translated “cave” and “the cave of the field of Machpelah” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 19:30; 23:9 (and note), 11, 17, 19-20; 25:9; 49:29-30, 32; 50:13.
which Abraham had bought with the field as property for a burial place from Ephron the Hittite
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר קָנָה֩ אַבְרָהָ֨ם אֶת הַשָּׂדֶ֜ה לַאֲחֻזַּת קֶ֗בֶר מֵאֵ֛ת עֶפְרֹ֥ן הַחִתִּ֖י (1)“{It was} the field {and cave} that Abraham had bought from Ephron the Hittite as a property/place to bury his dead {relatives}”. Consider again how you translated “property for a burial place” in Gen 23:4, 9, 20, and how you translated “Hittite” or “Ephron the Hittite” in Gen 10:15; 15:20; 23:3, 5, 7, 10, 16,18; 25:9-10; 26:34; 27:46; 36:2; 49:29-30; 50:13. Be consistent with how you spelled “Ephron” in those verses and in Gen 23:8, 13-14, 16-17.
in front of Mamre
Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י מַמְרֵֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“near {the city of} Mamre.” For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence (after “Machpelah”) and say, “… the field of Machpelah near {the city of} Mamre. {It was} the field {and cave} that Abraham …” Do what is best in your language. Also, consider again how you translated “in front of Mamre” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 23:17, 19; 25:9; 49:30; 50:13. Be consistent with how you spelled “Mamre” in those verses and in Gen 13:18; 14:13, 24; 18:1.
Genesis 50:14
after he buried his father
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֖י קָבְר֥וֹ אֶת אָבִֽיו (1)“After Joseph buried his father{’s body},”
Then … Joseph returned to Egypt
Quote: וַיָּ֨שָׁב יוֹסֵ֤ף מִצְרַ֨יְמָה֙ (1)“Joseph/he returned to {the country of} Egypt,”
he and his brothers
Quote: ה֣וּא וְאֶחָ֔יו (1)“along with his brothers”
and all
Quote: וְכָל (1)“and everyone {else}”
who had gone up with him
Quote: הָעֹלִ֥ים אִתּ֖וֹ (1)“who had gone {to Canaan} with him” or “who had accompanied him”
to bury his father
Quote: לִקְבֹּ֣ר אֶת אָבִ֑יו (1)“to bury/entomb his father{’s body}.” or “to/for his father’s burial/funeral.” Consider again how you translated “bury” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 15:15; 23:4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 19; 25:9-10; 35:8, 19, 29; 47:29-30; 48:7; 49:29, 31; 50:5-7, 13-14. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 50:15
And the brothers of Joseph saw that their father was dead, and they said
Quote: וַיִּרְא֤וּ אֲחֵֽי יוֹסֵף֙ כִּי מֵ֣ת אֲבִיהֶ֔ם וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)“Joseph’s brothers thought about the fact that their father was dead, and they {were worried and} said {to each other},” or “Now that their father was no longer alive, Joseph’s brothers {were worried and} said {to each other},”
What if Joseph hates us
Quote: ל֥וּ יִשְׂטְמֵ֖נוּ יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)“What if Joseph is holding a grudge against us?” or “If Joseph is angry at us,”
Then he will surely repay us
Quote: וְהָשֵׁ֤ב יָשִׁיב֙ לָ֔נוּ (1)“Then certainly he will pay us back” or “then he will certainly take revenge on us {and punish us severely}”. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
for} all the evil that we did to him
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל הָ֣רָעָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר גָּמַ֖לְנוּ אֹתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“for all the ways that we harmed him!” or “for the completely evil/terrible way that we treated him!” or “because we treated him so badly.” It may be clearer or more natural to put this clause before the previous clause and say, “If Joseph is angry at us for the terrible way that we treated him, he might punish us severely for what we did.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 50:16
Then they ordered {a messenger to go} to Joseph, saying
Quote: וַיְצַוּ֕וּ אֶל יוֹסֵ֖ף לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“So they sent {a messenger} to Joseph to tell {him},” or “So they sent {a message} to Joseph that/which said,”
Your father commanded before his death, saying
Quote: אָבִ֣יךָ צִוָּ֔ה לִפְנֵ֥י מוֹת֖וֹ לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
“Your/Our father commanded {us} before he died,” or “Before your/our father died, he commanded/told {us}”. Consider again how you translated “commanded” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 2:16; 3:11, 17; 6:22; 7:5, 9, 16; 12:20; 18:19; 21:4; 26:5, 11; 27:8; 28:1,6; 32:4, 17, 19; 42:25, 44:1; 45:19; 47:11; 49:29, 33; 50:2, 12, 16. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Also, the pronoun “us” is exclusive here since it does not include Joseph.
Genesis 50:17
This you must say to Joseph: “I beg {you
Quote: כֹּֽה תֹאמְר֣וּ לְיוֹסֵ֗ף אָ֣נָּ֡א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“Please say this to Joseph {for me}: ‘I beg/urge you to” or “to tell you that he asks/begs you to” or “to ask/urge you on his behalf to”. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. See what you did for doubly-embedded quotes in Gen 32:4.
please forgive the crime of your brothers and their sin, because they did evil to you
Quote: שָׂ֣א נָ֠א פֶּ֣שַׁע אַחֶ֤יךָ וְחַטָּאתָם֙ כִּי רָעָ֣ה גְמָל֔וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
“please forgive your brothers for all the evil/harm they did {to you} and for their offenses {against you}, even though what they did was very evil/wrong.” or “please forgive {us}, your brothers, for sinning {against you} and treating you so badly.” Consider again how you translated “sin” in Gen 4:7; 18:20; 31:36; 50:17, and consider again how you translated the synonym “crime” in Gen 31:36; 50:17. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context.
So now, please forgive the crime of the servants of your father’s God
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ שָׂ֣א נָ֔א לְפֶ֥שַׁע עַבְדֵ֖י אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ (1)“So we beg you to forgive {us}, the servants of your/our father’s God, for our crimes {against you}.” or “So then, as servants of God whom our father worshiped/served, we beg you to forgive us for sinning {against you}.” Consider again how you translated “the God of” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 9:26; 24:12, 27, 42, 48; 26:24; 28:13; 31:5, 29, 42, 53; 32:9; 43:23; 46:1, 3; 49:24-25; 50:17.
And Joseph cried when they spoke to him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ יוֹסֵ֖ף בְּדַבְּרָ֥ם אֵלָֽיו (1)“Joseph cried when he heard that/their message.” or “When Joseph received/heard his brothers’ message to him, he {was very sad and} cried.”
Genesis 50:18
Then his brothers also came
Quote: וַיֵּלְכוּ֙ גַּם אֶחָ֔יו (1)“After that, his/Joseph’s brothers themselves came {to him},”
and fell before him and said
Quote: וַֽיִּפְּל֖וּ לְפָנָ֑יו וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
“and threw/bowed themselves {on the ground} in front of him and said,” or “prostrated themselves before him {to show respect}, and said {to him},” See how you translated “fell … before him” in Gen 44:14. Compare that to how you translated “bowed down to/before …” (See: 49:8).
Behold us
Quote: הִנֶּ֥נּֽוּ (1)“Here we are,” See how you translated a similar phrase (“Behold me”) in 22:1, 7. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
we belong} to you as slaves
Quote: לְךָ֖ לַעֲבָדִֽים (1)“we {will be} your slaves/servants!” or “we {will serve you} as slaves/servants!” If you use an exclamation point here in your translation, make sure it does mean that Joseph’s brothers were angry. Rather, they were worried and desperate.
Genesis 50:19
But Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֛ם יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)“But Joseph replied to them,”
Do not be afraid
Quote: אַל תִּירָ֑אוּ (1)“You do not need to be afraid.” or “You have nothing to fear.”
For {am} I in place of God
Quote: כִּ֛י הֲתַ֥חַת אֱלֹהִ֖ים אָֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“I would never take God’s place {and judge/punish you}!” or “After all, I am not God! {So I have no right to judge/punish you.}” Joseph uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he will not take God’s place and punish his brothers. Some languages must use a statement or exclamation here instead. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 50:20
And {as for} you, you intended evil against me
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֕ם חֲשַׁבְתֶּ֥ם עָלַ֖י רָעָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
“{It is true that} you planned to harm me, {but}” or “Although you intentionally treated me {very} badly,” In the Hebrew text, the pronoun “you” is emphatic in form and position to emphasize Joseph’s brothers and contrast them with God. Consider what is the best way to translate that contrast in your language.
but} God intended it for good
Quote: אֱלֹהִים֙ חֲשָׁבָ֣הּ לְטֹבָ֔ה (1)“God is using that {evil} to benefit {us all}” or “God planned that what you did would turn out to be good/beneficial {for me and everyone else}”
in order to do as {he is doing} this day
Quote: לְמַ֗עַן עֲשֹׂ֛ה כַּיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּ֖ה (1)“to accomplish what he is doing these days,” or “Right now he is doing what he planned,” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to save many people
Quote: לְהַחֲיֹ֥ת עַם רָֽב (1)“to save {the lives of} many people.” or “to keep many people alive.” or “keeping many people from dying.” Consider again how you translated “save (lives)” or “keep alive” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 7:3; 12:12; 19:19; 45:7; 47:25; 50:20.
Genesis 50:21
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ (1)“So then,” or “So again {I tell you},”
do not be afraid
Quote: אַל תִּירָ֔אוּ (1)“you do not need to be afraid.” or “you have nothing to fear.” Consider again how you translated “do not be afraid” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 15:1; 21:17; 26:24; 35:17; 43:23; 46:3; 50:19, 21.
I will support you and your little ones
Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י אֲכַלְכֵּ֥ל אֶתְכֶ֖ם וְאֶֽת טַפְּכֶ֑ם (1)“I {myself} will take care of you and your children.” or “I {myself} will provide {everything} that you and your children need.” In the Hebrew text here, “I” is an emphatic pronoun. Consider what is the best way to translate that in your language. Also, consider again how you translated “little ones” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 34:29; 43:8; 45:19; 46:5; 47:12, 24; 50:8, 21. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
So he comforted them
Quote: וַיְנַחֵ֣ם אוֹתָ֔ם (1)“In that way, Joseph consoled/assured them {that he had forgiven them},” Consider again how you translated “comforted” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 24:67; 27:42; 37:35; 38:12; 50:21. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and he spoke to their heart{s
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֖ר עַל לִבָּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“and he {also} said {other} things to comfort/encourage them.” The phrase “spoke to their hearts” is an idiom that means Joseph said things to comfort and encourage his brothers. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom with the same meaning that would work well here.
Genesis 50:22
Then Joseph stayed
Quote: וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב יוֹסֵף֙ (1)“Joseph remained/lived” or “Joseph continued to stay/live”
in Egypt
Quote: בְּמִצְרַ֔יִם (1)“in {the land/country of} Egypt,”
he and the house of his father
Quote: ה֖וּא וּבֵ֣ית אָבִ֑יו (1)“along with {the rest of} his father {Jacob}’s household/family,”
And Joseph lived 110 years
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף מֵאָ֥ה וָעֶ֖שֶׂר שָׁנִֽים (1)“until he was 110 years old.” or “Joseph/He lived to be 110 years old.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 50:23
And Joseph saw
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא יוֹסֵף֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
“So he {was able/alive to} see/know” or “He lived {long enough} to see/know”
Ephraim’s sons {to} the third {generation
Quote: לְאֶפְרַ֔יִם בְּנֵ֖י שִׁלֵּשִׁ֑ים (1)“Ephraim’s descendants, {down to} the third {generation}.” or “{his son} Ephraim’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.”
Also, the sons of Machir
Quote: גַּ֗ם בְּנֵ֤י מָכִיר֙ (1)“The children of {his grandson} Machir,”
the son of Manasseh
Quote: בֶּן מְנַשֶּׁ֔ה (1)“{who was} Manasseh’s son,”
were born on the knees of Joseph
Quote: יֻלְּד֖וּ עַל בִּרְכֵּ֥י יוֹסֵֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“also grew up during his lifetime.” For some languages it is better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “He also lived to see {his son} Manasseh’s son Machir grow up, {as well as Machir’s} children.” or “He also lived to see the children of {his grandson} Machir grow up, who was Manasseh’s son.” Do what is best in your language. Also, the phrase “born on Joseph’s knees” is an idiom that means Joseph recognized Makir’s children as his descendants and that they grew up during his lifetime and spent time with him.
Genesis 50:24
Then Joseph said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל אֶחָ֔יו (1)“Then {one day} Joseph said to his brothers,”
I am dying
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י מֵ֑ת (1)“I am about to die,” Consider again how you translated “I am dying” in Gen 35:18; 48:21; 50:5, 24.
and God will surely visit you
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהִ֞ים פָּקֹ֧ד יִפְקֹ֣ד אֶתְכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“but God will certainly/definitely help you”. The word “visit” is used here as an idiom that refers to God helping his people in a powerful way. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 21:1, where it has a slightly different meaning.
and take you up from this land
Quote: וְהֶעֱלָ֤ה אֶתְכֶם֙ מִן הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֔את (1)“and take/lead you {and your descendants} from this land/country”
to the land that he swore
Quote: אֶל הָאָ֕רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר נִשְׁבַּ֛ע (1)“to the land that he swore/vowed/promised {with an oath/vow}”
to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob
Quote: לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם לְיִצְחָ֖ק וּֽלְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)“{to give} to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
Genesis 50:25
Then Joseph made the sons of Israel swear {an oath}, saying
Quote: וַיַּשְׁבַּ֣ע יוֹסֵ֔ף אֶת בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)“Then Joseph told {his brothers and} {the rest of} the descendants of Israel to swear/promise {with an oath} {that they would do something for him}. He said,” Consider again how you translated “swear” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 21:23 (and note), 24, 31; 22:16; 24:3, 7, 9, 37; 25:33; 26:3, 31; 31:53; 47:31; 50:5-6, 24-25.
Surely God will visit you
Quote: פָּקֹ֨ד יִפְקֹ֤ד אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶתְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
“{Yes,} God will certainly/definitely visit/help you, and {when he does,}” or “When God visits/helps you {that way},” or “When God does that,” See how you translated “visit you” in verse 24.
and you must take my bones up from this {place
Quote: וְהַעֲלִתֶ֥ם אֶת עַצְמֹתַ֖י מִזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
“you must take my bones/body back {to Canaan} {with you} {and bury them/it there}.” For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “When God does that, you must take my body back {to Canaan} {with you} {and bury it there}.’ Then Joseph made/had {his brothers and} {the rest of} the descendants of Israel swear/promise {with an oath}{that they would do that}.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 50:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: וַיָּ֣מָת בֶּן מֵאָ֥ה וָעֶ֖שֶׂר שָׁנִ֑ים (1)“So Joseph died at the age of 110 years.” or “So Joseph died when he was 110 years old.”
Then they embalmed him
Quote: וַיַּחַנְט֣וּ אֹת֔וֹ (1)“Then/And his physicians/doctors/morticians prepared/preserved his body for burial,” See how you translated “embalmed” in verses 2-3, and how you translated “physicians/doctors” in verse 2.
and he was put
Quote: וַיִּ֥ישֶׂם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
“and they put/placed him/it” or “and put/placed his body”. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
in a coffin
Quote: בָּאָר֖וֹן (1)“in a burial chest/box”
in Egypt
Quote: בְּמִצְרָֽיִם (1)“in {the land/country of} Egypt.”