diff --git a/en_tn_59-HEB.tsv b/en_tn_59-HEB.tsv index 8f74743e45..fb014dd7bc 100644 --- a/en_tn_59-HEB.tsv +++ b/en_tn_59-HEB.tsv @@ -1,8 +1,8 @@ Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote HEB front intro xy4n 0 # Introduction to Hebrews

## Part 1: General Introduction

### Outline of the Book of Hebrews

Hebrews alternates between exposition and exhortation. To put it another way, the author switches between teaching and warning his audience. The following outline identifies which sections are which.

1. Introduction: God and his Son (1:1–4)
2. The Son and the angels (1:5–2:18)
* Teaching: The Son is greater than the angels (1:5–14)
* Exhortation: Listen to the message! (2:1–4)
* Teaching: The Son becomes lower than the angels to help his brothers (2:5–18)
3. Example of the wilderness generation (3:1–4:13)
* Exhortation: The Son is greater than Moses (3:1–6)
* Exhortation: Strive to enter the rest! (3:7–4:11)
* Exhortation: The power of God’s word (4:12–13)
4. Summary statement (4:14–16)
5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: The Son becomes high priest (5:1–10)
* Exhortation: Make sure to persevere! (5:11–6:12)
* Exhortation: God’s promise is certain (6:13–20)
* Teaching: Melchizedek the priest (7:1–10)
* Teaching: The Son is high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11–28)
* Teaching: The ministry of the Son (8:1–6)
* Teaching: The new covenant (8:7–13)
* Teaching: Old and new ministries (9:1–10:18)
6. Summary statement (10:19–25)
7. Faith and endurance (10:26–12:29)
* Exhortation: Endure in the faith! (10:26–39)
* Exhortation: Examples of faith (11:1–40)
* Exhortation: Imitate Jesus in rejecting sin and enduring discipline (12:1–17)
* Exhortation: Mount Sinai and Mount Zion (12:18–29)
8. Closing (13:1–25)
* Final commands and exhortations (13:1–19)
* Benediction and letter closing (13:20–25)

### Who wrote the Book of Hebrews?

No one knows who wrote Hebrews. Scholars have suggested several different people who could possibly be the author. Possible authors are Paul, Luke, and Barnabas. The date of writing is also not known. Most scholars think it was written before A.D. 70. Jerusalem was destroyed in A.D. 70, but the writer of this letter spoke about Jerusalem as if it had not yet been destroyed.

### What is the Book of Hebrews about?

In the Book of Hebrews, the author shows that Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. The author did this in order to encourage the Jewish Christians and to explain that Jesus is better than anything that the old covenant had to offer. Jesus is the perfect High Priest. Jesus was also the perfect sacrifice. Animal sacrifices became useless because Jesus’ sacrifice was once and for all time. Therefore, Jesus is the one and only way for people to be accepted by God.

### How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Hebrews.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “The Letter to the Hebrews” or “A Letter to the Jewish Christians.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

### Can readers understand this book without knowing about the sacrifices and the work of the priests required in the Old Testament?

It would be very difficult for readers to understand this book without understanding these matters. Translators might consider explaining some of these Old Testament concepts in notes or in an introduction to this book.

### How is the idea of blood used in the Book of Hebrews?

Beginning in [Hebrews 9:7](../heb/09/07.md), the idea of blood is often used as metonymy to represent the death of any animal that was sacrificed according to God’s covenant with Israel. The author also used blood to represent the death of Jesus Christ. Jesus became the perfect sacrifice so that God would forgive people for sinning against him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

Beginning in [Hebrews 9:19](../heb/09/19.md), the author used the idea of sprinkling as a symbolic action. Old Testament priests sprinkled the blood of the animals sacrificed. This was a symbol of the benefits of the animal’s death being applied to the people or to an object. This showed that the people or the object was acceptable to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

### When and where does Jesus make atonement in Hebrews?


### What does it mean to “take away sin”?

See Isa 27:9?

## Part 3: Important Translation Issues

### Terminology for sacred spaces and buildings

### How are the ideas of “holy” and “sanctify” represented in Hebrews in the ULT?

The scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, the ULT uses the following principles:
* Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God views Christians as sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless, faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones,” or “holy people.”
* Sometimes the meaning indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In these cases, the ULT uses “believer” or “believers.” (See: 6:10; 13:24)
* Sometimes the meaning implies the idea of someone or something set apart for God alone. In these cases, the ULT uses “sanctify,” “set apart,” “dedicated to,” or “reserved for.” (See: 2:11: 9:13; 10:10, 14, 29; 13:12)

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

### How should “we” and “you” be translated?

Throughout the letter, “we” includes the author and the audience unless a note specifies otherwise. Similarly, “you” is always plural unless a note specifies otherwise.

### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Hebrews?

For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.
* “you crowned him with glory and honor” (2:7). Some older versions read, “you crowned him with glory and honor and you have put him over the works of your hands.”
* “those who did not unite in faith with those who obeyed” (4:2). Some older versions read, “those who heard it without joining faith to it.”
* “Christ came as a high priest of the good things that have come” (9:11). Some modern versions and older versions read, “Christ came as a high priest of the good things that are to come.”
* “on those who were prisoners” (10:34). Some older versions read, “of me in my chains.”
* “They were stoned. They were sawn in two. They were killed with the sword” (11:37). Some older versions read, “They were stoned. They were sawn in two. They were tempted. They were killed with the sword.”
* “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned” (12:20). Some older versions read, “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned or shot with an arrow.”

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) -HEB 1 intro aaf9 0 # Hebrews 1 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

1. Introduction: God and his Son (1:1–4)
2. The Son and the angels (1:5–2:18)
* Teaching: The Son is greater than the angels (1:5–14)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [1:5](../01/05.md), [7–13](../01/07.md), which are quotations from books of poetry in the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### God speaking Scripture

In this chapter, the author quotes the Old Testament seven times. Each time, he says that God is the one who speaks the words, and God speaks them to or about the Son or the angels. The audience would have recognized that these quotations came from the Old Testament, but the author wished to introduce them as words that God himself said and says. He can do this because he believed that God is the author of the entire Old Testament, since he is the one who spoke through the prophets (see [1:1](../01/01.md)). In your translation, you should express these quotations as words that God says. If your readers would not recognize that God is speaking quotations from the Old Testament, you could identify the quotations for your readers in footnotes or in some other way.

### Old Testament quotations

When the author quotes from the Old Testament, he uses a Greek translation that is sometimes different than the original Hebrew version that most modern translations use for the Old Testament. This is particularly obvious in [1:6](../01/06.md), which quotes from the Greek version of [Deuteronomy 32:43](../../deu/32/43.md). In other places, the author may paraphrase or loosely quote the Old Testament. Since the author chose to use these forms of the quotations, you should represent the words the author uses, not the words that may be found in an Old Testament you are familiar with. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

### The Son and the Father

In this chapter, the author refers to the “Son” and several times speaks of God as a “father.” These are important terms for two person of the Trinity: God the Father and God the Son. The author uses these terms partly because the Old Testament texts he quotes use them. Also, “Son” and “Father” refer to two people who are closely related but not the same person, so the words provide good language to speak about two persons of the Trinity. If possible, preserve the father and son language in this chapter, but make sure that your translation does not make it sound like the Son did not exist until a certain time or that the Father at some point physically gave birth to the Son. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

### Angels

The author mentions “angels” many times in this chapter. In his culture, everyone knew about “angels.” They were spiritual beings who could appear in human form. Some people talked about good and evil angels. The author only speaks about the good angels in this chapter. These angels serve and worship God, and they do whatever God tells them to do. Some scholars think that the author is arguing against people who said that Jesus was an angel. More likely, the author wishes to prove that Jesus the Son is God, and he uses the angels to do that. The author thinks that the angels are between humans and God in power and position. If the Son is above the angels, that means he must be God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/angel]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### Rhetorical questions

The author asks rhetorical questions in [1:5](../01/05.md), [13–14](../01/13.md). He is not asking these questions because he wants the audience to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the audience to think about how they are acting and what they are thinking. The questions encourage them to think along with the author. For ways to translate these questions, look for the notes on each verse that includes these kinds of questions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

### Parallelisms

In the Old Testament, good poetry often included two parallel lines that expressed one idea in two different ways. When the author quotes the Old Testament, he often includes this kind of parallelism. Since both lines contribute to the meaning of the idea, it is best to preserve the parallelism. If your readers would find it confusing, however, you could combine the two parallel lines into one idea. See the notes on each instance of parallel lines for translation options. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

### Inheriting

In [1:2](../01/02.md), [4](../01/04.md), [14](../01/14.md), the author uses language related to “inheriting” or being an “heir.” In the author’s culture, children often “inherited” property or money when their parents died. In these verses, the author uses the “inheriting” language metaphorically to refer to receiving something from God. In this chapter, the metaphor does not imply that someone must die for the person to “inherit.” If possible, preserve this metaphor since it is an important concept in Hebrews. See the notes on each verse for translation options. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/inherit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Descriptions of the Son in [1:3](../01/03.md)

In [1:3](../01/03.md), the author describes the Son as “the brightness of God’s glory” and the “exact representation of God’s being.” Both of these phrases identify the Son as God and as unique. In other words, these phrases are the author’s way of saying that the Son is God, but God is not just the Son. Carefully consider how you translate these phrases, and be sure that your translation makes it clear that the Son is God but God is not just the Son. The author uses images and metaphors to express the idea, so consider using similar images and metaphors. +HEB 1 intro aaf9 0 # Hebrews 1 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

1. Introduction: God and his Son (1:1–4)
2. The Son and the angels (1:5–2:18)
* Teaching: The Son is greater than the angels (1:5–14)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [1:5](../01/05.md), [7–13](../01/07.md), which are quotations from books of poetry in the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### God speaking Scripture

In this chapter, the author quotes the Old Testament seven times. Each time, he says that God is the one who speaks the words, and God speaks them to or about the Son or the angels. The audience would have recognized that these quotations came from the Old Testament, but the author wished to introduce them as words that God himself said and says. He can do this because he believed that God is the author of the entire Old Testament, since he is the one who spoke through the prophets (see [1:1](../01/01.md)). In your translation, you should express these quotations as words that God says. If your readers would not recognize that God is speaking quotations from the Old Testament, you could identify the quotations for your readers in footnotes or in some other way.

### Old Testament quotations

When the author quotes from the Old Testament, he uses a Greek translation that is sometimes different than the original Hebrew version that most modern translations use for the Old Testament. This is particularly obvious in [1:6](../01/06.md), which quotes from the Greek version of [Deuteronomy 32:43](../../deu/32/43.md). In other places, the author may paraphrase or loosely quote the Old Testament. Since the author chose to use these forms of the quotations, you should represent the words the author uses, not the words that may be found in an Old Testament you are familiar with. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

### The Son and the Father

In this chapter, the author refers to the “Son” and several times speaks of God as a “father.” These are important terms for two person of the Trinity: God the Father and God the Son. The author uses these terms partly because the Old Testament texts he quotes use them. Also, “Son” and “Father” refer to two people who are closely related but not the same person, so the words provide good language to speak about two persons of the Trinity. If possible, preserve the father and son language in this chapter, but make sure that your translation does not make it sound like the Son did not exist until a certain time or that the Father at some point physically gave birth to the Son. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

### Angels

The author mentions “angels” many times in this chapter. In his culture, everyone knew about “angels.” They were spiritual beings who could appear in human form. Some people talked about good and evil angels. The author only speaks about the good angels in this chapter. These angels serve and worship God, and they do whatever God tells them to do. Some scholars think that the author is arguing against people who said that Jesus was an angel. More likely, the author wishes to prove that Jesus the Son is God, and he uses the angels to do that. The author thinks that the angels are between humans and God in power and position. If the Son is above the angels, that means he must be God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/angel]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### Rhetorical questions

The author asks rhetorical questions in [1:5](../01/05.md), [13–14](../01/13.md). He is not asking these questions because he wants the audience to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the audience to think about how they are acting and what they are thinking. The questions encourage them to think along with the author. For ways to translate these questions, look for the notes on each verse that includes these kinds of questions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

### Parallelisms

In the Old Testament, good poetry often included two parallel lines that expressed one idea in two different ways. When the author quotes the Old Testament, he often includes this kind of parallelism. Since both lines contribute to the meaning of the idea, it is best to preserve the parallelism. If your readers would find it confusing, however, you could combine the two parallel lines into one idea. See the notes on each instance of parallel lines for translation options. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

### Inheriting

In [1:2](../01/02.md), [4](../01/04.md), [14](../01/14.md), the author uses language related to “inheriting” or being an “heir.” In the author’s culture, children often “inherited” property or money when their parents died. In these verses, the author uses the “inheriting” language metaphorically to refer to receiving something from God. In this chapter, the metaphor does not imply that someone must die for the person to “inherit.” If possible, preserve this metaphor since it is an important concept in Hebrews. See the notes on each verse for translation options. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/inherit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Descriptions of the Son in [1:3](../01/03.md)

In [1:3](../01/03.md), the author describes the Son as “the brightness of God’s glory” and the “exact representation of God’s being.” Both of these phrases identify the Son as God and as unique. In other words, these phrases are the author’s way of saying that the Son is God, but God is not just the Son. Carefully consider how you translate these phrases, and be sure that your translation makes it clear that the Son is God but God is not just the Son. The author uses images and metaphors to express the idea, so consider using similar images and metaphors. HEB 1 1 dhcr figs-doublet πολυμερῶς καὶ πολυτρόπως πάλαι 1 Here, **In many portions** shows that God did not speak just once. Rather, he spoke often throughout the time called **long ago**. Then, **in many ways** shows that God used various means and people to speak to the **fathers**. The author uses both of these phrases because he wishes to emphasize the variety of times and ways in which God has **spoken**. If your language does not use repetition for emphasis, and if you cannot represent the author’s two phrases well, you could express the idea using one phrase that emphasizes variety. Alternate translation: “Long ago, with great variety” or “Long ago, using multiple methods in different times,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) -HEB 1 1 c7us figs-infostructure πολυμερῶς καὶ πολυτρόπως πάλαι, ὁ Θεὸς, λαλήσας τοῖς πατράσιν ἐν τοῖς προφήταις 1 Here, **In many portions and in many ways long ago** describes how God “spoke” **to {our} fathers**. If your readers would misunderstand this sentence structure, you could rearrange the phrases so that **In many portions and in many ways long ago** does modify **having spoken**. Alternate translation: “God, having spoken to our fathers through the prophets in many portions and in many ways long ago” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) +HEB 1 1 c7us figs-infostructure πολυμερῶς καὶ πολυτρόπως πάλαι, ὁ Θεὸς, λαλήσας τοῖς πατράσιν ἐν τοῖς προφήταις 1 Here, **In many portions and in many ways long ago** describes how God “spoke” **to {our} fathers**. If your readers would misunderstand this sentence structure, you could rearrange the phrases so that **In many portions and in many ways long ago** does modify **having spoken**. Alternate translation: “God, having spoken to our fathers through the prophets in many portions and in many ways long ago” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 1 1 uuix figs-idiom πάλαι 1 Here, **long ago** refers to past time. It often identifies events that happened in the distant past and about which stories are told. Use a word or phrase that refers to the distant past. Alternate translation: “in the past days” or “in ancient times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 1 1 ct15 grammar-connect-time-sequential λαλήσας 1 Here, **having spoken** introduces an action that took place before the actions that take place in the next verse ([1:2](../01/02.md)). Use a form that introduces action that takes place before something else. Alternate translation: “after speaking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]]) HEB 1 1 in2c translate-kinship τοῖς πατράσιν 1 Here, **{our} fathers** refers to the Israelites who were alive before Jesus lived on earth. Not all the audience were descended from these Israelites. However, the author can still refer to the Israelites as their **fathers** because he thinks that all Christians have been included in the family of Abraham, the ancestor of the Israelites. If possible, preserve the family language in your translation. Alternate translation: “our forefathers” or “to the Israelite ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]]) @@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ HEB 1 4 bn6t translate-unknown τοσούτῳ κρείττων…τῶν ἀγ HEB 1 4 fzg3 figs-extrainfo διαφορώτερον…ὄνομα 1 as the name he has inherited is more excellent than their name Here the author does not clarify what **name** this is. It could be the title “Son,” the title “Lord,” the name “Jesus,” or God’s own special name, “Yahweh.” Since the author did not clarify what **name** he is referring to, it is best to refer to a name or title without stating what it is. Alternate translation: “a more excellent title” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) HEB 1 4 qt7q figs-metaphor κεκληρονόμηκεν 1 he has inherited Here the author speaks as if Jesus were child who would receive property that a parent passes on to their child when the parent dies. He speaks in this way to indicate that Jesus receives a **name** from God the Father, although this does not mean that God the Father has died. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “he has received” or “God has given him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 4 uu4s figs-ellipsis παρ’ αὐτοὺς 1 Here the author omits some words that may be needed in your language to make a complete comparison. He omits these words because he stated them in the first half of the comparison (a **name**). If your language needs these words to make a complete comparison, you could include them here. Alternate translation: “than their names” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) -HEB 1 5 d964 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces the support or basis that proves that the Son is “superior to the angels” ([1:4](../01/04.md)). The supporting statements that **For** introduces can be found in [1:5–14](../01/05.md). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a support or basis for a claim. Alternate translation: “Here is the proof for that:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) +HEB 1 5 d964 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces the support or basis that proves that the Son is “superior to the angels” ([1:4](../01/04.md)). The supporting statements that **For** introduces can be found in [1:5–14](../01/05.md). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a support or basis for a claim. Alternate translation: “Here is the proof for that:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 1 5 ww5h figs-rquestion τίνι γὰρ εἶπέν ποτε τῶν ἀγγέλων, Υἱός μου εἶ σύ, ἐγὼ σήμερον γεγέννηκά σε? καὶ πάλιν, ἐγὼ ἔσομαι αὐτῷ εἰς Πατέρα, καὶ αὐτὸς ἔσται μοι εἰς Υἱόν? 1 For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my son … a son to me”? The author does not ask these questions because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks them to involve the audience in what he is arguing. The questions assume that the answer to both is “none of them,” for God said these words to his own Son. If your readers would misunderstand these questions, you could express the ideas with strong negations. Alternate translation: “For God never said to any of the angels ‘You are my son, and I today I have become your father.’ And again, ‘I will be as a father to him, and he will be as a son to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 1 5 pzkc writing-quotations τίνι γὰρ εἶπέν ποτε τῶν ἀγγέλων…καὶ πάλιν 1 Here the author quotes from important texts, the Old Testament scriptures. He does not introduce them as quotations but instead introduces them as words that God has spoken to his Son, not to angels. However, the audience would have understood that these were quotations from the Old Testament. The first quotation comes from [Psalm 2:7](../../psa/02/07.md), and the second quotation comes from [2 Samuel 7:14](../../2sa/07/14.md). Since the author introduces these quotations as words that God has said to his Son, not to angels, you should introduce these quotations as words that someone has or has not said. If your readers would not know that the quotations are from the Old Testament, you could include footnotes or use some other form to identify the quotations. The phrase **And again** is a normal form that the author uses to connect a second statement to the first statement. Alternate translation: “For to which of the angels did he ever speak … And” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) HEB 1 5 wmyy figs-quotations εἶπέν ποτε…Υἱός μου εἶ σύ, ἐγὼ σήμερον γεγέννηκά σε? καὶ πάλιν, ἐγὼ ἔσομαι αὐτῷ εἰς Πατέρα, καὶ αὐτὸς ἔσται μοι εἰς Υἱόν? 1 If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the questions as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “did he ever say that he was his son, today he had fathered him, and again that he would be as a father to him, and that he would be as a son to him?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) @@ -62,10 +62,10 @@ HEB 1 8 jlql πρὸς…τὸν Υἱόν 1 Here, **with regard to** could in HEB 1 8 b155 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τὸν Υἱόν 1 Son **Son** is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 1 8 x9uc figs-quotations πρὸς…τὸν Υἱόν, ὁ θρόνος σου, ὁ Θεὸς, εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τοῦ αἰῶνος, καὶ ἡ ῥάβδος τῆς εὐθύτητος ῥάβδος τῆς βασιλείας αὐτοῦ. 1 If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the statement as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you use the following alternate translation, you will need to express the rest of the quote in the next verse as an indirect quote as well. Alternate translation: “to the Son he says that he is God and that his throne is forever and ever, and the scepter of righteousness is the scepter of his kingdom.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 1 8 jqi7 figs-yousingular σου 1 Here, **Your** refers to one person, the **Son**. Therefore, **Your** is singular here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) -HEB 1 8 ewm4 figs-metonymy ὁ θρόνος σου 1 Your throne, God, is forever and ever Here, **throne** refers to what the person on the **throne** does, which is to rule. If your readers would misunderstand **throne**, you could express the idea by referring to “rule” or “reign.” Alternate translation: “Your reign” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 1 8 ewm4 figs-metonymy ὁ θρόνος σου 1 Your throne, God, is forever and ever Here, **throne** figuratively refers to what the person on the **throne** does, which is to rule. If your readers would misunderstand **throne**, you could express the idea by referring to “rule” or “reign.” Alternate translation: “Your reign” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 8 qi4x figs-exclamations ὁ Θεὸς 1 Here, **O God** directly addresses and names who “you” in the quote is. **O** is an older way to indicate direct address in English. Use a form in your language that indicates direct address. Alternate translation: “God” or “you who are God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]]) HEB 1 8 eg09 figs-idiom εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τοῦ αἰῶνος 1 Here, **forever {and} ever** indicates that something lasts forever or does not come to an end. If your readers would misunderstand this idiom, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “lasts forever” or “never ends” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 1 8 k4cf figs-metonymy ἡ ῥάβδος τῆς εὐθύτητος ῥάβδος τῆς βασιλείας αὐτοῦ 1 The scepter of your kingdom is the scepter of justice Here, **scepter** refers to how the person who has the **scepter** rules. If your readers would misunderstand **scepter**, you could express the idea by referring to how the person “rules” or “reigns.” Alternate translation: “with righteousness is how he rules his kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 1 8 k4cf figs-metonymy ἡ ῥάβδος τῆς εὐθύτητος ῥάβδος τῆς βασιλείας αὐτοῦ 1 The scepter of your kingdom is the scepter of justice Here, **scepter** figuratively refers to how the person who has the **scepter** rules. If your readers would misunderstand **scepter**, you could express the idea by referring to how the person “rules” or “reigns.” Alternate translation: “with righteousness is how he rules his kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 8 iprl figs-abstractnouns ἡ ῥάβδος τῆς εὐθύτητος 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **righteousness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “righteous.” Alternate translation: “a righteous scepter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 1 8 vl1n figs-123person αὐτοῦ 1 Here the author refers to the **Son** in the third person instead of in the second person. He is still referring to the same person. If your readers would misunderstand **his** here, you could continue to use **you** instead. Alternate translation: “your” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HEB 1 8 b7f0 translate-textvariants αὐτοῦ 1 Most later manuscripts have “your” here instead of **his**. However, the earliest manuscripts have **his**, and later scribes probably changed it to “your” to be consistent with the rest of the quote. Unless there is a good reason not to use **his**, you should follow the ULT here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) @@ -74,7 +74,7 @@ HEB 1 9 p5va figs-yousingular ἠγάπησας…ἐμίσησας…σε…σ HEB 1 9 ollt figs-abstractnouns δικαιοσύνην…ἀνομίαν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **righteousness** and **lawlessness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective or adverbs. Alternate translation: “what is righteous … what is lawless” or “what people do righteously … what people do lawlessly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 1 9 lu3m figs-doublet ἔχρισέν…ὁ Θεός, ὁ Θεός σου 1 Here the quotation repeats **God** in order to emphasize that **God** is the one who “anoints” and also to identify him as **your God**, which means that he is the **God** whom **you** serve. If your readers would misunderstand why the quotation repeats **God**, you could express the idea by using **God** once and emphasize the phrase in another way. Alternate translation: “the God whom you serve has anointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 1 9 eyqe figs-123person ἔχρισέν…ὁ Θεός, ὁ Θεός σου 1 Since **God** is the one speaking this quotation, he refers to himself in the third person here. If your readers would misunderstand that God is speaking about himself, you could use the first person here to clarify that this is not another **God**. Alternate translation: “I, who am your God, have anointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) -HEB 1 9 t9yw figs-metaphor ἔχρισέν σε…ἔλαιον ἀγαλλιάσεως 1 has anointed you with the oil of joy more than your companions In the author’s culture, people were often **anointed** with **oil** when they received special authority or power, including when a person became king. Here the author applies this “anointing” to the Son. In this situation, it refers to how God has exalted the Son and given him power and authority. The phrase **oil of exultation** refers to how the “anointing” leads to or results in **exultation**. If your readers would misunderstand the anointing language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “has honored and empowered you so that you exult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 1 9 t9yw figs-metaphor ἔχρισέν σε…ἔλαιον ἀγαλλιάσεως 1 has anointed you with the oil of joy more than your companions In the author’s culture, people were often **anointed** with **oil** when they received special authority or power, including when a person became king. Here the author applies this “anointing” to the Son. In this situation, it figuratively refers to how God has exalted the Son and given him power and authority. The phrase **oil of exultation** refers to how the “anointing” leads to or results in **exultation**. If your readers would misunderstand the anointing language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “has honored and empowered you so that you exult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 9 w1l1 figs-possession ἔλαιον ἀγαλλιάσεως 1 Here the quotation uses the possessive form to show that the **oil** leads to **exultation**. If your language does not use the possessive form for that idea, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that indicates result. Alternate translation: “with the oil that leads to exultation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 1 9 h3ne figs-abstractnouns ἀγαλλιάσεως 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **exultation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “exult” or “rejoice.” Alternate translation: “that makes you rejoice” or “which causes you to exult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 1 9 akn8 figs-extrainfo τοὺς μετόχους σου 1 Here the author does not clarify who the **companions** are. In the context of the quotation, they probably referred to other people in the royal family who did not become king. In the context of Hebrews, they probably refer to those who believe in Jesus. God saves them, but he does not seat them at his right hand like he does with Jesus. However, neither the quotation nor the author of Hebrews state explicitly who the **companions** are, so you should leave their identify unspecified if possible. Alternate translation: “those who are with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) @@ -86,7 +86,7 @@ HEB 1 10 tmu5 figs-idiom κατ’ ἀρχάς 1 In the beginning Here, **accord HEB 1 10 klk9 figs-exclamations Κύριε 1 Here, **O Lord** directly addresses and names who **you** in the quote is. **O** is an older way to indicate direct address in English. Use a form in your language that indicates direct address. Alternate translation: “Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]]) HEB 1 10 j64k figs-metaphor τὴν γῆν ἐθεμελίωσας 1 you laid the earth’s foundation Here the quotation refers to **the earth** as if it were a building that was set on a “foundation.” The **Lord** is the one who put **the earth** on its foundation, or **founded** it. The author of the quotations speaks in this way in order to show that the **Lord** is the one who created and sustains **the earth**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “perfectly set up the earth” or “made the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 10 k199 figs-abstractnouns ἔργα τῶν χειρῶν σού 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **works**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “make” or “do.” Alternate translation: “what your hands made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 1 10 r19v figs-metonymy τῶν χειρῶν σού 1 The heavens are the work of your hands Here, **hands** refer to the power and action that a person has to do **works**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “of your power” or “that you powerfully did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 1 10 r19v figs-metonymy τῶν χειρῶν σού 1 The heavens are the work of your hands Here, **hands** figuratively refer to the power and action that a person has to do **works**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “of your power” or “that you powerfully did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 11 zugp figs-quotations αὐτοὶ ἀπολοῦνται, σὺ δὲ διαμένεις; καὶ πάντες ὡς ἱμάτιον παλαιωθήσονται, 1 If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the sentence as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you use the following alternate translation, you will need to express the rest of the quote in the previous and following verses as indirect quotes as well. Alternate translation: “They themselves will perish, but he himself will continue; and they will all wear out like a garment.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 1 11 a6le writing-pronouns αὐτοὶ ἀπολοῦνται…πάντες…παλαιωθήσονται 1 They will perish Here, **They** and **they** refer to the “earth” and the “heavens” in [1:10](../01/10.md), which together refer to everything that God has made. If your readers would misunderstand **They** and **they**, you could clarify what they refer back to. Alternate translation: “Earth and heavens themselves will perish … they will all wear out” or “Every created thing itself will perish … every one of them will wear out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 1 11 fqk2 figs-rpronouns αὐτοὶ ἀπολοῦνται, σὺ δὲ διαμένεις 1 Here, the words translated **themselves** and **yourself** emphasize the contrast between “them” and “you.” Consider using a natural way to emphasize this contrast in your language. Alternate translation: “It is they who will perish, but it is you who will continue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]]) @@ -118,7 +118,7 @@ HEB 1 14 ivy4 figs-abstractnouns εἰς διακονίαν 1 If your language HEB 1 14 v541 figs-metaphor κληρονομεῖν σωτηρίαν 1 for those who will inherit salvation Here the author speaks as if believers were children who would receive property that a parent passes on to their child when the parent dies. He speaks in this way to indicate that believers receive **salvation** from God. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “to receive salvation from God” or “to be given salvation by God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 14 fgs4 τοὺς μέλλοντας 1 Alternate translation: “those who are about” or “those who are destined” HEB 1 14 id6k figs-abstractnouns κληρονομεῖν σωτηρίαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **salvation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “save.” In this case, you may need to find another way to express the idea behind **inherit**. Alternate translation: “to be saved as a gift from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 2 intro s2gd 0 # Hebrews 2 General Notes

## Structure and formatting

2. The Son and the angels (1:5–2:18)
* Exhortation: Listen to the message! (2:1–4)
* Teaching: The Son becomes lower than the angels to help his brothers (2:5–18)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [2:6–8](../02/06.md), [12–13](../02/12.md), which are quotations from the Old Testament.

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Angels

In this chapter, the author continues to speak about angels. In [2:2](../02/02.md), he refers to a tradition that says that God gave the law to Moses through angels. Then, in [2:5–9](../02/05.md), he shows that Jesus, not angels, is the one who rules the “world that is coming.” In fact, Jesus came for the sake of humans, not angels ([2:16](../02/16.md)). Again, the author is not attacking angels. Instead, he uses angels, whom everyone knows are powerful and important, to show how much more important Jesus and the salvation he offers are. Translate “angels” the way you did in the previous chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/angel]])

### Jesus as high priest

In [2:17](../02/17.md), the author first refers to Jesus as a “priest,” here specifically a “high priest.” This is an important theme in Hebrews. In much of the rest of the letter, the author argues that Jesus is a high priest who offers a sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary. The author simply introduces the title “high priest” here, but he will develop the idea later. So, do not include any extra information here, but carefully consider how to translate “high priest” so that it fits with what the author later says about Jesus as a high priest. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### Kinship language

Throughout this chapter, the author uses kinship language to describe those who believe in Jesus. They are God’s “sons” or “children” ([2:10](../02/10.md), [13–14](../02/13.md)), Jesus’ “brothers” ([2:11–12](../02/11.md), [17](../02/17.md)), and each is a “descendant of Abraham” ([2:16](../02/16.md)). As God’s children, they are Jesus’ brothers and part of the family of Abraham, who is Jesus’ ancestor. The idea that believers are part of God’s family is important in Hebrews and the Bible in general, so if possible preserve this language in your translation. Consider using words that refer to adopted family members. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/son]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/children]], and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/brother]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Who is the “man” in the quotation from Psalm 8?

In [2:6–8](../02/06.md), the author quotes from [Psalm 8:4–6](../psa/08/04.md). The Psalm refers to “man” and “son of man.” In the context of the Psalm itself, these words use the masculine singular form to refer to humans in general. However, Jesus used the phrase “Son of Man” to refer to himself during his earthly ministry. Some scholars argue that the author of Hebrews quotes “son of man” from Psalm 8 because he is using it to refer to Jesus directly. Others argue that the author uses “son of man” and “man” in the Psalm quotation to refer to humans in general but then applies what the Psalm says is true about humans to Jesus, who is the only human who is now “crowned with honor and glory” ([2:9](../02/09.md)). Since the author never refers to Jesus as “Son of Man,” this second option is probably correct. Consider how you can translate “man” and “son of man” in the Psalm quotation so that they can apply first to humans in general and then to Jesus in particular. +HEB 2 intro s2gd 0 # Hebrews 2 General Notes

## Structure and formatting

2. The Son and the angels (1:5–2:18)
* Exhortation: Listen to the message! (2:1–4)
* Teaching: The Son becomes lower than the angels to help his brothers (2:5–18)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [2:6–8](../02/06.md), [12–13](../02/12.md), which are quotations from the Old Testament.

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Angels

In this chapter, the author continues to speak about angels. In [2:2](../02/02.md), he refers to a tradition that says that God gave the law to Moses through angels. Then, in [2:5–9](../02/05.md), he shows that Jesus, not angels, is the one who rules the “world that is coming.” In fact, Jesus came for the sake of humans, not angels ([2:16](../02/16.md)). Again, the author is not attacking angels. Instead, he uses angels, whom everyone knows are powerful and important, to show how much more important Jesus and the salvation he offers are. Translate “angels” the way you did in the previous chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/angel]])

### Jesus as high priest

In [2:17](../02/17.md), the author first refers to Jesus as a “priest,” here specifically a “high priest.” This is an important theme in Hebrews. In much of the rest of the letter, the author argues that Jesus is a high priest who offers a sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary. The author simply introduces the title “high priest” here, but he will develop the idea later. So, do not include any extra information here, but carefully consider how to translate “high priest” so that it fits with what the author later says about Jesus as a high priest. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### Kinship language

Throughout this chapter, the author uses kinship language to describe those who believe in Jesus. They are God’s “sons” or “children” ([2:10](../02/10.md), [13–14](../02/13.md)), Jesus’ “brothers” ([2:11–12](../02/11.md), [17](../02/17.md)), and each is a “descendant of Abraham” ([2:16](../02/16.md)). As God’s children, they are Jesus’ brothers and part of the family of Abraham, who is Jesus’ ancestor. The idea that believers are part of God’s family is important in Hebrews and the Bible in general, so if possible preserve this language in your translation. Consider using words that refer to adopted family members. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/son]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/children]], and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/brother]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Who is the “man” in the quotation from Psalm 8?

In [2:6–8](../02/06.md), the author quotes from [Psalm 8:4–6](../psa/08/04.md). The Psalm refers to “man” and “son of man.” In the context of the Psalm itself, these words use the masculine singular form to refer to humans in general. However, Jesus used the phrase “Son of Man” to refer to himself during his earthly ministry. Some scholars argue that the author of Hebrews quotes “son of man” from Psalm 8 because he is using it to refer to Jesus directly. Others argue that the author uses “son of man” and “man” in the Psalm quotation to refer to humans in general but then applies what the Psalm says is true about humans to Jesus, who is the only human who is now “crowned with honor and glory” ([2:9](../02/09.md)). Since the author never refers to Jesus as “Son of Man,” this second option is probably correct. Consider how you can translate “man” and “son of man” in the Psalm quotation so that they can apply first to humans in general and then to Jesus in particular. HEB 2 1 x7px grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ τοῦτο 1 Connecting Statement: Here the author introduces a result or implication from what he said about the Son and the angels in [1:1–14](../01/01.md). Because God now speaks through his Son, who is greater than the angels, the audience needs to **give attention**. If your readers would misunderstand that **Because of this** draws an inference from the previous chapter, you could use a word or phrase that do does draw this inference. Alternate translation: “Because God is speaking through his Son” or “Because of all that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 2 1 ooqp δεῖ περισσοτέρως προσέχειν ἡμᾶς 1 Alternate translation: “it is most important for us to give attention” or “we must above all give attention” HEB 2 1 ol8m figs-infostructure δεῖ περισσοτέρως προσέχειν ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **far more** could modify (1) **necessary**. See the ULT. (2) **give attention**. Alternate translation: “it is necessary for us to give far more attention” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) @@ -138,7 +138,7 @@ HEB 2 3 mrsy figs-explicit ἡμεῖς ἐκφευξόμεθα 1 Here the auth HEB 2 3 vond grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical ἡμεῖς ἐκφευξόμεθα τηλικαύτης ἀμελήσαντες σωτηρίας 1 Here, **having neglected** introduces a hypothetical possibility. The author is not claiming that he or his audience have **neglected** or will “neglect” the **salvation**. Instead, he is asking the question about what we would happen if he or his audience did “neglect” the **salvation**. If your readers would misunderstand that **having neglected** introduces a possibility, you could use a form that does introduce a possibility. Alternate translation: “will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]]) HEB 2 3 i2zv translate-unknown ἀμελήσαντες 1 ignore Here, **neglected** refers to ignoring or failing to pay attention to something. If your readers would misunderstand **neglected**, you could use a word or phrase that expresses the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “pay no attention to” or “consider unimportant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 2 3 gm6v figs-abstractnouns τηλικαύτης…σωτηρίας? ἥτις 1 This is salvation that was first announced by the Lord and confirmed to us by those who heard it If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **salvation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “save.” Alternate translation: “the amazing way in which God saves us? This way in which God saves us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 2 3 dmsh figs-metonymy τηλικαύτης…σωτηρίας? ἥτις 1 Here, **salvation** refers to the “message” about **salvation**. The author makes this clear in the second half of the verse, when he refers to how the **salvation** is **spoken**. If your readers would misunderstand **salvation**, you could express the idea by referring to a “message” or “proclamation” about **salvation**. Alternate translation: “the proclamation about so great a salvation? Which proclamation about salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 2 3 dmsh figs-metonymy τηλικαύτης…σωτηρίας? ἥτις 1 Here, **salvation** figuratively refers to the “message” about **salvation**. The author makes this clear in the second half of the verse, when he refers to how the **salvation** is **spoken**. If your readers would misunderstand **salvation**, you could express the idea by referring to a “message” or “proclamation” about **salvation**. Alternate translation: “the proclamation about so great a salvation? Which proclamation about salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 2 3 dyn1 figs-activepassive ἀρχὴν λαβοῦσα, λαλεῖσθαι διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what was **chosen** and **spoken** rather than focusing on the person doing the “choosing” and “speaking.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did the “choosing” and **the Lord** did the “speaking.” Alternate translation: “God having chosen the Lord to speak it first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 2 3 le2l figs-idiom ἀρχὴν λαβοῦσα, λαλεῖσθαι 1 Here, **first having been chosen** identifies that something was the **first** or began some process. If your readers would misunderstand this phrase, you could use a word or phrase that identifies that something begins a process or was the **first**. Alternate translation: “first spoken” or “which had its beginning when it was spoken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 2 3 fpvx figs-activepassive ὑπὸ τῶν ἀκουσάντων εἰς ἡμᾶς ἐβεβαιώθη 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what was **confirmed** rather than focusing on the people doing the “confirming.” Alternate translation: “those who heard confirmed to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -210,7 +210,7 @@ HEB 2 12 y2es writing-quotations λέγων 1 Here the author quotes from an im HEB 2 12 dtkn figs-quotations λέγων, ἀπαγγελῶ τὸ ὄνομά σου τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς μου; ἐν μέσῳ ἐκκλησίας ὑμνήσω σε 1 If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the sentence as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “saying that he will proclaim your name to his brothers; he will sing to you in the midst of the assembly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 2 12 cou1 figs-parallelism ἀπαγγελῶ τὸ ὄνομά σου τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς μου; ἐν μέσῳ ἐκκλησίας ὑμνήσω σε 1 Here, the quotation includes two statements that mean almost the same thing. This was considered good poetry in the author’s culture. If your readers would misunderstand the parallelism, and if this would not be good poetry in your culture, you could combine the two statements. The author of Hebrews particularly focuses on the word **brothers**, so be sure to include that phrase in your translation. Alternate translation: “I will sing praise to you in the midst of my brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HEB 2 12 kewm figs-yousingular σου…σε 1 Since the author of the quotation is speaking to God, here **you** is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) -HEB 2 12 e88p figs-metonymy τὸ ὄνομά σου 1 I will proclaim your name to my brothers Here, **name** refers to what the person who has that **name** is like. If your readers would misunderstand **name**, you could express the idea by referring to what the person is like. Alternate translation: “who you are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 2 12 e88p figs-metonymy τὸ ὄνομά σου 1 I will proclaim your name to my brothers Here, **name** figuratively refers to what the person who has that **name** is like. If your readers would misunderstand **name**, you could express the idea by referring to what the person is like. Alternate translation: “who you are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 2 12 yh0b figs-gendernotations τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς μου 1 Although **brothers** is masculine, the author of the quotation is using it to refer to all those who worship God, both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “to my brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 2 12 bui0 translate-kinship τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς μου 1 Just as in [2:11](../02/11.md), the author refers to believers as **brothers** of Jesus, which identifies believers as part of God’s family. This is an important idea in Hebrews, so preserve the language of kinship if possible. See how you translated **brothers** in [2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “to the people who are like my brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]]) HEB 2 12 tn8n figs-explicit ἐκκλησίας 1 from inside the assembly Here, the audience would know that the **assembly** was a gathering to worship God. If your readers would not make this inference, you could express the idea explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the gathering to glorify God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) @@ -250,8 +250,8 @@ HEB 2 17 u6ch figs-abstractnouns εἰς τὸ ἱλάσκεσθαι τὰς ἁ HEB 2 18 gqfo grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces an explanation of how Jesus functions as “a merciful and faithful high priest.” If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation. Alternate translation: “He can be merciful and faithful because,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 2 18 jnzj figs-rpronouns αὐτὸς 1 Here, **himself** emphasizes Jesus to set up the comparison with everyone else who is **tempted**. If your readers would misunderstand **himself**, you could use a word or phrase that emphasizes **he**, that is, Jesus. Alternate translation: “is one who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]]) HEB 2 18 xde4 figs-activepassive πειρασθείς…πειραζομένοις 1 was tempted If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who are **tempted** rather than focusing on the person or thing doing the “tempting.” If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject, since many things “tempt” people. Alternate translation: “things having tempted him … whom things tempt” or “having experienced temptation … who experience temptation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 2 18 a3a6 πέπονθεν αὐτὸς, πειρασθείς 1 who are tempted Here, **having been tempted** could identify: (1) the situation in which Jesus **suffered**. Alternate translation: “he himself had suffered when he was tempted” (2) what resulted from the “suffering.” Alternate translation: “he was tempted when he suffered” -HEB 3 intro mu26 0 # Hebrews 3 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

3. Example of the wilderness generation (3:1–4:13)
* Exhortation: The Son is greater than Moses (3:1–6)
* Exhortation: Strive to enter the rest! (3:7–4:11)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [3:7b–11](../03/07.md), [15](../03/15.md), which are quotations from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### “Today”

The quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) includes the word “today.” The author mentions “today” again in [3:13](../03/13.md), [15](../03/15.md). In both of these verses, he refers to how we always call the current day “today.” So, anything that happens during the time we call “today” must happen every day, since every day is “today.” In this way, the author shows that the quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) applies to his audience every day. In these verses, translate “today” with a word or phrase that someone would use for the current day. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/biblicaltimeday]])

### Rest

The quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) includes the word “rest.” In the context of the Psalm, this “rest” probably refers to the land that God promised to give to the Israelites. However, scholars debate what the author of Hebrews means when he uses the word “rest.” This is important because the author speaks much more about “rest” in chapter 4. There are two major options for what “rest” could mean: (1) “rest” could refer to how people rest, that is, to the state or experiencing of “resting.” (2) “rest” could refer to the place where people rest. For the author of Hebrews, this place of “rest” is either in heaven or on a renewed earth. Before you choose how to translate “rest,” consider reading [Hebrews 4:1–11](../../heb/04/01.md) so that you can decide what the author means when he uses “rest.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/rest]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The “house” in [3:1–6](../03/01.md)

In [3:1–6](../03/01.md), the author refers to a “house.” In the author’s culture, “house” could refer to a building that people live in, or it could refer to a “household” or a group of related people. In these verses, the author uses both meanings of “house.” In [3:2](../03/02.md), [5–6](../03/05.md), “house” refers to a group of related people, God’s people. In [3:3–4](../03/03.md), “house” refers to a building that people live in. In these verses, the author uses a “house” (the building) as an example to explain more about the “house” (the people). If you do not have a word that could mean both “building” and “people,” you may need to express “house” with two different words. If so, you will need to make sure that your readers know that the author is comparing a building to people, especially in [3:3–4](../03/03.md). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/house]])

### Rhetorical questions

The author asks several questions in this chapter (see [3:16–18](../03/16.md)). He is not asking these questions because he wants the audience to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the audience to think about the quotation from Psalm 95. In [3:16–17](../03/16.md), the second question in each verse answers the first question. In [3:18](../03/18.md), the second half of the question answers the first half of the question. For ways to translate these questions, see the notes on [3:16–18](../03/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### The quotation from Psalm 95

David wrote [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) many years after the events that the Psalm refers to. You can read the story about these events in [Num 14:1–38](../../num/14/01.md) (see also the related story in [Exodus 17:1–7](../../exo/17/01.md)). In these stories, the Israelites complain and disobey God, and God punishes them. David refers back to these stories to encourage the Israelites whom he ruled to act differently. He wanted them to listen to and obey God. The author of Hebrews quotes what David wrote for a similar reason. He wants to encourage his audience to listen to and obey God, and he shows that what David wrote still applies to his audience. Consider reading the Old Testament stories and Psalm 95 before translating this chapter. See the notes for places where the author refers directly to Psalm 95 or to the Old Testament stories. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

### What does “for 40 years” modify?

In [3:10](../03/10.md), “for 40 years” tells how long the Israelites saw God’s works. However, in [3:17](../03/17.md), it refers to the time during which God “was upset” with the Israelites. This is not a contradiction, because the author knew that the Israelites saw God’s works and that God was upset with them during the same period of “40 years.” There is no need to harmonize these two verses. +HEB 2 18 a3a6 πέπονθεν αὐτὸς, πειρασθείς 1 who are tempted Here, **having been tempted** could identify: (1) the situation in which Jesus **suffered**. Alternate translation: “he himself had suffered when he was tempted” (2) what resulted from the “suffering.” Alternate translation: “he was tempted when he suffered” +HEB 3 intro mu26 0 # Hebrews 3 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

3. Example of the wilderness generation (3:1–4:13)
* Exhortation: The Son is greater than Moses (3:1–6)
* Exhortation: Strive to enter the rest! (3:7–4:11)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [3:7b–11](../03/07.md), [15](../03/15.md), which are quotations from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### “Today”

The quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) includes the word “today.” The author mentions “today” again in [3:13](../03/13.md), [15](../03/15.md). In both of these verses, he refers to how we always call the current day “today.” So, anything that happens during the time we call “today” must happen every day, since every day is “today.” In this way, the author shows that the quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) applies to his audience every day. In these verses, translate “today” with a word or phrase that someone would use for the current day. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/biblicaltimeday]])

### Rest

The quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) includes the word “rest.” In the context of the Psalm, this “rest” probably refers to the land that God promised to give to the Israelites. However, scholars debate what the author of Hebrews means when he uses the word “rest.” This is important because the author speaks much more about “rest” in chapter 4. There are two major options for what “rest” could mean: (1) “rest” could refer to how people rest, that is, to the state or experiencing of “resting.” (2) “rest” could refer to the place where people rest. For the author of Hebrews, this place of “rest” is either in heaven or on a renewed earth. Before you choose how to translate “rest,” consider reading [Hebrews 4:1–11](../../heb/04/01.md) so that you can decide what the author means when he uses “rest.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/rest]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The “house” in [3:1–6](../03/01.md)

In [3:1–6](../03/01.md), the author refers to a “house.” In the author’s culture, “house” could refer to a building that people live in, or it could refer to a “household” or a group of related people. In these verses, the author uses both meanings of “house.” In [3:2](../03/02.md), [5–6](../03/05.md), “house” refers to a group of related people, God’s people. In [3:3–4](../03/03.md), “house” refers to a building that people live in. In these verses, the author uses a “house” (the building) as an example to explain more about the “house” (the people). If you do not have a word that could mean both “building” and “people,” you may need to express “house” with two different words. If so, you will need to make sure that your readers know that the author is comparing a building to people, especially in [3:3–4](../03/03.md). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/house]])

### Rhetorical questions

The author asks several questions in this chapter (see [3:16–18](../03/16.md)). He is not asking these questions because he wants the audience to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the audience to think about the quotation from Psalm 95. In [3:16–17](../03/16.md), the second question in each verse answers the first question. In [3:18](../03/18.md), the second half of the question answers the first half of the question. For ways to translate these questions, see the notes on [3:16–18](../03/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### The quotation from Psalm 95

David wrote [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) many years after the events that the Psalm refers to. You can read the story about these events in [Num 14:1–38](../../num/14/01.md) (see also the related story in [Exodus 17:1–7](../../exo/17/01.md)). In these stories, the Israelites complain and disobey God, and God punishes them. David refers back to these stories to encourage the Israelites whom he ruled to act differently. He wanted them to listen to and obey God. The author of Hebrews quotes what David wrote for a similar reason. He wants to encourage his audience to listen to and obey God, and he shows that what David wrote still applies to his audience. Consider reading the Old Testament stories and Psalm 95 before translating this chapter. See the notes for places where the author refers directly to Psalm 95 or to the Old Testament stories. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

### What does “for 40 years” modify?

In [3:10](../03/10.md), “for 40 years” tells how long the Israelites saw God’s works. However, in [3:17](../03/17.md), it refers to the time during which God “was upset” with the Israelites. This is not a contradiction, because the author knew that the Israelites saw God’s works and that God was upset with them during the same period of “40 years.” There is no need to harmonize these two verses. HEB 3 1 m1cv grammar-connect-logic-result ὅθεν 1 Connecting Statement: Here, **Therefore** introduces an inference from what the author has said about Jesus in [2:5–18](../02/05.md). If your readers would misunderstand **Therefore**, you could use a word or phrase that clearly introduces an inference. Alternate translation: “As a result of all that” or “Because of those things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 3 1 tp7e figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοὶ 1 holy brothers Although **brothers** is masculine, the author is using it to refer to all believers, both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 3 1 af15 figs-possession κλήσεως ἐπουρανίου, μέτοχοι 1 you share in a heavenly calling Here the author uses the possessive form to indicate that believers “share” a **heavenly calling**. Believers could “share” this **calling** with: (1) other believers. Alternate translation: “who share together in a heavenly calling” (2) Jesus. Alternate translation: “share with Jesus a heavenly calling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) @@ -263,7 +263,7 @@ HEB 3 1 mnd4 figs-abstractnouns τῆς ὁμολογίας ἡμῶν 1 of our HEB 3 2 m4dh writing-pronouns τῷ ποιήσαντι 1 Here, **the one who appointed** is God the Father. If your readers would not know who **the one who appointed** is, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “to God, who appointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 3 2 my64 translate-names Μωϋσῆς 1 **Moses** is the name of a man. God had him lead the Israelites when he delivered them from being slaves in the land of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 3 2 u5qc figs-extrainfo ὡς καὶ Μωϋσῆς ἐν τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ 1 Here the author uses words that are very similar to the Greek translation of [Numbers 12:7](../../num/12/07.md). It is possible that he is thinking of that verse or directly referencing it. However, he does not introduce the words as a quotation or indicate that he is referring to another text. So, you should not include any quotation information in your translation. If you wish to refer to [Numbers 12:7](../../num/12/07.md), you could do so with a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) -HEB 3 2 eqp7 figs-metaphor ἐν τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ 1 in God’s house Here, **house** refers to a group of people, here the Israelites. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “among God’s tribe” or “in his clan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 3 2 eqp7 figs-metaphor ἐν τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ 1 in God’s house Here, **house** figuratively refers to a group of people, here the Israelites. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “among God’s tribe” or “in his clan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 2 k4u8 writing-pronouns αὐτοῦ 1 Here, **his** refers to God. If your readers would misunderstand **his**, you could make the idea explicit. Alternate translation: “God’s” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 3 2 wnzn translate-textvariants τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ 1 Instead of **his house**, many ancient manuscripts have the phrase “all his house.” This phrase is in the Old Testament story about **Moses** (see [Numbers 12:7](../../num/12/07.md)). So, it is possible that scribes added “all” to **his house** because they knew this passage. Unless there is a good reason to use “all his house,” you should use **his house**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) HEB 3 3 os46 translate-versebridge 0 To help your readers understand the author’s main point in this verse and the next one, you could combine both verses into a verse bridge. You could put the general principle about buildings and builders in a first sentence and the application of that general principle in a second sentence. Alternate translation: “For every house is built by someone, and the one building the house has greater honor than the house. According to that much, since God is the one who built all things, this one has been considered worthy of greater glory than Moses.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge]]) @@ -275,10 +275,10 @@ HEB 3 3 w8v5 figs-abstractnouns πλείονα τιμὴν ἔχει…ὁ κα HEB 3 3 i68f τοῦ οἴκου…αὐτόν 1 Here the author uses **house** nonfiguratively to refer to a building or structure. He wants his readers to apply what is true about a **house** (the building) to the “house” (the people). If you used a different word for “house” in the previous verses, make sure that your readers know that the author is drawing a comparison between people and houses here. Alternate translation: “the structure … than the structure” HEB 3 4 wvw1 figs-activepassive πᾶς…οἶκος κατασκευάζεται ὑπό τινος 1 every house is built by someone If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the **house** that is **built** rather than focusing on the person doing the “building.” Alternate translation: “someone built every house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 4 aya1 πᾶς…οἶκος 1 Here, just as in [3:3](../03/03.md), the author uses **house** nonfiguratively to refer to a building or structure. He wants his readers to apply what is true about a **house** (the building) to the “house” (the people). If you used a different word for “house” in the previous verses, make sure that your readers know that the author is drawing a comparison between people and houses here. Alternate translation: “every structure” -HEB 3 4 f8n8 figs-metaphor ὁ…πάντα κατασκευάσας 1 the one who built everything Here the author speaks as if everything that God created were a “house” that God **built**. He speaks in this to connect God’s act of creation with the “house” and “building” language. Use the same word or phrase here that you used for **built** earlier in the verse. If necessary, you could express the idea with an analogy. Alternate translation: “the one who was like a builder when he created all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 3 4 f8n8 figs-metaphor ὁ…πάντα κατασκευάσας 1 the one who built everything Here the author speaks as if everything that God created were a “house” that God **built**. He speaks in this to connect God’s act of creation with the “house” and “building” language. Use the same word or phrase here that you used for **built** earlier in the verse. If necessary, you could express the idea with an analogy. Alternate translation: “the one who was like a builder when he created all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 5 c8wh figs-extrainfo Μωϋσῆς μὲν πιστὸς ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ, ὡς θεράπων 1 Here, just as in [3:2](../03/02.md), the author uses words that are very similar to the Greek translation of [Numbers 12:7](../../num/12/07.md). It is possible that he is thinking of that verse or directly referencing it. However, he does not introduce the words as a quotation or indicate that he is referring to another text. So, you should not include any quotation information in your translation. If you wish to refer to [Numbers 12:7](../../num/12/07.md), you could do so with a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) HEB 3 5 zjna translate-names Μωϋσῆς 1 **Moses** is the name of a man. God had him lead the Israelites when he delivered them from being slaves in the land of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) -HEB 3 5 d57q figs-metaphor ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ 1 in God’s entire house Here, **house** refers to a group of people, here the Israelites. See how you translated **house** in [Hebrews 3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “among God’s entire tribe” or “in his entire clan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 3 5 d57q figs-metaphor ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ οἴκῳ αὐτοῦ 1 in God’s entire house Here, **house** figuratively refers to a group of people, here the Israelites. See how you translated **house** in [Hebrews 3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “among God’s entire tribe” or “in his entire clan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 5 uz5d writing-pronouns αὐτοῦ 1 Here, **his** refers to God. If your readers would misunderstand **his**, you could make the idea explicit. Alternate translation: “God’s” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 3 5 m4xr figs-abstractnouns εἰς μαρτύριον τῶν 1 bearing witness about the things If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **testimony**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “testify” or “proclaim.” Alternate translation: “to testify to the things that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 3 5 u37w figs-explicit τῶν λαληθησομένων 1 Here the author does not clarify what exactly is **spoken**. He may be referring to what God the Father said about the Son in chapter 1, or he could be referring in general to the good news about Jesus. If your readers need to know what is **spoken**, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “of the good news that would be spoken in the future” or “of the things that would be spoken about Jesus in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) @@ -286,7 +286,7 @@ HEB 3 5 gt8c figs-activepassive λαληθησομένων 1 were to be spoken o HEB 3 6 nsfg figs-ellipsis Χριστὸς…ὡς Υἱὸς 1 Here the author omits some words that may be needed in your language to make a complete thought. He omits these words because he stated them in the previous verse (“was faithful”). If your language needs these words to make a complete thought, you could include them here. Alternate translation: “Christ was faithful as a Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 3 6 dgt5 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples Υἱὸς 1 Son **Son** is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. See how you translated this word in [1:2](../01/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 3 6 pfrj figs-explicit ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ 1 Here, **over his house** contrasts with how Moses was “in his entire house” (see [3:5](../03/05.md)). The phrase **over his house** indicates that the **Son** rules or is in charge of the **house**. If your readers would misunderstand the implications of **over his house**, you could make them explicit. Alternate translation: “in charge of his house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 3 6 djm7 figs-metaphor ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ, οὗ οἶκός ἐσμεν ἡμεῖς 1 in charge of God’s house Here, **house** refers to a group of people, here God’s people. See how you translated house in [3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “over his clan (whose clan we are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 3 6 djm7 figs-metaphor ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ, οὗ οἶκός ἐσμεν ἡμεῖς 1 in charge of God’s house Here, **house** figuratively refers to a group of people, here God’s people. See how you translated house in [3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “over his clan (whose clan we are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 6 x89x writing-pronouns αὐτοῦ, οὗ 1 Here, **his* and **whose** refer to God. If your readers would misunderstand **his** and **whose**, you could make the idea explicit. Alternate translation: “God’s … whose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 3 6 u94p figs-infostructure οἶκον…οὗ οἶκός ἐσμεν ἡμεῖς, ἐὰν τὴν παρρησίαν καὶ τὸ καύχημα τῆς ἐλπίδος κατάσχωμεν. 1 This sentence transitions from what the author has said about God’s **house**, Jesus, and Moses to an exhortation to continue to **hold fast**. The ULT has connected the sentence to the preceding information but put it in parentheses to indicate that it is slightly disconnected. Consider a natural way to include a transition sentence in your language. Alternate translation: “house. We are his house if we hold fast to the confidence and the boasting of our hope.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 3 6 tlak grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical ἐὰν 1 Here the author uses the conditional form to show that “holding fast” leads to being God’s **house**. If the conditional form does not indicate a cause and effect relationship like this in your language, you could express the **if** statement in a way that does show the relationship. Alternate translation: “given that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]]) @@ -367,10 +367,10 @@ HEB 3 18 l1gc figs-rquestion τίσιν…ὤμοσεν μὴ εἰσελεύσ HEB 3 18 q16u ὤμοσεν μὴ εἰσελεύσεσθαι εἰς τὴν κατάπαυσιν αὐτοῦ 1 they would not enter his rest The author uses **they would not enter into his rest** to refer back to the words that the quotation used. See how you translated “If they will enter into my rest” in [3:11](../03/11.md). Alternate translation: “did he swear, ‘they will never enter into my rest,’” HEB 3 19 impp grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ 1 Here, **And** introduces a summary or conclusion for the argument, especially for what the author has said in [3:16–18](../03/16.md). If your readers would misunderstand **And**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a summary or conclusion. Alternate translation: “Therefore,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 3 19 henz figs-infostructure βλέπομεν ὅτι οὐκ ἠδυνήθησαν εἰσελθεῖν δι’ ἀπιστίαν 1 If your language would naturally put the reason before the result, you could rearrange the sentence. The author puts **because of unbelief** last in order to emphasize it, so use a form that emphasizes this phrase. Alternate translation: “we that it was because of unbelief that they were not able to enter”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) -HEB 3 19 u2mo figs-metaphor βλέπομεν 1 Here the author uses **we see** to refer to knowing or understanding something. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “we learn” or “we know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 3 19 u2mo figs-metaphor βλέπομεν 1 Here the author uses **we see** figuratively to refer to knowing or understanding something. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “we learn” or “we know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 19 evf1 figs-explicit εἰσελθεῖν 1 Here the author uses **enter** to refer back to the words that the quotation used. Translate **enter** the same way that you did in [3:11](../03/11.md). If your readers would misunderstand that **enter** refers back to this quotation, you could make the reference more explicit. Alternate translation: “to enter into God’s rest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 3 19 x18z figs-abstractnouns δι’ ἀπιστίαν 1 because of unbelief If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **unbelief**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “did not believe” or an adjective such as “unbelieving.” Alternate translation: “because they were unbelieving” or “because they refused to believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 4 intro u72n 0 # Hebrews 4 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

3. Example of the wilderness generation (3:1–4:13)
* Exhortation: Strive to enter the rest! (3:7–4:11)
* Exhortation: The power of God’s word (4:12–13)
4. Summary statement (4:14–16)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [4:3–5](../04/03.md), [7](../04/07.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### God’s rest

The author continues to refer to “rest” in this chapter. This time, he also includes how God “rested” after he created everything. Continue to translate “rest” the way you did in chapter 3. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/rest]])

### “Today”

The quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) includes the word “today.” Much like in the previous chapter, the author references “today” several times (see [4:7–8](../04/07.md)). In [4:7](../04/07.md), he refers to how we always call the current day “today.” This means that the “rest” is available “today,” or right now. In [4:8](../04/08.md), the author refers to “another day” that happens after Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land. This refers again to “today” from the Psalm quotation. In these verses, translate “today” with a word or phrase that someone would use for the current day or time, and translate “day” so that it is clear that it refers to “today.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/biblicaltimeday]])

### Joshua, David, and the audience

In [4:7–9](../04/07.md), the author makes an argument that is based on sequence in time. First, Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land. Many years later, God spoke through David that people could enter the rest “today.” Finally, the author quotes these words to his audience after Jesus died and rose again. The author’s point is that what Joshua led the Israelites into could not count as “rest” because David was still speaking about entering the “rest” many years later. The author argues that this means that the words about entering the rest still apply when he himself is writing this letter. When you translate these verses, make sure that your readers understand that the author is making an argument based on sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

### Jesus the high priest

In [4:14–15](../04/14.md), much like in [2:17](../02/17.md), the author refers to Jesus as a “priest,” here specifically a “high priest.” This is an important theme in Hebrews. In much of the rest of the letter, the author argues that Jesus is a high priest who offers a sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary. Here the author begins to develop that theme by showing that Jesus is a sympathetic and merciful high priest. Translate “high priest” like you did in [2:17](../02/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The word of God as a sword

In [4:12](../04/12.md), the author says that God’s word is “sharper than any two-edged sword,” and it can “pierce” and “divide” people’s joints and marrow and their souls and spirits. The author makes this comparison because he wants to show that God uses his “word” to discern and judge everything, even things that are very hard to know or understand. Just like a sharp sword can cut anything apart, even things that are securely fastened together, so God uses his “word” to get to the core of what every person is and thinks. If possible, preserve the comparison between God’s word and a sharp blade, since this is an important metaphor that appears in other biblical books. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Who “speaks” the quotations?

In [4:3–5](../04/03.md), [7](../04/07.md), the author refers to the person who “speaks” the quotations as “he.” Since the author identified the Holy Spirit as the one who “speaks” Psalm 95, it is likely that he is referring to the Holy Spirit again as the speaker of these quotations. However, it is also possible that the author means that God considered as a whole speaks these quotations, or perhaps the author is avoiding identifying the speaker. If possible, preserve the ambiguity by referring simply to “he” or an unnamed person. If necessary, you could make it more explicit that the “Holy Spirit” or “God” speaks these words. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

### The logic of [4:3–7](../04/03.md)

In [4:3–7](../04/03.md), the author uses [Genesis 2:2](../../gen/02/02.md) to comment on [Psalm 95:11](../../psa/95/11.md). This is a complicated argument, and it is likely that the author is making several points.

First (1), he could be identifying the “rest” as the result of God’s “works.” In other words, the “rest” is something that God finished and then enjoyed on the seventh day. The author uses [Genesis 2:2](../../gen/02/02.md) to show that the “rest” has been completed since God created the world. This means that the “rest” to which [Psalm 95:11](../../psa/95/11.md) refers has been available since then. This explains why the author says that the “rest” remains for some to enter (see [4:6](../04/06.md)).

Second (2), he could be using what [Genesis 2:2](../../gen/02/02.md) says about “rest” to define what “rest” means in [Psalm 95:11](../../psa/95/11.md). In the Psalm, the “rest” would have originally referred primarily to the promised land. However, the author uses how God “rested” on the seventh day to define the “rest” primarily as something that people do with God rather than as a place. This explains why the author defines “entering the rest” as “resting from works” (see [4:10](../04/10.md)).

Since the author does not include much explanation and instead quotes the two verses together, you should also put the two verses together without including much explanation. See the notes for specific translation decisions. The author gives some conclusions in [4:6–10](../04/06.md), so focus on translating these verses clearly. +HEB 4 intro u72n 0 # Hebrews 4 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

3. Example of the wilderness generation (3:1–4:13)
* Exhortation: Strive to enter the rest! (3:7–4:11)
* Exhortation: The power of God’s word (4:12–13)
4. Summary statement (4:14–16)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [4:3–5](../04/03.md), [7](../04/07.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### God’s rest

The author continues to refer to “rest” in this chapter. This time, he also includes how God “rested” after he created everything. Continue to translate “rest” the way you did in chapter 3. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/rest]])

### “Today”

The quotation from [Psalm 95](../../psa/95/01.md) includes the word “today.” Much like in the previous chapter, the author references “today” several times (see [4:7–8](../04/07.md)). In [4:7](../04/07.md), he refers to how we always call the current day “today.” This means that the “rest” is available “today,” or right now. In [4:8](../04/08.md), the author refers to “another day” that happens after Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land. This refers again to “today” from the Psalm quotation. In these verses, translate “today” with a word or phrase that someone would use for the current day or time, and translate “day” so that it is clear that it refers to “today.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/biblicaltimeday]])

### Joshua, David, and the audience

In [4:7–9](../04/07.md), the author makes an argument that is based on sequence in time. First, Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land. Many years later, God spoke through David that people could enter the rest “today.” Finally, the author quotes these words to his audience after Jesus died and rose again. The author’s point is that what Joshua led the Israelites into could not count as “rest” because David was still speaking about entering the “rest” many years later. The author argues that this means that the words about entering the rest still apply when he himself is writing this letter. When you translate these verses, make sure that your readers understand that the author is making an argument based on sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

### Jesus the high priest

In [4:14–15](../04/14.md), much like in [2:17](../02/17.md), the author refers to Jesus as a “priest,” here specifically a “high priest.” This is an important theme in Hebrews. In much of the rest of the letter, the author argues that Jesus is a high priest who offers a sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary. Here the author begins to develop that theme by showing that Jesus is a sympathetic and merciful high priest. Translate “high priest” like you did in [2:17](../02/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The word of God as a sword

In [4:12](../04/12.md), the author says that God’s word is “sharper than any two-edged sword,” and it can “pierce” and “divide” people’s joints and marrow and their souls and spirits. The author makes this comparison because he wants to show that God uses his “word” to discern and judge everything, even things that are very hard to know or understand. Just like a sharp sword can cut anything apart, even things that are securely fastened together, so God uses his “word” to get to the core of what every person is and thinks. If possible, preserve the comparison between God’s word and a sharp blade, since this is an important metaphor that appears in other biblical books. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Who “speaks” the quotations?

In [4:3–5](../04/03.md), [7](../04/07.md), the author refers to the person who “speaks” the quotations as “he.” Since the author identified the Holy Spirit as the one who “speaks” Psalm 95, it is likely that he is referring to the Holy Spirit again as the speaker of these quotations. However, it is also possible that the author means that God considered as a whole speaks these quotations, or perhaps the author is avoiding identifying the speaker. If possible, preserve the ambiguity by referring simply to “he” or an unnamed person. If necessary, you could make it more explicit that the “Holy Spirit” or “God” speaks these words. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

### The logic of [4:3–7](../04/03.md)

In [4:3–7](../04/03.md), the author uses [Genesis 2:2](../../gen/02/02.md) to comment on [Psalm 95:11](../../psa/95/11.md). This is a complicated argument, and it is likely that the author is making several points.

First (1), he could be identifying the “rest” as the result of God’s “works.” In other words, the “rest” is something that God finished and then enjoyed on the seventh day. The author uses [Genesis 2:2](../../gen/02/02.md) to show that the “rest” has been completed since God created the world. This means that the “rest” to which [Psalm 95:11](../../psa/95/11.md) refers has been available since then. This explains why the author says that the “rest” remains for some to enter (see [4:6](../04/06.md)).

Second (2), he could be using what [Genesis 2:2](../../gen/02/02.md) says about “rest” to define what “rest” means in [Psalm 95:11](../../psa/95/11.md). In the Psalm, the “rest” would have originally referred primarily to the promised land. However, the author uses how God “rested” on the seventh day to define the “rest” primarily as something that people do with God rather than as a place. This explains why the author defines “entering the rest” as “resting from works” (see [4:10](../04/10.md)).

Since the author does not include much explanation and instead quotes the two verses together, you should also put the two verses together without including much explanation. See the notes for specific translation decisions. The author gives some conclusions in [4:6–10](../04/06.md), so focus on translating these verses clearly. HEB 4 1 ay25 grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 Therefore Here, **Therefore** introduces an exhortation that is based on everything that the author has said about the Israelite ancestors in [3:7–19](../03/07.md). If your readers would misunderstand **Therefore**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an exhortation that is based on what has been said. Alternate translation: “Because what I have just said is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 4 1 n98m figs-doublenegatives φοβηθῶμεν…μήποτε καταλειπομένης 1 Connecting Statement: If your readers would misunderstand why the author puts two negative words together, you could express **be afraid lest** with a positive statement. The author uses this construction for emphasis, so use an emphatic form in your language. Alternate translation: “let us be careful so that while there remains” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 4 1 ti1x figs-idiom μήποτε καταλειπομένης ἐπαγγελίας εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν κατάπαυσιν αὐτοῦ 1 When a **promise** **remains**, people can still receive what is promised. In other words, the promise is still valid or true. If your readers would misunderstand a **promise** remaining, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “lest while a promise to enter into his rest is still valid” or “lest while God still offers a promise to enter into his rest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) @@ -384,11 +384,11 @@ HEB 4 2 zc7k figs-ellipsis καθάπερ κἀκεῖνοι 1 This phrase leav HEB 4 2 znk9 writing-pronouns κἀκεῖνοι…ἐκείνους 1 as they were Here, **them** refers to the Israelites whom God led out of Egypt and who died in the wilderness without entering the rest (see [3:16–19](../03/16.md)). If your readers would not know to whom **them** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “to the Israelite ancestors also … them” or “to that generation also … them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 4 2 qtgc figs-possession ὁ λόγος τῆς ἀκοῆς 1 Here the author uses the possessive form to describe a **message** that someone, in this case the Israelite ancestors, “heard.” If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “the message that they heard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 4 2 zza4 grammar-connect-logic-result μὴ συνκεκερασμένους 1 But that message did not benefit those who did not unite in faith with those who obeyed Here, **not having been mixed** introduces the reason why **the message** did not **benefit them**. If your readers not infer this relationship, you could express it more explicitly. Alternate translation: “since it had not been mixed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) -HEB 4 2 vexi translate-unknown μὴ συνκεκερασμένους τῇ πίστει τοῖς ἀκούσασιν 1 Here, **not having been joined** refers back to **them**, who are not **joined** with **those who heard** as part of the group of those who believe. In this construction, **faith** can refer to: (1) what those who are **joined** have in common. Alternate translation: “not having been joined as people with faith to those who heard it” (2) what does the “joining.” Alternate translation: “not having been joined by faith to those who heard it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) +HEB 4 2 vexi translate-unknown μὴ συνκεκερασμένους τῇ πίστει τοῖς ἀκούσασιν 1 Here, **not having been joined** refers back to **them**, who are not **joined** with **those who heard** as part of the group of those who believe. In this construction, **faith** can refer to: (1) what those who are **joined** have in common. Alternate translation: “not having been joined as people with faith to those who heard it” (2) what does the “joining.” Alternate translation: “not having been joined by faith to those who heard it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 4 2 fzjj translate-textvariants μὴ συνκεκερασμένους τῇ πίστει τοῖς ἀκούσασιν 1 Most early manuscripts make **not having been joined** refer back to **them**. However, a few early manuscripts make **not having been joined** refer back to **the message**. In this case, the clause would refer to how **those who heard** the message did not join **faith** to it when they heard it. In other words, they did not believe what they heard. However, the option that the ULT follows has the most support, so it is best to make **not having been joined** refer back to **them**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) HEB 4 2 zwpf figs-activepassive μὴ συνκεκερασμένους 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who are **joined** rather than focusing on the person doing the “joining.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” or they themselves did it. Alternate translation: “not having joined themselves” or “God not having joined them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 4 2 uinq figs-abstractnouns τῇ πίστει 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **faith**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “trust” or “believe.” Alternate translation: “in trusting it” or “in believing it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 4 3 n6dw grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces how one does “benefit” from hearing the “good news” ([4:2](../04/02.md)). It is those who “believe” who are able to **enter into rest**. If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) +HEB 4 3 n6dw grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces how one does “benefit” from hearing the “good news” ([4:2](../04/02.md)). It is those who “believe” who are able to **enter into rest**. If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 4 3 w6t4 figs-explicit εἰσερχόμεθα…εἰς κατάπαυσιν, οἱ πιστεύσαντες 1 we who have believed enter that rest Here, **rest** could refer to: (1) the state of “resting.” Alternate translation: “we who have believed participate in the way that God rests” or “we who have believed rest” (2) the place where people rest, particularly the land that God promised to give to his people. Alternate translation: “we who have believed enter into the resting place” or “we who have believed enter into the land of rest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 4 3 egfo figs-explicit καθὼς εἴρηκεν 1 Here, **just as** indicates that the quotation will support the claim that **we who have believed enter into rest**. However, the quotation is a negative statement about how the Israelite ancestors will not **enter into rest**. The quotation could support the claim by: (1) proving the opposite point. Since the Israelite ancestors did not enter because they did not believe (see [3:19](../03/19.md)), that means that those who believe can enter. Alternate translation: “which you know because he said this about those who did not believe:” (2) proving that the **rest** is still available. In other words, because the Israelite ancestors did not **enter**, someone still can **enter**. Alternate translation: “which you can tell is still available because he said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 4 3 x2kq writing-quotations καθὼς εἴρηκεν 1 just as he said Here the author uses **just as he said** to requote a part of the quotation that he introduced earlier (see especially [3:11](../03/11.md)). If your readers would misunderstand that the author is requoting the previous quotation to focus on a specific portion of it, you could use a word or phrase that introduces something that has already been quoted. Alternate translation: “just as he said in what I already quoted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) @@ -450,8 +450,8 @@ HEB 4 11 bmg5 figs-explicit εἰσελθεῖν εἰς ἐκείνην τὴν HEB 4 11 rtj7 figs-metaphor ἐν…πέσῃ 1 will fall into the kind of disobedience that they did Here the author speaks as if **disobedience** were a hole that a person could physically **fall into**. This “falling into” the hole of **disobedience** keeps a person from reaching their goal or arriving at their destination. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “might fail by following” or “might follow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 11 eoso figs-possession τῷ αὐτῷ…ὑποδείγματι…τῆς ἀπειθείας 1 Here the author uses the possessive form to show that the **example** is the **disobedience**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. The idea is that the Israelite ancestors provided the **example** of **disobedience** that we should not follow. Alternate translation: “the same thing, which is disobedience” or “disobedience that is like that of the Israelite ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 4 11 uznd figs-abstractnouns τῷ αὐτῷ…ὑποδείγματι…τῆς ἀπειθείας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **disobedience**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “disobey.” Alternate translation: “disobeying in the same way that they did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 4 12 iwtk grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces a further reason for why we need to “be eager” ([4:11](../04/11.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the basis for an exhortation. Alternate translation: “We should do that because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) -HEB 4 12 h5d2 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the word of God is living Here, **word** represents what someone says in words. If your readers would misunderstand **word**, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the message of God” or “what God says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 4 12 iwtk grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces a further reason for why we need to “be eager” ([4:11](../04/11.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the basis for an exhortation. Alternate translation: “We should do that because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) +HEB 4 12 h5d2 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the word of God is living Here, **word** figuratively represents what someone says in words. If your readers would misunderstand **word**, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the message of God” or “what God says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 4 12 hnc2 figs-possession ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here the author uses a possessive to describe a **word** that: (1) **God** speaks. Alternate translation: “the word that God speaks” (2) is **God**. Alternate translation: “the divine Word” or “God the Word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 4 12 j9qy figs-personification ζῶν…καὶ ἐνεργὴς…διϊκνούμενος…καὶ κριτικὸς 1 living and active In these phrases, the author describes the **word of God** as if it were a person that was **living and active** and that could “pierce” and **judge** other people. He speaks in this way to show that God accomplishes these things through his **word**, that is, when he speaks. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea by making God the subject of these actions or by using analogy form. Alternate translation: “is from the living and active God … God uses it to pierce … God uses it to judge” or “is like a living and active person … piercing like a person pierces … and able, like a person, to judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 4 12 g4tc figs-metaphor τομώτερος, ὑπὲρ πᾶσαν μάχαιραν δίστομον, καὶ διϊκνούμενος ἄχρι μερισμοῦ 1 sharper than any two-edged sword Here the author compares the **word of God** to a **sword** that has two edges. God’s word is even **sharper** than that kind of sword, which means it is even better at **piercing**. The author uses this figure of speech to show how good the **word of God** is at discerning and judging humans. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “is like a very sharp two-edged sword that pierces to the dividing” or “able to distinguish what is wrong from what is right, including even the dividing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) @@ -467,9 +467,9 @@ HEB 4 13 nx6n figs-activepassive οὐκ ἔστιν κτίσις ἀφανὴς HEB 4 13 f3h1 figs-metaphor πάντα…γυμνὰ καὶ τετραχηλισμένα 1 everything is bare and open Here the author speaks about **all {things}** as if they were a naked person whose body was **bare** for all to see. He also speaks of **all {things}** as if someone had pulled another person’s head back to “lay open” his or her neck. Both of these expressions indicate that God sees and knows everything about **all {things}**. If your readers would misunderstand either of these expressions, you could use comparable metaphors or express the ideas nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “all things are visible and revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 13 yk64 figs-doublet γυμνὰ καὶ τετραχηλισμένα 1 bare and open These two terms mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize that God sees and knows everything. If your language does not use repetition to do this or if you do not have two words for these ideas, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “are visible” or “are revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 4 13 sltw figs-activepassive τετραχηλισμένα 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since the author is describing a characteristic of **all {things}**, avoid stating a subject here. It may be best to translate **laid open** with an adjective that has a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “open” or “visible” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 4 13 i9hh figs-metonymy τοῖς ὀφθαλμοῖς αὐτοῦ 1 to the eyes of the one to whom we must give account Here, **eyes** refers to seeing or knowing. If your readers would misunderstand **eyes**, you could express the idea in plain language. Alternate translation: “to the sight of him” or “for him to know, who is the one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 4 13 i9hh figs-metonymy τοῖς ὀφθαλμοῖς αὐτοῦ 1 to the eyes of the one to whom we must give account Here, **eyes** figuratively refers to seeing or knowing. If your readers would misunderstand **eyes**, you could express the idea in plain language. Alternate translation: “to the sight of him” or “for him to know, who is the one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 4 13 k8k0 figs-idiom πρὸς ὃν ἡμῖν ὁ λόγος 1 This phrase could mean: (1) that God is the one whom the author is speaking about to his audience. The **word** here would refer to the “words” that the author is speaking to his audience. Alternate translation: “about whom we are speaking” (2) that God is one whom the audience must relate to or deal with. Alternate translation: “with whom we have to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 4 14 iv8x grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 Here, **Therefore** refers back to what the author already said about how Jesus is a **high priest** (see [2:17–3:1](../02/17.md)). It may refer especially to [3:1](../03/01.md), where the author stated that Jesus is “the high priest of our confession.” So, **Therefore** introduces how the author wants his audience to act, given that Jesus is a **great high priest**. If your readers would misunderstand **Therefore**, you could use a word or phrase that resumes a previous topic, or you could use a word or phrase that introduces the result or consequence of a previous statement. Alternate translation: “So then” or “Because of all that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +HEB 4 14 iv8x grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 Here, **Therefore** refers back to what the author already said about how Jesus is a **high priest** (see [2:17–3:1](../02/17.md)). It may refer especially to [3:1](../03/01.md), where the author stated that Jesus is “the high priest of our confession.” So, **Therefore** introduces how the author wants his audience to act, given that Jesus is a **great high priest**. If your readers would misunderstand **Therefore**, you could use a word or phrase that resumes a previous topic, or you could use a word or phrase that introduces the result or consequence of a previous statement. Alternate translation: “So then” or “Because of all that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 4 14 spfu grammar-connect-logic-result ἔχοντες 1 Here, **having** introduces a reason for the exhortation to **firmly hold**. If your readers would misunderstand this relationship, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “since we have” or “because we have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 4 14 a51p figs-go διεληλυθότα τοὺς οὐρανούς 1 who has passed through the heavens Here, **passed through** refers to travel or movement within a specific area, here **the heavens**. It does not necessarily mean that Jesus traveled through and then left **the heavens**. Use a word that you would use for traveling in a specific direction through an area. Alternate translation: “who has gone through the heavens” or “who has traveled through the heavens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 4 14 ejwy figs-explicit τοὺς οὐρανούς 1 Many people in the author’s culture believed that the space that they called “heaven” contained multiple layers or spheres of individual **heavens**. Paul speaks this way in [2 Corinthians 12:2](../../2co/12/02.md). Here, the author uses this language without clarifying how many **heavens** there are. The main point is that Jesus **passed through** these **heavens** to where God dwells. Often, this place where God dwells is in the highest of the **heavens**. Since the author does not include details about the **heavens**, translate **heavens** with a word or phrase that refers to all of heavenly space, including the idea of multiple **heavens** if possible. Alternate translation: “the heavenly realm” or “the heavenly spaces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) @@ -487,14 +487,14 @@ HEB 4 15 fve3 χωρὶς ἁμαρτίας 1 he is without sin Alternate trans HEB 4 16 ujt6 grammar-connect-logic-result προσερχώμεθα οὖν 1 Here, **then** introduces an exhortation that is based [4:14–15](../04/14.md). If your readers would misunderstand **then**, you could use a word or phrase that does introduce an exhortation. Alternate translation: “Therefore, let us approach” or “Because of that, let us approach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 4 16 sy6y figs-go προσερχώμεθα οὖν μετὰ παρρησίας τῷ θρόνῳ τῆς χάριτος 1 Here, **approach** refers to getting close to something but not necessarily being right next to it. Here, the author wants believers to **approach** God’s **throne** in heaven. This means that they enter into God’s presence. It does not mean that they enter into heaven to be right next to the **throne**. If your readers would misunderstand **approach**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to being in someone’s presence. Alternate translation: “Let us then with confidence go before the throne of grace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 4 16 h49r figs-abstractnouns μετὰ παρρησίας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **confidence**, you could express the idea by using an adverb such as “boldly” or “confidently.” Alternate translation: “confidently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 4 16 aj1p figs-metonymy τῷ θρόνῳ 1 to the throne of grace Here, **throne** refers to the one sitting on the **throne**: God. If your readers would misunderstand **throne**, you could clarify that it refers to God on his **throne**. Alternate translation: “to God on his throne” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 4 16 aj1p figs-metonymy τῷ θρόνῳ 1 to the throne of grace Here, **throne** refers figuratively to the one sitting on the **throne**: God. If your readers would misunderstand **throne**, you could clarify that it refers to God on his **throne**. Alternate translation: “to God on his throne” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 4 16 s6vp figs-possession τῷ θρόνῳ τῆς χάριτος 1 Here the author uses the possessive form to describe how **grace** comes from God on the **throne**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “to throne from which grace comes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 4 16 e6nb figs-abstractnouns τῷ θρόνῳ τῆς χάριτος 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **grace**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “gracious” or an adverb such as “graciously.” Alternate translation: “to the gracious throne” or “to throne where God rules graciously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 4 16 py6d figs-abstractnouns λάβωμεν ἔλεος, καὶ χάριν εὕρωμεν, εἰς εὔκαιρον βοήθειαν 1 we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **mercy**, **grace**, and **help**, you could express the idea by using verbs or in some other natural way. Alternate translation: “God may be merciful and gracious to us to help us when we need it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 4 16 x3hv figs-doublet λάβωμεν ἔλεος, καὶ χάριν εὕρωμεν 1 The two phrases **receive mercy** and **find grace** mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize how God will act kindly and lovingly toward those who believe in Jesus. If your language does not use repetition to do this or if you do not have two words for these attributes, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “we may receive grace” or “we may receive favor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 4 16 f149 figs-idiom χάριν εὕρωμεν 1 Here, **find grace** refers to receiving **grace** from someone. If your readers would misunderstand **find grace**, you could express the idea in a natural way in your language. Alternate translation: “grace” or “experience grace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 4 16 n654 translate-unknown εὔκαιρον βοήθειαν 1 Here, **timely** refers to something that happens at just the right time. Here, it means that the **help** happens just when someone needs that **help**. If your readers would misunderstand **timely**, you could use a comparable word or phrase. Alternate translation: “help at the right time” or “well-timed help” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) -HEB 5 intro b67j 0 # Hebrews 5 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: The Son becomes high priest (5:1–10)
* Exhortation: Make sure to persevere! (5:11–6:12)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [5:5–6](../05/05.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### High priest

In [5:1–4](../05/01.md), the author explains what it means to be a high priest: (1) he must offer things to God, (2) he must be sympathetic to others because he also experiences weakness, and (3) he must be appointed by God. The author then applies these qualifications and duties to Jesus ([5:5–10](../05/05.md)): (1) he was appointed by God, (2) he suffered like all humans do, and (3) he himself is the offering that brings eternal salvation. Make that your translation clearly draws connections what high priests experience and do and what Jesus has experienced and done. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

### Melchizedek

In the entire Old Testament, only two passages mention Melchizedek: [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md) and [Genesis 14:18–20](../gen/14/18.md). In this chapter, the author quotes from the Psalm, and in chapter 7 he will refer to Genesis. Melchizedek was a king and priest in the city of Salem. Abraham, the ancestor of the Israelites, met him and gave him a gift. Much later, the author of [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md) writes how God appointed the king of Israel (David) to be a priest like Melchizedek. Since the author simply introduces Melchizedek here and saves his explanation for chapter 7, you also should simply refer to him here. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/names/melchizedek]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### Metaphor with “milk” and “solid food”

In [5:12–14](../05/12.md), the author uses “milk” to refer to basic teachings about God and about what is right and wrong. He uses “solid food” to refer to the more complex teachings. Since “infants” are the ones who drink “milk” in the author’s culture, he refers to those who only know the basic teachings as “infants.” Those who know complex teachings are “mature” adults who eat “solid food.” If your readers would misunderstand this metaphor, if possible use a figure of speech that contrasts between adults and little children. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Jesus “learning obedience” and “being made perfect”

In [5:8–9](../05/08.md), the author states that Jesus “learned obedience” and was “made perfect.” These statements do not mean that Jesus failed to obey and sometimes sinned before this time. Instead, “learning obedience” refers to fully understanding or experiencing what obedience means, and being “made perfect” refers to “perfect” qualifications for a position or office. So, Jesus fully experienced what it means to obey God, and God made him a “perfect” fit for the office of high priest. Translate these phrases in such a way that your readers will not think that Jesus went from being disobedient and sinful to obedient and perfect. +HEB 5 intro b67j 0 # Hebrews 5 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: The Son becomes high priest (5:1–10)
* Exhortation: Make sure to persevere! (5:11–6:12)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [5:5–6](../05/05.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### High priest

In [5:1–4](../05/01.md), the author explains what it means to be a high priest: (1) he must offer things to God, (2) he must be sympathetic to others because he also experiences weakness, and (3) he must be appointed by God. The author then applies these qualifications and duties to Jesus ([5:5–10](../05/05.md)): (1) he was appointed by God, (2) he suffered like all humans do, and (3) he himself is the offering that brings eternal salvation. Make that your translation clearly draws connections what high priests experience and do and what Jesus has experienced and done. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

### Melchizedek

In the entire Old Testament, only two passages mention Melchizedek: [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md) and [Genesis 14:18–20](../gen/14/18.md). In this chapter, the author quotes from the Psalm, and in chapter 7 he will refer to Genesis. Melchizedek was a king and priest in the city of Salem. Abraham, the ancestor of the Israelites, met him and gave him a gift. Much later, the author of [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md) writes how God appointed the king of Israel (David) to be a priest like Melchizedek. Since the author simply introduces Melchizedek here and saves his explanation for chapter 7, you also should simply refer to him here. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/names/melchizedek]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### Metaphor with “milk” and “solid food”

In [5:12–14](../05/12.md), the author uses “milk” to refer figuratively to basic teachings about God and about what is right and wrong. He uses “solid food” to refer figuratively to the more complex teachings. Since “infants” are the ones who drink “milk” in the author’s culture, he refers to those who only know the basic teachings as “infants.” Those who know complex teachings are “mature” adults who eat “solid food.” If your readers would misunderstand this metaphor, if possible use a figure of speech that contrasts between adults and little children. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Jesus “learning obedience” and “being made perfect”

In [5:8–9](../05/08.md), the author states that Jesus “learned obedience” and was “made perfect.” These statements do not mean that Jesus failed to obey and sometimes sinned before this time. Instead, “learning obedience” refers to fully understanding or experiencing what obedience means, and being “made perfect” refers to “perfect” qualifications for a position or office. So, Jesus fully experienced what it means to obey God, and God made him a “perfect” fit for the office of high priest. Translate these phrases in such a way that your readers will not think that Jesus went from being disobedient and sinful to obedient and perfect. HEB 5 1 dn18 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, **For** indicates that the author is going to explain more about high priests and about how Jesus is a high priest. It also signals that the author is beginning a new section. Use a word or phrase that indicates that a new section is beginning, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 5 1 whq1 figs-activepassive λαμβανόμενος 1 chosen from among people If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who are **taken** rather than focusing on the person doing the “taking.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God taking him” or “whom God takes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 1 u4gd figs-gendernotations ἐξ ἀνθρώπων…ὑπὲρ ἀνθρώπων 1 Although **men** is masculine, the author is using it to refer to all the people in a group, both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **men**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “from among humans on the behalf of humans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) @@ -512,7 +512,7 @@ HEB 5 3 e806 writing-pronouns αὐτὴν 1 Here, **this** refers back to “w HEB 5 3 q5xi figs-activepassive ὀφείλει 1 he also is required If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the priest, who is **obligated** rather than focusing on the person doing the “obligating.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God commands him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 3 sogb figs-infostructure ὀφείλει, καθὼς περὶ τοῦ λαοῦ οὕτως καὶ περὶ αὑτοῦ, προσφέρειν περὶ ἁμαρτιῶν 1 If the structure of this sentence would confuse your readers, you could rearrange the elements so that they come in a more natural order. The author is emphasizing the comparison between the people and the priest, so use a form that emphasizes those elements. Alternate translation: “he is obligated to offer sacrifices for sins, just as for the people, so also for himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 5 3 qlq6 figs-idiom προσφέρειν περὶ ἁμαρτιῶν 1 Here, **{sacrifices} for sins** refers to a specific category of sacrifice that dealt with people’s **sins**. You can read more about this kind of sacrifice in [Leviticus 16](../../lev/16/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand this phrase, you could use a word or phrase that refers clearly to **sacrifices** that are meant to deal with **sins**. Alternate translation: “to offer sin offerings” or “to offer sacrifices to deal with sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 5 4 n2e1 figs-metonymy λαμβάνει τὴν τιμήν 1 takes this honor Here, the word **honor** refers to the position that gives the person **honor**. This position is that of high priest. If your readers would misunderstand **honor**, you could express the idea by referring to the position of high priest, if possible including the idea that this is an “honored” position. Alternate translation: “takes the honor of being a high priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 5 4 n2e1 figs-metonymy λαμβάνει τὴν τιμήν 1 takes this honor Here, the word **honor** figuratively refers to the position that gives the person **honor**. This position is that of high priest. If your readers would misunderstand **honor**, you could express the idea by referring to the position of high priest, if possible including the idea that this is an “honored” position. Alternate translation: “takes the honor of being a high priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 5 4 rvnj figs-abstractnouns τὴν τιμήν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **honorable**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “honorable.” Alternate translation: “becoming honorable in this way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 5 4 lswf figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ 1 This phrase leaves out some words that many languages might need to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the first half of the sentence. Alternate translation: “but he receives this honor only” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 5 4 cj9l grammar-connect-logic-result καλούμενος 1 Here, the phrase **being called** introduces something that could: (1) give the real reason why a person becomes a high priest. Alternate translation: “because he is called” (2) give the situation in which a person actually becomes a high priest. Alternate translation: “when he is called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) @@ -531,7 +531,7 @@ HEB 5 6 pb9k figs-yousingular σὺ 1 Because the quotation is referring to one HEB 5 6 ede5 translate-unknown κατὰ τὴν τάξιν Μελχισέδεκ 1 after the manner of Melchizedek Here, the word **order** refers to requirements and duties that go along with a specific office or position. If someone serves **according to the order of** someone else, that means that he or she meets the same requirements and perform the same duties that that person did. If your readers would misunderstand **according to the order of**, you could use a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “in the same way that Melchizedek was a priest” or “with a priesthood just like Melchizedek’s priesthood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 5 6 a4sl translate-names Μελχισέδεκ 1 The word **Melchizedek** is the name of a man. He is mentioned in the Scriptures only in Hebrews and in [Genesis 14:18–20](../../GEN/14/18.md). The author will give many more details about **Melchizedek** in chapter 7, so leave any explanation for that chapter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 5 7 alje writing-pronouns ὃς 1 Here, the word **He** refers back to Christ. If your readers would misunderstand **He**, you could make to whom it refers explicit. Alternate translation: “Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 5 7 mv2c figs-metonymy ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 During the days of his flesh Here, the words **the days** refer to an undefined period of time, and the word **flesh** refers to Jesus’s earthly life. The phrase as a whole refers to the time during which Jesus had a human body that could die, in contrast to how he now has a human body that is glorious and can never die. Alternate translation: “when he lived on earth” or “during the time when he was mortal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 5 7 mv2c figs-metonymy ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 During the days of his flesh Here, the words **the days** refer to an undefined period of time, and the word **flesh** figuratively refers to Jesus’s earthly life. The phrase as a whole refers to the time during which Jesus had a human body that could die, in contrast to how he now has a human body that is glorious and can never die. Alternate translation: “when he lived on earth” or “during the time when he was mortal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 5 7 iel9 figs-doublet δεήσεις τε καὶ ἱκετηρίας 1 prayers and requests These two terms mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize the how much Jesus prayed to God. If your language does not use repetition to do this or if you do not have two words for these prayers, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “many prayers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 5 7 n9sg figs-abstractnouns δεήσεις τε καὶ ἱκετηρίας 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **prayers** and **requests**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “pray” and “request.” Alternate translation: “what he both prayed and requested” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 5 7 bkfz translate-unknown μετὰ κραυγῆς ἰσχυρᾶς καὶ δακρύων 1 Here, the phrase **loud cries** refers to speech at a high volume. Usually, **loud cries** are used when a person feels very strongly about something. The word **tears** refers to how a person weeps when they feel strong emotions, particularly sad ones. If your readers would misunderstand **with loud cries and tears**, you could use words that show that Jesus felt very strongly about the **prayers and requests**, including experiencing sadness and concern. Alternate translation: “as he wept and shouted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) @@ -558,7 +558,7 @@ HEB 5 11 cm78 figs-idiom περὶ οὗ πολὺς ἡμῖν ὁ λόγος 1 HEB 5 11 q45w translate-unknown δυσερμήνευτος λέγειν 1 Here, the phrase **hard to speak {about}** describes a topic that the speaker and the audience find difficult. Here, the author specifically focuses on how the audience will find the topic difficult. If your readers would misunderstand **hard to speak {about}**, you could use a phrase that makes the idea clearer. Alternate translation: “difficult to discuss” or “hard to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 5 11 r2u2 figs-metaphor νωθροὶ γεγόνατε ταῖς ἀκοαῖς 1 you have become dull in hearing Here the author speaks as if **hearing** could **become dull**, just as if it were a sharp tool that became **dull** and no longer cut things well. He speaks in this way to describe their **hearing** as ineffective and slow. If your readers would misunderstand **dull in {your} hearing**, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “you have become slow in your hearing” or “your hearing does not work as it should” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 11 jkpj figs-abstractnouns ταῖς ἀκοαῖς 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **hearing**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “hear” or “listen.” Alternate translation: “when you listen” or “whenever you hear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 5 12 idsj grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces explanation about how the audience has “become dull” in their “hearing” ([5:11](../05/11.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) +HEB 5 12 idsj grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces explanation about how the audience has “become dull” in their “hearing” ([5:11](../05/11.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 5 12 dnzj figs-idiom διὰ τὸν χρόνον 1 Here, the phrase **by this time** refers to a period of time that is long enough for a person to become good at something. In other words, the author reminds the audience that they have been Christians for enough time that they should be able to teach others. If your readers would misunderstand **by this time**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies a period of time that is long enough to become a teacher. Alternate translation: “you have had enough time that” or “after this many years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 5 12 tcg0 figs-abstractnouns πάλιν χρείαν ἔχετε τοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **need**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “need.” Alternate translation: “you again need” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 5 12 rt4n figs-abstractnouns τὰ στοιχεῖα τῆς ἀρχῆς τῶν λογίων τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **principles** and **oracles**, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the elementary parts of what God has declared” or “the first things that you learned about God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) @@ -576,7 +576,7 @@ HEB 5 14 k2j1 figs-exmetaphor τελείων…ἐστιν ἡ στερεὰ τ HEB 5 14 e3yh figs-idiom διὰ τὴν ἕξιν 1 who because of their maturity have their understanding trained for distinguishing good from evil Here, the phrase **through habit** refers to how a person develops skills or abilities by repeating the same thing over and over again. If your readers would misunderstand **through habit**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to learning by repetition. Alternate translation: “by means of repetition” or “through consistent practice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 5 14 hhzb figs-metaphor γεγυμνασμένα 1 Here, the word **trained** is often used for how athletes practice so that their bodies become stronger and better at their sport. If your readers would misunderstand how the author applies this language to **senses**, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “educated” or “developed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 14 mq0p translate-unknown τὰ αἰσθητήρια 1 Here, the word **senses** identifies all the ways in which people receive information about the world around them, including tasting, touching, and hearing. The author’s point here is that people can learn to tell between what is **good** and what is **evil** by using these **senses**. If your readers would misunderstand **senses**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the part or parts of the person that experience the world around him or her. Alternate translation: “their faculties” or “themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) -HEB 6 intro nz5i 0 # Hebrews 6 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Exhortation: Make sure to persevere! (5:11–6:12)
* Exhortation: God’s promise is certain (6:13–20)

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### The promise to Abraham ([6:13–15](../06/13.md))

In [6:13–14](../06/13.md), the author speaks about God’s promise to Abraham. He quotes directly from [Genesis 22:17](../gen/22/17.md), but he also has in mind other times when God made similar promises to Abraham: [Genesis 12:1–3](../gen/12/01.md); [15:1–21](../gen/15/01.md); [17:1–8](../gen/17/01.md). The author’s point is that God “swore by himself,” which means that he himself guaranteed what he promised. Abraham waited for God to fulfill that promise, and God eventually did so when he gave Abraham a son and then numerous descendants. If your readers would need some of this information to understand the passage, you could include it in a footnote.

### “Swearing” and the “oath”

In [6:13–18](../06/13.md), the author refers to “swearing” and using an “oath.” In this context, “swearing” by someone refers to the action of guaranteeing a promise, while the “oath” refers to the guaranteeing words themselves. When someone makes an “oath,” they “swear by” a person or thing that is more powerful than they are. What they are saying is that the powerful person or thing will punish them if they are lying. If your readers would misunderstand “swearing” and “oath,” you could use language that comes from how people guarantee what they say in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oath]])

### The heavenly sanctuary

In [6:19–20](../06/19.md), the author first refers to the heavenly sanctuary. He will discuss this sanctuary more in the following chapters. At this point, he simply refers to how our “hope” “enters” where Jesus himself “entered”: the area “inside” the “curtain.” In the author’s culture, a sanctuary would have solid wall or a cloth “curtain” that marked off the most sacred part of the sanctuary from the rest of the structure. This part of the sanctuary is most sacred because it is where God is most strongly present. Use words that would clearly refer to the most sacred part of a sanctuary. Since the author describes the heavenly sanctuary in words that come from how the tabernacle is described in the Old Testament, you should preserve as much of the details as possible (such as a “curtain” instead of a wall). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/curtain]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The farming metaphor in [6:7–8](../06/07.md)

In these verses, the author uses land that people use to grow food as an analogy for how people respond to God’s gifts and his message about salvation. In [6:7](../06/07.md), the author describes farmland that grows helpful crops when rain falls on it. This good farmland is like people who hear the good news, believe it, and then obey God. In [6:8](../06/08.md), the author describes farmland that grows plants that are not useful and that can hurt people. A farmer will set these plants on fire to destroy them. This bad farmland is like people who hear the good news and receive gifts from God but fail to firmly believe the good news and obey God. God will punish them, much like the farmer burns the bad plants. If your readers would misunderstand this analogy, you could make the comparison more explicit in the text.

### Hope as an anchor

In [6:19](../06/19.md), the author states that “hope” has the qualities of an “anchor.” An anchor is a heavy piece of metal attached to the end of a rope. The other end of the rope is tied to a boat, and the anchor is dropped over the edge so that its weight keeps the boat from moving around or drifting away. The author’s point is that hope functions like an anchor for believers: it keeps them focused on Jesus and what God has promised, and they do not “drift away” from what they believe (see the warning in [2:1](../02/01.md)). If your readers would not know what an “anchor” is, you could compare hope to some other thing in your culture that holds things in place.

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### The “foundational” teachings in [6:1–2](../06/01.md)

In these verses, the author lists six things that are “foundational” or “elementary” teachings. These are not the only “foundational” teachings, but the author uses them as examples. The structure of the list can be understood in several ways:

(1)
* the foundation
* of repentance from dead works and
* of faith in God,
* teaching
* about baptisms and
* laying on of hands and
* resurrection of the dead and
* eternal judgment.

(2)
* the foundation
* of repentance from dead works and
* of faith in God,
* {of} teaching
* about baptisms and
* laying on of hands and
* resurrection of the dead and
* eternal judgment.

(3)
* the foundation
* of repentance from dead works and
* of faith in God,
* {of} teaching about baptisms and
* {of} laying on of hands and
* {of} resurrection of the dead and
* {of} eternal judgment.

See the note at the beginning of [6:2](../06/02.md) for translation suggestions for each of these options.

### Are those who “fall away” in [6:4–6](../06/04.md) truly believers?

In [6:4–5](../06/04.md), the author gives a list of things that a person can experience but then still “fall away” ([6:6](../06/06.md)). Scholars debate whether this list describes people who truly believe in Jesus and then stop believing, or if it describes people came close to believing in Jesus but then did not truly believe. Since the author focuses on how these people have experienced good things from God but then still reject Jesus, he does not clearly express whether these people are truly believers are not. If possible, focus your translation on what the people experience rather than on whether they have truly believed. +HEB 6 intro nz5i 0 # Hebrews 6 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Exhortation: Make sure to persevere! (5:11–6:12)
* Exhortation: God’s promise is certain (6:13–20)

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### The promise to Abraham ([6:13–15](../06/13.md))

In [6:13–14](../06/13.md), the author speaks about God’s promise to Abraham. He quotes directly from [Genesis 22:17](../gen/22/17.md), but he also has in mind other times when God made similar promises to Abraham: [Genesis 12:1–3](../gen/12/01.md); [15:1–21](../gen/15/01.md); [17:1–8](../gen/17/01.md). The author’s point is that God “swore by himself,” which means that he himself guaranteed what he promised. Abraham waited for God to fulfill that promise, and God eventually did so when he gave Abraham a son and then numerous descendants. If your readers would need some of this information to understand the passage, you could include it in a footnote.

### “Swearing” and the “oath”

In [6:13–18](../06/13.md), the author refers to “swearing” and using an “oath.” In this context, “swearing” by someone refers to the action of guaranteeing a promise, while the “oath” refers to the guaranteeing words themselves. When someone makes an “oath,” they “swear by” a person or thing that is more powerful than they are. What they are saying is that the powerful person or thing will punish them if they are lying. If your readers would misunderstand “swearing” and “oath,” you could use language that comes from how people guarantee what they say in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oath]])

### The heavenly sanctuary

In [6:19–20](../06/19.md), the author first refers to the heavenly sanctuary. He will discuss this sanctuary more in the following chapters. At this point, he simply refers to how our “hope” figuratively “enters” where Jesus himself “entered”: the area “inside” the “curtain.” In the author’s culture, a sanctuary would have solid wall or a cloth “curtain” that marked off the most sacred part of the sanctuary from the rest of the structure. This part of the sanctuary is most sacred because it is where God is most strongly present. Use words that would clearly refer to the most sacred part of a sanctuary. Since the author describes the heavenly sanctuary in words that come from how the tabernacle is described in the Old Testament, you should preserve as much of the details as possible (such as a “curtain” instead of a wall). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/curtain]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The farming metaphor in [6:7–8](../06/07.md)

In these verses, the author uses land that people use to grow food as an analogy for how people respond to God’s gifts and his message about salvation. In [6:7](../06/07.md), the author describes farmland that grows helpful crops when rain falls on it. This good farmland is like people who hear the good news, believe it, and then obey God. In [6:8](../06/08.md), the author describes farmland that grows plants that are not useful and that can hurt people. A farmer will set these plants on fire to destroy them. This bad farmland is like people who hear the good news and receive gifts from God but fail to firmly believe the good news and obey God. God will punish them, much like the farmer burns the bad plants. If your readers would misunderstand this analogy, you could make the comparison more explicit in the text.

### Hope as an anchor

In [6:19](../06/19.md), the author states that “hope” has the qualities of an “anchor.” An anchor is a heavy piece of metal attached to the end of a rope. The other end of the rope is tied to a boat, and the anchor is dropped over the edge so that its weight keeps the boat from moving around or drifting away. The author’s point is that hope functions like an anchor for believers: it keeps them focused on Jesus and what God has promised, and they do not “drift away” from what they believe (see the warning in [2:1](../02/01.md)). If your readers would not know what an “anchor” is, you could compare hope to some other thing in your culture that holds things in place.

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### The “foundational” teachings in [6:1–2](../06/01.md)

In these verses, the author lists six things that are “foundational” or “elementary” teachings. These are not the only “foundational” teachings, but the author uses them as examples. The structure of the list can be understood in several ways:

(1)
* the foundation
* of repentance from dead works and
* of faith in God,
* teaching
* about baptisms and
* laying on of hands and
* resurrection of the dead and
* eternal judgment.

(2)
* the foundation
* of repentance from dead works and
* of faith in God,
* {of} teaching
* about baptisms and
* laying on of hands and
* resurrection of the dead and
* eternal judgment.

(3)
* the foundation
* of repentance from dead works and
* of faith in God,
* {of} teaching about baptisms and
* {of} laying on of hands and
* {of} resurrection of the dead and
* {of} eternal judgment.

See the note at the beginning of [6:2](../06/02.md) for translation suggestions for each of these options.

### Are those who “fall away” in [6:4–6](../06/04.md) truly believers?

In [6:4–5](../06/04.md), the author gives a list of things that a person can experience but then still “fall away” ([6:6](../06/06.md)). Scholars debate whether this list describes people who truly believe in Jesus and then stop believing, or if it describes people came close to believing in Jesus but then did not truly believe. Since the author focuses on how these people have experienced good things from God but then still reject Jesus, he does not clearly express whether these people are truly believers are not. If possible, focus your translation on what the people experience rather than on whether they have truly believed. HEB 6 1 f1nk grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the phrase **So then** introduces what the author wants his audience to do in response to the warning he gave in [5:11–14](../05/11.md). If your readers would misunderstand **So then**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an application or inference. Alternate translation: “Because of that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 6 1 i4xr figs-metaphor ἀφέντες τὸν τῆς ἀρχῆς τοῦ Χριστοῦ λόγον, ἐπὶ τὴν τελειότητα φερώμεθα 1 let us leave the beginning of the message of Christ and move forward to maturity Here the author speaks as if the **beginning of the message of Christ** were the starting point for a journey and as if **maturity** were the destination. He speaks in this way to encourage his audience to focus more time and energy on the destination (**maturity**) than on where they started out (**the beginning of the message**). He does not want them to replace **the beginning of the message** with what is related to **maturity**. Rather, he is exhorting them about what to focus their time and energy on. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “putting to the side the beginning of the message of Christ, let us take up maturity” or “focusing less on the beginning of the message of Christ, let us focus more on maturity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 1 gsvd figs-abstractnouns τὸν τῆς ἀρχῆς…λόγον 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **beginning**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “basic” or “elementary.” Alternate translation: “the elementary message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) @@ -585,7 +585,7 @@ HEB 6 1 ydpy figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ τὴν τελειότητα 1 If your HEB 6 1 thw8 figs-metaphor μὴ πάλιν θεμέλιον καταβαλλόμενοι 1 Let us not lay again the foundation … of faith in God Here the author speaks about teaching basic things as if it were **laying** a **foundation**. He speaks in this way because the **foundation** is the first thing that a builder “lays,” and the builder soon begins to build on top of that foundation. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “not rehearsing again the simple teachings” or “not learning again the basics” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 1 y7ki figs-abstractnouns μετανοίας ἀπὸ νεκρῶν ἔργων, καὶ πίστεως 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **repentance**, **works**, and **faith**, you could express the ideas in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “about repenting from doing what is dead and about believing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 1 d5q3 figs-personification νεκρῶν ἔργων 1 dead works Here the author describes the **works** as if they were a **dead** person or animal. The author could describe the **works** as **dead** because: (1) they cannot accomplish anything, just like a **dead** person cannot do anything. Alternate translation: “works that accomplish nothing” (2) they lead to physical and spiritual death for the person who does them. Alternate translation: “works that lead to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) -HEB 6 2 s1cv figs-infostructure βαπτισμῶν διδαχὴν, ἐπιθέσεώς τε χειρῶν, ἀναστάσεώς τε νεκρῶν, καὶ κρίματος αἰωνίου 1 nor the foundation of teaching … eternal judgment Here, the **teaching** could (see the chapter introduction): (1) redefine the “foundation” in the previous verse ([6:2](../06/02.md)) and go with all four topics in this verse. Alternate translation: “that is, teaching concerning baptisms and concerning laying on of hands and concerning resurrection of the dead and concerning eternal judgment” (2) identify the third part of the “foundation,” along with “repentance from dead works” and “faith in God” (see [6:2](../06/02.md)). In this case, it goes with the four topics in this verse. Alternate translation: “and of teaching about baptisms and about laying on of hands and about resurrection of the dead and about eternal judgment” (3) identify the third part of the “foundation,” and the rest of the topics in this verse also identify parts of the “foundation.” Alternate translation: “and of teaching about baptisms and of laying on of hands and of resurrection of the dead and of eternal judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) +HEB 6 2 s1cv figs-infostructure βαπτισμῶν διδαχὴν, ἐπιθέσεώς τε χειρῶν, ἀναστάσεώς τε νεκρῶν, καὶ κρίματος αἰωνίου 1 nor the foundation of teaching … eternal judgment Here, the **teaching** could (see the chapter introduction): (1) redefine the “foundation” in the previous verse ([6:2](../06/02.md)) and go with all four topics in this verse. Alternate translation: “that is, teaching concerning baptisms and concerning laying on of hands and concerning resurrection of the dead and concerning eternal judgment” (2) identify the third part of the “foundation,” along with “repentance from dead works” and “faith in God” (see [6:2](../06/02.md)). In this case, it goes with the four topics in this verse. Alternate translation: “and of teaching about baptisms and about laying on of hands and about resurrection of the dead and about eternal judgment” (3) identify the third part of the “foundation,” and the rest of the topics in this verse also identify parts of the “foundation.” Alternate translation: “and of teaching about baptisms and of laying on of hands and of resurrection of the dead and of eternal judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 6 2 fe8e figs-abstractnouns βαπτισμῶν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **baptisms**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “baptize.” Alternate translation: “about baptizing people” or “about what baptizing someone means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 2 rd3q figs-explicit βαπτισμῶν 1 Here, the word **baptisms** is plural. It could refer to: (1) different kinds of **baptisms** that people knew about. See the discussion about “John’s baptism” in [Acts 19:1–7](../act/19/01.md) for an example of different kinds of **baptisms**. Alternate translation: “about various baptisms” or “different kinds of baptisms” (2) many different kinds of washing rituals. Alternate translation: “about washings” or “about kinds of washing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 2 srvc figs-explicit ἐπιθέσεώς…χειρῶν 1 Here, the **laying on of hands** refers to how believers would put their hands on a fellow believer when they were commissioning him or her, praying for him or her, asking God to heal him or her, or helping him or her receive the Holy Spirit. For examples, see [Acts 8:14–17](../act/08/14.md); [Acts 13:2–3](../act/13/02.md); [Acts 28:8](../act/28/08.md); [1 Timothy 4:14](../1ti/04/14.md). In all of these situations, God uses the **laying on of hands** to help a fellow believer. If possible, express the idea in such a way that your readers understand the physical action and also that the action helps other believers. If it is necessary, you could include some short extra information in your translation or more information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “laying on of hands through which God works” or “placing hands on believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) @@ -594,22 +594,22 @@ HEB 6 2 qdfn figs-abstractnouns ἀναστάσεώς…νεκρῶν, καὶ HEB 6 2 tfu3 figs-nominaladj νεκρῶν 1 The author is using the adjective **dead** as a noun in order to refer to all people who are **dead**. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “of the dead people” or “of the corpses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]]) HEB 6 2 g1ke figs-explicit κρίματος αἰωνίου 1 Here, the phrase **eternal judgment** could identify a **judgment** that: (1) has **eternal** validity or consequences. In other words, what God decides in this **judgment** will never change. Alternate translation: “judgment that leads to eternal destiny” (2) happens at the end of this time and at the beginning of the **eternal** time. In other words, the **eternal judgment** is God’s last **judgment** when he renews the creation. Alternate translation: “final judgment” or “God’s last judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 3 xut9 writing-pronouns τοῦτο ποιήσομεν 1 Here, the word **this** refers back to [6:1](../06/01.md), where the author exhorted his audience: “let us go forward to maturity.” If your readers would misunderstand what **this** refers to, you could make it explicit by repeating words from [6:1](../06/01.md). Alternate translation: “we will go forward to maturity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 6 3 yo9q figs-idiom ἐάνπερ ἐπιτρέπῃ ὁ Θεός 1 Here, the phrase **if God permits** is the proper way to indicate that God is in control of what will happen. The phrase implies that it is likely that God will “permit” what the author wants to **do**. If your readers would misunderstand **if God permits**, you could use a comparable expression that indicates that God is in control. Alternate translation: “God willing” or “as long as that is what God wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 6 4 land grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why the audience needs to “go forward” (see [6:1](../06/01.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word that introduces a basis for an exhortation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “We need to go forward, because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +HEB 6 3 yo9q figs-idiom ἐάνπερ ἐπιτρέπῃ ὁ Θεός 1 Here, the phrase **if God permits** is the proper way to indicate that God is in control of what will happen. The phrase implies that it is likely that God will “permit” what the author wants to **do**. If your readers would misunderstand **if God permits**, you could use a comparable expression that indicates that God is in control. Alternate translation: “God willing” or “as long as that is what God wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 6 4 land grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why the audience needs to “go forward” (see [6:1](../06/01.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word that introduces a basis for an exhortation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “We need to go forward, because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 6 4 r14x figs-infostructure ἀδύνατον γὰρ τοὺς 1 Here, the word **impossible** goes with the phrase “to restore {them} again” in [6:6](../06/06.md). If your readers would misunderstand **impossible** when it is so far away from the words it goes with, you could move **{it is} impossible** to verse 6. If you do this, make sure that you also follow the infostructure note on verse 6. Alternate translation: “For consider those” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 6 4 e7px figs-metaphor τοὺς ἅπαξ φωτισθέντας 1 those who were once enlightened Here the author speaks of receiving and understanding the good news as if it were light shining on a person. If your readers would misunderstand this metaphor, you could use a comparable figure of speech or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “for those who once understood the message about the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 4 e2e6 figs-activepassive τοὺς ἅπαξ φωτισθέντας, γευσαμένους τε 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who were **enlightened** rather than focusing on the person doing the “enlightening.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “for those whom God has once enlightened, and who tasted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 6 4 l5mc figs-metaphor γευσαμένους…τῆς δωρεᾶς τῆς ἐπουρανίου 1 who tasted the heavenly gift Here the author speaks as if **the heavenly gift** were food that people could “taste.” He speaks in this way to show that these people experienced **the heavenly gift** as much as a person who eats food truly experiences that food. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “had experience of the heavenly gift” or “participated in the heavenly gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 4 ysas figs-explicit τῆς δωρεᾶς τῆς ἐπουρανίου 1 Here, the phrase **the heavenly gift** identifies what God gives to those who believe in Jesus. This includes new life and forgiveness of sins. If your readers would misunderstand **the heavenly gift**, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “of God’s gift of new life” or “of God’s gifts from heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 4 d2lp figs-possession μετόχους γενηθέντας Πνεύματος Ἁγίου 1 who were sharers of the Holy Spirit Here the author uses the possessive form to indicate that these people “share” the **Holy Spirit**. This form means that the people whom the author is speaking about were among the group of people who received the **Holy Spirit**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could use a form that makes meaning clearer. Alternate translation: “received the Holy Spirit along with other believers” or “participated in the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) -HEB 6 5 vp46 figs-metaphor γευσαμένους 1 who tasted God’s good word Here the author again uses the word **tasted**. Express the meaning the same way you did in the previous verse ([6:4](../06/04.md)). Alternate translation: “who had experience of” or “who participated in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 6 5 vp46 figs-metaphor γευσαμένους 1 who tasted God’s good word Here the author again uses the word **tasted** figuratively. Express the meaning the same way you did in the previous verse ([6:4](../06/04.md)). Alternate translation: “who had experience of” or “who participated in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 5 vf2t figs-possession δυνάμεις…μέλλοντος αἰῶνος 1 Here the author uses the possessive form to indicate that the **powers** will be fully experienced in **the age to come**. If your language does not use the possessive form to express that idea, you could use a word or phrase that makes it clear. Alternate translation: “the powers that belong to the age to come” or “the powers that will be experienced in the age to come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 6 5 tw1u figs-abstractnouns δυνάμεις…μέλλοντος αἰῶνος 1 the powers of the age to come If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **powers**, you could express the idea in another way. The **powers** could refer to: (1) what God will do, sometimes through other people, for those who believe. Alternate translation: “what God will do powerfully in the age to come” (2) how people can do “powerful” things. Alternate translation: “the powerful things that people will do in the age to come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 5 virg figs-idiom μέλλοντος αἰῶνος 1 Here, the phrase **the age to come** refers to the time during and after which God will make people alive again and renew everything that he created. This **age** begins when Jesus comes back. If your readers would misunderstand **the age to come**, you could use a phrase that makes that meaning clear. Alternate translation: “of the time when Jesus comes back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 6 6 fcrq figs-infostructure καὶ παραπεσόντας, πάλιν ἀνακαινίζειν 1 If you decided to move “{it is} impossible” from [6:4](../06/04.md) to here, you will need to consider a natural way to include it. If you used the alternate translation from the note in verse 4, the following alternate translation will work here. Alternate translation: “but who fell away. It is impossible to restore these people again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 6 6 y24v figs-metaphor παραπεσόντας 1 Here the author speaks of how people reject how they used to believe in Jesus as if they were walking on a path and then **fell away** from it. He speaks in this way to emphasize how significant it is when a person stops believing in Jesus. If your readers would misunderstand **fell away**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “who deserted Christ” or “who stopped believing the good news” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 6 l8nx figs-abstractnouns εἰς μετάνοιαν 1 it is impossible to restore them again to repentance If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **repentance**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “repent.” Alternate translation: “so that they repent” or “so that they return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 6 6 dj3g figs-metaphor ἀνασταυροῦντας 1 they crucify the Son of God for themselves again Here the author speaks as if those who “fall away” are **crucifying** Jesus. He speaks in this way to indicate how bad “falling away” really is. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use an analogy or some other comparable form. Alternate translation: “since it is as if they are crucifying again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 6 6 dj3g figs-metaphor ἀνασταυροῦντας 1 they crucify the Son of God for themselves again Here the author speaks as if those who “fall away” are **crucifying** Jesus. He speaks in this way to indicate how bad “falling away” really is. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use an analogy or some other comparable form. Alternate translation: “since it is as if they are crucifying again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 6 up5c translate-unknown ἀνασταυροῦντας 1 Here, the word translated **they are crucifying again** could refer to: (1) causing the Son to undergo crucifixion a second time. Alternate translation: “since they are re-crucifying” (2) nailing the Son “up” on the cross. Alternate translation: “since they are nailing up on the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 6 6 jkue figs-explicit ἀνασταυροῦντας ἑαυτοῖς 1 Here, the phrase **for themselves** could mean that: (1) they are acting to benefit themselves only. Alternate translation: “since they are crucifying again for their own benefit” (2) they do these things **themselves**. Alternate translation: “since they themselves are crucifying again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 6 y47b guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Son of God The phrase **Son of God** is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) @@ -639,11 +639,11 @@ HEB 6 10 t2hb figs-litotes οὐ…ἄδικος ὁ Θεὸς, ἐπιλαθέ HEB 6 10 puu1 figs-explicit ἐπιλαθέσθαι 1 Here, the word **forget** does not mean simply that a person does not remember something. It also includes how a person will not consider or include something that they have “forgotten.” If your readers would misunderstand **forget**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to how a person “overlooks” or “fails to include” something. Alternate translation: “to ignore” or “to pass over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 10 gzvj figs-abstractnouns τοῦ ἔργου ὑμῶν, καὶ τῆς ἀγάπης ἧς 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **work** and **love**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “do” and “love.” Alternate translation: “what you do and the way that you love, which” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 10 vljf translate-unknown ἐνεδείξασθε 1 Here, people who have **demonstrated** something prove or show that it is true. The author tells his audience that they have “proved” or “shown” that they have **love**. If your readers would misunderstand **demonstrated**, you could use a word or phrase that makes the idea clearer. Alternate translation: “you have shown” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) -HEB 6 10 r9xx figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ 1 for his name Here, the word **name** refers to a person’s reputation or honor. In other words, “serving the saints” is something that is “toward God’s name,” which means that it brings him honor. If your readers would misunderstand **name**, you could express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “with regard to his honor” or “that glorifies God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 6 10 r9xx figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ 1 for his name Here, the word **name** figuratively refers to a person’s reputation or honor. In other words, “serving the saints” is something that is “toward God’s name,” which means that it brings him honor. If your readers would misunderstand **name**, you could express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “with regard to his honor” or “that glorifies God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 10 szt0 figs-explicit διακονήσαντες τοῖς ἁγίοις καὶ διακονοῦντες 1 Here, the ones who **serve** are the audience. The authors point is that they served **the saints** in the past, and they are still serving **the saints** in the present. If your readers would misunderstand who is “serving” or what times the author is referring to, you could make the ideas more explicit. Alternate translation: “since you have served the saints in the past and even now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 11 j7f5 figs-exclusive ἐπιθυμοῦμεν 1 We greatly desire Here the author uses the first person plural (**we**), but he is referring only to himself. If your readers would misunderstand **we**, you could use a form that more naturally refers to the author. Alternate translation: “I long for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) HEB 6 11 k4si translate-unknown ἐνδείκνυσθαι 1 diligence Here, just as in [6:10](../06/10.md), people who **demonstrate** something prove or show that it is true. The author wants his audience to “prove” or “show” that they have **diligence**. If your readers would misunderstand **demonstrate**, you could use a word or phrase that makes the idea clearer. Alternate translation: “to show” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) -HEB 6 11 abfz figs-explicit τὴν αὐτὴν…σπουδὴν 1 Here the author could want the audience to have **diligence** that is **the same** as: (1) the **diligence** that they have shown in the past. Alternate translation: “consistent diligence” (2) how they have “demonstrated” love (see [6:10](../06/10.md)). Alternate translation: “diligence, just as you demonstrate love,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 6 11 abfz figs-explicit τὴν αὐτὴν…σπουδὴν 1 Here the author could want the audience to have **diligence** that is **the same** as: (1) the **diligence** that they have shown in the past. Alternate translation: “consistent diligence” (2) how they have “demonstrated” love (see [6:10](../06/10.md)). Alternate translation: “diligence, just as you demonstrate love,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 11 i2yc figs-abstractnouns τὴν αὐτὴν…σπουδὴν, πρὸς τὴν πληροφορίαν τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 in order to make your hope certain If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **diligence**, **assurance**, and **hope**, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “that you strive diligently to be fully assured of what you hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 11 uwj3 figs-possession πρὸς τὴν πληροφορίαν τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 Here the author uses the possessive form to speak about **full assurance** that concerns **hope**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “toward becoming fully assured of your hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 6 11 xfy1 figs-explicit ἄχρι τέλους 1 to the end Here, **the end** could refer to: (1) the **end** of the audience’s lives. Alternate translation: “until your lives end” (2) the **end** of the current time period, which would be when Jesus comes back. Alternate translation: “until the end of the age” or “until Jesus comes back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) @@ -651,14 +651,14 @@ HEB 6 12 zjgw figs-metaphor μὴ νωθροὶ γένησθε 1 Here the autho HEB 6 12 x9zn figs-ellipsis μιμηταὶ δὲ 1 This phrase leaves out some words that many languages might need to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the first half of the sentence. Alternate translation: “but so that you might become imitators” or “but become imitators” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 6 12 yrh2 figs-abstractnouns τῶν διὰ πίστεως καὶ μακροθυμίας, κληρονομούντων 1 imitators If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **faith** and **patience**, you could express the idea by using verbs or adverbs. Alternate translation: “of those who, by means of how they believed and were patient, are inheriting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 12 q8ry figs-metaphor τῶν διὰ πίστεως καὶ μακροθυμίας, κληρονομούντων τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 inherit the promises Here the author speaks as if believers were children who would receive property that a parent passes on to their child when the parent dies. He speaks in this way to indicate that believers receive the **promises** from God. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “of those to whom, because of their faith and patience, God is giving the promises” or “of those who by faith and patience are obtaining the promises” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -HEB 6 12 mrbc figs-metonymy τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Here, the word **promises** refers to the contents of the **promises**, or what God has “promised” to give. If your readers would misunderstand **promises**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of these **promises**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promise” or “the things that God has promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 6 12 mrbc figs-metonymy τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Here, the word **promises** figuratively refers to the contents of the **promises**, or what God has “promised” to give. If your readers would misunderstand **promises**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of these **promises**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promise” or “the things that God has promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 12 eydr figs-abstractnouns τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promises**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise” or “pledge.” Alternate translation: “what God has pledged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 13 afl4 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces more explanation about the “promises” that the author mentioned in the previous verse ([6:21](../06/21.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word that introduces explanation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “In fact,” or “Now I will tell you more about these promises:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 6 13 qicr figs-extrainfo ἐπαγγειλάμενος 1 Here the author does not clarify what God **promised** to Abraham. He does not do this because he quotes the promise itself in the following verse ([6:14](../06/14.md)). If possible, leave what God **promised** vague or unclear in this verse. Alternate translation: “having made a promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) HEB 6 13 c8ip grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ἐπαγγειλάμενος 1 Here, the words **having promised** refer to something that takes place at the same time as when God **swore by himself**. If your readers would misunderstand the relationship between these two actions, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “at the time when he promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]]) HEB 6 13 dcy9 translate-names τῷ…Ἀβραὰμ 1 The word **Abraham** is the name of a man. He is the man from whom all the Israelites and Jews are descended. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 6 13 e3mt writing-pronouns εἶχεν 1 Here, the word **he** refers back to **God**, not to **Abraham**. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **he** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “God had” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 6 13 p1sg figs-explicit ἐπεὶ κατ’ οὐδενὸς εἶχεν μείζονος ὀμόσαι, ὤμοσεν καθ’ ἑαυτοῦ 1 In the author’s culture, people often **swore by** someone else. The other person needed to be someone important and powerful enough to guarantee or enforce what the person who **swore** promised to do. Often people would **swear** by God, since he always is important and powerful enough to guarantee or enforce what was sworn. If your readers would misunderstand why God is “swearing by” someone, you could make the practice more explicit. Alternate translation: “since he wanted to guarantee that promise by swearing by someone greater, swore by himself (since there is no one greater than him)” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 6 13 p1sg figs-explicit ἐπεὶ κατ’ οὐδενὸς εἶχεν μείζονος ὀμόσαι, ὤμοσεν καθ’ ἑαυτοῦ 1 In the author’s culture, people often **swore by** someone else. The other person needed to be someone important and powerful enough to guarantee or enforce what the person who **swore** promised to do. Often people would **swear** by God, since he always is important and powerful enough to guarantee or enforce what was sworn. If your readers would misunderstand why God is “swearing by” someone, you could make the practice more explicit. Alternate translation: “since he wanted to guarantee that promise by swearing by someone greater, swore by himself (since there is no one greater than him)” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 13 i5or figs-explicit μείζονος 1 Here, the word **greater** specifically identifies someone who has more power or authority than another person. If your readers would misunderstand what **greater** identifies, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “with greater power” or “with more authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 14 ymh2 writing-quotations λέγων 1 He said Here the author quotes what God said to Abraham. These words are recorded in [Genesis 22:17](../gen/22/17.md). Since the author introduces this quotation as words that God said to Abraham, you should introduce the quotation as words that someone has said. If your readers would not know that the quotation is from the Old Testament, you could include a footnote or use some other form to identify the quotation. Alternate translation: “speaking” or “promising” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) HEB 6 14 wd6t figs-quotations λέγων, εἰ μὴν εὐλογῶν, εὐλογήσω σε, καὶ πληθύνων, πληθυνῶ σε 1 If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the sentence as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “saying that he would most certainly bless Abraham and multiply him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) @@ -668,7 +668,7 @@ HEB 6 14 n47a figs-idiom πληθύνων, πληθυνῶ σε 1 I will greatly HEB 6 15 f3cs figs-explicit οὕτως 1 Here, the phrase **in this way** could refer back to: (1) how God guaranteed what he promised (see [6:13–14](../06/13.md)). Alternate translation: “as God promised” (2) how Abraham had “faith and patience” (see [6:12](../06/12.md)). Alternate translation: “as one who had faith and patience” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 15 li7e figs-explicit μακροθυμήσας 1 Here the author refers to how Abraham was 75 years old when God first made the **promise** to him (see [Genesis 12:1–4](../gen/12/01.md)), and he was 100 years old when Sarah gave birth to his son Isaac (see [Genesis 21:1–5](../gen/21/01.md). So, Abraham **patiently waited** for 25 years before God gave him what he had promised. If your readers would misunderstand **patiently waited**, you could use a footnote to give this background information, or you could include some short extra information in your translation. Alternation translation: “having patiently waited for 25 years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 15 aefm translate-unknown ἐπέτυχεν 1 Here, the phrase **he obtained** refers to how he received the **promise**. It does not mean that he took the **promise** for himself. If your readers would misunderstand **obtained**, you could translate this phrase like you translated “inheriting the promises” in [6:12](../06/12.md). Alternate translation: “he received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) -HEB 6 15 pw9h figs-metonymy τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Here, the word **promise** refers to the contents of the **promise**, or what God has “promised” to give. If your readers would misunderstand **promise**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **promise**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promise” or “the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 6 15 pw9h figs-metonymy τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Here, the word **promise** figuratively refers to the contents of the **promise**, or what God has “promised” to give. If your readers would misunderstand **promise**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **promise**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promise” or “the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 15 ky28 figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promise**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise” or “pledge.” Alternate translation: “what God pledged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 16 ib90 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces further explanation of how “swearing” by someone works (see [6:13](../06/13.md) especially). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could express the idea with a comparable word or phrase. Alternate translation: “About swearing,” or “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 6 16 vri2 figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωποι 1 Although **men** is masculine, the author is using it to all people, both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **men**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “men and women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) @@ -679,7 +679,7 @@ HEB 6 16 pqcw figs-abstractnouns πάσης αὐτοῖς ἀντιλογίας HEB 6 17 jq1k grammar-connect-words-phrases ἐν ᾧ 1 Here, the word **which** refers back to how humans “swear” with an **oath** (see [6:16](../06/16.md)). The phrase **in which** means that what the author speaks about in this verse happens in that same context or way. In other words, God used an **oath**, just like humans do. If your readers would misunderstand **in which**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces something that happens according to a previously stated pattern. Alternate translation: “in which same way” or “in which pattern” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 6 17 dw5n figs-infostructure περισσότερον…ἐπιδεῖξαι 1 Here, the phrase **even more** modifies **to show**. If your readers would misunderstand what **even more** modifies, you could rearrange the elements in this sentence to make it clearer. Alternate translation: “to show even more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 6 17 rpv9 figs-metaphor τοῖς κληρονόμοις τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 to the heirs of the promise Here the author speaks as if believers were children who would receive property that a parent passes on to their child when the parent dies. He speaks in this way to indicate that believers receive the **promise** from God. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “to those who were to receive the promise” or “to the recipients of the promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -HEB 6 17 wlbg figs-metonymy τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Here, the word **promise** refers to the contents of the **promise**, or what God has “promised” to give. If your readers would misunderstand **promise**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **promise**. Alternate translation: “of the things from the promise” or “of the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 6 17 wlbg figs-metonymy τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Here, the word **promise** figuratively refers to the contents of the **promise**, or what God has “promised” to give. If your readers would misunderstand **promise**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **promise**. Alternate translation: “of the things from the promise” or “of the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 17 zz5f figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promise**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise.” Alternate translation: “of what God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 17 ug6j figs-abstractnouns τὸ ἀμετάθετον τῆς βουλῆς αὐτοῦ 1 the unchangeable quality of his purpose If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **quality** and **purpose**, you could express the ideas by using verbs or in another natural way. Alternate translation: “that what he purposes is unchangeable” or “how unchangeable what he plans is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 17 rezy figs-idiom ἐμεσίτευσεν ὅρκῳ 1 Here, the author refers to God making a promise **with an oath** as “mediating” that promise. He speaks in this way because the **oath** is between God and his people and guarantees that what God promises will happen, just like a “mediator” stands between two parties and guarantees what those parties decide. If your readers would misunderstand **mediated**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies how an **oath** functions when a person makes a promise. Alternate translation: “used an oath to do so” or “made it certain by using an oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) @@ -703,7 +703,7 @@ HEB 6 20 onb9 translate-unknown πρόδρομος 1 Here, the word **forerunne HEB 6 20 a16c figs-infostructure πρόδρομος ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν εἰσῆλθεν 1 Here, the phrase **on our behalf** could modify: (1) **entered**. In this case, Jesus has **entered** for our sake, or to help us. Alternate translation: “has entered for our sake as a forerunner” (2) **forerunner**. In this case, Jesus opened the way **on our behalf**. Alternate translation: “has entered as a forerunner who leads us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 6 20 q9tt grammar-connect-time-sequential γενόμενος 1 Here, the phrase **having become** introduces action that could happen: (1) before Jesus **entered**. In this case, God makes him a **high priest**, and then he enters the heavenly sanctuary. Alternate translation: “already having become” (2) at the same time as Jesus **entered**. In this case, the “entering” and the “becoming” describe the same thing or happen at the same time. Alternate translation: “when he became” or “at the same time as he became” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]]) HEB 6 20 zgj6 κατὰ τὴν τάξιν Μελχισέδεκ 1 after the order of Melchizedek Here the author uses the same words he used in [5:6](../05/06.md), [10](../05/10.md). You should translate this phrase in exactly the same way as you did in those verses. -HEB 7 intro y8j3 0 # Hebrews 7 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: Melchizedek the priest (7:1–10)
* Teaching: The Son is high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11–28)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [7:17](../07/17.md), [21](../07/21.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### High priests

In this chapter, the author frequently discusses high priests. He speaks about their “order,” which refers to the requirements, system, and service that go along with being a priest in that “order.” He focuses on two “orders.” First is the order of Aaron, made up of priests who are descended from Levi. These priests are required by Moses’s law and must offer sacrifices for themselves as well as for the rest of the people since they also sin. Also, each priest eventually dies and must be replaced by another. Second is the order of Melchizedek, made up of priests who have an “indestructible life.” This order only includes Melchizedek and Jesus. Jesus only offers sacrifices for the sins of other people, since he does not sin. Also, he never dies, so he can be a priest forever. Consider how to refer to these two different kinds of priests in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

### Melchizedek

In this chapter, the author refers to Melchizedek as he is described in [Genesis 14:18–20](../gen/14/18.md), including how the story does not mention his father, mother, birth, or death. Scholars debate whether the author thought that Melchizedek was a supernatural being, such as an angel, or whether the author simply describes the character Melchizedek without referring to the historical person named Melchizedek. What is clear is that the author thinks that Melchizedek was “made like” Jesus, not the other way around (see [7:3](../07/03.md)). In other words, the author speaks about Melchizedek because the description of him in Genesis is a helpful way to think about Jesus. Since Melchizedek was greater than Abraham, Jesus, whom Melchizedek is like, is greater than Abraham’s descendants who became priests. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/names/melchizedek]])

### Tithes

In [7:1–10](../07/01.md), the author refers multiple times to giving and collecting “tithes” or “a tenth.” These words refer to the practice of separating out one tenth of what a person earned or grew and giving it to someone else. In the law that God gave through Moses, the Israelites were required to give a “tenth” or “tithe” to priests. This enabled the priests to perform their service without having to do other work. The author uses the “tithes” language to show that Abraham, Levi’s great-grandfather, paid a “tithe” to Melchizedek. That means that the descendants of Abraham who received “tithes” actually paid “tithes” through Abraham to Melchizedek. In the author’s argument, this shows that Melchizedek and his priesthood are greater than Levi and his priesthood. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/tenth]])

### “Swearing” and the “oath”

Just as in chapter 6, the author refers multiple times to “swearing” and using an “oath.” In this context, “swearing” refers to the action of guaranteeing a promise, while the “oath” refers to the guaranteeing words themselves. The author implies that words spoken with an “oath” have more significance or indicate something greater than words without an “oath.” If your readers would misunderstand “swearing” and “oath,” you could use language that comes from how people guarantee what they say in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oath]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### The “loin” of Abraham

In [7:5](../07/05.md), [10](../07/10.md), the author refers to the “loin” of Abraham. This word is a polite way to refer to the male sexual organ. In [7:5](../07/05.md), the author’s point is that all the Israelites are descended from Abraham, since they all come from his “loin.” In [7:10](../07/10.md), the author’s point is that Levi, the great-grandson of Abraham, could be considered to be inside Abraham’s “loin” before Abraham and Sarah had their son, Isaac. In the author’s culture, one could speak of the descendants of a man as if they were inside the man’s sexual organ. Consider natural ways to express these ideas in your language, and see the notes on these two verses. +HEB 7 intro y8j3 0 # Hebrews 7 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: Melchizedek the priest (7:1–10)
* Teaching: The Son is high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11–28)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [7:17](../07/17.md), [21](../07/21.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### High priests

In this chapter, the author frequently discusses high priests. He speaks about their “order,” which refers to the requirements, system, and service that go along with being a priest in that “order.” He focuses on two “orders.” First is the order of Aaron, made up of priests who are descended from Levi. These priests are required by Moses’s law and must offer sacrifices for themselves as well as for the rest of the people since they also sin. Also, each priest eventually dies and must be replaced by another. Second is the order of Melchizedek, made up of priests who have an “indestructible life.” This order only includes Melchizedek and Jesus. Jesus only offers sacrifices for the sins of other people, since he does not sin. Also, he never dies, so he can be a priest forever. Consider how to refer to these two different kinds of priests in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])

### Melchizedek

In this chapter, the author refers to Melchizedek as he is described in [Genesis 14:18–20](../gen/14/18.md), including how the story does not mention his father, mother, birth, or death. Scholars debate whether the author thought that Melchizedek was a supernatural being, such as an angel, or whether the author simply describes the character Melchizedek without referring to the historical person named Melchizedek. What is clear is that the author thinks that Melchizedek was “made like” Jesus, not the other way around (see [7:3](../07/03.md)). In other words, the author speaks about Melchizedek because the description of him in Genesis is a helpful way to think about Jesus. Since Melchizedek was greater than Abraham, Jesus, whom Melchizedek is like, is greater than Abraham’s descendants who became priests. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/names/melchizedek]])

### Tithes

In [7:1–10](../07/01.md), the author refers multiple times to giving and collecting “tithes” or “a tenth.” These words refer to the practice of separating out one tenth of what a person earned or grew and giving it to someone else. In the law that God gave through Moses, the Israelites were required to give a “tenth” or “tithe” to priests. This enabled the priests to perform their service without having to do other work. The author uses the “tithes” language to show that Abraham, Levi’s great-grandfather, paid a “tithe” to Melchizedek. That means that the descendants of Abraham who received “tithes” actually paid “tithes” through Abraham to Melchizedek. In the author’s argument, this shows that Melchizedek and his priesthood are greater than Levi and his priesthood. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/tenth]])

### “Swearing” and the “oath”

Just as in chapter 6, the author refers multiple times to “swearing” and using an “oath.” In this context, “swearing” refers to the action of guaranteeing a promise, while the “oath” refers to the guaranteeing words themselves. The author implies that words spoken with an “oath” have more significance or indicate something greater than words without an “oath.” If your readers would misunderstand “swearing” and “oath,” you could use language that comes from how people guarantee what they say in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oath]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### The “loin” of Abraham

In [7:5](../07/05.md), [10](../07/10.md), the author refers to the “loin” of Abraham. This word is a polite way to refer to the male sexual organ. In [7:5](../07/05.md), the author’s point is that all the Israelites are descended from Abraham, since they all come from his “loin.” In [7:10](../07/10.md), the author’s point is that Levi, the great-grandson of Abraham, could be considered to be inside Abraham’s “loin” before Abraham and Sarah had their son, Isaac. In the author’s culture, one could speak of the descendants of a man as if they were inside the man’s sexual organ. Consider natural ways to express these ideas in your language, and see the notes on these two verses. HEB 7 1 mwy8 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the word **For** signals that the author will now go on to explain who “Melchizedek” is and why he is important. If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 7 1 smhy figs-idiom οὗτος…ὁ Μελχισέδεκ 1 Here, the phrase **this Melchizedek** identifies this **Melchizedek** as the same one whom the author was speaking about in the previous verse (see [6:20](../06/20.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **this Melchizedek**, you could use a form that clearly identifies that this is the same **Melchizedek**. Alternate translation: “Melchizedek, the one whom I just mentioned,” or “this man Melchizedek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 7 1 rfc9 translate-names Σαλήμ 1 Salem The word **Salem** is the name of a city that existed somewhere in the middle of what is now Israel. Some scholars think that it is another name for the city of Shechem, while other scholars think it is another name for the city of Jerusalem. Since our author is referring directly to [Genesis 14:18](../gen/14/18.md), you should preserve this name as much as possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) @@ -711,17 +711,17 @@ HEB 7 1 h4n1 translate-names τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ Ὑψίστου 1 The ph HEB 7 1 ucr1 translate-names Ἀβραὰμ 1 The word **Abraham** is the name of a man. He is the man from whom all the Israelites and Jews are descended. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 7 1 ji3f grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ὑποστρέφοντι 1 Here, the word **returning** refers to action that happened at the same time as when Melchizedek **met Abraham**. If your readers would misunderstand this connection, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “when he was returning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]]) HEB 7 1 rx36 figs-explicit Ἀβραὰμ ὑποστρέφοντι ἀπὸ τῆς κοπῆς τῶν βασιλέων 1 Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings The phrase **the slaughter of the kings** refers to a story in [Genesis 14:1–16](../gen/14/01.md). Four **kings** conquered a city in which Abraham’s nephew was living, and they captured his nephew. Abraham took the fighting men that he had, and he conquered and “slaughtered” the armies of these four **kings**. He recovered all the valuable things that these **kings** had taken, including his nephew. When he was going back home after defeating the **kings**, he met **Melchizedek**. If your readers would need to know more about this background than the author states explicitly, you could include some extra information in your translation, or you could use a footnote to explain the story. Alternate translation: “Abraham, who was returning from the battle in which he defeated the four kings who had kidnapped his nephew,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 7 1 np7o figs-synecdoche τῶν βασιλέων 1 Here, the word **kings** refers to the **kings** and their armies. If your readers would misunderstand **kings**, you could refer explicitly to their armies. Alternate translation: “of the kings and their fighting men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) +HEB 7 1 np7o figs-synecdoche τῶν βασιλέων 1 Here, the word **kings** figuratively refers to the **kings** and their armies. If your readers would misunderstand **kings**, you could refer explicitly to their armies. Alternate translation: “of the kings and their fighting men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HEB 7 2 q87x writing-pronouns ᾧ 1 It was to him Here, **whom** refers back to Melchizedek. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **whom** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “to whom—that is, Melchizedek—” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 7 2 dplz translate-unknown δεκάτην…ἐμέρισεν 1 Here, the word **apportioned** refers to how a person might divide a group of things into “portions” and share give each portion to a person. Here, Abraham divides up what he has into ten portions, and he gives Melchizedek one of those portions. If your readers would misunderstand **apportioned a tenth**, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “handed over one tenth” or “presented one part out of ten” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 7 2 pw9x figs-explicit ἀπὸ πάντων 1 Here, **all {things}** refers to the things that Abraham took from the kings that he had defeated. This would have included what the kings took from their enemies and things that they themselves had. If your readers would misunderstand what **all {things}** refers to, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “from all that he had plundered from the kings” or “from everything that he took after defeating the kings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 2 x3bd figs-explicit πρῶτον μὲν ἑρμηνευόμενος 1 Here the author does not state what is **translated**. The word **first** implies that it is the first name for this person: “Melchizedek.” If your readers would misunderstand what is **translated** here, you could clarify that it is the name “Melchizedek.” Alternate translation: “his name first being translated as” or “first indeed the name ‘Melchizedek’ being translated as” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 2 trz1 translate-names πρῶτον μὲν ἑρμηνευόμενος βασιλεὺς δικαιοσύνης, ἔπειτα δὲ καὶ βασιλεὺς Σαλήμ, ὅ ἐστιν, βασιλεὺς εἰρήνης 1 Here the author provides translations of Melchizedek’s name (“Melchizedek”) and his title (**king of Salem**) from Hebrew, the language that Abraham spoke. The name “Melchizedek” means **king of righteousness**, and the name **Salem** sounds like the Hebrew word for **peace**. If your readers would misunderstand what the author is doing here, you could use a form in your language that gives the meaning of names. Alternate translation: “first indeed his name means ‘king of righteousness,’ and then also ‘Salem’ means ‘peace,’ so ‘king of Salem’ means ‘king of peace,’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 7 2 kfsz figs-activepassive πρῶτον μὲν ἑρμηνευόμενος 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author wishes to emphasize what the words mean in a different language rather than focusing on the person doing the translating. Alternate translation: “first whose name we translate as” or “first indeed meaning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 7 2 abh4 figs-possession βασιλεὺς δικαιοσύνης…βασιλεὺς εἰρήνης 1 king of righteousness … king of peace Here the author uses the possessive form to speak about a **king** who is characterized by **righteousness** and **peace**. This means that he rules in a “righteous” and “peaceful” way and that what he does leads to **righteousness** and **peace** in his kingdom. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “king who rules righteously … king who rules peacefully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) +HEB 7 2 abh4 figs-possession βασιλεὺς δικαιοσύνης…βασιλεὺς εἰρήνης 1 king of righteousness … king of peace Here the author uses the possessive form to speak about a **king** who is characterized by **righteousness** and **peace**. This means that he rules in a “righteous” and “peaceful” way and that what he does leads to **righteousness** and **peace** in his kingdom. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “king who rules righteously … king who rules peacefully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 7 2 yaa0 figs-abstractnouns δικαιοσύνης… εἰρήνης 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **righteousness** and **peace**, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “who does what is righteous … who does what is peaceful” or “who makes things righteous … who makes things peaceful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 2 bm11 translate-names Σαλήμ 1 The word **Salem** refers to the same city that the author mentioned in [7:1](../07/01.md). Translate it the same way you did there. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) -HEB 7 3 q4eh figs-explicit ἀπάτωρ, ἀμήτωρ, ἀγενεαλόγητος, μήτε ἀρχὴν ἡμερῶν, μήτε ζωῆς τέλος ἔχων 1 He is without father, without mother, without ancestors, with neither beginning of days nor end of life Here the author is describing the character “Melchizedek” as he appears in [Genesis 14:18–20](../gen/14/18.md). The author of that story does not mention anything about Melchizedek’s parents, how old he was, when he was born, or when he died. This is unusual, especially since priests usually needed to be the children of priests. The author of Hebrews probably did not think that Melchizedek was a supernatural being. Instead, he uses the character “Melchizedek” from the Old Testament story to help his audience understand Jesus better. If your readers would misunderstand why the author describes Melchizedek in these ways, you could make it explicit that the author is referring to what the Old Testament tells us about Melchizedek. Alternate translation: “concerning whom there is no record of his father, mother, or genealogy, and no record of the beginning of his days or the end of his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 7 3 q4eh figs-explicit ἀπάτωρ, ἀμήτωρ, ἀγενεαλόγητος, μήτε ἀρχὴν ἡμερῶν, μήτε ζωῆς τέλος ἔχων 1 He is without father, without mother, without ancestors, with neither beginning of days nor end of life Here the author is describing the character “Melchizedek” as he appears in [Genesis 14:18–20](../gen/14/18.md). The author of that story does not mention anything about Melchizedek’s parents, how old he was, when he was born, or when he died. This is unusual, especially since priests usually needed to be the children of priests. The author of Hebrews probably did not think that Melchizedek was a supernatural being. Instead, he uses the character “Melchizedek” from the Old Testament story to help his audience understand Jesus better. If your readers would misunderstand why the author describes Melchizedek in these ways, you could make it explicit that the author is referring to what the Old Testament tells us about Melchizedek. Alternate translation: “concerning whom there is no record of his father, mother, or genealogy, and no record of the beginning of his days or the end of his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 3 hodw translate-unknown ἀγενεαλόγητος 1 The word **genealogy** refers to a list of ancestors. In the author’s culture, this list primarily included one’s father, one’s grandfather, one’s great-grandfather, and so on. If your readers would not know what a **genealogy** is, you could use a comparable word or a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: “without a list of ancestors” or “without known ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 7 3 ro3u figs-idiom μήτε ἀρχὴν ἡμερῶν, μήτε ζωῆς τέλος ἔχων 1 Here, the phrase **beginning of days** refers to when a person is born. The phrase **end of life** refers to when a person dies. If your readers would misunderstand these phrases, you could use comparable expressions. Alternate translation: “having neither a day of birth nor a day of death” or “having no birth or death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 7 3 wx4m figs-activepassive ἀφωμοιωμένος 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on Melchizedek, who is **made like**, rather than focusing on the person doing the “making.” If you must state who did the action, you could refer to Moses, who described Melchizedek in this way in Genesis, or you could refer to God, who inspired Moses to write this way. Alternate translation: “God having made him like” or “Moses having made him like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -731,7 +731,7 @@ HEB 7 4 h2bg grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, t HEB 7 4 iyvq θεωρεῖτε 1 Alternate translation: “observe” or “see” HEB 7 4 qdtp figs-explicit πηλίκος 1 Here the author does not specify in what way Melchizedek was **great**. The audience would have inferred that he was **great** in importance and rank. If your readers would misunderstand **how great**, you could clarify what about Melchizedek was **great**. Alternate translation: “how great in rank” or “how significant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 4 w2gg writing-pronouns οὗτος 1 this man was The phrase **this one** refers to Melchizedek. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **this one** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “this Melchizedek was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 7 4 usbu figs-explicit ᾧ δεκάτην Ἀβραὰμ, ἔδωκεν ἐκ τῶν ἀκροθινίων, ὁ πατριάρχης 1 Here the audience would have agreed that the person who is “greater” would receive the **tenth** from the person who is not as **great**. If your readers would not make this inference or agree that this is true, you may need to make the reasoning explicit. Alternate translation: “to whom the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth from the best plunder, which is what people do for a greater person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 7 4 usbu figs-explicit ᾧ δεκάτην Ἀβραὰμ, ἔδωκεν ἐκ τῶν ἀκροθινίων, ὁ πατριάρχης 1 Here the audience would have agreed that the person who is “greater” would receive the **tenth** from the person who is not as **great**. If your readers would not make this inference or agree that this is true, you may need to make the reasoning explicit. Alternate translation: “to whom the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth from the best plunder, which is what people do for a greater person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 4 kwpe translate-unknown ἐκ τῶν ἀκροθινίων 1 Here, the phrase **the best plunder** refers to the most valuable objects that Abraham took from the “kings” (see [7:1](../07/01.md)) when he defeated them. The author means that the **tenth** that Abraham gave to Melchizedek only included the most valuable objects. If your readers would misunderstand **the best plunder**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies the most valuable things that Abraham took from his enemies. Alternate translation: “from the best things that he took from his enemies” or “of the most expensive items that he plundered from the four kings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 7 5 l29w grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ οἱ μὲν 1 Here, the word **indeed** indicates that the author is introducing the first half of a contrast (the second half of the contrast is in [7:6](../07/06.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **indeed**, you could use a word that introduces the first half of a contrast, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “And on the one hand, those” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 7 5 j5c3 ἐκ τῶν υἱῶν Λευεὶ 1 Here, the phrase **from the sons of Levi** could refer to: (1) how only some of the **sons of Levi** became priests. Alternate translation: “out of the sons of Levi” (2) how every one of the **sons of Levi** is a priest. Alternate translation: “who are sons of Levi and” @@ -744,7 +744,7 @@ HEB 7 5 hn3k figs-abstractnouns ἀποδεκατοῦν 1 from the people If yo HEB 7 5 ri2y translate-kinship τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς αὐτῶν 1 from their brothers Here, the word **brothers** refers to anyone who is descended from **Abraham** and Jacob, which would be all Israelites. It does not refer to just children of one’s parents. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to everyone from one tribe or nation. Alternate translation: “from their fellow Israelites” or “from the others in their nation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]]) HEB 7 5 busq figs-gendernotations τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς αὐτῶν 1 Although the word **brothers** is masculine, it refers to any relative, both male and female. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “from their relatives” or “from their brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 7 5 rx2f grammar-connect-logic-contrast καίπερ 1 Here, the phrase **even though** introduces something that is unexpected given what the author has already said. In other words, it is surprising that the **sons of Levi** receive tithes from **their brothers** when they have all **come from the loin of Abraham**. If your readers would misunderstand **even though**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces something that is contrary to what is expected. Alternate translation: “although” or “despite how” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) -HEB 7 5 x4za figs-idiom ἐξεληλυθότας ἐκ τῆς ὀσφύος Ἀβραάμ 1 they, too, have come from Abraham’s body The phrase **from the loin of Abraham** identifies everyone who has **come** from that **loin** as descendants of **Abraham**. The word **loin** refers to the male sexual organ, so anyone who has come from someone’s **loin** is descended from that person. If your readers would misunderstand **come from the loin of Abraham**, you could use a phrase that identifies people who have descended from one ancestor. Alternate translation: “they have Abraham as a common ancestor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 7 5 x4za figs-idiom ἐξεληλυθότας ἐκ τῆς ὀσφύος Ἀβραάμ 1 they, too, have come from Abraham’s body The phrase **from the loin of Abraham** identifies everyone who has **come** from that **loin** as descendants of **Abraham**. The word **loin** refers figuratively to the male sexual organ, so anyone who has come from someone’s **loin** is descended from that person. If your readers would misunderstand **come from the loin of Abraham**, you could use a phrase that identifies people who have descended from one ancestor. Alternate translation: “they have Abraham as a common ancestor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 7 5 m23m translate-names Ἀβραάμ 1 The word **Abraham** is the name of a man. He is the man from whom all the Israelites and Jews are descended. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 7 6 bg0k grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces the second half of the contrast. The first half is in the previous verse ([7:5](../07/05.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **But**, you could use a word that introduces the second half of a contrast, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “And on the other hand,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 7 6 e0ic writing-pronouns ὁ 1 Here, the phrase **{this} one** refers to Melchizedek. If your readers would misunderstand **{this} one**, you could make to whom it refers explicit. Alternate translation: “Melchizedek,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) @@ -771,7 +771,7 @@ HEB 7 9 zvd3 translate-names Ἀβραὰμ…Λευεὶς 1 The word **Levi** HEB 7 9 e9gc figs-metonymy Λευεὶς, ὁ δεκάτας λαμβάνων 1 Here, the name **Levi** stands for the descendants of **Levi** who were priests and collected **tithes**. If your readers would misunderstand that **Levi** stands for the descendants of **Levi**, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “Levi’s descendants, the ones collecting tithes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 7 9 v1yu figs-abstractnouns καὶ…ὁ δεκάτας λαμβάνων, δεδεκάτωται 2 Levi, who received tithes, also paid tithes through Abraham If your language does not use abstract nouns for the idea behind **tithe** and **tithes**, you could express the ideas by using an adjective such as “tenth” or in some other natural way. Alternate translation: “the one collecting one out of ten portions, also had paid one out of ten portions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 9 odg8 figs-explicit δι’ Ἀβραὰμ…δεδεκάτωται 1 Here the author refers to how Abraham **paid a tithe** to Melchizedek, an event the author has already mentioned (see [7:4](../07/04.md)). If your readers would misunderstand that the author is speaking about this event, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “had paid a tithe to Melchizedek through Abraham after Abraham defeated his enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 7 10 g26s figs-idiom ἔτι…ἐν τῇ ὀσφύϊ τοῦ πατρὸς ἦν 1 Levi was in the body of his ancestor The phrase **the loin of {his} father** refers to the male sexual organ. In the author’s culture, one way to speak about children was to refer to them as the product of the father’s semen. So, Abraham’s descendants can be referred to as if they were semen that was still inside Abraham. The author uses this figure of speech to make two points. First, Levi and the priests descended from him had not yet been born and thus could be considered semen that was still inside Abraham. Second, because they were inside Abraham, they participated in whatever Abraham did. This included giving a tithe to Melchizedek. If your readers would misunderstand **still in the loin of {his} father**, you could use a phrase that closely identifies Levi and Abraham while showing that Levi was not yet born. Alternate translation: “he was not yet born, and Abraham represented him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 7 10 g26s figs-idiom ἔτι…ἐν τῇ ὀσφύϊ τοῦ πατρὸς ἦν 1 Levi was in the body of his ancestor The phrase **the loin of {his} father** refers figuratively to the male sexual organ. In the author’s culture, one way to speak about children was to refer to them as the product of the father’s semen. So, Abraham’s descendants can be referred to as if they were semen that was still inside Abraham. The author uses this figure of speech to make two points. First, Levi and the priests descended from him had not yet been born and thus could be considered semen that was still inside Abraham. Second, because they were inside Abraham, they participated in whatever Abraham did. This included giving a tithe to Melchizedek. If your readers would misunderstand **still in the loin of {his} father**, you could use a phrase that closely identifies Levi and Abraham while showing that Levi was not yet born. Alternate translation: “he was not yet born, and Abraham represented him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 7 10 bd2l translate-kinship τοῦ πατρὸς 1 Here the author uses the word **father** to refer in general to a male ancestor. Abraham was more specifically Levi’s great-grandfather on his father’s side. Use an appropriate word for this relationship in your culture. Alternate translation: “of his ancestor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]]) HEB 7 10 p0zd translate-names Μελχισέδεκ 1 The word **Melchizedek** is the name of a man, the same man that the author has been discussing in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 7 10 l5dd writing-pronouns αὐτῷ 1 Here, the word **him** refers to Abraham. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **him** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “Abraham” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) @@ -811,7 +811,7 @@ HEB 7 15 uf6c writing-pronouns ἐστιν 1 Here, the word **this** could refe HEB 7 15 jn1p καὶ περισσότερον ἔτι κατάδηλόν ἐστιν 1 What we say is clearer yet Here, the phrase **still even more obvious** is a stronger form of the phrase “{it is} obvious” in [7:14](../07/14.md). The author’s point is that everyone must acknowledge that **this** (see the previous note) is true given that the following **if** statement is also true. If your readers would misunderstand **still even more obvious**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces something that everyone must agree with. Alternate translation: “And everyone must agree that this is true” or “And everyone knows that this is surely correct” HEB 7 15 md9i grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ…ἀνίσταται ἱερεὺς ἕτερος 1 if another priest arises Here the author is speaking as if **another priest** “emerging” were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what the author is saying is not certain, then you could express the idea by using a word such as “because” or “since.” Alternate translation: “now that another priest has emerged” or “because another priest has emerged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]]) HEB 7 15 i17g figs-explicit ἱερεὺς ἕτερος 1 General Information: Here, the phrase **another priest** refers to Jesus, who is a different kind of **priest** than the priests who are descended from Levi. If your readers would misunderstand who **another priest** is, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who is a different priest,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 7 15 chxb figs-metaphor ἀνίσταται 1 Here the author speaks of how Jesus has become a priest as if he were a person “emerging” from underneath a covering or screen. He speaks in this way to indicate that Jesus became a **priest** at a specific point in time. If your readers would misunderstand **emerges**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to becoming a priest. Alternate translation: “takes office” or “begins to serve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 7 15 chxb figs-metaphor ἀνίσταται 1 Here the author speaks of how Jesus has become a priest as if he were a person “emerging” from underneath a covering or screen. He speaks in this way to indicate that Jesus became a **priest** at a specific point in time. If your readers would misunderstand **emerges**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to becoming a priest. Alternate translation: “takes office” or “begins to serve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 15 z1yl translate-unknown κατὰ τὴν ὁμοιότητα Μελχισέδεκ 1 in the likeness of Melchizedek Here, the phrase **according to the likeness of** means something very similar to “according to the order of.” See how you translated that phrase in [7:11](../07/11.md). If possible, use similar but not identical words here. The word **likeness** emphasizes similar behavior and identity, while “order” emphasizes similar requirements and duties. Alternate translation: “much like how Melchizedek was a priest” or “with a priesthood much like Melchizedek’s priesthood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 7 15 afqi figs-abstractnouns κατὰ τὴν ὁμοιότητα Μελχισέδεκ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **likeness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “like” or “similar.” Alternate translation: “who is like Melchizedek” or “who is similar to Melchizedek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 16 nt6b writing-pronouns ὃς…γέγονεν 1 Here, the word **who** refers back to the phrase “another priest” in the previous verse ([7:15](../07/15.md)). If your readers would misunderstand to whom **who** refers, you could make it explicit. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a period before it. Alternate translation: “That priest has become one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) @@ -821,21 +821,21 @@ HEB 7 16 el4j figs-explicit ἐντολῆς σαρκίνης 1 Here, the phras HEB 7 16 l4mg figs-abstractnouns ἐντολῆς σαρκίνης 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **command**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “command.” Alternate translation: “that commands what is fleshly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 16 kw1a figs-possession κατὰ δύναμιν ζωῆς ἀκαταλύτου 1 Here the author uses the possessive form to indicate that **power** comes from or is based in the **indestructible life**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “according to the power that comes from an indestructible life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 7 16 oiwa figs-abstractnouns κατὰ δύναμιν ζωῆς ἀκαταλύτου 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **power** and **life**, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “according to how powerful he is because he never stops living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 7 16 m4kl figs-explicit ζωῆς ἀκαταλύτου 1 Here, the phrase **indestructible life** refers to how Jesus died but then resurrected and is alive again. The phrase also explains what being a priest “forever” (see [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md)) means. The author will cite this Psalm again in the following verse. If your readers would misunderstand **indestructible life**, you could make what it refers to more explicit. Alternate translation: “of a life that death could not destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 7 16 m4kl figs-explicit ζωῆς ἀκαταλύτου 1 Here, the phrase **indestructible life** refers to how Jesus died but then resurrected and is alive again. The phrase also explains what being a priest “forever” (see [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md)) means. The author will cite this Psalm again in the following verse. If your readers would misunderstand **indestructible life**, you could make what it refers to more explicit. Alternate translation: “of a life that death could not destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 17 xmj8 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For scripture witnesses about him Here, the word **For** introduces the evidence or proof that Jesus has become a priest “according to the power of an indestructible life” (see [7:16](../07/16.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces evidence or proof. Alternate translation: “You know that is true because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 7 17 gqya figs-activepassive μαρτυρεῖται 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what is **testified** rather than focusing on who or what does the “testifying.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it when he spoke [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md). Alternate translation: “God is testifying” or “the Psalm is testifying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 17 t8nv writing-quotations μαρτυρεῖται 1 Here the author quotes from an important text, the Old Testament scriptures. He does not introduce the words as a quotation but instead introduces them as something that has been **testified**. However, the audience would have understood that these were words from the Old Testament, specifically from [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md). If your readers would not know that the quotation is from the Old Testament, you could include a footnote or use some other form to identify it. Alternate translation: “it is being testified in the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) HEB 7 17 oo1b figs-quotations μαρτυρεῖται…ὅτι σὺ ἱερεὺς εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα κατὰ τὴν τάξιν Μελχισέδεκ 1 If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the sentence as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “it is being testified that he is a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 7 17 g6zd σὺ ἱερεὺς εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα κατὰ τὴν τάξιν Μελχισέδεκ 1 according to the order of Melchizedek Since the author repeats here the same words that he quoted in [5:6](../05/06.md), you should translate these words in exactly the same way as you did in that verse. -HEB 7 18 bzht grammar-connect-words-phrases μὲν γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces an explanation of what the quote in the previous verse means. The phrase **on the one hand** signals to the audience that this explanation has two parts. The second part begins with “on the other hand” in [7:19b](../07/19.md). If your readers would misunderstand **For on the one hand**, you could use words that introduce a two-part explanation. If you use the following alternate translation, you will need to follow something like the alternate translation for “on the other hand” in 7:19b. Alternate translation: “First then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) +HEB 7 18 bzht grammar-connect-words-phrases μὲν γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces an explanation of what the quote in the previous verse means. The phrase **on the one hand** signals to the audience that this explanation has two parts. The second part begins with “on the other hand” in [7:19b](../07/19.md). If your readers would misunderstand **For on the one hand**, you could use words that introduce a two-part explanation. If you use the following alternate translation, you will need to follow something like the alternate translation for “on the other hand” in 7:19b. Alternate translation: “First then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 7 18 dm50 figs-abstractnouns ἀθέτησις…γίνεται προαγούσης ἐντολῆς 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **annulment** and **commandment**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “annul” and “command.” Alternate translation: “what was formerly commanded is annulled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 18 x8tw figs-explicit προαγούσης ἐντολῆς 1 Here, the phrase **the former commandment** identifies what God commanded Moses to tell the people about how the descendants of Levi would serve as priests and what they would do. If your readers would misunderstand what **commandment** this is, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “of the former commandment about the Levitical priesthood” or “of the former commandment concerning priests in Moses’s law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 18 ez4i figs-doublet ἀσθενὲς, καὶ ἀνωφελές 1 These two terms mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize how ineffective the “former commandment” was. If your language does not use repetition to do this, or if you do not have two words for these attributes, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “is very weak” or “cannot accomplish anything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 7 19 t5w7 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces support for how the “former commandment” is “weak and useless” (see [7:18](../07/18.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces support for a claim. Alternate translation: “indeed,” or “that is because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 7 19 ia8j figs-personification οὐδὲν…ἐτελείωσεν ὁ νόμος 1 the law made nothing perfect Here the author speaks of **the law** as if it were a person who was ineffective and could “perfect” nothing. He speaks in this way to indicate that the system of laws that God gave through Moses, particularly the laws about priests, did not lead to people or things becoming “perfect.” If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the law was not something that people could follow to become perfect” or “nothing was perfected through Moses’s law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) -HEB 7 19 otzd grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the phrase **on the other hand** introduces the second part of the author’s explanation. Make sure you translate this phrase so that it works well with how you translated “on the one hand” in [7:18](../07/18.md). Alternate translation: “and second, there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) +HEB 7 19 otzd grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the phrase **on the other hand** introduces the second part of the author’s explanation. Make sure you translate this phrase so that it works well with how you translated “on the one hand” in [7:18](../07/18.md). Alternate translation: “and second, there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 7 19 stc2 figs-abstractnouns ἐπεισαγωγὴ…κρείττονος ἐλπίδος 1 a better hope is introduced If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **introduction** and **hope**, you could express the idea by using verbs such as “introduce” and “hope.” Alternate translation: “God introduces something better for which we hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 7 19 xp1h figs-metonymy κρείττονος ἐλπίδος 1 a better hope is introduced Here, the word **hope** refers to the contents of the **hope**, or what believers confidently expect. If your readers would misunderstand **hope**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **hope**. Alternate translation: “of the better things that we hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 7 19 xp1h figs-metonymy κρείττονος ἐλπίδος 1 a better hope is introduced Here, the word **hope** figuratively refers to the contents of the **hope**, or what believers confidently expect. If your readers would misunderstand **hope**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **hope**. Alternate translation: “of the better things that we hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 7 19 c9tz figs-go ἐγγίζομεν τῷ Θεῷ 1 through which we come near to God Here, the phrase **come near** refers to getting close to something but not necessarily being right next to it. Here, the author wants believers to approach God in heaven. This means that they enter into God’s presence. If your readers would misunderstand **come near**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to being in someone’s presence. Alternate translation: “we go before God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 7 20 e97r translate-versebridge 0 General Information: To help your readers understand the author’s main point in this verse and the next one, you could combine both verses into a verse bridge. You could put the background information about how the Israelite priests were not appointed with an oath while Jesus was appointed with an oath in a first sentence. Then, you could put the comparison between how Jesus was appointed with an oath and how he is the guarantor of a better covenant in a second sentence. Alternate translation: “For indeed they without swearing an oath are become priests, but he with an oath-taking, through God saying to him, “The Lord swore and will not change his mind: ‘You are a priest forever.’” So, by as much as not without swearing an oath,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge]]) HEB 7 20 f3cd grammar-connect-words-phrases καθ’ ὅσον 1 General Information: Here, the phrase **by as much as** introduces the first half a comparison that the author will complete in [7:22](../07/22.md). The point is that, just as **swearing an oath** is more guaranteed than not using an oath, so Jesus’s priesthood and covenant are better than the priesthood of the descendant’s of Levi. If your readers would misunderstand **by as much as**, you could use a form that introduces a comparison between two situations or concepts. Alternate translation: “just as it was” or “in the same way that it was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) @@ -865,10 +865,10 @@ HEB 7 23 vn5m figs-abstractnouns θανάτῳ 1 has given the guarantee of a be HEB 7 23 tfba figs-explicit παραμένειν 1 has given the guarantee of a better covenant Here the author implies that they **are prevented {from} continuing** to be priests. If your readers would not make this inference, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “from continuing to be priests” or “from continuing to act as priests” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 24 ywjc grammar-connect-words-phrases ὁ δὲ 1 he has a permanent priesthood Here, the words **but** and **on the other hand** introduce the second part of the contrast that the author began in [7:23](../07/23.md). Make sure you express the idea here in a way that matches how you introduced the first half of the contrast in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “and on the other hand, he” or “but second, he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 7 24 y2uu writing-pronouns ὁ 1 he has a permanent priesthood Here, the word **he** refers to Jesus. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **he** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “the Son” or “Jesus the Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 7 24 z20u figs-explicit μένειν αὐτὸν εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα 1 he has a permanent priesthood Here, the phrase **he remains forever** means something similar to the phrase “indestructible life” in [7:16](../07/16.md): Jesus lives forever, that is, he will never die. If your readers would misunderstand **he remains forever**, you could express the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “he remains alive forever” or “his life never ends” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 7 24 z20u figs-explicit μένειν αὐτὸν εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα 1 he has a permanent priesthood Here, the phrase **he remains forever** means something similar to the phrase “indestructible life” in [7:16](../07/16.md): Jesus lives forever, that is, he will never die. If your readers would misunderstand **he remains forever**, you could express the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “he remains alive forever” or “his life never ends” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 24 u941 figs-abstractnouns ἀπαράβατον ἔχει τὴν ἱερωσύνην 1 he has a permanent priesthood If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **priesthood**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “imitate.” Alternate translation: “is permanently a priest” or “who permanently acts as a priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 25 a4gg grammar-connect-logic-result ὅθεν 1 Therefore he Here, the phrase **because of which** introduces a conclusion based on the fact that Jesus has “the permanent priesthood” ([7:24](../07/24.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **because of which**, you could use a natural form that introduces a conclusion. Alternate translation: “as a result of which” or “so that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) -HEB 7 25 sn4h figs-explicit σῴζειν εἰς τὸ παντελὲς 1 Therefore he Here, **completely** identifies the way that Jesus “saves” people as something that he himself does totally and finally. In other words, he does not need someone else to assist him in “saving” his people. If your readers would misunderstand **completely**, you could express the idea more explicitly. Alternate translation: “to save entirely” or “to save all the way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 7 25 sn4h figs-explicit σῴζειν εἰς τὸ παντελὲς 1 Therefore he Here, **completely** identifies the way that Jesus “saves” people as something that he himself does totally and finally. In other words, he does not need someone else to assist him in “saving” his people. If your readers would misunderstand **completely**, you could express the idea more explicitly. Alternate translation: “to save entirely” or “to save all the way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 25 b182 figs-go τοὺς προσερχομένους…τῷ Θεῷ 1 those who approach God through him Here, the word **approaching** refers to getting close to something but not necessarily being right next to it. Here, the author speaks of people **approaching God**. This means that they enter into God’s presence. If your readers would misunderstand **approaching**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to being in someone’s presence. Alternate translation: “the ones going before God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 7 25 l29k grammar-connect-time-simultaneous πάντοτε ζῶν 1 those who approach God through him Here, the phrase **always living** could introduce: (1) another reason why he is **able to save completely**. Alternate translation: “because he always lives” (2) something that happens as part of or during his “saving” of those **approaching God through him**. Alternate translation: “as one who always lives” or “part of which is how he always lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]]) HEB 7 26 x23q grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 has become higher than the heavens Here, the word **For** introduces further explanation of the way in which Jesus serves as a priest. If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces more explanation, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) @@ -878,7 +878,7 @@ HEB 7 26 t182 figs-doublet ὅσιος, ἄκακος, ἀμίαντος 1 has b HEB 7 26 xxf1 κεχωρισμένος ἀπὸ τῶν ἁμαρτωλῶν 1 has become higher than the heavens Here, the phrase **separated from the sinners** could refer to: (1) how Jesus is distinct from or different than **the sinners**. Alternate translation: “not one of the sinners” or “distinct from the sinners” (2) how Jesus does not come into contact with **sinners** because he is now **higher than the heavens**. Alternate translation: “dwelling far away from sinners” or “not coming into contact with the sinners” HEB 7 26 cmq1 figs-explicit ὑψηλότερος τῶν οὐρανῶν γενόμενος 1 has become higher than the heavens Many people in the author’s culture believed that the space that they called “heaven” contained multiple layers or spheres of individual heavens. The author has already used the plural **heavens** in [4:14](../04/14.md). Here, the author uses this language without clarifying how many heavens there are. The main point is that Jesus is **higher than the heavens**. This could mean that: (1) Jesus is in the highest heaven, **higher** than all the other **heavens**. Alternate translation: “having come to the highest place in the heavens” (2) Jesus has gone beyond all the **heavens**. This could be a metaphor for how greatly God has honored him, or it could mean that Jesus has left the creation. Alternate translation: “having become more exalted than the heavens” or “having gone beyond the heavens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 27 yc7r figs-abstractnouns οὐκ ἔχει καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀνάγκην 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **need**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “need.” Alternate translation: “does not need each day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 7 27 nfh7 figs-infostructure καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀνάγκην, ὥσπερ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς, πρότερον ὑπὲρ τῶν ἰδίων ἁμαρτιῶν θυσίας ἀναφέρειν, ἔπειτα τῶν τοῦ λαοῦ 1 If your readers would find the order in which the author presents information confusing, you could rearrange the elements so that they appear in more natural order. Alternate translation: “a need each day to offer up sacrifices, first on behalf of his own sins and then on behalf of the those of the people, even as the high priests do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) +HEB 7 27 nfh7 figs-infostructure καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀνάγκην, ὥσπερ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς, πρότερον ὑπὲρ τῶν ἰδίων ἁμαρτιῶν θυσίας ἀναφέρειν, ἔπειτα τῶν τοῦ λαοῦ 1 If your readers would find the order in which the author presents information confusing, you could rearrange the elements so that they appear in more natural order. Alternate translation: “a need each day to offer up sacrifices, first on behalf of his own sins and then on behalf of the those of the people, even as the high priests do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 7 27 lxug figs-explicit ὥσπερ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς 1 Here, the phrase **high priests** refers to other **high priests** besides Jesus, more specifically those who are descended from Levi and Aaron. If your readers would misunderstand **high priests**, you could make it more explicit which **high priests** these are. Alternate translation: “even as the other high priests” or “even as the Levitical high priests” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 27 jdb8 πρότερον ὑπὲρ τῶν ἰδίων ἁμαρτιῶν θυσίας ἀναφέρειν, ἔπειτα τῶν τοῦ λαοῦ 1 Here the author uses words and ideas that are very similar to what he used in [5:3](../05/03.md). They are not the same words, but the main idea is very similar. Consider referring to that verse when you translate these words. HEB 7 27 qnj1 grammar-connect-time-sequential πρότερον…ἔπειτα 1 Here, the words **first** and **then** indicate sequence in time. In other words, only after making an offering **on behalf of his own sins** does the high priest do so **{on behalf of} {those} of the people**. If your readers would misunderstand **first** and **then**, you could use words or phrases that introduce two actions in a sequence. Alternate translation: “in the first place … and in the second place” or “first … and second” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]]) @@ -894,11 +894,11 @@ HEB 7 28 esfp figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπους 1 the law appoints as hig HEB 7 28 u5ny figs-abstractnouns ἀνθρώπους…ἔχοντας ἀσθένειαν 1 men who have weaknesses If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **weakness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “weak.” Alternate translation: “men who are weak” or “men who fail” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 28 lboj figs-personification ὁ λόγος…τῆς ὁρκωμοσίας, τῆς μετὰ τὸν νόμον, Υἱόν 1 men who have weaknesses Just as with **law**, the author speaks of **the word of the swearing of an oath** as if it were a person who could “appoint” someone. He speaks in this way to indicate that the **Son** fulfill what God “swore” in [Psalm 110:4](../psa/110/04.md). If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could refer to the one who swore **the oath** as the one who **{appoints}**, or you could express the idea in another natural way. Alternate translation: “in the word of the swearing of an oath, which came after the law, it is written that God appoints a Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 7 28 gzm1 figs-possession ὁ λόγος…τῆς ὁρκωμοσίας 1 the word of the oath, which came after the law, appointed a Son Here the author uses the possessive form to describe a **word** that records how God “swore” **an oath**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “the word that records how God swore an oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) -HEB 7 28 yez2 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος…τῆς ὁρκωμοσίας 1 the word of the oath, which came after the law, appointed a Son Here, **word** represents what someone says in words. If your readers would misunderstand **word**, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the message concerning the swearing of an oath” or “what God said about the swearing of an oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 7 28 yez2 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος…τῆς ὁρκωμοσίας 1 the word of the oath, which came after the law, appointed a Son Here, **word** figuratively represents what someone says in words. If your readers would misunderstand **word**, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the message concerning the swearing of an oath” or “what God said about the swearing of an oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 7 28 msa4 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples Υἱόν 1 Son **Son** is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 7 28 r5lc εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τετελειωμένον 1 who has been made perfect Here, the phrase **having been made perfect forever** could refer to: (1) who the **Son** is. Alternate translation: “who has been made perfect forever” (2) something that happened before the **Son** became a high priest. Alternate translation: “after he was made perfect forever” HEB 7 28 fkl3 figs-activepassive τετελειωμένον 1 who has been made perfect If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the one who is **made perfect** rather than focusing on the person doing the “perfecting.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God having made him perfect” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 8 intro ks94 0 # Hebrews 8 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: The ministry of the Son (8:1–6)
* Teaching: The new covenant (8:7–13)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [8:8–12](../08/08.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### New covenant

In [8:6–13](../08/06.md), the author refers to a “second,” “better,” or “new” covenant. All these phrases refer to the same covenant, the one that God promised in the words that the author quotes from [Jeremiah 31:31–34](../jer/31/31.md). This new covenant is “mediated” through Jesus the Son ([8:6](../08/06.md)), and when God initiates this covenant, the “first covenant” (the one God made with the Israelites through Moses) becomes “old” or “obsolete” ([8:13](../08/13.md)). In your translation, use words or phrases that refer to an agreement or formal contract between people or groups. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

### The heavenly sanctuary

In [8:1–2](../08/01.md), the author refers to how Jesus has sat down at the right side of God’s throne and is a “servant of the holy place and the true tabernacle.” Most likely, the author considers the throne where Jesus sat down to be inside this heavenly sanctuary. Scholars debate whether “holy place” and “true tabernacle” are two different names for the same thing or whether the “holy place” is the most sacred area inside the “true tabernacle.” Either way, these names refer to the sanctuary in heaven where Jesus acts as a high priest. You should refer to the heavenly sanctuary with the same words that you use to refer to the earthly sanctuary. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The “house” of Israel or Judah

In [8:8](../08/08.md), [10](../08/10.md), the quotation refers to the “house” of Israel or of Judah. In this context, “house” refers to groups of people who are connected because they are all descended from the same person or because they are all ruled by the same leader. In this case, both are true: the “house” refers to the people who are descended from Abraham and are ruled by a king. In [10](../08/10.md), the “house of Israel” refers to all the Israelites. In [8:8](../08/08.md), the “house of Israel” and the “house of Judah” refer to the two different kingdoms that the original kingdom of Israel split into. In both cases, the quotation is referring to all the Israelites. Consider using a natural way to refer to a group of people who go together. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/house]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Was Jesus a priest when he lived and died on earth?

In [8:4](../08/04.md), the author argues that Jesus would not be a priest if he were on earth. His basis for this claim seems to be that God has already appointed priests to offer sacrifices on earth. Scholars frequently debate whether the author of Hebrews claims that Jesus served as a priest when he obeyed during his earthly life and when he died on the cross, or whether he only served as a priest after he came back to life and ascended to heaven. Either way, the author’s point in this verse is that Jesus would not be a priest if he were on earth right now. See the notes on this verse for ways to translate the contrary-to-fact condition.

### What is the “fault” in the first covenant?

In [8:7](../08/07.md), the author implies that the “first covenant” was not “faultless.” However, in [8:8](../08/08.md), he claims that God finds “fault” with “them,” that is, the Israelites who received that covenant. Most likely, the the “fault” in the first covenant was that it did not enable the Israelites to keep the covenant, and so they failed. This contrasts with the “new covenant,” in which God will put his laws in the minds and hearts of his people. Since the people are the “fault” in the new covenant, there is no need to harmonize these two verses. +HEB 8 intro ks94 0 # Hebrews 8 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: The ministry of the Son (8:1–6)
* Teaching: The new covenant (8:7–13)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [8:8–12](../08/08.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### New covenant

In [8:6–13](../08/06.md), the author refers to a “second,” “better,” or “new” covenant. All these phrases refer to the same covenant, the one that God promised in the words that the author quotes from [Jeremiah 31:31–34](../jer/31/31.md). This new covenant is “mediated” through Jesus the Son ([8:6](../08/06.md)), and when God initiates this covenant, the “first covenant” (the one God made with the Israelites through Moses) becomes “old” or “obsolete” ([8:13](../08/13.md)). In your translation, use words or phrases that refer to an agreement or formal contract between people or groups. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

### The heavenly sanctuary

In [8:1–2](../08/01.md), the author refers to how Jesus has sat down at the right side of God’s throne and is a “servant of the holy place and the true tabernacle.” Most likely, the author considers the throne where Jesus sat down to be inside this heavenly sanctuary. Scholars debate whether “holy place” and “true tabernacle” are two different names for the same thing or whether the “holy place” is the most sacred area inside the “true tabernacle.” Either way, these names refer to the sanctuary in heaven where Jesus acts as a high priest. You should refer to the heavenly sanctuary with the same words that you use to refer to the earthly sanctuary. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The “house” of Israel or Judah

In [8:8](../08/08.md), [10](../08/10.md), the quotation refers to the “house” of Israel or of Judah. In this context, “house” refers figuratively to groups of people who are connected because they are all descended from the same person or because they are all ruled by the same leader. In this case, both are true: the “house” refers to the people who are descended from Abraham and are ruled by a king. In [10](../08/10.md), the “house of Israel” refers to all the Israelites. In [8:8](../08/08.md), the “house of Israel” and the “house of Judah” refer to the two different kingdoms that the original kingdom of Israel split into. In both cases, the quotation is referring to all the Israelites. Consider using a natural way to refer to a group of people who go together. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/house]])

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Was Jesus a priest when he lived and died on earth?

In [8:4](../08/04.md), the author argues that Jesus would not be a priest if he were on earth. His basis for this claim seems to be that God has already appointed priests to offer sacrifices on earth. Scholars frequently debate whether the author of Hebrews claims that Jesus served as a priest when he obeyed during his earthly life and when he died on the cross, or whether he only served as a priest after he came back to life and ascended to heaven. Either way, the author’s point in this verse is that Jesus would not be a priest if he were on earth right now. See the notes on this verse for ways to translate the contrary-to-fact condition.

### What is the “fault” in the first covenant?

In [8:7](../08/07.md), the author implies that the “first covenant” was not “faultless.” However, in [8:8](../08/08.md), he claims that God finds “fault” with “them,” that is, the Israelites who received that covenant. Most likely, the the “fault” in the first covenant was that it did not enable the Israelites to keep the covenant, and so they failed. This contrasts with the “new covenant,” in which God will put his laws in the minds and hearts of his people. Since the people are the “fault” in the new covenant, there is no need to harmonize these two verses. HEB 8 1 tw7l grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Now Here, the word **Now** introduces a new section in the author’s argument. If your readers would misunderstand **Now**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a new section, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Next,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 8 1 nb8q translate-unknown κεφάλαιον…ἐπὶ τοῖς λεγομένοις 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the word **point** refers to the main or most significant idea in a speech or argument. The author could be referring to the most significant idea in: (1) everything he is writing, including what follows. Alternate translation: “the most significant thing in what is being said is this” (2) what he has already said, not including what follows. Alternate translation: “the most significant thing in what has been said is this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 8 1 noty figs-activepassive τοῖς λεγομένοις 1 Connecting Statement: If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what is **being said** rather than focusing on the person doing the “saying.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that he himself did it. Alternate translation: “the things that I have said is this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -950,8 +950,8 @@ HEB 8 6 ntwl figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ κρείττοσιν ἐπαγγελί HEB 8 7 obo7 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 first covenant … second covenant Here, the word **For** introduces support for what the author has claimed about how the covenant that Jesus mediates is “better” (see [8:6](../08/06.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces support for a claim. Alternate translation: “You can tell that the second covenant is greater, because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 8 7 tqku grammar-connect-condition-contrary εἰ…ἡ πρώτη ἐκείνη ἦν ἄμεμπτος 1 first covenant … second covenant Here the author is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that the **first {covenant}** was not **faultless**. He proves that the conditional statement is not true by pointing out that God set up a **second** covenant. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “if that first covenant had really been faultless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]]) HEB 8 7 wb9d translate-ordinal ἡ πρώτη…δευτέρας 1 first covenant … second covenant If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “covenant one … for a covenant two” or “earlier covenant … for a later covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) -HEB 8 7 gig6 figs-explicit ἡ πρώτη ἐκείνη…δευτέρας 1 had been faultless Here, the words **first** and **second** refer to two covenants that God made. The **first** covenant is the one that God made with the Israelites through Moses, and it was made before the **second** covenant, which is the one that God makes with his people through Jesus. If your readers would misunderstand what the **first** and **second** covenants are, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the covenant that God made with his people at first … for another, later covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 8 7 np7l figs-idiom οὐκ ἂν δευτέρας ἐζητεῖτο τόπος 1 had been faultless Here, the phrase **no place would have been sought** refers to how God would not have made another covenant if the first one had been **faultless**. The word **place** refers to a situation in which another covenant would exist. The idiom avoids referring to who is doing the “seeking.” If your readers would misunderstand this phrase, you could use an expression that refers to an “opportunity” or “situation” in which another covenant is made. Alternate translation: “there would not have been a situation in which another covenant was made” or “there would have been no need for a second one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 8 7 gig6 figs-explicit ἡ πρώτη ἐκείνη…δευτέρας 1 had been faultless Here, the words **first** and **second** refer to two covenants that God made. The **first** covenant is the one that God made with the Israelites through Moses, and it was made before the **second** covenant, which is the one that God makes with his people through Jesus. If your readers would misunderstand what the **first** and **second** covenants are, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the covenant that God made with his people at first … for another, later covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 8 7 np7l figs-idiom οὐκ ἂν δευτέρας ἐζητεῖτο τόπος 1 had been faultless Here, the phrase **no place would have been sought** figuratively refers to how God would not have made another covenant if the first one had been **faultless**. The word **place** refers figuratively to a situation in which another covenant would exist. The idiom avoids referring to who is doing the “seeking.” If your readers would misunderstand this phrase, you could use an expression that refers to an “opportunity” or “situation” in which another covenant is made. Alternate translation: “there would not have been a situation in which another covenant was made” or “there would have been no need for a second one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 8 7 pktf figs-activepassive οὐκ…ἐζητεῖτο τόπος 1 had been faultless If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the **place** that is **sought** rather than focusing on the person doing the “seeking.” If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “no one would have sought a place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 8 8 ya4n grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 General Information: Here, the word **For** introduces support for what the author has claimed about how the first covenant was not “faultless” (see [8:7](../08/07.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces support for a claim. Alternate translation: “We know that the first first covenant was not faultless, because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 8 8 sqb4 writing-pronouns αὐτοῖς 1 with the people Here, the word **them** refers to the people with whom God made the “first covenant”: the people of Israel. The author may be referring specifically to the people whom God led out of Egypt, or he may be referring to all the people who lived under the “first covenant.” If your readers would misunderstand **them**, you could clarify to whom it refers. Alternate translation: “with the Israelite ancestors” or “with the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) @@ -960,7 +960,7 @@ HEB 8 8 ncqt figs-quotations λέγει, ἰδοὺ, ἡμέραι ἔρχοντ HEB 8 8 xhp8 figs-metaphor ἰδοὺ, ἡμέραι 1 See The **Lord** is using the term **Behold** to focus the audience’s attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: “Listen! Days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 8 qzx8 figs-idiom ἡμέραι ἔρχονται 1 See Here, the clause **days are coming** indicates that some event is going to happen soon. If your readers would misunderstand **days are coming**, you could use a word or phrase that anticipates that something is about to happen. Alternate translation: “the time will soon be here” or “it is almost the moment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 8 8 nzgz figs-123person λέγει Κύριος 1 See Here the author has God speaking about himself in the third person. He uses this form because the quotation uses the third person to speak about God, and the author claims that God speaks the quotation. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could clarify that God is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I the Lord say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) -HEB 8 8 c6zm figs-metaphor τὸν οἶκον Ἰσραὴλ, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον Ἰούδα 1 the house of Israel and with the house of Judah Here, the word **house** refers to a group of people. The **house of Israel** refers to the group of people who lived in the country of Israel, and the **house of Judah** refers to the group of people who lived in the country of Judah. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel and with the people of Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 8 8 c6zm figs-metaphor τὸν οἶκον Ἰσραὴλ, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον Ἰούδα 1 the house of Israel and with the house of Judah Here, the word **house** figuratively refers to a group of people. The **house of Israel** refers to the group of people who lived in the country of Israel, and the **house of Judah** refers to the group of people who lived in the country of Judah. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel and with the people of Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 8 mlop figs-explicit τὸν οἶκον Ἰσραὴλ, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον Ἰούδα 1 the house of Israel and with the house of Judah Here God refers to the two kingdoms that the Israelites lived in. The northern area was called **Israel**, and the southern area was called **Judah**. When David and Solomon ruled as kings, these two areas together made up one kingdom. After Solomon died, the northern area rebelled and created its own kingdom. God refers to both kingdoms because he wants the audience to know that he is making this **new covenant** with all of his people. If your readers would misunderstand why God mentions both **Israel** and **Judah**, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the houses of both Israel and Judah” or “with all my people, including the house of Israel and the house of Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 8 9 r0ap figs-quotations οὐ κατὰ τὴν διαθήκην ἣν ἐποίησα τοῖς πατράσιν αὐτῶν, ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ἐπιλαβομένου μου τῆς χειρὸς αὐτῶν, ἐξαγαγεῖν αὐτοὺς ἐκ γῆς Αἰγύπτου; ὅτι αὐτοὶ οὐκ ἐνέμειναν ἐν τῇ διαθήκῃ μου, κἀγὼ ἠμέλησα αὐτῶν, λέγει Κύριος. 1 I took them by their hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate these words as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you translate these words as an indirect quote, you also need to translate the words in the previous verse and the following three verses as indirect quotes. Alternate translation: “not according to the covenant that he made with their fathers on the day when he grasped their hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, because they did not continue in his covenant, and he did not care about them, so he says.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 8 9 qses translate-kinship τοῖς πατράσιν αὐτῶν 1 I took them by their hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt Here, **their fathers** refers to the Israelites who were alive before Jesus lived on earth. The audience of the original quotation were Israelites who descended from these people. Use a word or phrase that refers to ancestors. Alternate translation: “with their forefathers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]]) @@ -975,7 +975,7 @@ HEB 8 9 a9r8 figs-123person λέγει Κύριος 1 I took them by their hand HEB 8 10 guov grammar-connect-words-phrases ὅτι 1 the house of Israel Here, the word **For** introduces a description of the new covenant in contrast to the old covenant that God described in [8:9](../08/09.md). This description of the new covenant continues through [8:11–12](../08/11.md) If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces a description that contrasts with a previous description. Alternate translation: “But” or “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 8 10 fh1c figs-quotations ὅτι αὕτη ἡ διαθήκη, ἣν διαθήσομαι τῷ οἴκῳ Ἰσραὴλ μετὰ τὰς ἡμέρας ἐκείνας, λέγει Κύριος, διδοὺς νόμους μου εἰς τὴν διάνοιαν αὐτῶν, καὶ ἐπὶ καρδίας αὐτῶν ἐπιγράψω αὐτούς; καὶ ἔσομαι αὐτοῖς εἰς Θεόν, καὶ αὐτοὶ ἔσονταί μοι εἰς λαόν. 1 General Information: If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate these words as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you translate these words as an indirect quote, you also need to translate the words in the previous two verses and the following two verses as indirect quotes. Alternate translation: “For this is the covenant that he will covenant with the house of Israel after those days, so he says, putting his laws into their mind, and he will write them on their hearts, and he will be to them as God, and they will be to him as a people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 8 10 z7wf διαθήσομαι 1 General Information: Alternate translation: “I will set up” -HEB 8 10 k2ew figs-metaphor τῷ οἴκῳ Ἰσραὴλ 1 the house of Israel Here, the word **house** refers to a group of people. The phrase **the house of Israel** thus refers to everyone whom God considers to be part of the people of **Israel**. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “with the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 8 10 k2ew figs-metaphor τῷ οἴκῳ Ἰσραὴλ 1 the house of Israel Here, the word **house** figuratively refers to a group of people. The phrase **the house of Israel** thus refers to everyone whom God considers to be part of the people of **Israel**. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “with the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 10 q78u figs-idiom μετὰ τὰς ἡμέρας ἐκείνας 1 after those days Here, the phrase **after those days** identifies something happens after a certain period of time. That period of time could be long or short, not necessarily just several **days**. Here, God’s point is that he will make this new covenant in the future. If your readers would misunderstand **after those days**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to action that will happen at some point in the future. Alternate translation: “in the future” or “after that time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 8 10 du3y figs-123person λέγει Κύριος 1 after those days Here, just as in [8:8–9](../08/08.md), the author has God speaking about himself in the third person. He uses this form because the quotation uses the third person to speak about God, and the author claims that God speaks the quotation. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could clarify that God is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I the Lord say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HEB 8 10 axqs figs-parallelism διδοὺς νόμους μου εἰς τὴν διάνοιαν αὐτῶν, καὶ ἐπὶ καρδίας αὐτῶν ἐπιγράψω αὐτούς 1 after those days Here the quotation includes two statements that mean almost the same thing. One statement uses “putting” and **mind** language, and the other uses “writing” and **heart** language. This was considered good poetry in the author’s culture. If your readers would misunderstand the parallelism, and if this would not be good poetry in your culture, you could combine the two statements. Alternate translation: “writing my laws on their hearts” or “putting my laws inside them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) @@ -990,7 +990,7 @@ HEB 8 11 wne2 figs-parallelism ἕκαστος τὸν πολίτην αὐτο HEB 8 11 v36j figs-gendernotations αὐτοῦ…τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ 1 neighbor … brother Although **his** and **brother** are masculine, they refer to anyone, whether male or female. If your readers would misunderstand **his** and **brother**, you could use non-gendered words or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “his or her … his or her sibling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 8 11 jl1h figs-quotesinquotes λέγων, γνῶθι τὸν Κύριον 1 They will not teach each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord.’ If a direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “saying that he should know the Lord,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]]) HEB 8 11 mehi figs-yousingular γνῶθι 1 They will not teach each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord.’ Because **each one** is speaking to one person, the imperative **Know** is singular here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) -HEB 8 11 q5ki figs-merism ἀπὸ μικροῦ ἕως μεγάλου αὐτῶν 1 Know the Lord … will all know me Here God speaks, using **the least** and **the greatest** in order to include them and every person in between. By speaking in this way, he includes every person who is part of his people. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “every single one of them” or “including people of every status” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]]) +HEB 8 11 q5ki figs-merism ἀπὸ μικροῦ ἕως μεγάλου αὐτῶν 1 Know the Lord … will all know me Here God speaks figuratively, using **the least** and **the greatest** in order to include them and every person in between. By speaking in this way, he includes every person who is part of his people. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “every single one of them” or “including people of every status” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]]) HEB 8 11 u98k figs-idiom ἀπὸ μικροῦ ἕως μεγάλου αὐτῶν 1 Know the Lord … will all know me Here, the phrases **the least** and **the greatest** refer to people who have the least and the most importance and power in a society. If your readers would misunderstand **the least** and **the greatest**, you could use comparable phrases. Alternate translation: “from the least powerful of them to the most powerful” or “from the littlest ones to the biggest ones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 8 11 ne4p figs-nominaladj μικροῦ…μεγάλου 1 Know the Lord … will all know me The author is using the adjectives **least** and **greatest** as nouns in order to refer to people who are **least** and **greatest**. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “the least person … the greatest person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]]) HEB 8 12 zksg figs-quotations ὅτι ἵλεως ἔσομαι ταῖς ἀδικίαις αὐτῶν, καὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν αὐτῶν οὐ μὴ μνησθῶ ἔτι 1 toward their evil deeds If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate these words as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you translate these words as an indirect quote, you also need to translate the words in the previous four verses as indirect quotes. Alternate translation: “For he will be merciful toward their unrighteousness, and their sins he will certainly not remember any longer.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) @@ -1000,13 +1000,13 @@ HEB 8 12 w69r ἵλεως ἔσομαι ταῖς ἀδικίαις αὐτῶ HEB 8 12 cu1b figs-abstractnouns ταῖς ἀδικίαις αὐτῶν 1 toward their evil deeds If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **unrighteousness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “unrighteous” or an adverb such as “unrighteously.” Alternate translation: “toward the unrighteous things they have done” or “toward how they have acted unrighteously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 8 12 a1xr figs-idiom οὐ μὴ μνησθῶ 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here, the phrase **I will certainly not remember** refers to how God chooses not to bring up or act on **their sins**. It does not mean that God forgets or does not know about the **sins**. If your readers would misunderstand this phrase, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that indicates that God will not bring up or act on **their sins**. Alternate translation: “I will certainly not act on” or “I will certainly not consider” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 8 12 k1vo figs-doublenegatives οὐ μὴ 1 their sins I will not remember any longer The words translated **certainly not** are two negative words. In the author’s culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. English speakers would think that the two negatives form a positive, so the ULT expresses the idea with one strong negative. If your language can use two negatives as the author’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one strong negative, as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “by no means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) -HEB 8 13 pzqj writing-quotations ἐν τῷ λέγειν, καινὴν 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here the author refers back to how the quotation used the word **new** to describe the “new covenant” (see [8:8](../08/08.md)). Use a natural form in your language for referring back to a specific word that was quoted. Alternate translation: “By using the word ‘new’ for this new covenant,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) +HEB 8 13 pzqj writing-quotations ἐν τῷ λέγειν, καινὴν 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here the author refers back to how the quotation used the word **new** to describe the “new covenant” (see [8:8](../08/08.md)). Use a natural form in your language for referring back to a specific word that was quoted. Alternate translation: “By using the word ‘new’ for this new covenant,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) HEB 8 13 ofnl translate-unknown πεπαλαίωκεν τὴν πρώτην; τὸ…παλαιούμενον 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here, to make something **obsolete** means to provide something newer and better that makes the older version out of date or no longer relevant. If your readers would misunderstand the phrase “make obsolete,” you could use a word or phrase that refers to how something is out of date or not relevant. Alternate translation: “he has made the first out of date … what is out of date” or “he has made the first no longer relevant … what is no longer relevant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 8 13 grcm writing-pronouns πεπαλαίωκεν τὴν πρώτην 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here, **he** refers to God. If your readers would misunderstand **he**, you could make the reference explicit. Alternate translation: “God has made the first obsolete” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 8 13 zpho figs-explicit τὴν πρώτην 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here, the phrase **the first** refers specifically to “the first covenant,” the one that God made with the Israelites through Moses. If your readers would misunderstand **the first**, you could make it explicit that the author is referring to this “first covenant.” Alternate translation: “the first covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 8 13 ta59 figs-doublet τὸ…παλαιούμενον καὶ γηράσκον 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Here, **being made obsolete** and **growing old** mean almost the same thing. The author uses both words to emphasize that **the first** covenant is no longer the current covenant. If your readers would misunderstand why the author uses two very similar phrases, or if you do not have two phrases that express this particular meaning, you could use one phrase here. Alternate translation: “what is becoming obsolete” or “what is old and obsolete” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 8 13 v2tt ἐγγὺς ἀφανισμοῦ 1 their sins I will not remember any longer Alternate translation: “is going to disappear soon” -HEB 9 intro p8vy 0 # Hebrews 9 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: Old and new ministries (9:1–10:18)

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### The earthly tabernacle

In [9:1–10](../09/01.md), the author describes and evaluates the earthly tabernacle. When the author wrote this letter, there was a temple in Jerusalem, and the tabernacle no longer existed. So, his descriptions are based on the Old Testament only, not on personal experience. The tabernacle was a large tent divided into two parts: the outer “Holy Place” and the inner “Most Holy Place.” This tabernacle contained an “ark,” in which God had the people store important objects. God was specially present where the ark was. The tabernacle also contained a lampstand that burned continually, a table on which the priests laid bread in God’s presence, and an altar for burning incense. Priests frequently went into the “Holy Place,” but only the high priest would enter the “Most Holy Place” on one special day in the year. The author does not describe everything about the tabernacle, and his descriptions do not always perfectly match what you might read in the Old Testament. Make sure to translate what the author actually says. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

### The heavenly sanctuary

In [9:11](../09/12.md), the author refers again to a “tabernacle” and “holy places.” Scholars debate what these two names identify, much like in [8:1–2](../08/01.md). Most likely the “tabernacle” refers to the entire heavenly sanctuary that Jesus passes “through” to enter into the inner section, the “holy places.” However, the two names could each refer to the entire sanctuary from two different perspectives. The author mentions the heavenly sanctuary again in [9:23–24](../09/23.md). However, here he refers simply to “the things in the heavens,” “the heavenly things,” and the “true ones.” The meaning of these general terms depend on how you understand the more specific words in [8:1–2](../08/01.md); [9:11–12](../09/11.md). See the specific verses for translation options. Make sure that you refer to the heavenly sanctuary with the same or similar words that you use to refer to the earthly sanctuary. (See [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]])

### Old covenant offerings and rituals

The author refers to multiple different rituals and offerings that God commanded Moses and the Israelites to perform.
* In [9:6](../09/06.md), he refers generally to “service” that the priests would perform in the first section of the tabernacle.
* In [9:7](../09/07.md), he refers to the Day of Atonement, the special day on which the high priest would enter the inner part of the tabernacle. You can read about the Day of Atonement in [Leviticus 16](../lev/16/01.md).
* In [9:13](../09/13.md), the author refers to blood of “bulls and goats,” which may be a general statement about animal sacrifices, or it may be another specific reference to the Day of Atonement, which included sacrifices of bulls and goats. Further, he refers to a “heifer,” which identifies a ceremony related to purification. You can read about this ceremony in [Numbers 19:1–10](../num/19/01.md).
* In [9:19–21](../09/19.md), the author describes how Moses inaugurated the covenant and the tabernacle. You can read about what he did in [Exodus 24:1–8](../exo/24/01.md).

### Covenant

The author speaks about “covenants” throughout this chapter. The “new” covenant refers to the agreement that God has made with his people through Jesus. The “first” covenant refers to the agreement that God made with the Israelites through Moses. In the author’s culture, the word translated “covenant” could also be used to refer to a “will,” a paper that a person writes to tell others what to do with that person’s belongings when he or she dies. Scholars debate whether the author focuses on this specific meaning of “covenant” in [9:16–17](../09/16.md) or not. The UST follows the interpretation that the author uses the specific meaning “will” as an analogy to better understand “covenant.” See the notes on those verses for translation options. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

### Blood

Throughout this chapter, the author refers to “blood.” This blood always comes from someone or something that has died. Scholars debate what blood symbolizes or represents: the death of the sacrifice, the life of the sacrifice, or something else. Either way, the author argues from the Old Testament and the sacrifices that God required that blood is required for both “cleansing” and “forgiveness.” This is true for both the old covenant and the new covenant. In your translation, you should refer to shed blood, since the blood always comes from someone or something that has died. Also, you should refer directly to “blood,” not to what it might symbolize or represent. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/blood]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The “parable” in [9:8–9](../09/08.md)

In these verses, the author explains what meaning the “Spirit” gives to the earthly tabernacle. While the exact details about what the author means by the “first tent” and the “holy places” are not perfectly clear, what is clear is that the first section of the earthly tabernacle, or perhaps the earthly tabernacle as a whole, indicates how people could not go to the “holy places.” Whether the “holy places” refers to the heavenly sanctuary as a whole, to the second section of the earthly tabernacle, or to the inner part of the heavenly sanctuary, it indicates a place where God is specially present. What the author is saying, then, is that the use of the “first tent” signifies lack of access to God. The “parable” in [9:9](../09/09.md) further explains that this lack of access applies to “the present time,” which is when sacrifices are offered. The details of these two verses are debated by scholars, so for more details see the notes. If possible, translate these two verses in such a way that they allow the various possible views.

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Where does the altar of incense belong?

In [9:3–4](../09/03.md), the author places the “incense altar” inside the Most Holy Place. However, [Exodus 30:6](../exo/30/06.md) seems to place the incense altar outside the curtain, in the Holy Place. There are many theories about why the author describes the “incense altar” inside the Most Holy Place. However, there is no reason to harmonize your translation with Exodus’s description. If you think your readers would recognized and be confused by the difference, you could include a footnote with some possible solutions. It is possible that the author interpreted [Exodus 30:6](../exo/30/06.md) to mean that the altar was in the Most Holy Place, and it is possible that he knew a tradition that put the altar there. It is also possible that he places the altar there for the sake of his argument. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/altar]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/incense]])

### Cleansing the heavenly things


In [9:23](../09/23.md), the author refers to how the “heavenly things” need to be cleansed with “better sacrifices” than those used to cleanse the earthly things. Some scholars think that the heavenly things are perfect and cannot be made impure, so they argue that the “cleansing” refers to inauguration, or they suggest that the “heavenly things” refers to human consciences. Other scholars think that the heavenly sanctuary could be defiled by people’s sin, just like the earthly sanctuary was, so it too needed to be cleansed. This is most likely what the author means. However, no matter what interpretation you choose, you should translate the verse with a word or phrase that refers to the removal of defilement or impurity. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]]) +HEB 9 intro p8vy 0 # Hebrews 9 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: Old and new ministries (9:1–10:18)

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### The earthly tabernacle

In [9:1–10](../09/01.md), the author describes and evaluates the earthly tabernacle. When the author wrote this letter, there was a temple in Jerusalem, and the tabernacle no longer existed. So, his descriptions are based on the Old Testament only, not on personal experience. The tabernacle was a large tent divided into two parts: the outer “Holy Place” and the inner “Most Holy Place.” This tabernacle contained an “ark,” in which God had the people store important objects. God was specially present where the ark was. The tabernacle also contained a lampstand that burned continually, a table on which the priests laid bread in God’s presence, and an altar for burning incense. Priests frequently went into the “Holy Place,” but only the high priest would enter the “Most Holy Place” on one special day in the year. The author does not describe everything about the tabernacle, and his descriptions do not always perfectly match what you might read in the Old Testament. Make sure to translate what the author actually says. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

### The heavenly sanctuary

In [9:11](../09/12.md), the author refers again to a “tabernacle” and “holy places.” Scholars debate what these two names identify, much like in [8:1–2](../08/01.md). Most likely the “tabernacle” refers to the entire heavenly sanctuary that Jesus passes “through” to enter into the inner section, the “holy places.” However, the two names could each refer to the entire sanctuary from two different perspectives. The author mentions the heavenly sanctuary again in [9:23–24](../09/23.md). However, here he refers simply to “the things in the heavens,” “the heavenly things,” and the “true ones.” The meaning of these general terms depend on how you understand the more specific words in [8:1–2](../08/01.md); [9:11–12](../09/11.md). See the specific verses for translation options. Make sure that you refer to the heavenly sanctuary with the same or similar words that you use to refer to the earthly sanctuary. (See [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]])

### Old covenant offerings and rituals

The author refers to multiple different rituals and offerings that God commanded Moses and the Israelites to perform.
* In [9:6](../09/06.md), he refers generally to “service” that the priests would perform in the first section of the tabernacle.
* In [9:7](../09/07.md), he refers to the Day of Atonement, the special day on which the high priest would enter the inner part of the tabernacle. You can read about the Day of Atonement in [Leviticus 16](../lev/16/01.md).
* In [9:13](../09/13.md), the author refers to blood of “bulls and goats,” which may be a general statement about animal sacrifices, or it may be another specific reference to the Day of Atonement, which included sacrifices of bulls and goats. Further, he refers to a “heifer,” which identifies a ceremony related to purification. You can read about this ceremony in [Numbers 19:1–10](../num/19/01.md).
* In [9:19–21](../09/19.md), the author describes how Moses inaugurated the covenant and the tabernacle. You can read about what he did in [Exodus 24:1–8](../exo/24/01.md).

### Covenant

The author speaks about “covenants” throughout this chapter. The “new” covenant refers to the agreement that God has made with his people through Jesus. The “first” covenant refers to the agreement that God made with the Israelites through Moses. In the author’s culture, the word translated “covenant” could also be used to refer to a “will,” a paper that a person writes to tell others what to do with that person’s belongings when he or she dies. Scholars debate whether the author focuses on this specific meaning of “covenant” in [9:16–17](../09/16.md) or not. The UST follows the interpretation that the author uses the specific meaning “will” as an analogy to better understand “covenant.” See the notes on those verses for translation options. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

### Blood

Throughout this chapter, the author refers to “blood.” This blood always comes from someone or something that has died. Scholars debate what blood symbolizes or represents: the death of the sacrifice, the life of the sacrifice, or something else. Either way, the author argues from the Old Testament and the sacrifices that God required that blood is required for both “cleansing” and “forgiveness.” This is true for both the old covenant and the new covenant. In your translation, you should refer to shed blood, since the blood always comes from someone or something that has died. Also, you should refer directly to “blood,” not to what it might symbolize or represent. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/blood]])

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### The “parable” in [9:8–9](../09/08.md)

In these verses, the author explains what meaning the “Spirit” gives to the earthly tabernacle. While the exact details about what the author means by the “first tent” and the “holy places” are not perfectly clear, what is clear is that the first section of the earthly tabernacle, or perhaps the earthly tabernacle as a whole, indicates how people could not go to the “holy places.” Whether the “holy places” refers to the heavenly sanctuary as a whole, to the second section of the earthly tabernacle, or to the inner part of the heavenly sanctuary, it indicates a place where God is specially present. What the author is saying, then, is that the use of the “first tent” signifies lack of access to God. The “parable” in [9:9](../09/09.md) further explains that this lack of access applies to “the present time,” which is when sacrifices are offered. The details of these two verses are debated by scholars, so for more details see the notes. If possible, translate these two verses in such a way that they allow the various possible views.

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### Where does the altar of incense belong?

In [9:3–4](../09/03.md), the author places the “incense altar” inside the Most Holy Place. However, [Exodus 30:6](../exo/30/06.md) seems to place the incense altar outside the curtain, in the Holy Place. There are many theories about why the author describes the “incense altar” inside the Most Holy Place. However, there is no reason to harmonize your translation with Exodus’s description. If you think your readers would recognized and be confused by the difference, you could include a footnote with some possible solutions. It is possible that the author interpreted [Exodus 30:6](../exo/30/06.md) to mean that the altar was in the Most Holy Place, and it is possible that he knew a tradition that put the altar there. It is also possible that he places the altar there for the sake of his argument. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/altar]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/incense]])

### Cleansing the heavenly things


In [9:23](../09/23.md), the author refers to how the “heavenly things” need to be cleansed with “better sacrifices” than those used to cleanse the earthly things. Some scholars think that the heavenly things are perfect and cannot be made impure, so they argue that the “cleansing” refers to inauguration, or they suggest that the “heavenly things” refers to human consciences. Other scholars think that the heavenly sanctuary could be defiled by people’s sin, just like the earthly sanctuary was, so it too needed to be cleansed. This is most likely what the author means. However, no matter what interpretation you choose, you should translate the verse with a word or phrase that refers to the removal of defilement or impurity. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]]) HEB 9 1 av9i grammar-connect-words-phrases μὲν οὖν 1 Now Here, the word **Now** resumes what the author has been saying about the **first {covenant}** (see [8:7](../08/07.md)). The word **indeed** signals to the audience that this explanation has two parts. The second part begins with “but” in [9:11](../09/11.md). If your readers would misunderstand **Now indeed**, you could use words that introduce a two-part development. Alternate translation: “As for the covenants, on the one hand,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]), HEB 9 1 d3vs ἡ πρώτη 1 first covenant See how you translated **first covenant** in [Hebrews 8:7](../08/07.md). HEB 9 1 pw63 figs-abstractnouns εἶχε…δικαιώματα…λατρείας…τε 1 had regulations If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **regulations** and **worship**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “regulate” and “worship.” Alternate translation: “regulated how people worshiped and included” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) @@ -1030,8 +1030,8 @@ HEB 9 4 zopy figs-activepassive περικεκαλυμμένην πάντοθε HEB 9 4 w3ef figs-doublet περικεκαλυμμένην πάντοθεν 1 Inside it Here, **completely** and **all around** mean almost the same thing. The author uses both words to emphasize that every part of the **ark** was covered **with gold**. If your readers would misunderstand why the author uses two very similar terms, or if you do not have two words that express this particular meaning, you could use one word or phrase here. Alternate translation: “having been covered completely” or “having been covered on every side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 9 4 kt3u writing-pronouns ἐν ᾗ 1 Inside it Here, **which** refers to the **ark**, not the “tent.” If your readers would misunderstand **which**, you could make the reference explicit. Alternate translation: “in which ark was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 9 4 md1f figs-explicit στάμνος χρυσῆ ἔχουσα τὸ μάννα 1 that budded Here the author refers to **manna**, which is the food that God miraculously provided for his people while they traveled through the wilderness. God told Moses to keep some **manna** as a reminder of how he provided for them. You can read about Moses and Aaron putting a **jar** of **manna** in the **ark** in [Exodus 16:32–34](../exo/16/32.md). It is not clear what kind of **jar** this is, so use a general word if possible. If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “a golden vessel containing the manna that God provided for his people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 9 4 jj9y figs-explicit ἡ ῥάβδος Ἀαρὼν ἡ βλαστήσασα 1 Aaron’s rod that budded Here the author refers to a story about how some people wanted to be priests instead of **Aaron**. God had the leaders of each of the twelve tribes put a **rod** or walking stick in his presence. God made the **rod of Aaron** “bud” as proof that God had chosen him to be priest. You can read the story about **the rod of Aaron** in [Numbers 17:1–11](../num/17/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “Aaron’s staff that budded, which proved that God had chosen him as priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 9 4 zh6d translate-names Ἀαρὼν 1 Aaron’s rod that budded The word **Aaron** is the name of a man. He was the first person whom God chose to a be a high priest for his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])  +HEB 9 4 jj9y figs-explicit ἡ ῥάβδος Ἀαρὼν ἡ βλαστήσασα 1 Aaron’s rod that budded Here the author refers to a story about how some people wanted to be priests instead of **Aaron**. God had the leaders of each of the twelve tribes put a **rod** or walking stick in his presence. God made the **rod of Aaron** “bud” as proof that God had chosen him to be priest. You can read the story about **the rod of Aaron** in [Numbers 17:1–11](../num/17/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “Aaron’s staff that budded, which proved that God had chosen him as priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 9 4 zh6d translate-names Ἀαρὼν 1 Aaron’s rod that budded The word **Aaron** is the name of a man. He was the first person whom God chose to a be a high priest for his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 9 4 q9w3 figs-explicit αἱ πλάκες τῆς διαθήκης 1 tablets of the covenant Here the author refers to two stone **tablets** on which Moses wrote the most important parts of God’s **covenant** with the Israelites. You can read about the **tablets** in [Exodus 34:1–28](../exo/34/01.md). The words on these tablets were the “Ten Commandments,” which you can find in [Exodus 20:1–17](../exo/20/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the stone plaques on which Moses wrote the Ten Commandments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 5 uap3 figs-explicit ὑπεράνω…αὐτῆς 1 tablets of the covenant Here, the phrase **above it** places the **cherubim** on top of the “ark of the covenant.” They were not floating above the ark but were built on top of the ark. If your readers would misunderstand **above it**, you could express the idea more explicitly. Alternate translation: “set on the ark” or “built on top of the ark” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 5 ue5q translate-unknown Χερουβεὶν δόξης κατασκιάζοντα τὸ ἱλαστήριον 1 glorious cherubim overshadowed the atonement lid Here, the word **cherubim** refers to figures or statues of winged beings. They are **glorious** because they show that God is present where they are. The author describes them as **overshadowing the atonement lid** because God commanded the Israelites to make them so that their wings spread over the top of the ark. You can read about the **cherubim** and the **atonement lid** in [Exodus 25:17–22](../exo/25/17.md). If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “statues of glorious cherubim spreading their wings over the lid of the ark” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) @@ -1043,7 +1043,7 @@ HEB 9 5 qw39 writing-pronouns ὧν 1 cherubim Here, **which {things}** refers t HEB 9 6 mra7 figs-activepassive τούτων…οὕτως κατεσκευασμένων 1 After these things were prepared If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the **things** that are **prepared** rather than focusing on the people doing the “preparing.” If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “when people had thus prepared these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 6 zinf writing-pronouns τούτων…οὕτως κατεσκευασμένων 1 After these things were prepared Here, **these things** refers to all the objects and structures the author has mentioned in [9:1–5](../09/01.md). The word **thus** refers to what the author has said about how these objects and structures were created and arranged. If your readers would misunderstand **these things** and **thus**, you could make the references more explicit. Alternate translation: “when what I have described had been prepared as I have described it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 9 6 mrj4 figs-idiom διὰ παντὸς 1 After these things were prepared Here, the word **always** indicates that the **priests** consistently would **enter**, usually twice a day. It does not mean that some was **always** entering at every moment. If your readers would misunderstand **always**, you could express the idea with a form that refers to something that happens frequently and consistently. Alternate translation: “all the time” or “very frequently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 9 6 crlt figs-go εἰς…εἰσίασιν 1 After these things were prepared Here, the phrase **enter into** refers to movement from outside a structure into a structure. Use a word or phrase that identifies this kind of movement in your language. Alternate translation: “move into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) +HEB 9 6 crlt figs-go εἰς…εἰσίασιν 1 After these things were prepared Here, the phrase **enter into** refers to movement from outside a structure into a structure. Use a word or phrase that identifies this kind of movement in your language. Alternate translation: “move into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 9 6 vh9r figs-explicit τὴν πρώτην σκηνὴν 1 After these things were prepared Here, the phrase **first tabernacle** refers to the **first** or outer section of the **tabernacle**. See how you translated the similar phrase in [9:2](../09/02.md). Alternate translation: “the outer room of the tabernacle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 6 uwy4 translate-ordinal τὴν πρώτην σκηνὴν 1 After these things were prepared If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here. Alternate translation: “tabernacle one” or “tent one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 9 6 jte8 figs-abstractnouns τὰς λατρείας ἐπιτελοῦντες 1 After these things were prepared If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **services**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “serve.” Alternate translation: “performing what they do to serve God” or “doing what God requires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) @@ -1065,17 +1065,17 @@ HEB 9 8 e14c figs-explicit τῆς πρώτης σκηνῆς 1 the first tabern HEB 9 8 y9hg translate-ordinal τῆς πρώτης σκηνῆς 1 the first tabernacle was still standing If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here. Alternate translation: “tabernacle one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 9 8 qujz figs-metaphor ἐχούσης στάσιν 1 the first tabernacle was still standing Here the author refers to how the **first tabernacle** has a **place**. By speaking in this way, he could be referring to: (1) how the **first tabernacle** has legal standing. In other words, when the **first tabernacle** has a **place**, that means that people are required to use when they worship God. Alternate translation: “still having cultic standing” or “functioning as part of God’s sanctuary” (2) how the **first tabernacle** exists in a **place**. In other words, when the **first tabernacle** has a **place**, that means that it still exists. Alternate translation: “continuing to exist” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 9 ojuy writing-pronouns ἥτις 1 This was an illustration Here, the word **which** could refer to: (1) the “first tabernacle” ([9:8](../09/08.md)). Alternate translation: “which first tabernacle is” (2) everything about the earthly “tabernacle” that the author has discussed. Alternate translation: “all of which is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 9 9 cu76 translate-unknown ἥτις παραβολὴ 1 This was an illustration Here, the word **parable** refers to a figure of speech in which one thing represents another thing. Here the first tabernacle (or the earthly tabernacle as a whole) represents **the present time**. If your readers would misunderstand **parable**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to a figure of speech. Alternate translation: “which represents” or “which stands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) +HEB 9 9 cu76 translate-unknown ἥτις παραβολὴ 1 This was an illustration Here, the word **parable** refers to a figure of speech in which one thing represents another thing. Here the first tabernacle (or the earthly tabernacle as a whole) figuratively represents **the present time**. If your readers would misunderstand **parable**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to a figure of speech. Alternate translation: “which represents” or “which figuratively stands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 9 9 fl6i figs-explicit εἰς τὸν καιρὸν τὸν ἐνεστηκότα 1 for the present time Here, the phrase **the present time** could refer to: (1) the period during which the earthly tabernacle functioned as God’s sanctuary on earth. In this case, the **parable** represents **the present time** Alternate translation: “for the time during which it functioned” or “for their time” (2) the period between Jesus’s first and second comings. In this case, the **parable** represents the period up to **the present time**. Alternate translation: “for the time up to the present” or “for the period of time until Jesus came” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 9 eqhz writing-pronouns καθ’ ἣν 1 for the present time Here, the word **which** could refer to: (1) the **parable**. In this case, the way that the **gifts and sacrifices** cannot **perfect the worshiper** is part of the **parable**. Alternate translation: “according to which parable” (2) the “first tabernacle” in [9:8](../09/08.md). In this case, the **gifts and sacrifices** are offered in a way that matches the nature of the “first tabernacle.” Alternate translation: “according to which tabernacle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 9 9 wb9n figs-doublet δῶρά τε καὶ θυσίαι 1 for the present time Here, **gifts** and **sacrifices** function together to refer to anything that an Israelite would have offered to God. It is probable that **sacrifices** refers to animals that would be killed and offered to God, while **gifts** identifies anything else that a person would give to God. If you do not have two words for these categories, you could use a single word or phrase to refer to what an Israelite would offer to God. See you how you translated the same phrase in [8:3](../08/03.md). Alternate translation: “sacrifices” or “things presented to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 9 9 g16u figs-activepassive δῶρά τε καὶ θυσίαι προσφέρονται 1 that are now being offered If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what is **being offered** rather than focusing on the people doing the “offering.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that the Israelites, or more specifically the priests, did it. Alternate translation: “the priests offer both gifts and sacrifices” or “they offer both gifts and sacrifices” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 9 9 qsa1 figs-idiom κατὰ συνείδησιν 1 are not able to perfect the worshiper’s conscience Here, the phrase **according to {the} conscience** indicates that the “perfecting” is related to or in the sphere of the **conscience**. If your readers would misunderstand **according to {the} conscience**, you could express the idea in a clearer way. Alternate translation: “with reference to the conscience” or “in the conscience” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 9 9 qsa1 figs-idiom κατὰ συνείδησιν 1 are not able to perfect the worshiper’s conscience Here, the phrase **according to {the} conscience** indicates that the “perfecting” is related to or in the sphere of the **conscience**. If your readers would misunderstand **according to {the} conscience**, you could express the idea in a clearer way. Alternate translation: “with reference to the conscience” or “in the conscience” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 9 9 c31d figs-genericnoun τὸν λατρεύοντα 1 the worshiper’s conscience Here the author is speaking of “worshipers” in general, not of one particular **worshiper**. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could use a form that refers to “worshipers” in general. Alternate translation: “the worshipers” or “any worshiper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]]) -HEB 9 10 vzim grammar-connect-logic-contrast μόνον ἐπὶ 1 until the time of the new order Here, the phrase **only concerning** introduces what the old covenant could actually accomplish, since the author claimed in the previous verse that it was not able “according to the conscience to perfect the worshiper” ([9:9](../09/09.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **only concerning**, you could make it clearer that the author is introducing a contrast with “perfecting the worshiper according to the conscience.” Alternate translation: “but only having to do with” or “but instead dealing with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) +HEB 9 10 vzim grammar-connect-logic-contrast μόνον ἐπὶ 1 until the time of the new order Here, the phrase **only concerning** introduces what the old covenant could actually accomplish, since the author claimed in the previous verse that it was not able “according to the conscience to perfect the worshiper” ([9:9](../09/09.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **only concerning**, you could make it clearer that the author is introducing a contrast with “perfecting the worshiper according to the conscience.” Alternate translation: “but only having to do with” or “but instead dealing with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) HEB 9 10 v7gb figs-explicit βρώμασιν, καὶ πόμασιν, καὶ διαφόροις βαπτισμοῖς 1 until the time of the new order Here, the words **foods**, **drinks**, and **baptisms** refer to some of the topics that the law of Moses covered. There were laws about what **foods** the Israelites could eat and what **drinks** they could consume. There were also laws about **baptisms**, or washing rituals, that accomplished various **different** goals, all related to cleansing. If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “what one could eat or drink and how one should wash oneself in various ways” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 10 lx8j figs-abstractnouns διαφόροις βαπτισμοῖς 1 until the time of the new order If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **baptisms**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “baptize.” Alternate translation: “baptizing people in various ways” or “how to baptize in different ways” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 9 10 ufti figs-possession δικαιώματα σαρκὸς 1 until the time of the new order Here the author uses the possessive form to describe **regulations** that have to do with **the body**. In other words, these **regulations** deal only with “bodily” matters. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a clearer way. Alternate translation: “regulations concerning the body” or “regulations that deal with the body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) +HEB 9 10 ufti figs-possession δικαιώματα σαρκὸς 1 until the time of the new order Here the author uses the possessive form to describe **regulations** that have to do with **the body**. In other words, these **regulations** deal only with “bodily” matters. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a clearer way. Alternate translation: “regulations concerning the body” or “regulations that deal with the body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 9 10 ddl3 figs-abstractnouns δικαιώματα σαρκὸς 1 until the time of the new order If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **regulations**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “require” or “command.” Alternate translation: “what God required concerning the body” or “things related to the body that they were commanded to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 9 10 i1ke translate-unknown ἐπικείμενα 1 until the time of the new order Here, the word **imposed** refers to how a person in authority requires someone under their authority to do certain things. The word is not necessarily negative in tone, but it does indicate that what is **imposed** is definitely required. If your readers would misunderstand **imposed**, you could use a word or phrase that expresses the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “being commanded” or “being laid down” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 9 10 voxo figs-activepassive ἐπικείμενα 1 until the time of the new order If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the **regulations**, which are **imposed**, rather than focusing on the person doing the “imposing.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “which God imposed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -1088,7 +1088,7 @@ HEB 9 11 czx6 figs-explicit τῆς μείζονος καὶ τελειοτέρ HEB 9 11 jyqn figs-doublet μείζονος καὶ τελειοτέρας 1 the greater and more perfect tabernacle Here, **greater** and **more perfect** function together to refer to identify the heavenly **tabernacle** as superior to the earthly one. It is probable that **greater** identifies the heavenly **tabernacle** as more important, while **more perfect** identifies it as more able to accomplish what it was intended to do. If you do not have two words for these categories, you could use a single word or phrase to refer to identify the heavenly **tabernacle** as more important and effective than the earthly one. Alternate translation: “better” or “more powerfully effective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 9 11 h434 figs-explicit οὐ χειροποιήτου τοῦτ’ ἔστιν, οὐ ταύτης τῆς κτίσεως 1 the greater and more perfect tabernacle Here, the phrase **not made by human hands** means that God, not humans, made this **tabernacle**. The phrase **not of this creation** means that the **tabernacle** is not part of the earthly world. Scholars debate whether this means that it belongs to the heavenly world (“another creation”) or whether this means that it is “uncreated.” If your readers would misunderstand these phrases, you could make the ideas more explicit. Alternate translation: “made not by humans but by God, that is, of the heavenly creation” or “not made by people, that is, not created at all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 11 lxw8 figs-activepassive οὐ χειροποιήτου τοῦτ’ ἔστιν, οὐ 1 that was not made by human hands If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus the **tabernacle**, which is **not made** rather than focusing on the **human hands** that did not make it. Alternate translation: “that human hands did not make, that is, that is not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 9 11 mtj9 figs-synecdoche χειροποιήτου 1 human hands Here, the phrase **human hands** refers to main part of the body that we use to make things. So, the phrase refers to the whole person who makes things. If your readers would misunderstand **made by human hands**, you could clarify that it refers to “humans” in general, not just their hands. Alternate translation: “made by humans” or “made by people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) +HEB 9 11 mtj9 figs-synecdoche χειροποιήτου 1 human hands Here, the phrase **human hands** refers to main part of the body that we use to make things. So, the phrase figuratively refers to the whole person who makes things. If your readers would misunderstand **made by human hands**, you could clarify that it refers to “humans” in general, not just their hands. Alternate translation: “made by humans” or “made by people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HEB 9 12 dp2i figs-explicit οὐδὲ δι’ αἵματος τράγων καὶ μόσχων, διὰ δὲ τοῦ ἰδίου αἵματος 1 most holy place Here the author refers to how a high priest would “enter” the sanctuary, taking with him **blood** from a sacrifice. He would present the **blood** to God and then apply it to various parts of the sanctuary, the altar, and the ark. In this verse, the author contrasts how those priests presented **blood** from animals with how Jesus presented **his own blood**. Scholars debate what **his own blood** represents. It could refer to his resurrected body, his death, or his actual blood. See the book introduction for more information on how Jesus functions as a high priest. If your readers would misunderstand what the author is talking about here, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “and not by the blood from slaughtered goats and calves, which is what the Levitical priests use, but by his own blood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 12 ox1p figs-doublet τράγων καὶ μόσχων 1 most holy place Here the author refers to **goats** and **calves** as two examples of animals that could be sacrificed so that the Levitical high priest could enter the sanctuary with their **blood**. These were not the only animals that could be sacrificed. If your readers would misunderstand why the author refers specifically to **goats and calves**, you could use a form in your language that refers generally to animals that are sacrificed. Alternate translation: “of sacrificed animals” or “of animals from flock or herd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 9 12 a8oh figs-go εἰσῆλθεν…εἰς 1 most holy place Here, the phrase **entered into** refers to movement from outside a structure into a structure. Use a word or phrase that identifies this kind of movement in your language. Alternate translation: “he moved into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) @@ -1127,10 +1127,10 @@ HEB 9 15 hgp3 figs-metaphor οἱ κεκλημένοι 1 first covenant Here, th HEB 9 15 ve3v figs-activepassive οἱ κεκλημένοι 1 those who are called If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on **the ones** who are **called** rather than focusing on the person doing the “calling.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “the ones whom God called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 15 mfzh λάβωσιν 1 those who are called Here the author may be indicating that **the ones called** are able to **receive the promise**: (1) at least partially right now. Alternate translation: “are receiving” (2) in the future. Alternate translation: “will receive” HEB 9 15 j3ac figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν…τῆς αἰωνίου κληρονομίας 1 inheritance If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **promise** and **inheritance**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “promise” and “inherit.” Alternate translation: “imitate me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 9 15 vdpc figs-metonymy τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν…τῆς αἰωνίου κληρονομίας 1 inheritance Here, the word **promise** refers to the content of the **promise**. If your readers would misunderstand **promise**, you could refer to what is promised. Alternate translation: “what is promised concerning the eternal inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 9 15 vdpc figs-metonymy τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν…τῆς αἰωνίου κληρονομίας 1 inheritance Here, the word **promise** figuratively refers to the content of the **promise**. If your readers would misunderstand **promise**, you could refer to what is promised. Alternate translation: “what is promised concerning the eternal inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 15 e1ii figs-possession τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν…τῆς αἰωνίου κληρονομίας 1 inheritance Here the author uses the possessive form to describe a **promise** whose content is **the eternal inheritance**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “the promise, that is, the eternal inheritance” or “the promised eternal inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 9 15 xb9f figs-metaphor τῆς αἰωνίου κληρονομίας 1 inheritance Here the author speaks as if believers were children who would “inherit” property that a parent passes on to their child when the parent dies. He speaks in this way to indicate that believers receive what God promised. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “of what God gives his people forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -HEB 9 16 lfsq grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 the death of the person who made it must be proven Here, the word **For** introduces a further explanation of what the author said in the previous verse ([9:15](../09/15.md)) about “a death” and “a mediator of a new covenant.” If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” or “About covenants and deaths,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +HEB 9 16 lfsq grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 the death of the person who made it must be proven Here, the word **For** introduces a further explanation of what the author said in the previous verse ([9:15](../09/15.md)) about “a death” and “a mediator of a new covenant.” If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” or “About covenants and deaths,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 9 16 ua79 figs-idiom ὅπου…διαθήκη 1 the death of the person who made it must be proven Here, the word **where** does not indicate that the **covenant** is in a specific place. Rather, it indicates that what the author is about to say is about a **covenant**. If your readers would misunderstand **where {there is} a covenant**, you could use a form that introduces or highlights the topic. Alternate translation: “concerning a covenant” or “when we consider a covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 9 16 vlxa figs-explicit διαθήκη 1 the death of the person who made it must be proven Here, the word **covenant** could refer to: (1) a specific type of agreement in which a person declares or writes what should be done with their possessions when they die. In this case, the author is slightly shifting the meaning of **covenant** when he uses the word in [9:16–17](../09/16.md). Alternate translation: “there is a covenant about what happens after a person dies” or “there is a last testament” (2) the same kind of **covenant** that he has been speaking about throughout the letter. Alternate translation: “there is any covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 16 dzg3 figs-abstractnouns θάνατον ἀνάγκη φέρεσθαι τοῦ διαθεμένου 1 the death of the person who made it must be proven If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **necessity** and **death**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “need” and “die.” Alternate translation: “it needs to be proved that the one having covenanted it has died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) @@ -1149,11 +1149,11 @@ HEB 9 18 m9c3 figs-litotes οὐδ’ ἡ πρώτη χωρὶς αἵματος HEB 9 18 kq87 figs-explicit πρώτη 1 first covenant Here, the phrase **first {covenant}** refers to the agreement that God made with the Israelites through Moses. If your readers would misunderstand **first {covenant}**, you could make the idea more explicit. See how you translated the similar phrase in [8:7](../08/07.md); [9:15](../09/15.md). Alternate translation: “the covenant that God made with his people at first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 18 v838 figs-explicit αἵματος 1 blood The author assumes that his audience knows that the use of **blood** also requires the “death” that he has been speaking about. If your readers would not make this inference, you could make it explicit that **blood** requires someone or something to die. Alternate translation: “blood from sacrificed animals” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 19 uupi grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people Here, the word **For** introduces an important example of what the author said in the previous verse ([9:18](../09/18.md)) about how the “first covenant” was “inaugurated” with “blood.” If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an example. Alternate translation: “For example,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) -HEB 9 19 zl2n figs-explicit λαληθείσης…πάσης ἐντολῆς κατὰ τὸν νόμον ὑπὸ Μωϋσέως παντὶ τῷ λαῷ, λαβὼν τὸ αἷμα τῶν μόσχων, καὶ τῶν τράγων, μετὰ ὕδατος, καὶ ἐρίου κοκκίνου, καὶ ὑσσώπου, αὐτό τε τὸ βιβλίον καὶ πάντα τὸν λαὸν, ἐράντισεν 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people Here the author refers to several Old Testament texts. The story about Moses “speaking” the law and then “sprinkling” the people with **blood** comes from [Exodus 24:1–8](../exo/24/01.md). In these verses the Israelites agreed to follow the law and keep the covenant. The references to **red wool** and **hyssop** could come from the instructions for cleansing a person with a skin disease, which you can find in [Leviticus 14:1–7](../lev/14/01.md). However, it is more likely that the author is referring to the **red wool** and **hyssop** that the priest burned along with a “heifer” to make “ashes” that could be mixed with water and used for cleansing. You can read about this ritual in [Numbers 19:1–10](../num/19/01.md), and the author has already mentioned it in [9:13](../09/13.md). The author’s point here is that Moses cleansed the people when they agreed to the covenant, and according to the law the cleansing would require **blood**, **water**, **red wool**, and **hyssop**. If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make it more explicit that he is speaking about how Moses cleansed the people when they heard and agreed to the covenant with God. Alternate translation: “every command having been spoken according to the law by Moses to all the people, they agreed to keep them. Then, Moses took the blood of calves and goats that had been sacrificed, and he mixed it with water and red wool and hyssop. Then, he sprinkled both the scroll of the law itself and all the people with the mixture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 9 19 zl2n figs-explicit λαληθείσης…πάσης ἐντολῆς κατὰ τὸν νόμον ὑπὸ Μωϋσέως παντὶ τῷ λαῷ, λαβὼν τὸ αἷμα τῶν μόσχων, καὶ τῶν τράγων, μετὰ ὕδατος, καὶ ἐρίου κοκκίνου, καὶ ὑσσώπου, αὐτό τε τὸ βιβλίον καὶ πάντα τὸν λαὸν, ἐράντισεν 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people Here the author refers to several Old Testament texts. The story about Moses “speaking” the law and then “sprinkling” the people with **blood** comes from [Exodus 24:1–8](../exo/24/01.md). In these verses the Israelites agreed to follow the law and keep the covenant. The references to **red wool** and **hyssop** could come from the instructions for cleansing a person with a skin disease, which you can find in [Leviticus 14:1–7](../lev/14/01.md). However, it is more likely that the author is referring to the **red wool** and **hyssop** that the priest burned along with a “heifer” to make “ashes” that could be mixed with water and used for cleansing. You can read about this ritual in [Numbers 19:1–10](../num/19/01.md), and the author has already mentioned it in [9:13](../09/13.md). The author’s point here is that Moses cleansed the people when they agreed to the covenant, and according to the law the cleansing would require **blood**, **water**, **red wool**, and **hyssop**. If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make it more explicit that he is speaking about how Moses cleansed the people when they heard and agreed to the covenant with God. Alternate translation: “every command having been spoken according to the law by Moses to all the people, they agreed to keep them. Then, Moses took the blood of calves and goats that had been sacrificed, and he mixed it with water and red wool and hyssop. Then, he sprinkled both the scroll of the law itself and all the people with the mixture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 19 we5r figs-activepassive λαληθείσης…πάσης ἐντολῆς κατὰ τὸν νόμον ὑπὸ Μωϋσέως 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on **every command** that was **spoken** rather than focusing on the person doing the “speaking.” Alternate translation: “Moses having spoken every command according to the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 19 nj2q figs-abstractnouns πάσης ἐντολῆς 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **command**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “command.” Alternate translation: “everything that God commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 9 19 bd4k figs-idiom λαληθείσης…κατὰ τὸν νόμον 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people Here, the phrase **according to the law** identifies **every command** as the ones that God included in **the law**. If your readers would misunderstand **according to the law**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the specific commands in **the law**. Alternate translation: “in the law having been spoken” or “that God included in the law having been spoken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 9 19 g9vv translate-names Μωϋσέως 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people The word **Moses** is the name of a man. God used him to give the **law** to the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])  +HEB 9 19 g9vv translate-names Μωϋσέως 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people The word **Moses** is the name of a man. God used him to give the **law** to the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 9 19 ejk4 figs-doublet τῶν μόσχων, καὶ τῶν τράγων 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people Here the author refers to **calves** and **goats** as two examples of animals that could be sacrificed so that a priest could use their blood. These were not the only animals that could be sacrificed, and the story about Moses speaking the commands only mentions **bulls**. If your readers would misunderstand why the author refers specifically to **calves** and **goats**, you could use a form in your language that refers generally to animals that are sacrificed. Alternate translation: “of sacrificed animals” or “of animals from flock or herd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 9 19 yfc6 figs-explicit μετὰ ὕδατος, καὶ ἐρίου κοκκίνου, καὶ ὑσσώπου 1 took the blood … with water … and sprinkled … the scroll … and all the people Here the author does not state how **Moses** used the **water**, **red wool**, and **hyssop**. The story in [Exodus 24:1–8](../exo/24/01.md) mentions that Moses mixed the blood with **water**, but it does not mention the other two things. The author could imply that: (1) Moses tied stalks of **hyssop** plant together with the **red wool** to create a brush that he used to sprinkle the **blood** and **water**. That is what **hyssop** and **red wool** are used for in [Leviticus 14:1–7](../lev/14/01.md). Alternate translation: “mixing it with water and dipping hyssop tied with red wool in it” (2) Moses burned the **red wool** and **hyssop** and mixed them in with the **blood** and **water**. That is what **hyssop** and **red wool** are used for in [Numbers 19:1–10](../num/19/01.md). Alternate translation: “mixing it with water and ashes from red wool and hyssop” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 19 tgc2 translate-unknown ἐρίου κοκκίνου 1 hyssop Here, the phrase **red wool** refers to cloth or string made from the fur of animals, especially sheep, that is dyed **red** or scarlet. If your readers would misunderstand **red wool**, you could use words or phrases that make the meaning clearer. Alternate translation: “scarlet cloth” or “fabric colored red” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) @@ -1181,14 +1181,14 @@ HEB 9 23 zgbc translate-unknown ὑποδείγματα 1 the copies of the thin HEB 9 23 fduq figs-explicit ὑποδείγματα τῶν ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς 1 the copies of the things in heaven should be cleansed with these animal sacrifices Here, the phrase **examples of the {things} in the heavens** could refer to: (1) the earthly tabernacle, which is an “example” of the “tabernacle” **in the heavens**. Alternate translation: “example of the tabernacle in the heavens” (2) the earthly tabernacle, its priesthood, its sacrifices, and all the objects associated with it, which are **examples** of the same things **in the heavens**. Alternate translation: “examples of the tabernacle, priesthood, and service in the heavens” or “examples of the heavenly things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 23 rqw2 writing-pronouns τούτοις…ταύτας 1 the copies of the things in heaven should be cleansed with these animal sacrifices In both places, the word **these** refers back to the sacrifices and blood that the author has discussed in [9:18–22](../09/18.md). If your readers would misunderstand **these**, you could make what it refers to more explicit. Alternate translation: “with those sacrifices … those sacrifices” or “with the blood of animals … the blood of animals” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 9 23 y9b7 figs-ellipsis αὐτὰ…τὰ ἐπουράνια κρείττοσι θυσίαις παρὰ ταύτας 1 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices This clause leaves out some words that many languages might need to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the first half of the verse. Alternate translation: “it is necessary for the heavenly things themselves to be cleansed with better sacrifices than these” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) -HEB 9 23 eqn8 αὐτὰ…τὰ ἐπουράνια κρείττοσι θυσίαις παρὰ ταύτας 1 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices What the author says about how the **heavenly things themselves** need to **be cleansed** could mean: (1) that when people sin, they defile or make impure the heavenly sanctuary. Thus, the heavenly sanctuary needs **to be cleansed** from this impurity. Alternate translation: “the heavenly things themselves need to be cleansed from impurity with better sacrifices than these” (2) that the heavenly sanctuary needs to be “inaugurated” or “consecrated.” In this case, “cleansing” refers primarily to making a place ready to function as a tabernacle, not to purifying sin from it. Alternate translation: “the heavenly things themselves need to be consecrated with better sacrifices than these” +HEB 9 23 eqn8 αὐτὰ…τὰ ἐπουράνια κρείττοσι θυσίαις παρὰ ταύτας 1 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices What the author says about how the **heavenly things themselves** need to **be cleansed** could mean: (1) that when people sin, they defile or make impure the heavenly sanctuary. Thus, the heavenly sanctuary needs **to be cleansed** from this impurity. Alternate translation: “the heavenly things themselves need to be cleansed from impurity with better sacrifices than these” (2) that the heavenly sanctuary needs to be “inaugurated” or “consecrated.” In this case, “cleansing” refers primarily to making a place ready to function as a tabernacle, not to purifying sin from it. Alternate translation: “the heavenly things themselves need to be consecrated with better sacrifices than these” HEB 9 23 u2hm figs-explicit αὐτὰ…τὰ ἐπουράνια 1 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices Here, the phrase **the heavenly things themselves** could refer to: (1) the heavenly tabernacle. Alternate translation: “the heavenly tabernacle itself” (2) the heavenly tabernacle, its priesthood, its sacrifices, and all the objects associated with it. Alternate translation: “the heavenly tabernacle, priesthood, and service themselves” or “the things in heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 23 oup0 figs-rpronouns αὐτὰ…τὰ ἐπουράνια 1 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices Here, the word translated **themselves** emphasizes **the heavenly things**. Consider using a natural way to emphasize **the heavenly things** in your language. Alternate translation: “the very things in heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]]) HEB 9 23 xyys figs-genericnoun κρείττοσι θυσίαις 1 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices Here the author refers to **better sacrifices** in general to make a contrast with the earthly sacrifices. However, he thinks that Jesus only offered one “sacrifice.” If your readers would misunderstand that **better sacrifices** refers to what is generally true rather than to the details of what Jesus did, you could use a singular form instead. Alternate translation: “with a better sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]]) HEB 9 24 drtu grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 the most holy place made with hands, which Here, the word **for** introduces a further explanation of what the author said in the previous verse ([9:23](../09/23.md)) about the “heavenly things” and the “better sacrifices.” The explanation continues through [9:25–26](../09/25.md). If your readers would misunderstand **for**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “which is why” or “and so” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 9 24 xo5m figs-go οὐ…εἰς…εἰσῆλθεν 1 the most holy place made with hands, which Here, the phrase **did not enter** refers to movement from outside a structure into the structure. Use a word or phrase in your language that refers to this kind of movement. Alternate translation: “did not pass into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 9 24 svu2 figs-explicit χειροποίητα…ἅγια…ἀντίτυπα τῶν ἀληθινῶν 1 the most holy place made with hands, which Here, the phrases **holy {places}** and **copies** refer to the earthly Most Holy Place. The phrase **the true ones** refers to the heavenly Most Holy Place. If your readers would misunderstand these phrases, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “a Most Holy Place made with hands—a copy of the true heavenly one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 9 24 cy2x figs-synecdoche χειροποίητα 1 the most holy place made with hands, which Here, the word **hands** refers to main part of the body that we use to make things. So, the phrase refers to the whole person who makes things. If your readers would misunderstand **made with hands**, you could clarify that it refers to “humans” in general, not just their **hands**. Alternate translation: “made by humans” or “made by people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) +HEB 9 24 cy2x figs-synecdoche χειροποίητα 1 the most holy place made with hands, which Here, the word **hands** refers to main part of the body that we use to make things. So, the phrase figuratively refers to the whole person who makes things. If your readers would misunderstand **made with hands**, you could clarify that it refers to “humans” in general, not just their **hands**. Alternate translation: “made by humans” or “made by people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HEB 9 24 akii figs-activepassive χειροποίητα 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the **holy {places}** that are **made** rather than focusing on the **hands**, which **made** them. Alternate translation: “that hands made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 24 l1ce translate-unknown ἀντίτυπα 1 Here, the word **copies** identifies the **holy {places} made with hands** as something that models or is based on **the true ones**. If your readers would misunderstand **copies**, you could use a word or phrase that describes something that is based on something else. See you how translated **examples** in [9:23](../09/23.md). Alternate translation: “illustrations” or “replicas” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 9 24 p0y0 figs-explicit αὐτὸν τὸν οὐρανόν 1 Here, the phrase **heaven itself** is singular instead of plural, which is what the author has usually used when he speaks about the “heavens” in this letter. It is likely that the author uses the phrase **heaven itself** to refer to the highest of multiple heavens, which is where the heavenly sanctuary and God’s throne are. If your readers would misunderstand **heaven itself**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the highest or most important heaven. Alternate translation: “the heaven that is above all the others” or “the most important heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) @@ -1199,7 +1199,7 @@ HEB 9 25 f17a figs-ellipsis οὐδ’ 1 He did not go there This clause leaves HEB 9 25 rlua figs-explicit ὁ ἀρχιερεὺς εἰσέρχεται εἰς τὰ ἅγια κατ’ ἐνιαυτὸν ἐν αἵματι ἀλλοτρίῳ 1 He did not go there Here the author refers to how the **high priest** was required to enter the Most Holy Place every single year to offer blood from sacrifices. You can read about what God required for this Day of Atonement in [Leviticus 16](../lev/16/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand what the author is referring to here, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “the high priest enters in the Most Holy Place on the Day of Atonement each year with blood that comes from a sacrificed animal, not from himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 25 s0va figs-go εἰσέρχεται εἰς 1 He did not go there Here, the phrase **enters into** refers to movement from outside a structure into a structure. Use a word or phrase that identifies this kind of movement in your language. Alternate translation: “moves into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 9 25 hlrs figs-explicit τὰ ἅγια 1 He did not go there Here, the phrase **the holy {places}** could refer to: (1) the Most Holy Place, the inner part of the earthly sanctuary that the **high priest** entered once a year. Alternate translation: “the Most Holy Place” (2) the entire earthly sanctuary, which the high priest entered many times in the year but especially on the Day of Atonement. Alternate translation: “the sanctuary” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 9 25 fxtc figs-idiom κατ’ ἐνιαυτὸν 1 He did not go there Here, the phrase **each year** refers to something that happens one year, and then the next year, and so on. One way of expressing this idea is with the phrase “year by year.” The author’s point is that the **high priest enters** every single year. If your readers would misunderstand **each year**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to sequential years. Alternate translation: “year by year” or “every single year” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 9 25 fxtc figs-idiom κατ’ ἐνιαυτὸν 1 He did not go there Here, the phrase **each year** refers to something that happens one year, and then the next year, and so on. One way of expressing this idea is with the phrase “year by year.” The author’s point is that the **high priest enters** every single year. If your readers would misunderstand **each year**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to sequential years. Alternate translation: “year by year” or “every single year” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 9 25 zpf3 figs-explicit ἐν αἵματι ἀλλοτρίῳ 1 with the blood of another Here, the **blood** is **not his his own** because it comes from an animal that someone has sacrificed. The author expresses the idea in this way because he is contrasting the **high priest** with Jesus, who did use his own blood (see [9:12](../09/12.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **blood {that is} not his own**, you could express the idea more explicitly. Alternate translation: “with another being’s blood” or “with blood from an animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 26 o42h figs-ellipsis ἐπεὶ ἔδει 1 If that had been the case Here the author does not directly state the basis for his inference (**since**). Instead, he implies that it is a positive version of the negative statement “not in order to offer himself many times” in [9:25](../09/25.md). In other words, the point is that Christ could not make an offering many times, **since** then it would be **necessary for him to suffer many times**. If your readers would misunderstand what **since** introduces, you could include some of the implied words to make the idea clearer. Alternate translation: “since he would have offered himself many times, it would have been necessary for” or “since otherwise it would have been necessary for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 9 26 kg1l writing-pronouns αὐτὸν 1 If that had been the case Here, the word **him** refers to Jesus. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **him** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “Jesus” or “Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) @@ -1217,17 +1217,17 @@ HEB 9 27 w2v8 translate-unknown ἀπόκειται τοῖς ἀνθρώποι HEB 9 27 h6rr figs-activepassive ἀπόκειται τοῖς ἀνθρώποις…ἀποθανεῖν 1 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what is **appointed** rather than focusing on the person doing the “appointing.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God has appointed men to die” or “God has made it so that men die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 27 giz9 figs-gendernotations τοῖς ἀνθρώποις 1 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself Although the word **men** is masculine, the author is using it to refer to all people, both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **men**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “to people” or “to men and women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 9 27 ewjt figs-extrainfo μετὰ…τοῦτο 1 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself Here the author does not specify how soon **judgment** comes **after** people die. If possible, express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to an event that comes later without specifying how much later. Alternate translation: “once that happens” or “some time after that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) -HEB 9 27 j084 figs-explicit κρίσις 1 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself Here, **judgment** refers to how God will “judge” everyone based on what they have done when Jesus comes back. If your readers would misunderstand what **judgment** refers to, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the final judgment” or “God’s judgment of everyone at the end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 9 27 j084 figs-explicit κρίσις 1 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself Here, **judgment** refers to how God will “judge” everyone based on what they have done when Jesus comes back. If your readers would misunderstand what **judgment** refers to, you could make the idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the final judgment” or “God’s judgment of everyone at the end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 27 p6oi figs-abstractnouns κρίσις 1 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **judgment**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “judge.” Alternate translation: “they are judged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 9 28 nwwq grammar-connect-words-phrases οὕτως καὶ 1 Christ was offered once Here, the phrase **so also** introduces what the author will compare with humans dying and being judged ([9:27](../09/27.md)). The comparison between humans and **Christ** is about two primary things. First, both die **once**. Second, God’s final decision, either judgment or **salvation**, follows this death at some point. If your readers would misunderstand **so also**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the second part of a comparison. “likewise” or “in much the same way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 9 28 p8b6 figs-activepassive προσενεχθεὶς 1 Christ was offered once If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “Christ” did it to himself. Alternate translation: “having offered himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 9 28 hv2t figs-metaphor εἰς τὸ…ἀνενεγκεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 to take away the sins Here the author refers to how Jesus deals with **sins** as if he were “bearing” or taking them off someone. He speaks in this way to indicate that Jesus eliminates the guilt and the power of these **sins** over people. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “to remove the sins” or “to deal with the sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 9 28 hv2t figs-metaphor εἰς τὸ…ἀνενεγκεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 to take away the sins Here the author refers to how Jesus deals with **sins** as if he were “bearing” or taking them off someone. He speaks in this way to indicate that Jesus eliminates the guilt and the power of these **sins** over people. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “to remove the sins” or “to deal with the sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 28 p6th figs-explicit ὀφθήσεται 1 the sins Here, the phrase **will appear** refers to how Jesus will be seen by everyone on earth when comes back to earth from heaven. If your readers would misunderstand **will appear**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to Jesus coming back to earth. Alternate translation: “will come” or “will reveal himself on earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 9 28 s9jy figs-explicit ἐκ δευτέρου 1 the sins Here the author refers to **a second time** because Jesus already “appeared” on earth the “first time,” which is when he became human, lived, and died. If your readers would misunderstand why the author refers to **a second time**, you could make the idea explicit. Alternate translation: “one more time” or “again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 9 28 s9jy figs-explicit ἐκ δευτέρου 1 the sins Here the author refers to **a second time** because Jesus already “appeared” on earth the “first time,” which is when he became human, lived, and died. If your readers would misunderstand why the author refers to **a second time**, you could make the idea explicit. Alternate translation: “one more time” or “again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 28 scnu translate-ordinal δευτέρου 1 the sins If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here. Alternate translation: “time two” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 9 28 b99a figs-explicit χωρὶς ἁμαρτίας 1 the sins Here, the phrase **apart from sin** refers to how what Jesus will do is not about **sin**. The phrase does not refer to how Jesus himself does not have **sin**, although that is true (see [4:15](../04/15.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **apart from sin**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to how Jesus’ second “appearing” does not deal with **sin**. Alternate translation: “without reference to sin” or “not dealing with sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 28 aijj figs-abstractnouns τοῖς…εἰς σωτηρίαν 1 the sins If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **salvation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “save.” Alternate translation: “to save those” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 10 intro nev1 0 # Hebrews 10 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: Old and new ministries (9:1–10:18)
6. Summary statement (10:19–25)
7. Faith and endurance (10:26–12:29)
* Exhortation: Endure in the faith! (10:26–39)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [10:5–7](../10/05.md), [16–17](../10/16.md), [37–38](../10/37.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### The sacrifices that Moses’ law required

In [10:1–11](../10/01.md), the author points out several reasons why it is clear that the sacrifices that God required the Israelites to offer did not take away sins on their own. First, he states that these sacrifices are a “shadow” of the coming good things. It is the real thing, not the shadow, that takes away sins. Second, these sacrifices needed to be repeated. If they actually took away sin, the author reasons, they would only need to be done once. Third, he argues from the Scriptures that God replaces these sacrifices with Jesus doing God’s will. In this chapter, the author does not spend much time speaking about what those sacrifices actually did accomplish. He only says that they are a “reminder” of sins (see [10:3](../10/03.md)). See [9:13](../09/13.md) for more information on what the sacrifices actually could accomplish. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/sacrifice]])

### “Once” versus “repeatedly”

Throughout this chapter, the author states that Christ offered himself once and that his sacrifice has eternal effects. In contrast, he states that the sacrifices that the earthly priests offered happened repeatedly and had limited effects. In your translation, be sure to use words that emphasize the contrast between a single, effective sacrifice and multiple, ineffective sacrifices.

### The “former days”

In [10:32](../10/32.md), the author refers to the “former days,” which he then goes on to describe in [10:32–34](../10/32.md). This phrase refers to a period of time in the audience’s past, a time when they had just been “enlightened,” which means they had recently believed in Jesus. During this time, they suffered but also persevered and rejoiced in knowing God. The author wishes them to continue to show the endurance and joy they showed during these “former days.” In these verses, use verb tenses and forms that you would normally use for describing what happened in a person’s past.

### “The one coming” in [10:37](../10/37.md)

In [10:37](../10/37.md), the “one coming” refers to the Messiah, whom the author knows is Jesus. In this context, the Messiah “coming” refers to Jesus’ second coming, not his incarnation. Use words here that could be understood as a reference to Jesus’ second coming.

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### “Shadow” and “image” in [10:1](../10/01.md)

In this verse, the law has a “shadow” of the coming good things, which means that the law of Moses gives an outline or vague image of those good things. A “shadow” is not bad, but it is not the thing that casts the shadow. Instead, it just gives a foretaste or a hint of what that thing is. The author uses the word “image” to refer to the thing itself. The author’s point, then, is that the law of Moses provides a hint or foretaste of the coming good things, which are what Christ offers to those who believe in him. That means that the law is good, but if people can have the “image” itself (what Christ gives), they do not need the “shadow” (the law) anymore. See the notes on this verse for translation ideas. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/shadow]])

### “The curtain, that is, his flesh” in [10:20](../10/20.md)

In this verse, the phrase “that is, his flesh” can be understood in three main ways.
(1) it could go with “curtain,” in which case the author is stating that Jesus’ “flesh” is somehow like this “curtain.” It could mean that he needed to live his life in the “flesh” before he could enter the heavenly sanctuary, just like a priest needed to pass through the “curtain” before he could enter the Most Holy Place. Or, it could mean that his “flesh” needed to die before he could enter the heavenly sanctuary, just like a priest needed to penetrate through the curtain to enter the Most Holy Place.
(2) it could go with the whole clause “which he has inaugurated for us as a fresh and living way.” In this case, the word “through” is implied with “flesh” as well as “curtain,” and the author is saying that Jesus “inaugurated” this way “through” (or “by means of”) his “flesh.” 
(3) it could go with “way,” in which case the author is stating that Jesus’ “way” was his “flesh.” This would most likely mean that the path or “way” that Jesus took to get to the heavenly sanctuary was his earthly life in the “flesh.”
The first option makes the most sense of the way the author wrote the words in the sentence, but some scholars argue that the idea it expresses does not match the rest of what the author says. Consider using a construction that could modify either “curtain” or “way” to preserve the ambiguity.

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### What sins are those for which there is no longer a sacrifice?

In [10:26–31](../10/26.md), the author refers to sin which no sacrifice can take away and which God will punish with “fire.” Scholars debate what sin or sins the author is speaking about and whether the people who commit the sin or sins are really Christians or not. What is clear is that this is very serious sin: it involves “trampling” Christ and insulting the Holy Spirit. No one could commit this kind of sin by accident. Further, the word for “sinning” in [10:26](../10/26.md) indicates that the author is thinking about more than one individual act. In your translation, make sure that you refer to a pattern or repeated behavior of sinning. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

### Old Testament quotations

When the author quotes from the Old Testament, he uses a Greek translation that is sometimes different than the original Hebrew version that most modern translations use for the Old Testament. This is particularly obvious in [10:5–7](../10/05.md), which quotes from a Greek version of [Psalm 40:6–8](../psa/40/06.md), and in [10:37–38](../10/37.md), which quotes from a Greek version of [Habakkuk 2:3–4](../hab/02/03.md). Since the author chose to use these forms of the quotations, you should represent the words the author uses, not the words that may be found in an Old Testament you are familiar with. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) +HEB 10 intro nev1 0 # Hebrews 10 General Notes

## Structure and Formatting

5. The Son as high priest (5:1–10:18)
* Teaching: Old and new ministries (9:1–10:18)
6. Summary statement (10:19–25)
7. Faith and endurance (10:26–12:29)
* Exhortation: Endure in the faith! (10:26–39)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in [10:5–7](../10/05.md), [16–17](../10/16.md), [37–38](../10/37.md), which are words from the Old Testament.

## Special Concepts in this Chapter

### The sacrifices that Moses’ law required

In [10:1–11](../10/01.md), the author points out several reasons why it is clear that the sacrifices that God required the Israelites to offer did not take away sins on their own. First, he states that these sacrifices are a “shadow” of the coming good things. It is the real thing, not the shadow, that takes away sins. Second, these sacrifices needed to be repeated. If they actually took away sin, the author reasons, they would only need to be done once. Third, he argues from the Scriptures that God replaces these sacrifices with Jesus doing God’s will. In this chapter, the author does not spend much time speaking about what those sacrifices actually did accomplish. He only says that they are a “reminder” of sins (see [10:3](../10/03.md)). See [9:13](../09/13.md) for more information on what the sacrifices actually could accomplish. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/sacrifice]])

### “Once” versus “repeatedly”

Throughout this chapter, the author states that Christ offered himself once and that his sacrifice has eternal effects. In contrast, he states that the sacrifices that the earthly priests offered happened repeatedly and had limited effects. In your translation, be sure to use words that emphasize the contrast between a single, effective sacrifice and multiple, ineffective sacrifices.

### The “former days”

In [10:32](../10/32.md), the author refers to the “former days,” which he then goes on to describe in [10:32–34](../10/32.md). This phrase refers to a period of time in the audience’s past, a time when they had just been “enlightened,” which means they had recently believed in Jesus. During this time, they suffered but also persevered and rejoiced in knowing God. The author wishes them to continue to show the endurance and joy they showed during these “former days.” In these verses, use verb tenses and forms that you would normally use for describing what happened in a person’s past.

### “The one coming” in [10:37](../10/37.md)

In [10:37](../10/37.md), the “one coming” refers to the Messiah, whom the author knows is Jesus. In this context, the Messiah “coming” refers to Jesus’ second coming, not his incarnation. Use words here that could be understood as a reference to Jesus’ second coming.

## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

### “Shadow” and “image” in [10:1](../10/01.md)

In this verse, the law has a “shadow” of the coming good things, which means that the law of Moses gives an outline or vague image of those good things. A “shadow” is not bad, but it is not the thing that casts the shadow. Instead, it just gives a foretaste or a hint of what that thing is. The author uses the word “image” to refer to the thing itself. The author’s point, then, is that the law of Moses provides a hint or foretaste of the coming good things, which are what Christ offers to those who believe in him. That means that the law is good, but if people can have the “image” itself (what Christ gives), they do not need the “shadow” (the law) anymore. See the notes on this verse for translation ideas. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/shadow]])

### “The curtain, that is, his flesh” in [10:20](../10/20.md)

In this verse, the phrase “that is, his flesh” can be understood in three main ways.
(1) it could go with “curtain,” in which case the author is stating that Jesus’ “flesh” is somehow like this “curtain.” It could mean that he needed to live his life in the “flesh” before he could enter the heavenly sanctuary, just like a priest needed to pass through the “curtain” before he could enter the Most Holy Place. Or, it could mean that his “flesh” needed to die before he could enter the heavenly sanctuary, just like a priest needed to penetrate through the curtain to enter the Most Holy Place.
(2) it could go with the whole clause “which he has inaugurated for us as a fresh and living way.” In this case, the word “through” is implied with “flesh” as well as “curtain,” and the author is saying that Jesus “inaugurated” this way “through” (or “by means of”) his “flesh.”
(3) it could go with “way,” in which case the author is stating that Jesus’ “way” was his “flesh.” This would most likely mean that the path or “way” that Jesus took to get to the heavenly sanctuary was his earthly life in the “flesh.”
The first option makes the most sense of the way the author wrote the words in the sentence, but some scholars argue that the idea it expresses does not match the rest of what the author says. Consider using a construction that could modify either “curtain” or “way” to preserve the ambiguity.

## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

### What sins are those for which there is no longer a sacrifice?

In [10:26–31](../10/26.md), the author refers to sin which no sacrifice can take away and which God will punish with “fire.” Scholars debate what sin or sins the author is speaking about and whether the people who commit the sin or sins are really Christians or not. What is clear is that this is very serious sin: it involves “trampling” Christ and insulting the Holy Spirit. No one could commit this kind of sin by accident. Further, the word for “sinning” in [10:26](../10/26.md) indicates that the author is thinking about more than one individual act. In your translation, make sure that you refer to a pattern or repeated behavior of sinning. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

### Old Testament quotations

When the author quotes from the Old Testament, he uses a Greek translation that is sometimes different than the original Hebrew version that most modern translations use for the Old Testament. This is particularly obvious in [10:5–7](../10/05.md), which quotes from a Greek version of [Psalm 40:6–8](../psa/40/06.md), and in [10:37–38](../10/37.md), which quotes from a Greek version of [Habakkuk 2:3–4](../hab/02/03.md). Since the author chose to use these forms of the quotations, you should represent the words the author uses, not the words that may be found in an Old Testament you are familiar with. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) HEB 10 1 kwq1 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the word **For** introduces a new development in the argument that is based on what the author has said in [9:23–28](../09/23.md). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces development, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 10 1 kj83 figs-metaphor σκιὰν…ἔχων…τῶν…ἀγαθῶν 1 the law is only a shadow of the good things to come Here the author speaks as if the **law** has a **shadow** that is cast by **the good things that are coming**. He speaks in this way to indicate that the **law** is not one of **the good things that are coming**, but that it does “foreshadow” or give a outline or forecast of what those **good things** are like. If your readers would misunderstand **having a shadow of the good things**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “foreshadowing the good things” or “only pointing to the good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 1 mz05 figs-extrainfo τῶν μελλόντων ἀγαθῶν 1 the law is only a shadow of the good things to come Here the author does not clarify exactly what these **good things** are. What is clear is that God gives them to believers as gifts or blessings. If possible, express the idea without including specifics about what the **things** are. Alternate translation: “of the good gifts that are coming” or “of the blessings that are coming from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) @@ -1241,7 +1241,7 @@ HEB 10 2 mww3 grammar-connect-words-phrases ἐπεὶ 1 would the sacrifices no HEB 10 2 aw6g figs-rquestion οὐκ ἂν ἐπαύσαντο προσφερόμεναι, διὰ τὸ μηδεμίαν ἔχειν ἔτι συνείδησιν ἁμαρτιῶν, τοὺς λατρεύοντας ἅπαξ κεκαθαρισμένους? 1 would the sacrifices not have ceased to be offered? The author does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the audience in what he is arguing. The question implies that the answer is “yes, they would have ceased being offered.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea by using a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “they would certainly have ceased being offered, because the ones serving would no longer have consciousness of sins, having been cleansed once.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 10 2 zk99 figs-infostructure οὐκ ἂν ἐπαύσαντο προσφερόμεναι, διὰ τὸ μηδεμίαν ἔχειν ἔτι συνείδησιν ἁμαρτιῶν, τοὺς λατρεύοντας ἅπαξ κεκαθαρισμένους? 1 would the sacrifices not have ceased to be offered? Here the author expresses the conclusion before he gives his reasons. This was a natural order of information in his language. If your readers would find this order confusing, you could express the reasons before the conclusion, or you could use some other natural order. Alternate translation: “since the ones serving, having been cleansed once, would no longer have consciousness of sins, would they not have ceased being offered?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) HEB 10 2 xor4 figs-activepassive οὐκ ἂν ἐπαύσαντο προσφερόμεναι 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on the sacrifices, which have not **ceased being offered**, rather than focusing on the person who would “cease offering” them. If you must state who would do the action, the author implies that the “priests” or the “Israelites” would. Alternate translation: “would the priests not have ceased offering them” or “would the Israelites not have ceased offering them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 10 2 twab writing-pronouns οὐκ ἂν ἐπαύσαντο 1 Here, the word **they** refers to the “sacrifices” (see [10:1](../10/01.md)). If your readers would misunderstand what **they** refers to, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “would the sacrifices not have ceased” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) +HEB 10 2 twab writing-pronouns οὐκ ἂν ἐπαύσαντο 1 Here, the word **they** refers to the “sacrifices” (see [10:1](../10/01.md)). If your readers would misunderstand what **they** refers to, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “would the sacrifices not have ceased” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 10 2 mu42 figs-explicit τοὺς λατρεύοντας 1 the worshipers would have been cleansed Here, the phrase **the ones serving** refers to everyone who worshiped God, not just to those acting as priests. If your readers would misunderstand **the ones serving**, you could make it clear that it refers to all the worshipers. Alternate translation: “the worshipers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 2 m9tj figs-abstractnouns μηδεμίαν ἔχειν ἔτι συνείδησιν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 would no longer have any consciousness of sin If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **consciousness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “conscious” or a verb such as “recognize.” Alternate translation: “would no longer be conscious of sins” or “no longer recognize their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 2 vzcg figs-activepassive ἅπαξ κεκαθαρισμένους 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who are **cleansed** rather than focusing on the person or thing doing the “cleansing.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “the sacrifices,” or God working through these sacrifices, did it. Alternate translation: “would have become clean once” or “being those whom God has cleansed once” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -1250,7 +1250,7 @@ HEB 10 3 z3je figs-abstractnouns ἐν αὐταῖς ἀνάμνησις ἁμ HEB 10 3 l4me figs-idiom κατ’ ἐνιαυτόν 1 Here, just as in [10:1](../10/01.md), the phrase **every year** identifies an action that happens often and repeatedly. If your readers would misunderstand **every year**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies a frequent and repeated action. Alternate translation: “day after day” or “all the time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 4 di8i grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins Here, the word **For** introduces support for the author’s claim that the sacrifices give a “reminder of sins every year” ([10:3](../10/03.md)). His point here is that the sacrifices cannot **take away sins**, so all they can do is function as a “reminder” of the sins that they do not **take away**. If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces support for a claim. Alternate translation: “That is because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 10 4 stkp figs-explicit αἷμα ταύρων καὶ τράγων ἀφαιρεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins Here, the phrase **blood of bulls and goats** may refer specifically to the offerings performed on the Day of Atonement (see [Leviticus 16](../lev/16/01.md)). However, the author is also referring in general to **blood** from any sacrifice. You should express the idea in general terms, as the author does. Alternate translation: “blood from animal sacrifices to take away sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 10 4 lbdu figs-metonymy αἷμα ταύρων καὶ τράγων ἀφαιρεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins Here, the word **blood** refers to offering the **blood**. The word **sins** refers to the consequences of sin that people experience, including guilt, impurity, and alienation from God. If your readers would misunderstand **blood** and **sins**, you could express the ideas with short phrases. Alternate translation: “the offering of the blood of bulls and goats to take away the consequences of sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 10 4 lbdu figs-metonymy αἷμα ταύρων καὶ τράγων ἀφαιρεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins Here, the word **blood** refers figuratively to offering the **blood**. The word **sins** refers figuratively to the consequences of sin that people experience, including guilt, impurity, and alienation from God. If your readers would misunderstand **blood** and **sins**, you could express the ideas with short phrases. Alternate translation: “the offering of the blood of bulls and goats to take away the consequences of sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 4 bvu5 figs-doublet ταύρων καὶ τράγων 1 the blood of bulls and goats Here the author refers to **bulls and goats** as two examples of animals that were sacrificed so that the high priest could enter the sanctuary with their **blood**. These were not the only animals that could be sacrificed, and the author is not trying to be exhaustive. If your readers would misunderstand why the author refers specifically to **bulls and goats**, you could use a form in your language that refers generally to animals that are sacrificed. Alternate translation: “of sacrificed animals” or “of animals from flock or herd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 10 5 q4ye grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 General Information: Here, the word **Therefore** introduces an inference based on what the author has said about how “blood of bulls and goats” does not “take away sins” (see [10:4](../10/04.md)). Because that is true, Jesus speaks the words that the author quotes. If your readers would misunderstand **Therefore**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an inference. Alternate translation: “So then” or “Because of that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 10 5 xp0e grammar-connect-time-simultaneous εἰσερχόμενος 1 you did not desire Here, the word **entering** introduces an action that could happen (1) at the same as he **says** the quotation that follows. Alternate translation: “as he enters” (2) before he **says** the quotation that follows. Alternate translation: “as he was about to enter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]]) @@ -1262,9 +1262,9 @@ HEB 10 5 ml8e figs-yousingular οὐκ ἠθέλησας…κατηρτίσω 1 HEB 10 6 t9bn figs-quotations ὁλοκαυτώματα καὶ περὶ ἁμαρτίας οὐκ εὐδόκησας. 1 you did not desire If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the sentence as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you do, you will need to translate the previous and following verses as indirect quotes as well. Alternate translation: “in whole burnt offerings and concerning sin offerings God was not well-pleased” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]} HEB 10 6 q416 figs-doublet ὁλοκαυτώματα καὶ περὶ ἁμαρτίας 1 you did not desire Here, the phrases **whole burnt {offerings}** and **concerning sin {offerings}** function together to refer to sacrifices that the Israelites offered. The **whole burnt {offering}** refers to how a cow, goat, sheep, or bird would be killed and then completely burned before God. The **concerning sin {offering}** refers to how a bull, goat, lamb, or birds would be killed and the blood from the animal would be sprinkled in specific places. The author refers to both types of offerings in order to refer in general to sacrifices related to sin and atoning for that sin. If you do not have two descriptions for these categories, you could use a single word or phrase to refer to what an Israelite would offer to God to take care of sin. Alternate translation: “in sacrifices concerning sin” or “in animals that people offer to deal with ins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 10 6 bfaq translate-unknown περὶ ἁμαρτίας 1 you did not desire Here, the phrase **concerning sin {offerings}** refers to a specific type of sacrifice that people would offer when they sinned. An important part of this offering was how the priest sprinkled blood from the animal in specific places within the tabernacle. You can read about this offering in [Leviticus 4:1–5:13](../lev/04/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand **concerning sin {offerings}**, you could use a word or phrase that describes sacrifices offered to deal with sin. Alternate translation: “sin offerings” or “offerings to take away sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) -HEB 10 6 q3r6 figs-yousingular οὐκ εὐδόκησας  1 you did not desire Because Christ is speaking to one person (God the Father), **you** is singular here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) +HEB 10 6 q3r6 figs-yousingular οὐκ εὐδόκησας 1 you did not desire Because Christ is speaking to one person (God the Father), **you** is singular here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]]) HEB 10 7 dpvi figs-quotations τότε εἶπον, ἰδοὺ, ἥκω (ἐν κεφαλίδι βιβλίου γέγραπται περὶ ἐμοῦ) τοῦ ποιῆσαι ὁ Θεός τὸ θέλημά σου. 1 Then I said If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate the sentence as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. If you do, you will need to translate the previous two verses as indirect quotes as well. Alternate translation: “Then he said, ‘Behold, I have come—as it is written about me in a section of a scroll—to do God’s will.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]} -HEB 10 7 kwzf grammar-connect-logic-result τότε 1 Then I said Here, the word **Then** introduces an inference or conclusion based on what the author of the quotation has said about how God does not desire sacrifices. If your readers would misunderstand **Then**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an inference or conclusion. Alternate translation: “Because of that,” or “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +HEB 10 7 kwzf grammar-connect-logic-result τότε 1 Then I said Here, the word **Then** introduces an inference or conclusion based on what the author of the quotation has said about how God does not desire sacrifices. If your readers would misunderstand **Then**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an inference or conclusion. Alternate translation: “Because of that,” or “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 10 7 pjuj writing-pronouns εἶπον 1 Then I said Here, the word **I** refers to Christ, who is speaking the quotation. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **I** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “I, Christ, said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 10 7 zn6c writing-quotations εἶπον 1 Then I said Here the author of the quotation reports something that he himself has said. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could use a form for when someone quotes what they have already said. Alternate translation: “I myself said what follows:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) HEB 10 7 n9vg figs-quotesinquotes εἶπον, ἰδοὺ, ἥκω (ἐν κεφαλίδι βιβλίου γέγραπται περὶ ἐμοῦ) τοῦ ποιῆσαι ὁ Θεός τὸ θέλημά σου. 1 Then I said If a direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “I said that I had certain come—as it is written about me in a section of a scroll—to do God’s will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]]) @@ -1295,20 +1295,20 @@ HEB 10 11 x83h grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ…μὲν 1 can never take HEB 10 11 y25p translate-unknown ἕστηκεν 1 can never take away sins Here, the word **stands** refers to someone staying on their feet and not sitting down. It does not mean that the person does not move. The author uses the word **stands** because he will contrast it with how Jesus “sits” (see [10:12](../10/12.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **stands**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to how a person does not sit down but stays in an upright position. Alternate translation: “stays on his feet” or “stands and walks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 10 11 jq4i figs-idiom καθ’ ἡμέραν 1 can never take away sins Here, the phrase **every day** identifies an action that happens very often and repeatedly. If your readers would misunderstand **every day**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies a very frequent and repeated action. Alternate translation: “all the time” or “each day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 11 uw6i figs-infostructure ἕστηκεν καθ’ ἡμέραν λειτουργῶν 1 can never take away sins Here, the phrase **each day** could modify: (1) **stands**. Alternate translation: “stands every day, serving” (2) **serving**. Alternate translation: “stands, serving every day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) -HEB 10 11 bh1w figs-metonymy θυσίας, αἵτινες οὐδέποτε δύνανται περιελεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 can never take away sins Here, the word **that** refers to offering the **sacrifices**, not just to the **sacrifices** themselves. The word **sins** refers to the consequences of sin that people experience, including guilt, impurity, and alienation from God. If your readers would misunderstand **that** and **sins**, you could express the ideas with short phrases. Alternate translation: “sacrifices. When people offer these sacrifices, they cannot take away the consequences of their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 10 11 bh1w figs-metonymy θυσίας, αἵτινες οὐδέποτε δύνανται περιελεῖν ἁμαρτίας 1 can never take away sins Here, the word **that** refers figuratively to offering the **sacrifices**, not just to the **sacrifices** themselves. The word **sins** refers figuratively to the consequences of sin that people experience, including guilt, impurity, and alienation from God. If your readers would misunderstand **that** and **sins**, you could express the ideas with short phrases. Alternate translation: “sacrifices. When people offer these sacrifices, they cannot take away the consequences of their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 12 zr61 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the word **But** introduces the second half of the contrast that the author introduced in [10:11](../10/11.md). If your readers would misunderstand **But**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the second part of a contrast. Alternate translation: “On the other hand,” or “But second,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) HEB 10 12 mksp writing-pronouns οὗτος 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the word **he** refers to Christ. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **he** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 10 12 lfl1 grammar-connect-time-sequential προσενέγκας 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the phrase **having offered** could introduce an action (1) that occurs before he **sat down**. Alternate translation: “after having offered” (2) that is the means by which or the reason why he **sat down**. Alternate translation: “because he offered” or “by means of having offered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]]) HEB 10 12 o8m4 figs-idiom εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the phrase **for all time** identifies that something is always true or effective. In other words, there will never be a **time** when it is not true or effective. If your readers would misunderstand **for all time**, you could express the idea with a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “forever” or “permanently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 12 vjto figs-infostructure μίαν ὑπὲρ ἁμαρτιῶν…θυσίαν, εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς, ἐκάθισεν 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the phrase **for all time** could modify (1) **offered**. Alternate translation: “one sacrifice for sins for all time, sat down” (2) **sat down**. Alternate translation: “one sacrifice for sins, sat down for all time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]]) -HEB 10 12 egky figs-idiom ὑπὲρ ἁμαρτιῶν  1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the phrase **for sins** indicates that Jesus’s **sacrifice** was intended to take away **sins**. The phrase does not mean that the **sacrifice** helps or allows the **sins**. If your readers would misunderstand **for sins**, you could use a phrase that makes this idea clear. Alternate translation: “for the forgiveness of sins” or “so that God would forgive sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 10 12 egky figs-idiom ὑπὲρ ἁμαρτιῶν 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, the phrase **for sins** indicates that Jesus’s **sacrifice** was intended to take away **sins**. The phrase does not mean that the **sacrifice** helps or allows the **sins**. If your readers would misunderstand **for sins**, you could use a phrase that makes this idea clear. Alternate translation: “for the forgiveness of sins” or “so that God would forgive sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 12 fy8w translate-symaction ἐκάθισεν ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 he sat down at the right hand of God When someone sits **at the right hand of God**, it symbolizes that person’s honor, authority, and ability to rule. If your readers would misunderstand what **sat down at the right hand** means, you could express the idea explicitly. See how you translated the similar phrase in [8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “sat down to rule at the right hand of God” or “took the place of honor and authority at the right hand of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 10 12 wl76 figs-metonymy ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 he sat down at the right hand of God Here, **at the right hand** refers to the place next to a person’s **right hand**, which would be the “right side.” In the author’s culture, this side was associated with honor or authority. If your readers would misunderstand **at the right hand**, you could refer to the “right side.” Make sure that your readers understand that this side indicates that Jesus has honor and authority when he sits there. Alternate translation: “at the right side of God” or “in the honorable place next to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 13 w782 figs-explicit ἐκδεχόμενος 1 Here the author does not clarify what Jesus is **waiting** for. He implies that it is his return to earth, which the author has already mentioned in [9:28](../09/28.md). If your readers would misunderstand what Jesus is **waiting** for, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “waiting to return to earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 13 ljg5 grammar-connect-time-sequential τὸ λοιπὸν 1 Here, the phrase **from then** refers to a span of time from a previous action (in this case, Jesus “sitting down” as described in [10:12](../10/12.md)) up to and including the present. If your readers would misunderstand **from then**, you could use a form that refers to this span of time. Alternate translation: “from that time on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]]) HEB 10 13 qnby figs-activepassive τεθῶσιν οἱ ἐχθροὶ αὐτοῦ 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus the **enemies** that are **made a footstool** rather than focusing on the person who makes them the **footstool**. If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God makes his enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 13 s6sn figs-metaphor ἕως τεθῶσιν οἱ ἐχθροὶ αὐτοῦ ὑποπόδιον τῶν ποδῶν αὐτοῦ 1 until his enemies are made a stool for his feet Here the author speaks as if the Son’s **enemies** could become a **footstool** on which he puts his **feet**. In the author’s culture, something that is under **feet** has been conquered and is powerless and shamed, so the point is that God will conquer and shame all the enemies of the Son. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. See how you translated the similar clause in [1:13](../01/13.md). Alternate translation: “until his enemies might be made to kneel before him” or “until his enemies might be conquered and shamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -HEB 10 14 ske9 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 those who are being sanctified Here, the word **For** introduces one reason why Jesus is currently “waiting” ([10:13](../10/13.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason. Alternate translation: “He can wait because” or “That is because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +HEB 10 14 ske9 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 those who are being sanctified Here, the word **For** introduces one reason why Jesus is currently “waiting” ([10:13](../10/13.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason. Alternate translation: “He can wait because” or “That is because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 10 14 tfmy τετελείωκεν εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς τοὺς ἁγιαζομένους 1 those who are being sanctified Here the author indicates that the Messiah has **perfected** believers once and in the past. He indicates that **being sanctified** is something that believers are still experiencing and that is not yet finished. In your translation, preserve the timing of these two actions. Alternate translation: “he perfected for all time those who are currently being sanctified” HEB 10 14 c298 figs-idiom εἰς τὸ διηνεκὲς 1 those who are being sanctified Here, the phrase **for all time** identifies that something is always true or effective. In other words, there will never be a time when it is not true or effective. If your readers would misunderstand **for all time**, you could express the idea with a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “forever” or “permanently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 14 dz9n figs-activepassive τοὺς ἁγιαζομένους 1 those who are being sanctified If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who are **sanctified** rather than focusing on the person doing the “sanctifying.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “those whom God is sanctifying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -1332,7 +1332,7 @@ HEB 10 19 ih5u grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 Connecting Statement: Here HEB 10 19 f6g3 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word **brothers** is masculine, the author is using it to refer to all believers, both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 10 19 vr9d grammar-connect-logic-result ἔχοντες 1 brothers Here, the word **having** introduces a basis or reason for the author’s exhortation to “approach” in [10:22](../10/22.md). If your readers would misunderstand this relationship, you could use a word or phrase that clearly introduces a basis or reason. Alternate translation: “since we have” or “because we have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 10 19 cxi4 figs-abstractnouns ἔχοντες…παρρησίαν 1 brothers If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **confidence**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “confident” or “authorized.” Alternate translation: “being confident” or “being authorized” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 10 19 hty9 figs-explicit εἰς τὴν εἴσοδον 1 brothers Here, the word translated **to enter** could refer primarily to: (1) the “entry-way” or “entrance” that belongs to the heavenly sanctuary. This option is more likely if you consider the phrase **the holy {places}** to refer to a sanctuary that is in heaven. Alternate translation: “with regard to the entrance of” or “concerning the entry-way of” (2) the act of “entering” the heavenly sanctuary. This option is more likely if you consider the phrase **the holy {places}** to refer primarily to God’s presence. Alternate translation: “for entering into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 10 19 hty9 figs-explicit εἰς τὴν εἴσοδον 1 brothers Here, the word translated **to enter** could refer primarily to: (1) the “entry-way” or “entrance” that belongs to the heavenly sanctuary. This option is more likely if you consider the phrase **the holy {places}** to refer to a sanctuary that is in heaven. Alternate translation: “with regard to the entrance of” or “concerning the entry-way of” (2) the act of “entering” the heavenly sanctuary. This option is more likely if you consider the phrase **the holy {places}** to refer primarily to God’s presence. Alternate translation: “for entering into” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 19 fii7 figs-explicit τῶν ἁγίων 1 the most holy place Here, the phrase **the holy {places}** could refer to: (1) the inner section of the heavenly sanctuary. Alternate translation: “the Most Holy Place in heaven” (2) the entire heavenly sanctuary. Alternate translation: “the heavenly sanctuary” (3) God’s presence, metaphorically. Alternate translation: “God’s holy presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 19 zl87 figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ αἵματι Ἰησοῦ 1 by the blood of Jesus Scholars debate what **the blood of Jesus** represents in Hebrews. It could refer to his resurrected body, his death, or his actual blood. See the book introduction for more information on what Jesus’ blood refers to. Since **blood** is a very important concept in Hebrews, preserve the word here if at all possible. Alternate translation: “by Jesus’ blood, which is his sacrifice” or “by the blood of Jesus, that is, his death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 20 aj91 writing-pronouns ἣν 1 living way Here, the word **which** refers to the place of “entering” that the author mentioned in [10:19](../10/19.md). If your readers would misunderstand what **which** refers to, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “which entrance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) @@ -1340,11 +1340,11 @@ HEB 10 20 l7wh translate-unknown πρόσφατον 1 living way Here, the word HEB 10 20 zx1a figs-metaphor ὁδὸν πρόσφατον καὶ ζῶσαν 1 living way Here, the author describes the **way** as if it were a person or thing that was **living**. By speaking in this way, he could be identifying the **way** as: (1) something that is effective at accomplishing what it intends, just like a **living** person can do or accomplish things. Alternate translation: “a fresh and powerful way” or “a fresh and effectual way” (2) something that leads to “life.” Alternate translation: “a fresh way that leads to life” (3) something that is related to Jesus, who is **living** when he “inaugurates” this way. Alternate translation: “a fresh way given by the living Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 20 c3ve figs-explicit διὰ τοῦ καταπετάσματος 1 through the curtain Here, the phrase **the curtain** refers to the cloth hanging that separates the Most Holy Place from the Holy Place. Scholars debate whether the author considers the **curtain** to be a barrier, a means of access, or simply a dividing line. However you understand the curtain, you should translate the phrase much like you did in [6:19](../06/19.md). Alternate translation: “through the dividing curtain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 20 p3a9 figs-explicit τοῦτ’ ἔστιν τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 through the curtain Here, the phrase **that is, his flesh** could modify: (1) the **curtain**. In this case, the author is identifying the **curtain** and the **flesh**, which is metaphor. The author’s point is that Jesus had to go through the **curtain** to enter the Most Holy Place, and similarly he had to live and die in **his flesh** before he entered the Most Holy Place. Alternate translation: “which is his flesh” (2) the whole previous clause. In this case, the word **through** is implied, and **his flesh** is the means by which he **inaugurated** the **way**. In this case, the word **through** with **curtain** refers to where Jesus went, while the implied **through** with **his flesh** refers to means by which he went there. Alternate translation: “that is, through his flesh” or “that is, by means of his flesh” (3) the word **way**. In this case, the author is describing the **way** as what Jesus did in **his flesh** or as the **flesh** itself. Alternate translation: “that is, the way of his flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 10 20 ega9 figs-metonymy τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 his flesh Here, the word **flesh** could refer to: (1) Jesus’ earthly life. In other words, the phrase **his flesh** refers to Jesus as he lived on earth before his death and resurrection. Alternate translation: “his earthly life” (2) Jesus’ body offered to God in obedience up to and including death. Alternate translation: “the body that he offered” or “his sacrificial death” (3) Jesus’ humanity in general. Alternate translation: “his humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 10 20 ega9 figs-metonymy τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 his flesh Here, the word **flesh** could refer figuratively to: (1) Jesus’ earthly life. In other words, the phrase **his flesh** refers to Jesus as he lived on earth before his death and resurrection. Alternate translation: “his earthly life” (2) Jesus’ body offered to God in obedience up to and including death. Alternate translation: “the body that he offered” or “his sacrificial death” (3) Jesus’ humanity in general. Alternate translation: “his humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 21 uh6i figs-explicit ἱερέα μέγαν 1 we have a great priest over the house of God Here the author implies that the **great priest** is Jesus. If your readers would misunderstand who the **great priest** is, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “a great priest, Jesus,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 21 pkxk ἱερέα μέγαν 1 we have a great priest over the house of God Here, the phrase **great priest** could be: (1) a synonym for “high priest.” Alternate translation: “a high priest” (2) a description of the **priest** as **great**, or important and powerful. Alternate translation: “a priest who is great” HEB 10 21 bmh1 figs-idiom ἐπὶ τὸν οἶκον 1 over the house The phrase **over the house** indicates that the **great priest** rules or is in charge of the **house**. If your readers would misunderstand **over the house**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies the **great priest** as the one who rules or is in charge of the **house**. See how you translated the similar phrase in [3:6](../03/06.md). Alternate translation: “in charge of the house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 10 21 d1u1 figs-metaphor τὸν οἶκον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the house of God Here, the word **house** refers to a group of people, here all God’s people. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. See how you translated **house** in [3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “God’s tribe” or “God’s clan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 10 21 d1u1 figs-metaphor τὸν οἶκον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the house of God Here, the word **house** figuratively refers to a group of people, here all God’s people. If your readers would misunderstand **house**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea nonfiguratively. See how you translated **house** in [3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “God’s tribe” or “God’s clan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 22 l4ik figs-go προσερχώμεθα 1 let us approach Here, **approach** refers to getting close to something but not necessarily being right next to it. Here, the author wants believers to **approach** the heavenly sanctuary (see [10:19](../10/19.md)). This means that they enter into God’s presence. It does not mean that they enter into heaven to be within the sanctuary itself. If your readers would misunderstand **approach**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to being in someone’s presence. See how you translated the similar construction in [4:16](../04/16.md). Alternate translation: “let us go before God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 10 22 von8 translate-unknown μετὰ ἀληθινῆς καρδίας 1 let us approach Here, the word **true** refers to something that is reliable or sure. In this case, **a true heart** would refer to a **heart** that is “sincere” or “single-minded.” If your readers would misunderstand **true**, you could use a word that identifies the **heart** as “sincere” or with only one aim or goal. Alternate translation: “with a sincere heart” or “with a single-minded heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 10 22 wez1 figs-metonymy ἀληθινῆς καρδίας…τὰς καρδίας 1 with true hearts In the author’s culture, the **heart** is the place where humans think and plan. If your readers would misunderstand **heart**, you could refer to the place where humans think in your culture or express the idea nonfiguratively. Alternate translation: “true desire … our desires” or “true thoughts … our thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) @@ -1359,7 +1359,7 @@ HEB 10 22 tk9p grammar-collectivenouns τὸ σῶμα 1 our bodies washed with HEB 10 23 k5ui figs-metaphor κατέχωμεν 1 Let us also hold tightly to the confession of our hope Here, the phrase **hold tightly** refers to continuing to firmly believe or trust something, particularly something that one has been told. If your readers would misunderstand **hold tightly**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to continuing to believe or trust. See how you translated the phrase “hold fast” in [3:6](../03/06.md). Alternate translation: “Let us tightly grasp” or “Let us remain in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 23 dhu8 figs-possession τὴν ὁμολογίαν τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 Let us also hold tightly to the confession of our hope Here the author uses the possessive form to describe a **confession** that affirms or “confesses” **{our} hope**. If your readers would misunderstand that form, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “the confession about our hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]]) HEB 10 23 n57o figs-abstractnouns τὴν ὁμολογίαν τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **confession** and **hope**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “confess” and “hope.” Alternate translation: “what we confess that we hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 10 23 pckf figs-metonymy τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 Here, the word **hope** refers to the contents of the **hope**, or what believers confidently expect. If your readers would misunderstand **hope**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **hope**. Alternate translation: “of the things that we hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 10 23 pckf figs-metonymy τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 Here, the word **hope** figuratively refers to the contents of the **hope**, or what believers confidently expect. If your readers would misunderstand **hope**, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **hope**. Alternate translation: “of the things that we hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 23 jy4t figs-metaphor ἀκλινῆ 1 without wavering Here, the phrase **without wavering** describes what the **confession** should be like as Christians **hold tightly** to it. The phrase refers to something that does not move or sway from side to side. In other words, something that stays firmly in one place is **without wavering**. The author speaks in this way to encourage the audience to maintain the **confession** in such a way that it does not change or vary. If your readers would misunderstand **without wavering**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to something that does not change or that is constant. Alternate translation: “steadfast” or “so that it stays the same” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 23 dtxl writing-pronouns ὁ ἐπαγγειλάμενος 1 without wavering Here, the word **one** refers to God. If your readers would misunderstand to whom **one** refers, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “the one having promised, God,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 10 24 i6ks figs-idiom κατανοῶμεν ἀλλήλους 1 without wavering Here, the phrase **consider one another** refers to thinking and caring about fellow believers. If your readers would misunderstand **consider one another**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to thinking about or spending time on fellow believers. See how you translated the similar phrase with Jesus as the object in [3:1](../03/01.md). Alternate translation: “let us focus on one another” or “let us spend time thinking about one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) @@ -1368,11 +1368,11 @@ HEB 10 24 a75t figs-abstractnouns ἀγάπης καὶ καλῶν ἔργων HEB 10 25 xej1 μὴ ἐγκαταλείποντες…ἀλλὰ παρακαλοῦντες 1 Let us not stop meeting together Here, the phrases **not abandoning** and **exhorting {one another}** introduce two ways in which the audience can accomplish what the author has encouraged them to do in [10:24](../10/24.md). If your readers would misunderstand this relationship, you could express the it more explicitly. Alternate translation: “by not abandoning … and by exhorting one another” or “not by means of abandoning … but by means of exhorting one another” HEB 10 25 w4hc translate-unknown ἐγκαταλείποντες 1 Let us not stop meeting together Here, the word **abandoning** refers to avoiding or leaving something behind. In this case, the author means that they should not stop participating in the group’s meetings. If your readers would misunderstand **abandoning**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to failing to participate in something. Alternate translation: “giving up on” or “ceasing to participate in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 10 25 v4fa figs-explicit τὴν ἐπισυναγωγὴν ἑαυτῶν 1 Let us not stop meeting together Here, the phrase **our own meeting together** refers to how the Christian group the author is writing to would gather together and participate in worship and meals. If your readers would misunderstand **our own meeting together**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to a regular gathering for specific purposes. Alternate translation: “our own congregation” or “our assembling as a group” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 10 25 kvwm figs-abstractnouns καθὼς ἔθος τισίν 1 Let us not stop meeting together If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **habit**, you could express the idea by using an adverb such as “customarily” or “frequently.” Alternate translation: “just as some people frequently do” or “as some people do customarily” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])  +HEB 10 25 kvwm figs-abstractnouns καθὼς ἔθος τισίν 1 Let us not stop meeting together If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **habit**, you could express the idea by using an adverb such as “customarily” or “frequently.” Alternate translation: “just as some people frequently do” or “as some people do customarily” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 25 jdqw figs-idiom καὶ τοσούτῳ μᾶλλον, ὅσῳ 1 Let us not stop meeting together Here, the phrase **so much more in as much as** indicates that the **exhorting** should happen in proportion to how much they **see {that} day approaching**. As they **see** the **day** coming closer, they should “exhort” more. If your readers would misunderstand **so much more in as much as**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of proportional comparison. Alternate translation: “and all the more as” or “doing so as much as” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 25 rqfz figs-metonymy τὴν ἡμέραν 1 Here, the word **day** refers to the event of Jesus’ return back to earth (see [9:28](../09/28.md)). In the Old Testament, the phrase “the day of the Lord” refers to the time when God will judge his enemies and save his people. Here, the author applies that idea of the **day** to Jesus’ return. If your readers would misunderstand **{that} day**, you could either refer to “the day of the Lord,” or you could more clearly explain that the author is referring to Jesus’ return. Alternate translation: “the day of the Lord” or “the day when Jesus returns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 25 k9c7 figs-personification βλέπετε ἐγγίζουσαν τὴν ἡμέραν 1 as you see the day coming closer Here the author speaks as if a **day** were a person that the audience could **see** as he or she was **approaching**. The author speaks in this way to indicate that the audience can know that the **day** will happen soon. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a phrase that naturally refers to something in the future that will happen soon. Alternate translation: “you recognize that that day will happen soon” or “you observe that day getting closer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) -HEB 10 26 gm7l grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why the author wants the audience to “hold tightly” to the “confession” ([10:23](../10/23.md)), “stimulate” one another to “love and good works” ([10:24](../10/24.md)), and “meet together” and “exhort one another” (see [10:25](../10/25.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason. Alternate translation: “I want you to do those things because,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) +HEB 10 26 gm7l grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why the author wants the audience to “hold tightly” to the “confession” ([10:23](../10/23.md)), “stimulate” one another to “love and good works” ([10:24](../10/24.md)), and “meet together” and “exhort one another” (see [10:25](../10/25.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason. Alternate translation: “I want you to do those things because,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 10 26 nz9k grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical ἑκουσίως…ἁμαρτανόντων ἡμῶν 1 Connecting Statement: Here, the word **if** introduces a situation in which the second half of the verse (**a sacrifice on behalf of sins no longer remains**) is true. The author does not mean that **we** have “deliberately kept on sinning” or not. Rather, he uses **if** to introduce the situation as a possibility. If your readers would misunderstand **if**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a possible situation. Alternate translation: “were we to keep on sinning deliberately” or “supposing that we deliberately keep on sinning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]]) HEB 10 26 byv6 translate-unknown ἑκουσίως…ἡμῶν 1 we deliberately go on sinning Here, the word **deliberately** identifies an action as something that a person has done “on purpose” or planned ahead of time. Any action that someone does accidentally or without intending to is excluded. If your readers would misunderstand **deliberately**, you could use a word or phrase that identifies an action as something that a person does because the intend or want to. Alternate translation: “if we on purpose” or “if we knowingly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 10 26 q13r ἁμαρτανόντων 1 we deliberately go on sinning Here, the author wrote the word **sinning** in a form that implies that the person is sinning in the present and doing it more than once. That is why the ULT uses the words **keep on**. If your readers would misunderstand **keep on sinning**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to present, continuing sin. Alternate translation: “continue to sin” or “make a habit of sinning” @@ -1408,8 +1408,8 @@ HEB 10 30 v8ad figs-abstractnouns ἐμοὶ ἐκδίκησις 1 Vengeance bel HEB 10 30 pdw9 figs-metaphor ἐγὼ ἀνταποδώσω 1 I will pay back Here God speaks as if he were going to **pay** people **back** for what he owed them. God speaks in this way to indicate that the way he will punish people will match what they have done wrong, just like a repayment matches a debt. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “I will give people what they deserve” or “I will fittingly punish people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 30 u7qv figs-123person κρινεῖ Κύριος τὸν λαὸν αὐτοῦ 1 I will pay back Here the author has God speaking about himself in the third person. He uses this form because the quotation uses the third person to speak about God, and the author claims that God speaks the quotation. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could clarify that God is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I am the Lord; I will judge my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]]) HEB 10 31 swmv figs-idiom φοβερὸν τὸ ἐμπεσεῖν 1 to fall into the hands Here, something that is **fearful** is something that causes “fear.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could more clearly express the idea that **to fall into {the} hands of {the} living God** causes “fear.” Alternate translation: “We should fear falling” or “It is a terrifying thing to fall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -HEB 10 31 hhu7 figs-metaphor τὸ ἐμπεσεῖν εἰς χεῖρας 1 to fall into the hands The phrase **to fall into** the **hands** of someone indicates that the person who “falls” is in the power of the other person. In other words, the person with the **hands** has total control over the person who “falls.” In the context, the author implies that God will use the power or control to punish the person who “falls into” his **hands**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “to be in the power of” or “to be under the judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -HEB 10 31 mr1p figs-metonymy εἰς χεῖρας 1 Here, **hands** refers to the “power” or “actions” of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “into the power” or “under the control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 10 31 hhu7 figs-metaphor τὸ ἐμπεσεῖν εἰς χεῖρας 1 to fall into the hands The phrase **to fall into** the **hands** of someone indicates that the person who “falls” is in the power of the other person. In other words, the person with the **hands** has total control over the person who “falls.” In the context, the author implies that God will use the power or control to punish the person who “falls into” his **hands**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “to be in the power of” or “to be under the judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +HEB 10 31 mr1p figs-metonymy εἰς χεῖρας 1 Here, **hands** refers to the “power” or “actions” of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “into the power” or “under the control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 31 gz60 figs-idiom Θεοῦ ζῶντος 1 Here, much like in [3:12](../03/12.md) and [9:14](../09/14.md), the phrase **{the} living God** identifies **God** as the one who “lives” and possibly as the one who gives “life.” The primary point is that **God** actually “lives,” unlike idols and other things that people call “god.”If your readers would misunderstand **{the} living God**, you could use a word or phrase that emphasizes that God really “lives.” Alternate translation: “of the God who lives” or “of the true God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 10 32 y0v5 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 the former days Here, the word **But** introduces a contrast with the warning that the author has given in [10:26–31](../10/26.md). While the author does give a stern warning, he contrasts that here with confidence that they were and will remain faithful. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “In contrast,” or “But as for you,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) HEB 10 32 tlh3 figs-idiom τὰς πρότερον ἡμέρας 1 the former days Here, the phrase **the former days** refers to a period of time in the past. It does not refer to just a few **days**, and it does not specify how long in the past this period of time is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to a period of time in the past. Alternate translation: “the time in the past” or “the previous period of time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) @@ -1434,12 +1434,12 @@ HEB 10 35 xh64 grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 General Information: Here, HEB 10 35 m35c figs-metaphor μὴ ἀποβάλητε…τὴν παρρησίαν ὑμῶν 1 do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward Here the author speaks as if **confidence** were an object that the audience **throw away** and lose. The author speaks in this way to urge the audience to remain firmly confident, as firmly as they would hold onto a valuable possession. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “leg go of your confidence” or “must not cease being confident” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 35 sl3k figs-explicit τὴν παρρησίαν ὑμῶν 1 do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward Here the author does not state explicitly what the **confidence** is in. He implies that the **confidence** is in God and in what God has promised to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the object of **confidence** more explicit. Alternate translation: “your confidence in God” or “your confidence in what God has said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 35 bksd figs-abstractnouns τὴν παρρησίαν ὑμῶν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **confidence**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “confident” or an adverb such as “confidently.” Alternate translation: “how confident you are” or “the way you confidently trust God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 10 35 w3pr figs-personification ἥτις ἔχει μεγάλην μισθαποδοσίαν 1 Here the author speaks as if **confidence** were a person who could “have” a **great reward**. The author speaks in this way to indicate that people who have this kind of **confidence** will receive that **great reward** from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in plain language. Alternate translation: “which God will greatly reward” or “since those with this confidence will receive a great reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) +HEB 10 35 w3pr figs-personification ἥτις ἔχει μεγάλην μισθαποδοσίαν 1 Here the author speaks as if **confidence** were a person who could “have” a **great reward**. The author speaks in this way to indicate that people who have this kind of **confidence** will receive that **great reward** from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in plain language. Alternate translation: “which God will greatly reward” or “since those with this confidence will receive a great reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 10 36 zmf9 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a further explanation or development of what the author said in the previous verse ([10:35](../10/35.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces further development, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 10 36 lgu4 figs-abstractnouns ὑπομονῆς…ἔχετε χρείαν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **need** and **endurance**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “need” and “endure” or “persevere.” Alternate translation: “you must persevere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 36 zdcx grammar-connect-time-sequential ποιήσαντες 1 Here, the phrase **having done** could introduce: (1) an action which occurs before “obtaining the promise.” Alternate translation: “after having done” (2) the basis or reason for “obtaining the promise.” Alternate translation: “because you have done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]]) HEB 10 36 xy9j figs-abstractnouns τὸ θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **will**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “want” or “desire.” Alternate translation: “what God wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 10 36 ezun figs-metonymy τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν 1 Here, the word **promise** refers to the contents of the **promise**, or what God has “promised” to give. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **promise**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promise” or “the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 10 36 ezun figs-metonymy τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν 1 Here, the word **promise** figuratively refers to the contents of the **promise**, or what God has “promised” to give. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of this **promise**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promise” or “the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 36 hj2e figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promise**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise” or “pledge.” Alternate translation: “what God pledged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 37 uvq3 figs-quotemarks ἔτι γὰρ μικρὸν ὅσον, ὅσον ὁ ἐρχόμενος 1 For in a very little while The words of the quotation could begin with: (1) **yet**. Alternate translation: “For ‘yet in a very little while, the one coming” (2) **{in} a very little {while}**. Alternate translation: “For yet ‘in a very little while, the one coming” (3) **the one coming**. Alternate translation: “For yet in a very little while, ‘the one coming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]]) HEB 10 37 gpp8 writing-quotations γὰρ 1 For in a very little while Here the author uses the word **For** to introduce a quotation from the Old Testament, which continues in the following verse. This quotation supports what he has said about how the audience needs “endurance” (see [10:37](../10/37.md)). The quotation is from [Habakkuk 2:3–4](../hab/02/03.md), although the author rearranges some clauses in the following verse. Further, the phrase **yet {in} a very little {while}** paraphrases the beginning of [Habakkuk 2:3](../hab/02/03.md), and it sounds much like part of [Isaiah 26:20](../isa/26/20.md). However, the author introduces these words as one quotation, so you should also do that. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make it explicit that the author is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For in the Scriptures it says,” or “For someone wrote in the Scriptures,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]]) @@ -1477,7 +1477,7 @@ HEB 11 1 ybd8 figs-abstractnouns πραγμάτων ἔλεγχος 1 certain of HEB 11 2 smr4 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 For because of this Here, the word **For** introduces a further explanation of what the author said about “faith” in the previous verse ([11:1](../11/01.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 11 2 vyiy writing-pronouns ταύτῃ 1 For because of this Here, the word **this** refers to the “faith” that the author discussed in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make what **this** refers to explicit. Alternate translation: “this faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 11 2 kmq6 figs-activepassive ἐμαρτυρήθησαν οἱ πρεσβύτεροι 1 the ancestors were approved If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on those who are **commended** rather than focusing on the person doing the “commending.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God commended the ancients” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 11 2 u66c figs-explicit οἱ πρεσβύτεροι 1 the ancestors Here, the word **ancients** refers to people who lived before the audience. The word implies that there are stories about these people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to famous people who are no longer living. See how you translated “fathers” in [1:1](../01/01.md). Alternate translation: “the forefathers” or “the ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 11 2 u66c figs-explicit οἱ πρεσβύτεροι 1 the ancestors Here, the word **ancients** refers to people who lived before the audience. The word implies that there are stories about these people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to famous people who are no longer living. See how you translated “fathers” in [1:1](../01/01.md). Alternate translation: “the forefathers” or “the ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 2 wfde translate-unknown ἐμαρτυρήθησαν 1 the ancestors Here, the phrase **were commended** refers to how someone testifies in favor of another person. The idea is that God has testified that **the ancients** were pleasing to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to receiving a favorable testimony. Alternate translation: “were spoken highly of” or “were endorsed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 11 3 e74z figs-abstractnouns πίστει 1 the universe was created by God’s command If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **faith**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “believe” or “trust.” Alternate translation: “By believing” or “Because we believe,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 3 u5i9 figs-activepassive κατηρτίσθαι τοὺς αἰῶνας ῥήματι Θεοῦ 1 the universe was created by God’s command If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on **the ages** that **have been prepared** rather than focusing on the person doing the “preparing.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it by using his **word**. Alternate translation: “that God has prepared the ages by his word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -1524,7 +1524,7 @@ HEB 11 7 z9dd translate-names Νῶε 1 having been given a divine message The w HEB 11 7 p3pn figs-activepassive χρηματισθεὶς 1 about things not yet seen If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on **Noah**, who was **warned**, rather than focusing on the person doing the “warning.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “when God warned him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 7 ctop figs-activepassive τῶν μηδέπω βλεπομένων 1 about things not yet seen If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on what is **not yet being seen** rather than focusing on the person doing the “seeing.” If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “things no one could yet see” or “the things that people could not yet see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 7 b5lb figs-explicit τῶν μηδέπω βλεπομένων 1 about things not yet seen Here, the phrase **{things} not yet being seen** refers to events that have not yet happened. In this case, it refers specifically to the flood that drowned everyone except for Noah and his family. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make it clearer that this phrase refers to events that had not yet happened. Alternate translation: “the things not yet having happened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -HEB 11 7 l9c4 figs-abstractnouns εἰς σωτηρίαν τοῦ οἴκου αὐτοῦ 1 about things not yet seen If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **salvation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “rescue” or “save.” Alternate translation: “to save his household” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) +HEB 11 7 l9c4 figs-abstractnouns εἰς σωτηρίαν τοῦ οἴκου αὐτοῦ 1 about things not yet seen If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **salvation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “rescue” or “save.” Alternate translation: “to save his household” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 7 bqpr writing-pronouns ἧς 1 about things not yet seen Here, the word **which** could refer to: (1) **faith**. Alternate translation: “which faith” (2) the **ark**. Alternate translation: “which ark” (3) **salvation**. Alternate translation: “which salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 11 7 pf7b figs-metonymy τὸν κόσμον 1 the world Here, the word **world** refers primarily to the people who were living in the **world**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could refer specifically to people here. Alternate translation: “everyone in the world” or “all people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 7 c9yc figs-metaphor τῆς…δικαιοσύνης, ἐγένετο κληρονόμος 1 became an heir of the righteousness Here the author speaks as if **Noah** were a child who would receive property from a relative. He speaks in this way to indicate that Noah received **righteousness** from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “became one who received the righteousness” or “received the righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) @@ -1534,14 +1534,14 @@ HEB 11 8 hj87 0 when he was called In [11:8–12](../11/08.md), the author ref HEB 11 8 sgtm figs-abstractnouns πίστει 1 when he was called If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **faith**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “believe” or “trust.” Alternate translation: “By believing,” or “Because he believed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 8 hjaa translate-names Ἀβραὰμ 1 when he was called The word **Abraham** is the name of a man. He was the ancestor of all the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 11 8 a7c2 figs-activepassive καλούμενος 1 when he was called If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The author uses the passive form here to focus on **Abraham**, who was **called**, rather than focusing on the person doing the “calling.” If you must state who did the action, the author implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “when God called him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -HEB 11 8 sq21 figs-idiom ὑπήκουσεν ἐξελθεῖν 1 He went out Here, the phrase **obeyed to go out** means that Abraham **obeyed** God’s command by “going out.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a form that refers to doing what someone commands. Alternate translation: “obeyed by going out” or “obeyed and went out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +HEB 11 8 sq21 figs-idiom ὑπήκουσεν ἐξελθεῖν 1 He went out Here, the phrase **obeyed to go out** means that Abraham **obeyed** God’s command by “going out.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a form that refers to doing what someone commands. Alternate translation: “obeyed by going out” or “obeyed and went out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 11 8 kkt5 figs-go ἐξελθεῖν…ἐξῆλθεν 1 went out to the place Here, the phrases **go out** and **went out** refer to travel in which a person leaves one areas and goes to another area. Use a word or phrase that refers to this kind of movement in your language. Alternate translation: “to depart … departed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) -HEB 11 8 e00q figs-extrainfo τόπον 1 went out to the place Here the author uses the word **place** because it is a vague word that refers to a location without giving any more details. He uses a vague word because Abraham did “not fully know where he was going.” If possible, use a vague or indefinite word here as well. Alternate translation: “a locale” or “an area” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) +HEB 11 8 e00q figs-extrainfo τόπον 1 went out to the place Here the author uses the word **place** because it is a vague word that refers to a location without giving any more details. He uses a vague word because Abraham did “not fully know where he was going.” If possible, use a vague or indefinite word here as well. Alternate translation: “a locale” or “an area” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) HEB 11 8 d1zf figs-metaphor ἤμελλεν λαμβάνειν εἰς κληρονομίαν 1 that he was to receive as an inheritance Here the author speaks of the **place** as if it were property that **Abraham** was **going to receive** from a relative. The author speaks in this way to indicate that God was **going to** give this **place** to Abraham. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “God was going to give him as his own” or “he was going to receive from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 8 z1fo figs-pastforfuture ἔρχεται 1 that he was to receive as an inheritance Here the author uses the present tense to refer to the process of **going**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a form that refers to the process of going. Make sure the tense fits with the rest of the verse. Alternate translation: “he was going” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]]) HEB 11 8 s82j figs-go ἔρχεται 1 that he was to receive as an inheritance Here, the word **going** refers to traveling from one place to another. Use a word or phrase that refers to this kind of movement in your language. Alternate translation: “he is traveling” or “he is journeying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 11 9 be1c figs-abstractnouns πίστει 1 he lived in the land of promise as a foreigner If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **faith**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “believe” or “trust.” Alternate translation: “By believing,” or “Because he believed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 11 9 pmb6 figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐπαγγελίας…τῆς ἐπαγγελίας τῆς αὐτῆς 1 he lived in the land of promise as a foreigner If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promise**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise” or “pledge.” Alternate translation: “that God had pledged to him … of the same things that God had pledged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) +HEB 11 9 pmb6 figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐπαγγελίας…τῆς ἐπαγγελίας τῆς αὐτῆς 1 he lived in the land of promise as a foreigner If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promise**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise” or “pledge.” Alternate translation: “that God had pledged to him … of the same things that God had pledged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 9 c0g3 figs-explicit ὡς ἀλλοτρίαν 1 he lived in the land of promise as a foreigner Here, the phrase **as a foreign {land}** indicates that Abraham had not yet “inherited” the **land of the promise**, so the **land** belonged to someone else. So, while God had promised to give it to him, while he was living there, it was **foreign** and not his own **land**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “as if it were a foreign country” or “as if he were living in a foreign land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 9 pj3f figs-explicit ἐν σκηναῖς κατοικήσας 1 he lived in the land of promise as a foreigner In the author’s culture, people who lived in **tents** did not have one permanent home. Rather, they moved around and did not stay in one place for long. The author refers to **tents** here to indicate that Abraham, **Isaac**, and **Jacob** did not have a permanent home but rather moved around. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this implication more explicit. Alternate translation: “having lived in moveable tents” or “having lived in many places in tents” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 9 lbsd translate-names Ἰσαὰκ…Ἰακὼβ 1 fellow heirs The words **Isaac** and **Jacob** are the names of two men. **Isaac** was Abraham’s son, and **Jacob** was Isaac’s son. These three men are considered the original ancestors of the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) @@ -1570,17 +1570,17 @@ HEB 11 12 x8b2 figs-simile καθὼς τὰ ἄστρα τοῦ οὐρανο HEB 11 12 mu4e figs-simile ὡς ἡ ἄμμος, ἡ παρὰ τὸ χεῖλος τῆς θαλάσσης, ἡ ἀναρίθμητος 1 as countless as sand by the seashore Here the author compares the number of Abraham’s descendants to the amount of **sand** on a beach by the **sea**, which is so great that no one can count it (**countless**). He uses this comparison to emphasize how many descendants there are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make it clearer that the author is referring to many descendants and many grains of **sand**. Alternate translation: “as many as the numberless grains of sand along the shore of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HEB 11 13 tw2p figs-abstractnouns κατὰ πίστιν 1 without receiving the promises If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **faith**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “believe” or “trust.” Alternate translation: “While they were believing,” or “As they believed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 13 rxtn writing-pronouns οὗτοι πάντες 1 without receiving the promises Here, and throughout [11:13–16](../11/13.md), the author could be referring: (1) generally to all the people that the author has discussed in the chapter. Alternate translation: “those I have mentioned” or “all these who had faith” (2) specifically to Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Jacob, who are mentioned in [11:8–12](../11/08.md). Alternate translation: “the patriarchs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 11 13 yin6 figs-metonymy τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 without receiving the promises Here, the word **promises** refers to the contents of the **promises**, or what God has “promised” to give. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of the **promises**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promises” or “the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +HEB 11 13 yin6 figs-metonymy τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 without receiving the promises Here, the word **promises** figuratively refers to the contents of the **promises**, or what God has “promised” to give. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that the author is referring to the contents of the **promises**. Alternate translation: “the things from God’s promises” or “the things that God promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 13 l2ln figs-abstractnouns τὰς ἐπαγγελίας 1 without receiving the promises If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **promises**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “promise” or “pledge.” Alternate translation: “what God pledged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 13 g5ut figs-personification πόρρωθεν αὐτὰς ἰδόντες καὶ ἀσπασάμενοι 1 after seeing and greeting them from far off Here the author speaks as if **the promises** were travelers arriving from far away that people could “see” and “greet.” The author means that the people he has mentioned in this chapter were as sure of the **promises** as if they could already see and communicate with them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or express the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “but anticipating and expecting them in the future” or “seeing and greeting them from far off as if the promises were expected visitors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 11 13 n71b figs-pastforfuture εἰσιν 1 they admitted Here the author uses the present tense because he is reporting what **all these** people **confessed** while they were alive. Use a natural tense in your language to report what people in the past said. Alternate translation: “they were” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]]) HEB 11 13 q1nq figs-doublet ξένοι καὶ παρεπίδημοί 1 they were foreigners and exiles on earth Here, the words **strangers** and **foreigners** function together to identify **all these** people as those who are not living in their homeland. In other words, they are “resident aliens.” If you do not have two words for these categories, you could use a single word or phrase that refers to people who are living somewhere besides their home or homeland. Alternate translation: “aliens” or “foreign people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 11 14 l1cx grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 a homeland Here, the word **For** introduces a further explanation of what the author said in the previous verse ([11:13](../11/13.md)) about how the faithful people “confessed” that they were “strangers and foreigners on the earth.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different word or phrase that introduces further explanation. Alternate translation: “As you can see,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 11 14 jb1c writing-pronouns τοιαῦτα 1 a homeland Here, the phrase **such {things}** refers back to what the author said about the faithful people in the previous verse: they “confessed that they are strangers and foreigners on the earth.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could make what **such {things}** refers to more explicit. Alternate translation: “that they are strangers and foreigners” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) -HEB 11 14 xwa4 translate-unknown πατρίδα 1 a homeland Here, the word **homeland** refers to the place in which a person most deeply belongs. It often refers to the place where a person was born, but that is not the implication here. Rather, the author is referring to the place where the faithful people belong, a place he has already called a “city” (see [11:10](../11/10.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the place or country in which a person belongs. Alternate translation: “a country where they belong” or “a fatherland” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) +HEB 11 14 xwa4 translate-unknown πατρίδα 1 a homeland Here, the word **homeland** refers to the place in which a person most deeply belongs. It often refers to the place where a person was born, but that is not the implication here. Rather, the author is referring to the place where the faithful people belong, a place he has already called a “city” (see [11:10](../11/10.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the place or country in which a person belongs. Alternate translation: “a country where they belong” or “a fatherland” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 11 15 y4jr grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ εἰ μὲν 1 a homeland Here, the word **And** introduces another step in the author’s argument. The word **indeed** indicates that this further step is in two parts, with the second part beginning with “but” in [11:16](../11/16.md). The word **if** indicates that the first part of the further step is in conditional form. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different form to indicate these relationships in a natural way. Alternate translation: “Further, on the one hand, if” or “First, if” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]]) HEB 11 15 vd0k grammar-connect-condition-contrary εἰ μὲν…μνημονεύουσιν 1 a homeland Here the author is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that **they** were not actually **thinking of that {land} from which they went out**. He proves that the conditional statement is not true by pointing out that they **had opportunity to return** but did not take that opportunity. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “if indeed they had really been thinking” or “were they indeed thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]]) -HEB 11 15 mbd3 figs-explicit ἐκείνης μνημονεύουσιν ἀφ’ ἧς ἐξέβησαν 1 a homeland Here the author implies that they could have thought of **that {land} from which they went out** as their “homeland.” He does not mean that they could have just thought about that land. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that the author is referring to **thinking of that {land}** as a “homeland.” Alternate translation: “they had been thinking of that {land} from which they went out as their homeland” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 11 15 mbd3 figs-explicit ἐκείνης μνημονεύουσιν ἀφ’ ἧς ἐξέβησαν 1 a homeland Here the author implies that they could have thought of **that {land} from which they went out** as their “homeland.” He does not mean that they could have just thought about that land. If it would be helpful in your language, you could clarify that the author is referring to **thinking of that {land}** as a “homeland.” Alternate translation: “they had been thinking of that {land} from which they went out as their homeland” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 15 gf7l figs-go ἐξέβησαν…ἀνακάμψαι 1 a homeland Here, the clause **they went out** refers to movement out of one location and into another. The phrase **to return** refers to going back to that same place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use natural phrases that refer to these kinds of movements. Alternate translation: “they departed … to travel back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]]) HEB 11 15 vavd figs-abstractnouns εἶχον ἂν καιρὸν 1 a homeland If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **opportunity**, you could express the idea in a more natural way. Alternate translation: “they would have been able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 16 bhrv grammar-connect-logic-contrast νῦν δὲ 1 heavenly one Here, the phrase **But now** introduces what is true, in contrast to the hypothetical situation the author presented in [11:15](../11/15.md). The word **now** does not refer to time here. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces reality in contrast to a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “In reality, though,” or “As it really is,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) @@ -1613,7 +1613,7 @@ HEB 11 18 c23z figs-idiom κληθήσεταί 1 your descendants will be named HEB 11 19 spl8 grammar-connect-logic-result λογισάμενος 1 God was able to raise up Isaac from the dead Here, the phrase **having reasoned** introduces the reason why Abraham acted as the author described in [11:17](../11/17.md). If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this relationship more explicit. Alternate translation: “because he reasoned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) HEB 11 19 p43u figs-idiom καὶ ἐκ νεκρῶν ἐγείρειν 1 God was able to raise up Isaac from the dead Here the author uses the phrase **raise up** to refer to how God makes someone who has died come back to life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable expression or translate the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “to restore even the dead to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 11 19 sar1 figs-nominaladj νεκρῶν 1 to raise up … from the dead The author is using the adjective **dead** as a noun in order to refer to all people who are **dead**. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this one with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the dead people” or “the corpses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]]) -HEB 11 19 aea3 translate-unknown αὐτὸν…ἐν παραβολῇ ἐκομίσατο 1 figuratively speaking Here, the phrase **in a parable** indicates that what the author is about to say should not be understood literally. The **parable** could refer to: (1) how Isaac did not really die, so the statement that Abraham received Isaac back from the dead overstates what actually happened. Alternate translation: “it was as if he received him back” (2) how Isaac almost dying and then being **received** back represents how God will resurrect everyone who believes. Alternate translation: “in a type, he received him back” or “in a foreshadowing, he received him back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) +HEB 11 19 aea3 translate-unknown αὐτὸν…ἐν παραβολῇ ἐκομίσατο 1 figuratively speaking Here, the phrase **in a parable** indicates that what the author is about to say should not be understood literally. The **parable** could refer to: (1) how Isaac did not really die, so the statement that Abraham received Isaac back from the dead overstates what actually happened. Alternate translation: “it was as if he received him back” (2) how Isaac almost dying and then being **received** back figuratively represents how God will resurrect everyone who believes. Alternate translation: “in a type, he received him back” or “in a foreshadowing, he received him back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 11 19 hjxf writing-pronouns αὐτὸν…ἐκομίσατο 1 figuratively speaking Here, the word **he** refers to Abraham, and the word **him** refers to Isaac. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make to whom these words refer more explicit. Alternate translation: “Abraham received Isaac back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]]) HEB 11 19 k7u3 ὅθεν αὐτὸν καὶ ἐν παραβολῇ ἐκομίσατο 1 from there Here, the word translated **from there** could be: (1) a reference back to the **dead**, specifically the state of being **dead**. Alternate translation: “and in a parable, he received him back from being dead” (2) a linking word that indicates the cause of Abraham receiving Isaac back. Alternate translation: “because of which, also in a parable, he received him back” HEB 11 20 o8gj 0 he received him back Here the author refers to a story about how **Isaac** blessed his twin sons **Jacob** and **Esau**. In the story, Jacob pretends to be Esau and receives the blessing that Isaac intended for Esau. When Esau comes to receive his blessing, Isaac realizes that Jacob stole the blessing from Esau. He then gives Esau a different blessing. You can read about Isaac blessing his sons in [Genesis 27:1–40](../gen/27/01.md). You might want to include this information in a footnote. @@ -1642,7 +1642,7 @@ HEB 11 23 n6fz τρίμηνον 1 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three HEB 11 23 rlnm translate-unknown ἀστεῖον 1 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents Here, the word **beautiful** refers to how someone is charming, good-looking, or has good qualities in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies that a person has good qualities. Alternate translation: “extraordinary” or “excellent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]]) HEB 11 23 mz1o figs-explicit οὐκ ἐφοβήθησαν τὸ διάταγμα 1 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents Here the author means that Moses’ parents were **not afraid** to break or disobey **the decree**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this more explicit. Alternate translation: “they were not afraid of breaking the decree” or “they did not fear the consequences of breaking the decree” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 23 wwo6 figs-abstractnouns τὸ διάταγμα τοῦ βασιλέως 1 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **decree**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “decree” or “command.” Alternate translation: “of what the king decreed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -HEB 11 23 n63g figs-explicit τὸ διάταγμα τοῦ βασιλέως 1 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents Here the author assumes that his audience knew who the **king** was and what the **decree** was about. The **king** is the ruler over the land of Egypt, sometimes also called a “Pharaoh.” The **decree** required all the sons born to the Israelites to be drowned in the river Nile. If your readers would not make these inferences, you could make them more explicit. Alternate translation: “of the king of Egypt’s decree that all the male children of the Israelites should be drowned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +HEB 11 23 n63g figs-explicit τὸ διάταγμα τοῦ βασιλέως 1 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents Here the author assumes that his audience knew who the **king** was and what the **decree** was about. The **king** is the ruler over the land of Egypt, sometimes also called a “Pharaoh.” The **decree** required all the sons born to the Israelites to be drowned in the river Nile. If your readers would not make these inferences, you could make them more explicit. Alternate translation: “of the king of Egypt’s decree that all the male children of the Israelites should be drowned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 24 ngi7 0 had grown up In [11:24–27](../11/24.md), the author refers to a story about **Moses**. This man **Moses** grew up as the adopted son of Pharaoh’s daughter. However, one day Moses saw an Egyptian hitting one of his fellow Israelites. He killed the Egyptian, but Pharaoh found out and wanted to kill Moses. Moses escaped to a land called Midian. You can read about this story in [Exodus 2:11–15](../exo/02/11.md). You might want to include this information in a footnote. HEB 11 24 s1t9 figs-abstractnouns πίστει 1 had grown up If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **faith**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “believe” or “trust.” Alternate translation: “By believing,” or “Because he believed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 24 rtx6 translate-names Μωϋσῆς…Φαραώ 1 had grown up The word **Moses** is the name of a man. He is the one whom God used to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The word **Pharaoh** was the title of the king of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) @@ -1883,4 +1883,4 @@ HEB 13 22 d5e6 ἀνέχεσθε τοῦ λόγου τῆς παρακλήσε HEB 13 22 l8b3 figs-metonymy τοῦ λόγου τῆς παρακλήσεως 1 the word of encouragement Here, **word** stands for a message. Alternate translation: “the encouraging message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 23 w3m2 figs-activepassive ἀπολελυμένον 1 has been set free If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “is no longer in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 24 r7kn ἀσπάζονται ὑμᾶς οἱ ἀπὸ τῆς Ἰταλίας 1 Those from Italy greet you This could mean: (1) the author is not in **Italy**, but there is a group of believers with him who have come from Italy. (2) the author is in **Italy** while writing this letter. -HEB 13 24 kk9c translate-names τῆς Ἰταλίας 1 Italy **Italy** is the name of a region at that time. At that time, Rome was the capital city of Italy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) +HEB 13 24 kk9c translate-names τῆς Ἰταλίας 1 Italy **Italy** is the name of a region at that time. At that time, Rome was the capital city of Italy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) \ No newline at end of file