# before the decree takes effect

This phrase refers to the punishment that will happen as a result of Yahweh's decree. Alternate translation: "before Yahweh punishes you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metonymy]])

# that day

This phrase relates to the "day of Yahweh." Translate as you did similar phrases in [Zephaniah 1:9](../01/09.md).

# that day passes like the chaff

The chaff is the insignificant part of the plant that the wind blows away. In a similar way, the day of judgment will pass quickly. Alternate translation: "that day passes as quickly as chaff blown by the wind" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-simile]])

# before the fierce anger of Yahweh's wrath comes upon you, before the day of Yahweh's wrath comes upon you

The prophet repeats the same phrase almost exactly in order to emphasize how terrible Yahweh's judgment will be and the urgency with which the people must repent. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-parallelism]])

# Yahweh's wrath

This stands for God's intent to punish. Alternate translation: "Yahweh's punishment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metonymy]])