en_tn/2co/03/02.md

# Paul begins an extended metaphor that speaks of the way that the Corinthians have been obeying Christ as if it were a letter that Christ had written first to Paul and his companions and then to all the people in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

# You yourselves are our letter of recommendation

Paul speaks of the Corinthians as if they are a letter of recommendation. That they have become believers serves to validate Paul's ministry to others. Alternate translation: "You yourselves are like our letter of recommendation" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

# written on our hearts

Here the word "hearts" refers to their thoughts and emotions. Possible meanings are 1) Paul and his coworkers are sure about the Corinthians being their letter of recommendation or 2) Paul and his coworkers care very deeply for the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

# written on our hearts

This can be stated in active form with "Christ" as the implied subject. Alternate translation: "which Christ has written on our hearts" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

# known and read by all people

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that all people can know and read" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])