From e8bbfae600cbacd68fc031985dffc201e2b8f2dc Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Larry Sallee Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2018 20:42:03 +0000 Subject: [PATCH] Update Greek snippets (#1120) --- en_tn_49-GAL.tsv | 78 +++++++++++----------- en_tn_52-COL.tsv | 168 +++++++++++++++++++++++------------------------ 2 files changed, 123 insertions(+), 123 deletions(-) diff --git a/en_tn_49-GAL.tsv b/en_tn_49-GAL.tsv index b0fcd593b3..d7fe8657dd 100644 --- a/en_tn_49-GAL.tsv +++ b/en_tn_49-GAL.tsv @@ -6,14 +6,14 @@ GAL 1 1 d1kd τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν 1 who raised him "who c GAL 1 2 d737 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father. Alternate translation: "brothers and sisters" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) GAL 1 4 yk9g figs-metonymy περὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν 1 for our sins "Sins" is a metonym the punishment for sin. Alternate translation: "to take the punishment we deserved because of our sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 1 4 f6d5 figs-metonymy ὅπως ἐξέληται ἡμᾶς ἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ 1 that he might deliver us from this present evil age Here "this ... age" represents the powers at work in the age. Alternate translation: "that he might bring us to a place of safety from the evil powers at work in the world today" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -GAL 1 4 lbb2 τοῦ ... Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν 1 our God and Father This refers to "God our Father." He is our God and our Father. +GAL 1 4 lbb2 τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν 1 our God and Father This refers to "God our Father." He is our God and our Father. GAL 1 6 lf1w 0 Connecting Statement: Paul gives his reason for writing this letter: he reminds them to continue to understand the gospel. GAL 1 6 f74p θαυμάζω 1 I am amazed "I am surprised" or "I am shocked." Paul was disappointed that they were doing this. GAL 1 6 v438 figs-metaphor οὕτως ταχέως, μετατίθεσθε ἀπὸ τοῦ καλέσαντος 1 you are turning away so quickly from him Here "turning away ... from him" is a metaphor for started to doubt or no longer trust God. Alternate translation: "you are so quickly starting to doubt him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 1 6 x7we τοῦ καλέσαντος ὑμᾶς 1 him who called you "God, who called you" GAL 1 6 fd7a τοῦ καλέσαντος 1 called Here this means God has appointed or chosen people to be his children, to serve him, and to proclaim his message of salvation through Jesus. GAL 1 6 cfr2 ἐν χάριτι Χριστοῦ 1 by the grace of Christ "because of Christ's grace" or "because of Christ's gracious sacrifice" -GAL 1 6 n1rd figs-metaphor 0 you are turning to a different gospel Here "turning to" is a metaphor that means to start to believe something. Alternate translation: "you are instead starting to believe a different gospel" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 1 6 n1rd figs-metaphor μετατίθεσθε ... εἰς ἕτερον εὐαγγέλιον 0 you are turning to a different gospel Here "turning to" is a metaphor that means to start to believe something. Alternate translation: "you are instead starting to believe a different gospel" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 1 7 gy1i οἱ ταράσσοντες 1 some men "some people" GAL 1 8 i82d figs-hypo εὐαγγελίζηται 1 should proclaim This is describing something that has not happened and should not happen. Alternate translation: "would proclaim" or "were to proclaim" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]]) GAL 1 8 s5uq παρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα 1 other than the one "different from the gospel" or "different from the message" @@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ GAL 1 10 b2vc figs-rquestion ἄρτι γὰρ ἀνθρώπους πείθω GAL 1 10 fl3c εἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον, Χριστοῦ δοῦλος οὐκ ἂν ἤμην 1 If I am still trying to please men, I am not a servant of Christ Both the "if" phrase and the "then" phrase are contrary to fact. "I am not still trying to please men; I am a servant of Christ" or "If I were still trying to please men, then I would not be a servant of Christ" GAL 1 11 llg6 0 Connecting Statement: Paul explains that he did not learn the gospel from others; he learned it from Jesus Christ. GAL 1 11 g1qg ἀδελφοί 1 brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md). -GAL 1 11 k33s ὅτι οὐκ ... κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 not man's gospel By using this phrase, Paul was not trying to say that Jesus Christ is not himself human. Because Christ is both man and God, however, he is not a sinful human being. Paul is writing about where the gospel came from; that it did not come from other sinful human beings, but it came from Jesus Christ. +GAL 1 11 k33s ὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 not man's gospel By using this phrase, Paul was not trying to say that Jesus Christ is not himself human. Because Christ is both man and God, however, he is not a sinful human being. Paul is writing about where the gospel came from; that it did not come from other sinful human beings, but it came from Jesus Christ. GAL 1 12 wed1 δι’ ἀποκαλύψεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 it was by revelation of Jesus Christ to me Possible meanings are 1) "Jesus Christ himself revealed the gospel to me" or 2) "God made me know the gospel when he showed me who Jesus Christ was." GAL 1 13 f3gl ἀναστροφήν ποτε 1 former life "behavior at one time" or "prior life" or "earlier life" GAL 1 14 r44z καὶ προέκοπτον 1 I advanced This metaphor pictures Paul as being ahead of other Jews his age in their goal to be perfect Jews. @@ -43,39 +43,39 @@ GAL 1 23 z8qt μόνον δὲ ἀκούοντες ἦσαν 1 They only heard GAL 2 intro xe28 0 # Galatians 02 General Notes
## Structure and formatting

Paul continues to defend the true gospel. This began in [Galatians 1:11](../../gal/01/11.md).

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Freedom and slavery

Throughout this letter, Paul contrasts freedom and slavery. The Christian is free in Christ to do many different things. But the Christian who attempts to follow the law of Moses needs to follow the whole law. Paul describes trying to follow the law as a type of slavery. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### "I do not negate the grace of God"

Paul teaches that, if a Christian attempts to follow the law of Moses, they do not understand the grace God has shown to them. This is a fundamental error. But Paul uses the words "I do not negate the grace of God" as a type of hypothetical situation. The purpose of this statement could be seen as, "If you could be saved by following the law, then it would negate the grace of God." (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 2 1 zt61 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to give the history of how he learned the gospel from God, not the apostles. GAL 2 1 zth5 ἀνέβην 1 went up "traveled." Jerusalem is located in hilly country. The Jews also viewed Jerusalem as the place on earth that is closest to heaven, so Paul may have been speaking figuratively, or it may be that it was reflecting the difficult, uphill, journey to get to Jerusalem. -GAL 2 2 msv4 τοῖς ... δοκοῦσιν 1 those who seemed to be important "the most important leaders among the believers" +GAL 2 2 msv4 τοῖς δοκοῦσιν 1 those who seemed to be important "the most important leaders among the believers" GAL 2 2 ejb8 figs-doublenegatives μή πως εἰς κενὸν τρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον 1 I was not running—or had not run—in vain Paul uses running as a metaphor for work, and he uses a double negative to emphasize that the work he had done was profitable. Alternate translation: "I was doing, or had done, profitable work" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 2 2 t6we εἰς κενὸν 1 in vain "for no benefit" or "for nothing" GAL 2 3 xs8k figs-activepassive περιτμηθῆναι 1 to be circumcised This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "to have someone circumcise him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -GAL 2 4 j5ka 0 The false brothers came in secretly "People who pretended to be Christians came into the church," or "People who pretended to be Christians came among us" -GAL 2 4 x1mx 0 spy on the liberty secretly watch people to see how they live in liberty +GAL 2 4 j5ka τοὺς παρεισάκτους ψευδαδέλφους 0 The false brothers came in secretly "People who pretended to be Christians came into the church," or "People who pretended to be Christians came among us" +GAL 2 4 x1mx κατασκοπῆσαι τὴν ἐλευθερίαν ἡμῶν 0 spy on the liberty secretly watch people to see how they live in liberty GAL 2 4 m1al τὴν ἐλευθερίαν 1 liberty freedom GAL 2 4 yd97 0 They desired "These spies desired" or "These false brothers wanted" -GAL 2 4 l7n7 figs-explicit 0 to make us slaves "to make us slaves to the law." Paul is speaking about being forced to follow the Jewish rituals that the law commanded. He is speaking about this as if it were slavery. The most important ritual was circumcision. Alternate translation: "to force us to obey the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 2 4 l7n7 figs-explicit ἵνα ἡμᾶς καταδουλώσουσιν 0 to make us slaves "to make us slaves to the law." Paul is speaking about being forced to follow the Jewish rituals that the law commanded. He is speaking about this as if it were slavery. The most important ritual was circumcision. Alternate translation: "to force us to obey the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 2 5 bba7 εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ 1 yield in submission "submit" or "listen" GAL 2 6 afy6 figs-metonymy ἐμοὶ ... οὐδὲν προσανέθεντο 1 added nothing to me The word "me" here represents what Paul was teaching. Alternate translation: "added nothing to what I teach" or "did not tell me to add anything to what I teach" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 2 7 cps6 ἀλλὰ τοὐναντίον 1 On the contrary "Instead" or "Rather" GAL 2 7 spa9 figs-activepassive πεπίστευμαι 1 I had been entrusted This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God trusted me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -GAL 2 9 he6q figs-metaphor 0 built up the church They were men who taught people about Jesus and convinced people to believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 2 9 he6q figs-metaphor δοκοῦντες στῦλοι εἶναι 0 built up the church They were men who taught people about Jesus and convinced people to believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 2 9 ie72 figs-abstractnouns γνόντες τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι 1 understood the grace that had been given to me The abstract noun "grace" can be translated as the verb "be kind." Alternate translation: "understood that God had been kind to me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) GAL 2 9 kz2m figs-activepassive τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι 1 the grace that had been given to me This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the grace that God had given to me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) GAL 2 9 e5rm translate-symaction δεξιὰς ἔδωκαν ... κοινωνίας 1 gave ... the right hand of fellowship Grasping and shaking the right hand was a symbol of fellowship. Alternate translation: "welcomed ... as fellow workers" or "welcomed ... with honor" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) GAL 2 9 gi7g δεξιὰς 1 the right hand "their right hands" GAL 2 10 kqq6 figs-explicit τῶν πτωχῶν ... μνημονεύωμεν 1 remember the poor You may need to make explicit what about the poor he was to remember. Alternate translation: "remember to take care of the needs of the poor" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 2 11 c9h4 figs-metonymy κατὰ πρόσωπον αὐτῷ ἀντέστην 1 I opposed him to his face The words "to his face" are a metonym for "where he could see and hear me." Alternate translation: "I confronted him in person" or "I challenged his actions in person" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -GAL 2 12 xym6 0 Before in relation to time -GAL 2 12 s18y 0 he stopped "he stopped eating with them" +GAL 2 12 xym6 πρὸ 0 Before in relation to time +GAL 2 12 s18y ὑπέστελλεν 0 he stopped "he stopped eating with them" GAL 2 12 z1kg figs-explicit φοβούμενος τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς 1 He was afraid of those who were demanding circumcision The reason Cephas was afraid can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "He was afraid that these men who required circumcision would judge that he was doing something wrong" or "He was afraid that these men who required circumcision would blame him for doing something wrong" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 2 12 fy79 τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς 1 those who were demanding circumcision Jews who had become Christians, but who demanded that those who believe in Christ live according to Jewish customs GAL 2 12 a6gv ἀφώριζεν ἑαυτόν 1 kept away from "stayed away from" or "avoided" -GAL 2 14 sg53 0 not following the truth of the gospel "they were not living like people who believe the gospel" or "they were living as though they did not believe the gospel" +GAL 2 14 sg53 οὐκ ὀρθοποδοῦσιν πρὸς τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 0 not following the truth of the gospel "they were not living like people who believe the gospel" or "they were living as though they did not believe the gospel" GAL 2 14 z4fp figs-rquestion πῶς τὰ ἔθνη ἀναγκάζεις Ἰουδαΐζειν 1 how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews? This rhetorical question is a rebuke and can be translated as a statement. The word "you" is singular and refers to Peter. Alternate translation: "you are wrong to force the Gentiles to live like Jews." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) GAL 2 14 y1zw ἀναγκάζεις 1 force Possible meanings are 1) force by using words or 2) persuade . GAL 2 15 p3x8 0 Connecting Statement: Paul tells the believers that Jews who know the law, as well as Gentiles who do not know the law, are saved only by faith in Christ and not by keeping the law. GAL 2 15 tz45 οὐκ ἐξ ἐθνῶν ἁμαρτωλοί 1 not Gentile sinners "not those whom the Jews call Gentile sinners" GAL 2 16 zy8p καὶ ἡμεῖς εἰς Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν ἐπιστεύσαμεν 1 We also came to faith in Christ Jesus "We believed in Christ Jesus" GAL 2 16 j6l1 figs-exclusive εἰδότες 1 we This probably refers to Paul and others but not to the Galatians, who were primarily Gentiles. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) -GAL 2 16 j7g5 figs-synecdoche οὐ ... δικαιωθήσεται πᾶσα σάρξ 1 no flesh The word "flesh" is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "no person" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) +GAL 2 16 j7g5 figs-synecdoche οὐ ... σάρξ 1 no flesh The word "flesh" is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "no person" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) GAL 2 17 vnp6 ζητοῦντες δικαιωθῆναι ἐν Χριστῷ 1 while we seek to be justified in Christ The phrase "justified in Christ" means justified because we are united with Christ and justified by means of Christ. GAL 2 17 sge2 figs-idiom εὑρέθημεν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἁμαρτωλοί 1 we too, were found to be sinners The words "were found to be" are an idiom that emphasizes that "we are" certainly sinners. Alternate translation: "we see that we also certainly are sinners" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) GAL 2 17 yy9s figs-rquestion μὴ γένοιτο 1 Absolutely not! "Of course, that is not true!" This expression gives the strongest possible negative answer to the preceding rhetorical question "Does Christ become a servant of sin?" You may have a similar expression in your language that you could use here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) @@ -98,17 +98,17 @@ GAL 3 4 iyj1 figs-rquestion τοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ 1 Have yo GAL 3 4 qn1a figs-explicit τοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ 1 Have you suffered so many things for nothing It can be stated clearly that they had suffered these things because of people who opposed them for their faith in Christ. Alternate translation: "Have you suffered so many things by those who opposed you for your faith in Christ for nothing" or "You believed in Christ, and you suffered many things by those who oppose Christ. Were your belief and suffering for nothing" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 3 4 nq68 εἰκῇ 1 for nothing "uselessly" or "without the hope of receiving something good" GAL 3 4 xl9l figs-rquestion εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ 1 if indeed it was for nothing? Possible meanings are 1) Paul uses this rhetorical question to warn them not to let their experiences be for nothing. Alternate translation: "Do not let it be for nothing!" or "Do not stop believing in Jesus Christ and let your suffering be for nothing." or 2) Paul uses this question to assure them that their suffering was not for nothing. Alternate translation: "It was certainly not for nothing!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) -GAL 3 5 s3bc figs-rquestion 0 Does he ... do so by the works of the law, or by hearing with faith? Paul asks another rhetorical question to remind the Galatians how people receive the Spirit. Alternate translation: "He ... does not do it by the works of the law; he does it by hearing with faith." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) +GAL 3 5 s3bc figs-rquestion ἐξ ἔργων νόμου ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως 0 Does he ... do so by the works of the law, or by hearing with faith? Paul asks another rhetorical question to remind the Galatians how people receive the Spirit. Alternate translation: "He ... does not do it by the works of the law; he does it by hearing with faith." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) GAL 3 5 j4vz ἐξ ἔργων νόμου 1 by the works of the law This represents people doing the works that the law requires. Alternate translation: "because you do what the law tells us to do" -GAL 3 5 e17q figs-explicit ἐξ ... ἀκοῆς πίστεως 1 by hearing with faith Your language may require that what the people heard and whom they trusted be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "because you heard the message and had faith in Jesus" or "because you listened to the message and trusted in Jesus" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +GAL 3 5 e17q figs-explicit ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως 1 by hearing with faith Your language may require that what the people heard and whom they trusted be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "because you heard the message and had faith in Jesus" or "because you listened to the message and trusted in Jesus" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 3 6 ahy9 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the Galatian believers that even Abraham received righteousness by faith and not by the law. GAL 3 6 f7sv ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην 1 it was credited to him as righteousness God saw Abraham's faith in God, so then God considered Abraham righteous. GAL 3 7 i9x4 figs-abstractnouns οἱ ἐκ πίστεως 1 those of faith "those who have faith." The meaning of the noun "faith" can be expressed with the verb "believe." Alternate translation: "those who believe" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -GAL 3 7 kq1h figs-metaphor οὗτοι υἱοί ... Ἀβραὰμ 1 children of Abraham This represents people whom God views as he viewed Abraham. Alternate translation: "righteous in the same way as Abraham" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 3 7 kq1h figs-metaphor υἱοί ... Ἀβραὰμ 1 children of Abraham This represents people whom God views as he viewed Abraham. Alternate translation: "righteous in the same way as Abraham" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 3 8 vs1m figs-personification προϊδοῦσα δὲ 1 foreseeing Because God made the promise to Abraham and they wrote it down before the promise came through Christ, the scripture is like someone who knows the future before it happens. Alternate translation: "predicted" or "saw before it happened" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) GAL 3 8 k9tp figs-you ἐν σοὶ 1 In you "Because of what you have done" or "Because I have blessed you." The word "you" refers to Abraham and is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) GAL 3 8 j83j πάντα τὰ ἔθνη 1 all the nations "all the people-groups in the world." God was emphasizing that he was not favoring only the Jewish people, his chosen group. His plan of salvation was for both Jews and non-Jews. -GAL 3 10 jhr2 figs-metaphor 0 All who rely on ... the law are under a curse Being under a curse represents being cursed. Here it refers to being eternally punished. "Those who rely on ... the law are cursed" or "God will eternally punish those who rely on ... the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +GAL 3 10 jhr2 figs-metaphor ὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμουεἰσὶν ὑπὸ κατάραν εἰσίν 0 All who rely on ... the law are under a curse Being under a curse represents being cursed. Here it refers to being eternally punished. "Those who rely on ... the law are cursed" or "God will eternally punish those who rely on ... the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 3 10 mxe7 ἔργων νόμου 1 the works of the law "what the law says we must do" GAL 3 11 sn9h figs-explicit δὲ ... δῆλον 1 Now it is clear What is clear can be stated explicitly. AT "The scriptures are clear" or "The scriptures teach clearly" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 3 11 k6k5 ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ 1 no one is justified before God by the law This can be stated with an active verb. Alternate translation: "God justifies no one by the law" @@ -117,14 +117,14 @@ GAL 3 11 i537 figs-nominaladj ὁ δίκαιος ἐκ πίστεως ζήσετ GAL 3 12 rep5 ζήσεται ἐν αὐτοῖς 1 must live by them Possible meanings are 1) "must obey them all" or 2) "will be judged by his ability to do what the law demands." GAL 3 13 x2lc 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds these believers again that keeping the law could not save a person and that the law did not add a new condition to the promise by faith given to Abraham. GAL 3 13 ml63 ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου 1 from the curse of the law The noun "curse" can be expressed with the verb "curse." Alternate translation: "from being cursed because of the law" or "from being cursed for not obeying the law" -GAL 3 13 mp4p figs-metonymy 0 from the curse of the law ... becoming a curse for us ... Cursed is everyone The word "curse" here is a metonym for God condemning the person whom he has cursed. Alternate translation: "from us having God condemn us because we broke the law ... having God condemn him instead of us ... God condemns everyone" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +GAL 3 13 mp4p figs-metonymy ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου, γενόμενος ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν κατάρα ... ἐπικατάρατος πᾶς 0 from the curse of the law ... becoming a curse for us ... Cursed is everyone The word "curse" here is a metonym for God condemning the person whom he has cursed. Alternate translation: "from us having God condemn us because we broke the law ... having God condemn him instead of us ... God condemns everyone" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 3 13 mt6z ὁ κρεμάμενος ἐπὶ ξύλου 1 hangs on a tree Paul expected his audience to understand that he was referring to Jesus hanging on the cross. GAL 3 14 brf7 ἵνα ... ἡ εὐλογία τοῦ Ἀβραὰμ γένηται 1 so that the blessing of Abraham might come "because Christ became a curse for us, the blessing of Abraham will come" GAL 3 14 fa98 ἵνα ... λάβωμεν διὰ τῆς πίστεως 1 so that by faith we might receive "because Christ became a curse for us, by faith we will receive" GAL 3 14 h46q figs-inclusive λάβωμεν 1 we The word "we" includes the people who would read the letter and so is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) GAL 3 15 al9b ἀδελφοί 1 Brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md). GAL 3 15 c3gs κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 in human terms "as a person" or "of things most people understand" -GAL 3 16 f1xu τῷ δὲ Ἀβραὰμ 1 Now This word shows that Paul has stated a general principle and is now beginning to introduce a specific case. +GAL 3 16 f1xu δὲ 1 Now This word shows that Paul has stated a general principle and is now beginning to introduce a specific case. GAL 3 16 w3wl ὡς ἐπὶ πολλῶν 1 referring to many "referring to many descendants" GAL 3 16 t25e figs-you τῷ ... σπέρματί σου 1 to your descendant The word "your" is singular and refers to a specific person, who is a particular descendant of Abraham (and that descendant is identified as "Christ"). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) GAL 3 17 h36m translate-numbers ὁ μετὰ τετρακόσια καὶ τριάκοντα ἔτη 1 430 years "four hundred and thirty years" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]]) @@ -140,12 +140,12 @@ GAL 3 21 wes3 figs-inclusive 0 General Information: The word "us" in this secti GAL 3 21 e43u κατὰ τῶν ἐπαγγελιῶν 1 against the promises "opposed to the promises" or "in conflict with the promises" GAL 3 21 b8xx figs-activepassive εἰ ... ἐδόθη νόμος ὁ δυνάμενος ζῳοποιῆσαι 1 if a law had been given that could give life This can be stated in active form, and the abstract noun "life" can be translated with the verb "live." Alternate translation: "if God had given a law that enabled those who kept it to live" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) GAL 3 21 iyg9 ἐν νόμου ἂν ἦν ἡ δικαιοσύνη 1 righteousness would certainly have come by the law "we could have become righteous by obeying that law" -GAL 3 22 n5js συνέκλεισεν ... Γραφὴ τὰ πάντα ὑπὸ ἁμαρτίαν, ἵνα ἡ ἐπαγγελία ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ δοθῇ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν 1 scripture imprisoned everything under sin. God did this so that the promise to save us by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe Other possible meanings are 1) "because we all sin, God put all things under the control of the law, like putting them in prison, so that what he has promised to those who have faith in Christ Jesus he might give to those who believe" or 2) "because we sin, God put all things under the control of the law, like putting them in prison. He did this because what he has promised to those who have faith in Christ Jesus he wants to give to those who believe." +GAL 3 22 n5js συνέκλεισεν ἡ Γραφὴ τὰ πάντα ὑπὸ ἁμαρτίαν, ἵνα ἡ ἐπαγγελία ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ δοθῇ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν 1 scripture imprisoned everything under sin. God did this so that the promise to save us by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe Other possible meanings are 1) "because we all sin, God put all things under the control of the law, like putting them in prison, so that what he has promised to those who have faith in Christ Jesus he might give to those who believe" or 2) "because we sin, God put all things under the control of the law, like putting them in prison. He did this because what he has promised to those who have faith in Christ Jesus he wants to give to those who believe." GAL 3 22 jbn7 figs-personification Γραφὴ 1 scripture Paul is treating scripture as though it were a person and is speaking of God, who wrote scripture. Alternate translation: "God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) GAL 3 23 rch2 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds those in Galatia that believers are free in God's family, not slaves under the law. GAL 3 23 su16 figs-activepassive ὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι 1 we were held captive under the law, imprisoned This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the law held us captive and we were in prison" or "the law held us captive in prison" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) GAL 3 23 bs6i figs-metaphor ὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι 1 we were held captive under the law, imprisoned The way the law controlled us is spoken of as if the law were a prison guard holding us as captives. Alternate translation: "the law controlled us like a prison guard" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -GAL 3 23 t32j figs-activepassive 0 until faith should be revealed This can be stated in active form, and who this faith is in can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "until God would reveal that he justifies those who have faith in Christ" or "until God would reveal that he justifies those who trust in Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +GAL 3 23 t32j figs-activepassive εἰς τὴν μέλλουσαν πίστιν ἀποκαλυφθῆναι 0 until faith should be revealed This can be stated in active form, and who this faith is in can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "until God would reveal that he justifies those who have faith in Christ" or "until God would reveal that he justifies those who trust in Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 3 24 ln1s παιδαγωγὸς 1 guardian More than simply "one who gives oversight to a child," this was usually a slave who was responsible for enforcing rules and behaviors given by the parent and would report to the parent on the child's actions. GAL 3 24 m7jy εἰς Χριστόν 1 until Christ came "until the time when Christ came" GAL 3 24 s8g5 figs-activepassive ἵνα ... δικαιωθῶμεν 1 so that we might be justified Before Christ came, God had planned to justify us. When Christ came, he carried out his plan to justify us. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that God would declare us to be righteous" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) @@ -165,22 +165,22 @@ GAL 4 3 u462 τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου 1 the elemental princ GAL 4 4 l5tf guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τὸν Υἱὸν 1 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) GAL 4 5 v5cb figs-metaphor ἐξαγοράσῃ 1 redeem Paul uses the metaphor of a person buying back lost property or buying the freedom of a slave as a picture of Jesus paying for his people's sins by dying on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 4 6 a274 ἐστε υἱοί 1 you are sons Paul uses the word for male child here because the subject is inheritance. In his culture and that of his readers, inheritance passed most commonly, but not always, to male children. He was neither specifying nor excluding female children here. -GAL 4 6 eqx5 ἐξαπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν κρᾶζον," Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ 1 God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, who calls out, "Abba, Father." By calling out "Abba, Father" the Spirit assures us that we are God's children and he loves us. +GAL 4 6 eqx5 ἐξαπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν κρᾶζον, Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ 1 God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, who calls out, "Abba, Father." By calling out "Abba, Father" the Spirit assures us that we are God's children and he loves us. GAL 4 6 nei3 figs-metonymy ἐξαπέστειλεν ... τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν 1 sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts The heart is metonym for the part of a person that thinks and feels. Alternate translation: "sent his Son's Spirit to show us how to think and act" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 4 6 xhe6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 his Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) GAL 4 6 s54r κρᾶζον 1 who calls The Spirit is the one who calls. GAL 4 6 mlg1 Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ 1 Abba, Father This is the way a young child would address his father in Paul's home language, but not in the language of the Galatian readers. To keep the sense of a foreign language, translate this as a word that sounds as much like "Abba" as your language allows. GAL 4 7 e7tc οὐκέτι εἶ δοῦλος, ἀλλὰ υἱός 1 you are no longer a slave, but a son Paul uses the word for male child here because the subject is inheritance. In his culture and that of his readers, inheritance passed most commonly, but not always, to male children. He was neither specifying nor excluding female children here. -GAL 4 7 akb8 figs-you 0 you are no longer a slave ... you are also an heir Paul is addressing his readers as though they are one person, so "you" here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) +GAL 4 7 akb8 figs-you οὐκέτι εἶ δοῦλος … καὶ κληρονόμος 0 you are no longer a slave ... you are also an heir Paul is addressing his readers as though they are one person, so "you" here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) GAL 4 7 d5hu figs-metaphor κληρονόμος 1 heir The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 4 8 s4ic 0 General Information: He continues to rebuke the Galatians by asking rhetorical questions. GAL 4 8 ukf5 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the Galatian believers that they are again trying to live under God's laws rather than living by faith. GAL 4 8 cj5i τοῖς φύσει μὴ οὖσι θεοῖς 1 those who are "those things that are" or "those spirits who are" GAL 4 9 ghx1 figs-activepassive γνωσθέντες ὑπὸ Θεοῦ 1 you are known by God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God knows you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -GAL 4 9 b8ue figs-metaphor 0 how is it that you are turning back to ... principles? Here "turning back to" is a metaphor for starting to pay attention to something again. This is the first of two rhetorical questions. Alternate translation: "you should not start paying attention to ... principles." or "you should not be concerned with ... principles." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) -GAL 4 9 n5ie στοιχεῖα 1 elemental principles See how you translated this phrase in [Galatians 4:3](../04/03.md). -GAL 4 9 w28k figs-rquestion 0 Do you want to be enslaved all over again? Paul uses this question to rebuke the people for behaving in a way that would make them like slaves. Alternate translation: "It seems that you want to be slaves again." or "You behave as though you wanted to be like slaves again."(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) -GAL 4 9 s77e figs-metaphor 0 Do you want to be enslaved all over again? Here being "enslaved" is a metaphor for being obligated to obey certain rules or customs. Alternate translation: "Do you want to have to obey rules again like a slave has to obey his master?" or "It seems that you want to be controlled all over again!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 4 9 b8ue figs-metaphor πῶς ἐπιστρέφετε πάλιν ἐπὶ τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα 0 how is it that you are turning back to ... principles? Here "turning back to" is a metaphor for starting to pay attention to something again. This is the first of two rhetorical questions. Alternate translation: "you should not start paying attention to the weak and worthless elemental principles." or "you should not be concerned with the weak and worthless elemental principles." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) +GAL 4 9 n5ie τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα 1 elemental principles See how you translated this phrase in [Galatians 4:3](../04/03.md). +GAL 4 9 w28k figs-rquestion οἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε 0 Do you want to be enslaved all over again? Paul uses this question to rebuke the people for behaving in a way that would make them like slaves. Alternate translation: "It seems that you want to be slaves again." or "You behave as though you wanted to be like slaves again."(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) +GAL 4 9 s77e figs-metaphor οἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε 0 Do you want to be enslaved all over again? Here being "enslaved" is a metaphor for being obligated to obey certain rules or customs. Alternate translation: "Do you want to have to obey rules again like a slave has to obey his master?" or "It seems that you want to be controlled all over again!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 4 10 w7d5 ἡμέρας παρατηρεῖσθε, καὶ μῆνας, καὶ καιροὺς, καὶ ἐνιαυτούς 1 You observe days and new moons and seasons and years Paul is speaking of their being careful to celebrate certain times, thinking that doing that will make them right with God. Alternate translation: "You carefully celebrate days and new moons and seasons and years" GAL 4 11 bsv1 εἰκῇ 1 may have been for nothing "may have been useless" or "has not had any effect effect" GAL 4 12 ql14 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the Galatian believers how kindly they treated him when he was with them, and he encourages them to continue to trust him while he is not there with them. @@ -205,27 +205,27 @@ GAL 4 24 u4hr figs-synecdoche Ὄρους Σινά 1 Mount Sinai "Mount Sinai" h GAL 4 24 u3u9 figs-metaphor δουλείαν γεννῶσα 1 she gives birth to children who are slaves Paul treats the law as if it were a person. Alternate translation: "The people under this covenant are like slaves who have to obey the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) GAL 4 25 u1cc συνστοιχεῖ 1 she represents "she is a picture of" GAL 4 25 ck7v figs-metaphor δουλεύει ... μετὰ τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς 1 she is in slavery with her children Hagar is a slave and her children are slaves with her. Alternate translation: "Jerusalem, like Hagar, is a slave, and her children are slaves with her" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -GAL 4 26 wa1u ἄνω ... ἐλευθέρα ἐστίν 1 is free "is not bound" or "is not a slave" +GAL 4 26 wa1u ἐλευθέρα ἐστίν 1 is free "is not bound" or "is not a slave" GAL 4 27 jql2 εὐφράνθητι 1 Rejoice be happy -GAL 4 27 ih2f figs-you 0 you barren one ... you who are not suffering Here "you" refers to the barren woman and is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) +GAL 4 27 ih2f figs-you στεῖρα ... ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα 0 you barren one ... you who are not suffering Here "you" refers to the barren woman and is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) GAL 4 28 ad75 ἀδελφοί 1 brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md). GAL 4 28 ct63 ἐπαγγελίας τέκνα 1 children of promise Possible meanings are that the Galatians have become God's children 1) by believing God's promise or 2) because God worked miracles to fulfill his promises to Abraham, first by giving Abraham a son and then by making the Galatians children of Abraham and thus sons of God. GAL 4 29 c9lf figs-metaphor κατὰ σάρκα 1 according to the flesh This refers to Abraham's becoming Ishmael's father by taking Hagar as a wife. Alternate translation: "by means of human action" or "because of what people did" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -GAL 4 29 gt1e κατὰ ... Πνεῦμα, οὕτως 1 according to the Spirit "because of something the Spirit did" +GAL 4 29 gt1e κατὰ Πνεῦμα 1 according to the Spirit "because of something the Spirit did" GAL 4 31 sy8u ἀδελφοί 1 brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md). GAL 4 31 y3c2 figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ τῆς ἐλευθέρας 1 but of the free woman The words "we are children" are understood from the previous phrase. This can be translated as a separate sentence. Alternate translation: "Rather, we are children of the free woman" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) GAL 5 intro bcg3 0 # Galatians 05 General Notes
## Structure and formatting

Paul continues writing about the law of Moses as something that traps or enslaves a person. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Fruit of the Spirit
The phrase "the fruit of the Spirit" is not plural, even though it begins a list of several things. Translators should keep the singular form if possible. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])

## Important figures of speech in this chapter

### Illustrations
Paul uses several metaphors in this chapter to illustrate his points and help explain complicated issues. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### "You are cut off from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you no longer experience grace."
Some scholars think Paul teaches that being circumcised causes a person to lose their salvation. Other scholars think Paul means that obeying the law to try to get right with God will keep a person from being saved by grace. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]])
GAL 5 1 up16 0 Connecting Statement: Paul applies the allegory by reminding the believers to use their liberty in Christ because all the law is fulfilled in loving neighbors as ourselves. GAL 5 1 kuu9 figs-explicit τῇ ἐλευθερίᾳ, ἡμᾶς Χριστὸς ἠλευθέρωσεν 1 For freedom Christ has set us free "It is so that we can be free that Christ has set us free." It is implied that Christ sets believers free from the old covenant. Here freedom from the old covenant is a metaphor for not being obligated to obey it. Alternate translation: "Christ has set us free from the old covenant so that we might be free" or "Christ has set us free so that we might live as free poeple" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 5 1 j679 figs-metaphor στήκετε 1 Stand firm Standing firm here represents being determined not to change. How they are not to change can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "Do not give in to the arguments of people who teach something else" or "Be determined to stay free" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) -GAL 5 1 usl9 figs-metaphor 0 do not again be put under the control of a yoke of slavery Here being under control of a yoke of slavery represents being obligated to obey the law. Alternate translation: "do not live like one who is under the control of a yoke of slavery to the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +GAL 5 1 usl9 figs-metaphor μὴ πάλιν ζυγῷ δουλείας ἐνέχεσθε 0 do not again be put under the control of a yoke of slavery Here being under control of a yoke of slavery represents being obligated to obey the law. Alternate translation: "do not live like one who is under the control of a yoke of slavery to the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 5 2 bg6b figs-metonymy ἐὰν περιτέμνησθε 1 if you let yourselves be circumcised Paul is using circumcision as a metonym for Judaism. Alternate translation: "if you turn to the Jewish religion" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 5 3 h4q5 μαρτύρομαι δὲ 1 I testify "I declare" or "I serve as a witness" GAL 5 3 s1af figs-metonymy παντὶ ἀνθρώπῳ περιτεμνομένῳ 1 to every man who lets himself be circumcised Paul is using circumcision as a metonym for being Jewish. Alternate translation: "to every person who has become a Jew" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 5 3 j88p ὀφειλέτης ἐστὶν ... ποιῆσαι 1 he is obligated to obey "he must obey" GAL 5 4 h4yu figs-metaphor κατηργήθητε ἀπὸ Χριστοῦ 1 You are cut off from Christ Here "cut off" is a metaphor for separation from Christ. Alternate translation: "You have ended your relationship with Christ" or "You are no longer united with Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 5 4 ipf7 figs-irony οἵτινες ἐν νόμῳ δικαιοῦσθε 1 you who would be justified by the law Paul is speaking ironically here. He actually teaches that no one can be justified by trying to do the deeds required by the law. Alternate translation: "all you who think you can be justified by doing the deeds required by the law" or "you who want to be justified by the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]]) -GAL 5 4 k6xe figs-explicit 0 you no longer experience grace Who that grace comes from can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "God will not be gracious to you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +GAL 5 4 k6xe figs-explicit τῆς χάριτος ἐξεπέσατε 0 you no longer experience grace Who that grace comes from can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "God will not be gracious to you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 5 5 pdm1 figs-inclusive 0 General Information: Here the word "we" refers to Paul and those who oppose the circumcision of Christians. He is probably including the Galatians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) GAL 5 5 vvk6 γὰρ Πνεύματι 1 For through the Spirit "This is because through the Spirit" GAL 5 5 qg9m ἡμεῖς ... ἐκ πίστεως ἐλπίδα δικαιοσύνης ἀπεκδεχόμεθα 1 by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness Possible meanings are 1) "we are waiting by faith for the hope of righteousness" or 2) "we are waiting for the hope of righteousness that comes by faith." @@ -238,7 +238,7 @@ GAL 5 8 ct7g ἡ πεισμονὴ οὐκ ἐκ τοῦ καλοῦντος GAL 5 8 j7f8 figs-explicit τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς 1 him who calls you What he calls them to can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "the one who calls you to be his people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) GAL 5 8 sx6u πεισμονὴ 1 persuasion To persuade someone is to get that person to change what he believes and so to act differently. GAL 5 10 enp1 οὐδὲν ἄλλο φρονήσετε 1 you will take no other view "you will not believe anything different from what I am telling you" -GAL 5 10 rb76 0 The one who is troubling you will pay the penalty "God will punish the one who is troubling you" +GAL 5 10 rb76 ὁ δὲ ταράσσων ὑμᾶς, βαστάσει τὸ κρίμα 0 The one who is troubling you will pay the penalty "God will punish the one who is troubling you" GAL 5 10 jc72 ταράσσων ὑμᾶς 1 is troubling you "is causing you to be uncertain about what is truth" or "stirs up trouble among you" GAL 5 10 llh5 ὅστις ἐὰν ᾖ 1 whoever he is Possible meanings are 1) Paul does not know the names of the people who are telling the Galatians that they need to obey the law of Moses or 2) Paul does not want the Galatians to care about whether those who "confuse" them are rich or poor or great or small or religious or not religious. GAL 5 11 d4mm figs-rquestion ἐγὼ δέ, ἀδελφοί, εἰ περιτομὴν ἔτι κηρύσσω, τί ἔτι διώκομαι 1 Brothers, if I still proclaim circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? Paul is describing a situation that does not exist to emphasize that people are persecuting him because he is not preaching that people need to become Jews. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Brothers, you can see that I am not still proclaiming circumcision because the Jews are persecuting me." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]]) @@ -263,8 +263,8 @@ GAL 5 18 san8 οὐκ ... ὑπὸ νόμον 1 not under the law "not obligate GAL 5 19 yf2a τὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός 1 the works of the sinful nature The abstract noun "works" can be translated with the verb "does." Alternate translation: "what the sinful nature does" GAL 5 19 u2pu figs-personification τὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός 1 the works of the sinful nature The sinful nature is spoken of as if it were a person who does things. Alternate translation: "what people do because of their sinful nature" or "the things people do because they are sinful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) GAL 5 21 rs9b figs-metaphor κληρονομήσουσιν 1 inherit Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -GAL 5 22 hez3 figs-metaphor 0 the fruit of the Spirit is love ... faith Here "fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "what the Spirit produces is love ... faith" or "the Spirit produces in God's people love ... faith" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -GAL 5 23 ss5k figs-metaphor πραΰτης, ἐνκράτεια 1 gentleness ... self-control The list of "the fruit of the Spirit" that begins with the words "love, joy, peace" ends here. Here "fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "what the Spirit produces is love, joy, peace ... gentleness ... self-control" or "the Spirit produces in God's people love, joy, peace ... gentleness ... self-control" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 5 22 hez3 figs-metaphor ὁ … καρπὸς τοῦ Πνεύματός ἐστιν ἀγάπη … πίστις 0 the fruit of the Spirit is love ... faith Here "fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "what the Spirit produces is love ... faith" or "the Spirit produces in God's people love ... faith" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +GAL 5 23 ss5k figs-metaphor πραΰτης … ἐνκράτεια 1 gentleness ... self-control The list of "the fruit of the Spirit" that begins with the words "love, joy, peace" ends here. Here "fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "what the Spirit produces is love, joy, peace ... gentleness ... self-control" or "the Spirit produces in God's people love, joy, peace ... gentleness ... self-control" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 5 24 l6ux figs-personification τὴν σάρκα ἐσταύρωσαν σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις 1 have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires Paul speaks of Christians who refuse to live according to their sinful nature as if it were a person and they have killed it on a cross. Alternate translation: "refuse to live according the sinful nature with its passions and desires, as if they killed it on a cross" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 5 24 m3nm figs-personification τὴν σάρκα ... σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις 1 the sinful nature with its passions and desires The sinful nature is spoken of as if it were a person that had passions and desires. Alternate translation: "their sinful nature, and the things they strongly want to do because of it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) GAL 5 25 h9hd εἰ ζῶμεν Πνεύματι 1 If we live by the Spirit "Since God's Spirit has caused us to be alive" @@ -273,7 +273,7 @@ GAL 5 26 a9x9 γινώμεθα 1 Let us "We should" GAL 6 intro bv8h 0 # Galatians 06 General Notes
## Structure and formatting

This chapter concludes Paul's letter. His final words address some issues that do not seem to be connected to the rest of his letter.

### Brothers
Paul writes the words in this chapter to Christians. He calls them "brothers." This refers to Paul's Christian brothers and not his Jewish brothers.

## Special concepts in this chapter

### New Creation

People who are born again are a new creation in Christ. Christians have been given new life in Christ. They have a new nature in them after they come to faith in Christ. To Paul, this is more significant than a person's ancestry. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/bornagain]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Flesh

This is a complex issue. "Flesh" is contrasted with "spirit." In this chapter, flesh is also used to refer to the physical body. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])
GAL 6 1 x8zg 0 Connecting Statement: Paul teaches believers how they should treat other believers and how God rewards. GAL 6 1 ss7l ἀδελφοί 1 Brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md). -GAL 6 1 vm8f ἐὰν καὶ ... ἄνθρωπος 1 if someone "if anyone among you" +GAL 6 1 vm8f ἐὰν ... ἄνθρωπος 1 if someone "if anyone among you" GAL 6 1 vts8 ἐὰν καὶ προλημφθῇ ἄνθρωπος ἔν τινι παραπτώματι 1 if someone is caught in any trespass Possible meanings are 1) someone else found that person in the act. Alternate translation: "if someone is discovered in an act of sin" or 2) that person committed the sin without intending to do evil. Alternate translation: "if someone gave in and sinned" GAL 6 1 t4rm ὑμεῖς, οἱ πνευματικοὶ 1 you who are spiritual "those of you who are guided by the Spirit" or "you who are living in the guidance of the Spirit" GAL 6 1 hdj8 καταρτίζετε τὸν τοιοῦτον 1 restore him "correct the person who sinned" or "exhort the person who sinned to return to a correct relationship with God" @@ -283,17 +283,17 @@ GAL 6 1 ljx6 figs-activepassive μὴ καὶ σὺ πειρασθῇς 1 so you GAL 6 3 v6ts εἰ γὰρ 1 For if "Because if." The words that follow tell why the Galatians should 1) "carry one other's burdens" ([Galatians 6:2](../06/02.md)) or 2) be careful that they themselves are not tempted ([Galatians 6:1](../06/01.md)) or 3) "not become conceited" ([Galatians 5:26](../05/26.md)). GAL 6 3 m4wk εἶναί τι 1 he is something "he is someone important" or "he is better than others" GAL 6 3 zz1g μηδὲν ὤν 1 he is nothing "he is not important" or "he is not better than others" -GAL 6 4 ra85 0 Each one should "Each person must" +GAL 6 4 ra85 δοκιμαζέτω ἕκαστος 0 Each one should "Each person must" GAL 6 5 ee8v ἕκαστος ... τὸ ἴδιον φορτίον βαστάσει 1 each one will carry his own load "each person will be judged by his own work only" or "each person will be responsible for his own work only" GAL 6 5 vej6 ἕκαστος ... βαστάσει 1 each one will "each person will" -GAL 6 6 k1n5 ὁ κατηχούμενος 1 The one "The person" +GAL 6 6 k1n5 ὁ κατηχούμενος 1 The one "With the he person who teaches" GAL 6 6 l4vp τὸν λόγον 1 the word "the message," everything God has said or commanded GAL 6 7 x5pi figs-metaphor ὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος, τοῦτο καὶ θερίσει 1 for whatever a man plants, that he will also gather in Planting represents doing things that end in some kind of result, and gathering in represents experiencing the results of what one has done. Alternate translation: "for just as a farmer gathers in the fruit of whatever kind of seeds he plants, so everyone experiences the results of whatever he does" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 6 7 gii9 figs-gendernotations ὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος 1 whatever a man plants Paul is not specifying males here. Alternate translation: "whatever a person plants" or "whatever someone plants" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) GAL 6 8 lzz8 figs-metaphor ὁ σπείρων εἰς τὴν σάρκα ἑαυτοῦ 1 plants seed to his own sinful nature Planting seeds is a metaphor for doing deeds that will have consequences later. In this case, the person is doing sinful actions because of his sinful nature. Alternate translation: "plants seed according to what he wants because of his sinful nature" or "does the things he wants to do because of his sinful nature" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 6 8 dge9 figs-metaphor θερίσει φθοράν 1 will gather in destruction God punishing the person is spoken of as if the person were harvesting a crop. Alternate translation: "will receive punishment for what he did" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) GAL 6 8 aqz2 figs-metaphor σπείρων εἰς ... τὸ Πνεῦμα 1 plants seed to the Spirit Planting seeds is a metaphor for doing deeds that will have consequences later. In this case, the person is doing good actions because he is listening to God's Spirit. Alternate translation: "does the things God's Spirit loves" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -GAL 6 8 k1p7 θερίσει ... ζωὴν αἰώνιον 1 will gather in eternal life from the Spirit "will receive eternal life as a reward from God's Spirit" +GAL 6 8 k1p7 ἐκ τοῦ Πνεύματος θερίσει ζωὴν αἰώνιον 1 will gather in eternal life from the Spirit "will receive eternal life as a reward from God's Spirit" GAL 6 9 pnq1 τὸ δὲ καλὸν ποιοῦντες, μὴ ἐνκακῶμεν 1 Let us not become weary in doing good "We should continue to do good" GAL 6 9 a4n4 τὸ δὲ καλὸν ποιοῦντες 1 doing good doing good to others for their well-being GAL 6 9 u77c καιρῷ γὰρ ἰδίῳ 1 for at the right time "for in due time" or "because at the time God has chosen" @@ -306,7 +306,7 @@ GAL 6 11 d6rk τῇ ἐμῇ χειρί 1 with my own hand Possible meanings ar GAL 6 12 kmd7 εὐπροσωπῆσαι 1 make a good impression "cause others to think well of them" or "cause others to think that they are good people" GAL 6 12 r5p1 ἐν σαρκί 1 in the flesh "with visible evidence" or "by their own efforts" GAL 6 12 jk57 οὗτοι ἀναγκάζουσιν 1 to compel "to force" or "to strongly influence" -GAL 6 12 hl1r 0 only to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ "so that the Jews will not persecute them for claiming that the cross of Christ alone is what saves people" +GAL 6 12 hl1r μόνον ἵνα τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ μὴ διώκωνται 0 only to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ "so that the Jews will not persecute them for claiming that the cross of Christ alone is what saves people" GAL 6 12 jd4x figs-metonymy τῷ σταυρῷ 1 the cross The cross here represents what Christ did for us when he died on the cross. Alternate translation: "the work Jesus did on the cross" or "the death and resurrection of Jesus" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) GAL 6 13 zqf5 θέλουσιν 1 they want "those people who are urging you to be circumcised want" GAL 6 13 bb5a ἵνα ἐν τῇ ὑμετέρᾳ σαρκὶ καυχήσωνται 1 so that they may boast about your flesh "so that they may be proud that they have added you to the people who try to keep the law" diff --git a/en_tn_52-COL.tsv b/en_tn_52-COL.tsv index f5a0d5ce4c..ea062bae6a 100644 --- a/en_tn_52-COL.tsv +++ b/en_tn_52-COL.tsv @@ -1,87 +1,87 @@ Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote -COL front intro d9hy 0 # Introduction to Colossians
## Part 1: General Introduction

### Outline of the Book of Colossians

1. Greeting, thanksgiving, and prayer (1:1-12)
1. The person and work of Christ
- Deliverance and redemption (1:13-14)
- Christ: the Image of the invisible God, and the One who is over all creation (1:15-17)
- Christ is the Head of the Church, and the Church trusts in him (1:18-2:7)
1. Tests of faithfulness
- Warnings against false teachers (2:8-19)
- True godliness is not rigid rules and unbending traditions (2:20-23)
1. Teaching and living
- Life in Christ (3:1-4)
- Old and new life (3:5-17)
- Christian family (3:18-4:1)
1. Christian behavior (4:2-6)
1. Closing and greetings
- Paul thanks Tychicus and Onesimus (4:7-9)
- Paul sends greetings from his associates (4:10-14)
- Paul gives directions to Archippus and the Christians in Laodicea (4:15-17)
- Paul's personal greeting (4:18)

### Who wrote the Book of Colossians?

Paul wrote the Book of Colossians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome.

### What is the Book of Colossians about?

Paul wrote this letter to the believers in the Asia Minor city of Colossae. The main purpose of this letter was to defend the gospel against false teachers. He did this by praising Jesus as the image of God, sustainer of all things, and head of the church. Paul wanted them to understand that only Christ is needed for God to accept them.

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

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "Colossians." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "Paul's Letter to the Church in Colossae," or "A Letter to the Christians in Colossae." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

### What were the religious issues that the church in Colossae struggled with?

In the church in Colossae, there were false teachers. Their exact teaching is unknown. But they probably taught their followers to worship angels and to obey strict rules about religious ceremonies. They probably also taught that a person must be circumcised and can only eat certain types of food. Paul said these false teachings came from the minds of men and not from God.

### How did Paul use the imagery of heaven and earth?

In this letter, Paul frequently spoke of heaven as "above." He distinguished it from the earth, which Scripture speaks of as being "below." The purpose of this imagery was to teach Christians to live in a way that honors God who lives in heaven above. Paul is not teaching that the earth or the physical world is evil. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])

## Part 3: Important Translation Issues

### How are the ideas of "holy" and "sanctify" represented in Colossians 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 Colossians, these words usually indicate a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. So Colossians in the ULT uses "believers" or "those who believe in him." (See: 1:2, 12, 26)

### Was Jesus created or is he eternal?

Jesus was not a created being but has always existed as God. Jesus also became a human being. There is potential for confusion in Colossians 1:15 where it says Jesus "is the firstborn of all creation." This statement means that Jesus is dominant over all of creation. It does not mean that he was the first thing God created. Translators should be careful not to imply that Jesus is a created being.

### What does Paul mean by the expression "in Christ," "in the Lord," etc.?

Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. See the introduction to the book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

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

For the following verses, some 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.

* "May grace be to you, and peace from God our Father" (1:2). Some older versions have a longer reading: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
* "Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf" (1:7). Some older versions read "for you": "Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, a faithful servant of Christ for you."
* "the Father, who has made you able to have a share in the inheritance of the believers in light" (1:12). Some older versions read, "the Father, who has qualified us for a share in the inheritance in light."
* "In his Son we have redemption" (1:14). Some older versions read, "In his Son we have redemption through his blood."
* "and forgave us all of our trespasses" (2:13). Some older versions read: "and forgave you all of your trespasses."
* "When Christ appears, who is your life" (3:4). Some older versions read, "When Christ appears, who is our life."
* "It is for these things that the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience" (3:6). The ULT, UST, and many other modern versions read this way. However, some modern and older versions read, "It is for these things that the wrath of God is coming."
* "I sent him to you for this, that you might know the matters about us" (4:8). Some older versions read, "I sent him to you for this, that he might know the matters about you."

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
-COL 1 intro gtm3 0 # Colossians 01 General Notes
## Structure and formatting

As in a typical letter, Paul begins his letter in verses 1-2 by introducing Timothy and himself to the Christians in Colossae.

Paul writes much of this chapter around two subjects: who Christ is, and what Christ has done for the Christian.

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Secret truth

Paul refers to a "secret truth" in this chapter. The role of the church in the plans of God was once unknown. But God has now revealed it. Part of this involves the Gentiles having equal standing with the Jews in the plans of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])

## Important figures of speech in this chapter

### Images for Christian living
Paul uses many different images to describe Christian living. In this chapter, he uses the images of "walking" and "bearing fruit." (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. Verse 24 is a paradox: "Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you." People do not usually rejoice when they suffer. But in verses 25-29 Paul explains why his suffering is good. ([Colossians 1:24](../../col/01/24.md))
+COL front intro d9hy 0 # Introduction to Colossians
## Part 1: General Introduction

#### Outline of the Book of Colossians

1. Greeting, thanksgiving, and prayer (1:1-12)
1. The person and work of Christ
- Deliverance and redemption (1:13-14)
- Christ: the Image of the invisible God, and the One who is over all creation (1:15-17)
- Christ is the Head of the Church, and the Church trusts in him (1:18-2:7)
1. Tests of faithfulness
- Warnings against false teachers (2:8-19)
- True godliness is not rigid rules and unbending traditions (2:20-23)
1. Teaching and living
- Life in Christ (3:1-4)
- Old and new life (3:5-17)
- Christian family (3:18-4:1)
1. Christian behavior (4:2-6)
1. Closing and greetings
- Paul thanks Tychicus and Onesimus (4:7-9)
- Paul sends greetings from his associates (4:10-14)
- Paul gives directions to Archippus and the Christians in Laodicea (4:15-17)
- Paul's personal greeting (4:18)

#### Who wrote the Book of Colossians?

Paul wrote the Book of Colossians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome.

#### What is the Book of Colossians about?

Paul wrote this letter to the believers in the Asia Minor city of Colossae. The main purpose of this letter was to defend the gospel against false teachers. He did this by praising Jesus as the image of God, sustainer of all things, and head of the church. Paul wanted them to understand that only Christ is needed for God to accept them.

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

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "Colossians." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "Paul's Letter to the Church in Colossae," or "A Letter to the Christians in Colossae." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

#### What were the religious issues that the church in Colossae struggled with?

In the church in Colossae, there were false teachers. Their exact teaching is unknown. But they probably taught their followers to worship angels and to obey strict rules about religious ceremonies. They probably also taught that a person must be circumcised and can only eat certain types of food. Paul said these false teachings came from the minds of men and not from God.

#### How did Paul use the imagery of heaven and earth?

In this letter, Paul frequently spoke of heaven as "above." He distinguished it from the earth, which Scripture speaks of as being "below." The purpose of this imagery was to teach Christians to live in a way that honors God who lives in heaven above. Paul is not teaching that the earth or the physical world is evil. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])

## Part 3: Important Translation Issues

#### How are the ideas of "holy" and "sanctify" represented in Colossians 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 Colossians, these words usually indicate a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. So Colossians in the ULT uses "believers" or "those who believe in him." (See: 1:2, 12, 26)

#### Was Jesus created or is he eternal?

Jesus was not a created being but has always existed as God. Jesus also became a human being. There is potential for confusion in Colossians 1:15 where it says Jesus "is the firstborn of all creation." This statement means that Jesus is dominant over all of creation. It does not mean that he was the first thing God created. Translators should be careful not to imply that Jesus is a created being.

#### What does Paul mean by the expression "in Christ," "in the Lord," etc.?

Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. See the introduction to the book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

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

For the following verses, some 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.

* "May grace be to you, and peace from God our Father" (1:2). Some older versions have a longer reading: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
* "Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf" (1:7). Some older versions read "for you": "Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, a faithful servant of Christ for you."
* "the Father, who has made you able to have a share in the inheritance of the believers in light" (1:12). Some older versions read, "the Father, who has qualified us for a share in the inheritance in light."
* "In his Son we have redemption" (1:14). Some older versions read, "In his Son we have redemption through his blood."
* "and forgave us all of our trespasses" (2:13). Some older versions read: "and forgave you all of your trespasses."
* "When Christ appears, who is your life" (3:4). Some older versions read, "When Christ appears, who is our life."
* "It is for these things that the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience" (3:6). The ULT, UST, and many other modern versions read this way. However, some modern and older versions read, "It is for these things that the wrath of God is coming."
* "I sent him to you for this, that you might know the matters about us" (4:8). Some older versions read, "I sent him to you for this, that he might know the matters about you."

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
+COL 1 intro gtm3 0 # Colossians 01 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

As in a typical letter, Paul begins his letter in verses 1-2 by introducing Timothy and himself to the Christians in Colossae.

Paul writes much of this chapter around two subjects: who Christ is, and what Christ has done for the Christian.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Secret truth

Paul refers to a "secret truth" in this chapter. The role of the church in the plans of God was once unknown. But God has now revealed it. Part of this involves the Gentiles having equal standing with the Jews in the plans of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])

#### Important figures of speech in this chapter

##### Images for Christian living
Paul uses many different images to describe Christian living. In this chapter, he uses the images of "walking" and "bearing fruit." (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])

#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

##### Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. Verse 24 is a paradox: "Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you." People do not usually rejoice when they suffer. But in verses 25-29 Paul explains why his suffering is good. ([Colossians 1:24](../../col/01/24.md))
COL 1 1 h5gl figs-inclusive 0 General Information: Though this letter is from Paul and Timothy to the Colossian believers, later in the letter Paul makes it clear that he is the writer. Most likely Timothy was with him and wrote the words down as Paul spoke. Throughout this letter the words "we," "our," and "ours" include the Colossians unless noted otherwise. The words "you," "your," and "yours" refer to the Colossian believers and so are plural unless noted otherwise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) COL 1 1 fny3 ἀπόστολος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ διὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ 1 an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God "whom God chose to be an apostle of Christ Jesus" -COL 1 3 q1su figs-exclusive 0 We give ... our Lord ... we always These words do not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +COL 1 3 q1su figs-exclusive εὐχαριστοῦμεν ... τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν ... πάντοτε 0 We give ... our Lord ... we always These words do not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) COL 1 4 km8w figs-exclusive ἀκούσαντες 1 We have heard Paul is excluding his audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) -COL 1 4 z6eb πίστιν ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 your faith in Christ Jesus "your belief in Christ Jesus" +COL 1 4 z6eb τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 your faith in Christ Jesus "your belief in Christ Jesus" COL 1 5 n1qz figs-metonymy διὰ τὴν ἐλπίδα τὴν ἀποκειμένην ὑμῖν ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς 1 because of the certain hope reserved for you in heaven Here "certain hope" stands for what the believer can confidently expect, that is, the things that God has promised to do for all believers. These things are spoken of as if they were physical objects that God was keeping in heaven for the believers to possess later. Alternate translation: "because you are certain that God, who is in heaven, will do the many good things that he has promised you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 1 5 xn8s τῷ λόγῳ τῆς ἀληθείας, τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 the word of truth, the gospel Possible meanings are 1) "the message about the truth, the gospel" or 2) "the true message, the gospel." -COL 1 6 wk21 figs-metaphor 0 This gospel is bearing fruit and is growing "Fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "This gospel is having good results, more and more" or "This gospel is having increasing results" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 6 wk21 figs-metaphor ἐστὶν καρποφορούμενον καὶ αὐξανόμενον 0 This gospel is bearing fruit and is growing "Fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "This gospel is having good results, more and more" or "This gospel is having increasing results" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 6 z3g5 figs-hyperbole ἐν παντὶ τῷ κόσμῳ 1 in all the world This is a generalization referring to the part of the world that they knew about. Alternate translation: "throughout the world" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]]) COL 1 6 ait7 τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν ἀληθείᾳ 1 the grace of God in truth "the true grace of God" -COL 1 7 f8t1 figs-exclusive ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν 1 our beloved ... our behalf The word "our" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) -COL 1 7 mjv5 0 gospel as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who "gospel. It is exactly what you learned from Epaphras, who is our beloved fellow servant and who" or "gospel. It is exactly what Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, taught you. He" +COL 1 7 f8t1 figs-exclusive ἡμῶν ... ἡμῶν 1 our beloved ... our behalf The word "our" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +COL 1 7 mjv5 ἐμάθετε ἀπὸ Ἐπαφρᾶ, τοῦ ἀγαπητοῦ συνδούλου ἡμῶν, ὅς 0 gospel as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who "gospel. It is exactly what you learned from Epaphras, who is our beloved fellow servant and who" or "gospel. It is exactly what Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, taught you. He" COL 1 7 q8gt Ἐπαφρᾶ, τοῦ ἀγαπητοῦ συνδούλου ἡμῶν, ὅς ἐστιν πιστὸς ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν διάκονος τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf Here "on our behalf" means that Epaphras was doing work for Christ that Paul himself would have done if he were not in prison. COL 1 7 pz3h translate-names Ἐπαφρᾶ 1 Epaphras the man who preached the gospel to the people in Colossae (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) COL 1 8 k2k9 figs-exclusive ἡμῖν 1 to us The word "us" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) COL 1 8 e7ez figs-metaphor τὴν ὑμῶν ἀγάπην ἐν Πνεύματι 1 your love in the Spirit Paul speaks of the Holy Spirit as if he were a place in which the believers were located. Alternate translation: "how the Holy Spirit has enabled you to love believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 9 iyq4 0 Connecting Statement: Because the Spirit has enabled them to love others, Paul prays for them and tells them here how he prays for them. -COL 1 9 s83e 0 Because of this love "Because the Holy Spirit has enabled you to love other believers" -COL 1 9 f2xd figs-exclusive 0 we heard ... we have not stopped ... We have been asking The word "we" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) -COL 1 9 u7zh 0 from the day we heard this "from the day Epaphras told us these things" +COL 1 9 s83e διὰ τοῦτο 0 Because of this love "Because the Holy Spirit has enabled you to love other believers" +COL 1 9 f2xd figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς ... ἠκούσαμεν ... καὶ αἰτούμενοι 0 we heard ... we have not stopped ... We have been asking The word "we" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +COL 1 9 u7zh ἀφ’ ἧς ἡμέρας ἠκούσαμεν 0 from the day we heard this "from the day Epaphras told us these things" COL 1 9 w2a7 figs-metaphor ἵνα πληρωθῆτε τὴν ἐπίγνωσιν τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ 1 that you will be filled with the knowledge of his will Paul speaks of the Colossian believers as though they were containers. Alternate translation: "that God will fill you with what you need to know so that you can do his will" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 9 mzz8 ἐν πάσῃ σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει πνευματικῇ 1 in all wisdom and spiritual understanding ", so that the Holy Spirit will make you wise and able to understand what God wants you to do" -COL 1 10 cz4a figs-exclusive 0 We have been praying The word "we" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) -COL 1 10 m4hf figs-metaphor 0 that you will walk worthily of the Lord Walking here signifies behavior in life. Alternate translation: "that you will live the way God expects you to" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 10 vv4g 0 in pleasing ways "in ways that will please the Lord" +COL 1 10 cz4a figs-exclusive περιπατῆσαι 0 We have been praying The word "we" does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +COL 1 10 m4hf figs-metaphor περιπατῆσαι ἀξίως τοῦ Κυρίου 0 that you will walk worthily of the Lord Walking here signifies behavior in life. Alternate translation: "We have been praying that you will live the way God expects you to" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 10 vv4g εἰς πᾶσαν ἀρεσκείαν 0 in pleasing ways "in ways that will please the Lord" COL 1 10 vfp3 figs-metaphor καρποφοροῦντες 1 will bear fruit Paul is speaking of the Colossian believers as if they were trees or plants. As a plant grows and bears fruit, so also believers are to keep getting to know God better and doing good deeds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 11 gxv6 figs-exclusive 0 We pray The word "we" refers to Paul and Timothy but not to the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +COL 1 11 gxv6 figs-exclusive δυναμούμενοι 0 We pray The word "we" refers to Paul and Timothy but not to the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) COL 1 11 mzf2 figs-metaphor εἰς πᾶσαν ὑπομονὴν καὶ μακροθυμίαν 1 into all perseverance and patience Paul speaks of the Colossian believers as if God would move them into a location of perseverance and patience. In reality, he is praying that they will never stop trusting in God and that they will be completely patient as they honor him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 12 t5lw ἱκανώσαντι ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν μερίδα 1 has made you able to have a share "has allowed you to share" COL 1 12 lt2q ἱκανώσαντι ὑμᾶς 1 has made you able Here Paul is focusing on his readers as receivers of God's blessings. But he does not mean that he himself has no share in those blessings. -COL 1 12 r2zw figs-metaphor κλήρου 1 inheritance Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 12 r2zw figs-metaphor τοῦ κλήρου 1 inheritance Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 12 hkf5 figs-metaphor ἐν τῷ φωτί 1 in light This idea is opposite to the idea of the dominion of darkness in the next verse. Alternate translation: "in the glory of his presence" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 13 g9d3 0 Connecting Statement: Paul talks about the ways in which Christ is excellent. COL 1 13 mv87 ὃς ἐρρύσατο ἡμᾶς 1 He has rescued us "God has rescued us" COL 1 13 dw5k figs-metaphor τῆς ἐξουσίας τοῦ σκότους 1 the dominion of darkness "Darkness" here is a metaphor for evil. Alternate translation: "the evil forces that controlled us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 13 zav6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ ... Υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπης αὐτοῦ 1 his beloved Son "Son" is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) +COL 1 13 zav6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπης αὐτοῦ 1 his beloved Son "Son" is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) COL 1 14 wh6q figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ 1 in whom Paul often speaks as if the believers were "in" Jesus Christ or "in" God. This can be translated as the beginning of a new sentence. Alternate translation: "by means of whom" or "By means of his Son" or "Because of his Son" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 14 v5d8 ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν, τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins The nouns "redemption" and "forgiveness" can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: "we are redeemed; our sins are forgiven" or "God redeems us; he forgives our sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnoun]]) +COL 1 14 v5d8 ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν, τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins The nouns "redemption" and "forgiveness" can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: "we are redeemed; our sins are forgiven" or "God redeems us; he forgives our sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnoun]) COL 1 15 j5u9 figs-metaphor ὅς ἐστιν εἰκὼν τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου 1 He is the image of the invisible God "His Son is the image of the invisible God." Here "image" does not mean a representation of something that is visible. Instead, "image" here means that by knowing the Son, we learn what God the Father is like. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 15 h945 figs-metaphor εἰκὼν τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου, πρωτότοκος πάσης κτίσεως 1 the firstborn of all creation The expression "firstborn" does not refer to when Jesus was born. Instead, it refers to his position as the eternal Son of God the Father. In this sense, "firstborn" is a metaphor meaning "most important." Jesus is the most important and the unique Son of God. Alternate Translation: "God's Son, the most important one over all creation" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 15 h945 figs-metaphor πρωτότοκος πάσης κτίσεως 1 the firstborn of all creation The expression "firstborn" does not refer to when Jesus was born. Instead, it refers to his position as the eternal Son of God the Father. In this sense, "firstborn" is a metaphor meaning "most important." Jesus is the most important and the unique Son of God. Alternate Translation: "God's Son, the most important one over all creation" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 15 af6b figs-abstractnouns πάσης κτίσεως 1 all creation The noun "creation" can be translated with a verb. Alternate Translation: "all that God created" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnoun]]) COL 1 16 kru3 figs-activepassive ὅτι ἐν αὐτῷ ἐκτίσθη τὰ πάντα 1 For by him all things were created This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For by him God created all things" or "God caused the Son to create all things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -COL 1 16 zl7j figs-activepassive τὰ πάντα ... δι’ αὐτοῦ καὶ εἰς αὐτὸν ἔκτισται 1 all things were created by him and for him This can be stated in active form. God caused the Son to create all things for the Son's glory. Alternate translation: "For by him and for him God created all things" or "God caused him to create all things for himself" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +COL 1 16 zl7j figs-activepassive τὰ πάντα δι’ αὐτοῦ καὶ εἰς αὐτὸν ἔκτισται 1 all things were created by him and for him This can be stated in active form. God caused the Son to create all things for the Son's glory. Alternate translation: "For by him and for him God created all things" or "God caused him to create all things for himself" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 1 17 wk9y αὐτός ἐστιν πρὸ πάντων 1 He himself is before all things "It is he who existed before all things" COL 1 17 m4lp figs-activepassive τὰ πάντα ἐν αὐτῷ συνέστηκεν 1 in him all things hold together Paul is speaking here of the Son controlling all things as if he were physically holding them together. "he holds everything together" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 18 qsf3 αὐτός ἐστιν ἡ κεφαλὴ 1 He is the head "Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the head" COL 1 18 q8i3 figs-metaphor αὐτός ἐστιν ἡ κεφαλὴ τοῦ σώματος, τῆς ἐκκλησίας 1 He is the head of the body, the church Paul speaks of Jesus' position over the church as if he were the head on the human body. As the head rules the body, so does Jesus rule the church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 18 j6uq ἡ ... ἀρχή 1 the beginning "the originating authority." He is the first chief or founder. +COL 1 18 j6uq ἡ ἀρχή 1 the beginning "the originating authority." He is the first chief or founder. COL 1 18 s12x πρωτότοκος ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν 1 firstborn from among the dead Jesus is the first person to die and come back to life, never to die again. COL 1 20 zh4u guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) COL 1 20 as3p διὰ τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ σταυροῦ αὐτοῦ 1 through the blood of his cross "by means of the blood Jesus shed on the cross" COL 1 20 x5av figs-metonymy τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ σταυροῦ αὐτοῦ 1 the blood of his cross Here "blood" stands for the death of Christ on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 1 21 kv5u 0 Connecting Statement: Paul makes it clear that God has now revealed that Christ exchanges the sin of Gentile believers for his holiness. COL 1 21 imq1 καὶ ὑμᾶς ποτε 1 At one time, you also "There was a time when you Colossian believers also" -COL 1 21 wp3t 0 were strangers to God "were like people whom God did not know" or "had pushed God away" -COL 1 22 ejt4 figs-metaphor παραστῆσαι ὑμᾶς ἁγίους ... ἀμώμους, καὶ ἀνεγκλήτους, κατενώπιον αὐτοῦ 1 to present you holy, blameless, and above reproach before him Paul is describing the Colossians as though Jesus had physically cleaned them, put them in clean clothes, and brought them to stand before God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 21 wp3t ἀπηλλοτριωμένους 0 were strangers to God "were like people whom God did not know" or "had pushed God away" +COL 1 22 ejt4 figs-metaphor παραστῆσαι ὑμᾶς ἁγίους, καὶ ἀμώμους, καὶ ἀνεγκλήτους, κατενώπιον αὐτοῦ 1 to present you holy, blameless, and above reproach before him Paul is describing the Colossians as though Jesus had physically cleaned them, put them in clean clothes, and brought them to stand before God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 22 u94j figs-parallelism ἀμώμους, καὶ ἀνεγκλήτους 1 blameless, and above reproach Paul uses two words that mean almost the same thing to emphasize the idea of perfection. Alternate translation: "perfect" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) COL 1 22 lf5a figs-metaphor κατενώπιον αὐτοῦ 1 before him This expression of location stands for "in God's view" or "in God's mind" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 23 d9kg figs-activepassive τοῦ ... κηρυχθέντος 1 that was proclaimed that believers proclaimed (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +COL 1 23 d9kg figs-activepassive τοῦ κηρυχθέντος 1 that was proclaimed that believers proclaimed (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 1 23 q21b ἐν πάσῃ κτίσει τῇ ὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανόν 1 to every person created under heaven "to every person in the world" -COL 1 23 g8iq figs-metonymy 0 the gospel of which I, Paul, became a servant Paul was actually a servant of God. Alternate translation: "the gospel that I, Paul, serve God by proclaiming" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 1 23 g8iq figs-metonymy οὗ ἐγενόμην ἐγὼ Παῦλος διάκονος 0 the gospel of which I, Paul, became a servant Paul was actually a servant of God. Alternate translation: "the gospel that I, Paul, serve God by proclaiming" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 1 24 rcw3 ἀνταναπληρῶ τὰ ὑστερήματα τῶν θλίψεων τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου 1 I fill up in my flesh what is lacking of the afflictions of Christ Paul speaks about the suffering that he continues to experience. He may be acknowledging here that there is much suffering that he and all other Christians must endure before Christ comes again, and that Christ in a spiritual sense joins with them in experiencing these hardships. Paul certainly does not mean that Christ's sufferings alone were not enough to provide salvation for the believers. COL 1 24 fm9y figs-metaphor ἀνταναπληρῶ ... ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου 1 I fill up in my flesh Paul speaks of his body as if it were a container that could hold suffering. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 1 24 mge9 figs-metaphor ὑπὲρ ... τοῦ ... σώματος αὐτοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἡ ἐκκλησία 1 for the sake of his body, which is the church Paul often speaks of the church, the group of all Christian believers, as if it were Christ's body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 24 mge9 figs-metaphor ὑπὲρ τοῦ σώματος αὐτοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἡ ἐκκλησία 1 for the sake of his body, which is the church Paul often speaks of the church, the group of all Christian believers, as if it were Christ's body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 25 t6ud figs-metaphor πληρῶσαι τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 to fulfill the word of God This means to bring about the purpose of God's gospel message, which is that it be preached and believed. "Word of God" here is a metonym for the message from God. Alternate translation: "to be obedient to what God has instructed" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -COL 1 26 f3mt figs-activepassive 0 This is the secret truth that was hidden This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "This is the secret truth that God had hidden" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +COL 1 26 f3mt figs-activepassive τὸ μυστήριον τὸ ἀποκεκρυμμένον 0 This is the secret truth that was hidden This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "This is the secret truth that God had hidden" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 1 26 z8gv ἀπὸ τῶν αἰώνων καὶ ἀπὸ τῶν γενεῶν 1 for ages and for generations The words "ages" and "generations" refer to the time period from the creation of the world until the time when the gospel was preached. COL 1 26 a9kw figs-activepassive νῦν ... ἐφανερώθη 1 now it has been revealed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "now God has revealed it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -COL 1 27 c8yb figs-metaphor τί τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς δόξης τοῦ μυστηρίου τούτου 1 the riches of the glory of this secret truth Paul speaks of the value of this secret truth about God as if it were a treasure of material wealth. "riches" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 1 27 c8yb figs-metaphor τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς δόξης τοῦ μυστηρίου τούτου 1 the riches of the glory of this secret truth Paul speaks of the value of this secret truth about God as if it were a treasure of material wealth. "riches" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 27 c7ln figs-metaphor Χριστὸς ἐν ὑμῖν 1 Christ in you Paul speaks of the believers as if they were actual containers in which Christ is present. This is one of his ways of expressing the union of the believers with Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 1 27 mr83 ἡ ἐλπὶς τῆς δόξης 1 the hope of glory "so you can confidently expect to share in God's glory" -COL 1 28 va1x figs-exclusive 0 we proclaim ... We admonish ... we teach ... we may present These words do not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) +COL 1 28 va1x figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς καταγγέλλομεν, νουθετοῦντες … διδάσκοντες … παραστήσωμεν 0 we proclaim ... We admonish ... we teach ... we may present These words do not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) COL 1 28 na8w νουθετοῦντες πάντα ἄνθρωπον 1 We admonish every person "We warn everyone" COL 1 28 lyz1 figs-explicit ἵνα παραστήσωμεν πάντα ἄνθρωπον 1 so that we may present every person You may need to make explicit to whom they will present every person. Alternate translation: "so that we may present to God every person" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) COL 1 28 uk2i figs-metaphor τέλειον 1 complete Being complete is a metaphor for being spiritually mature. Alternate translation: "spiritually mature" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 intro p3uc 0 # Colossians 02 General Notes
## Special concepts in this chapter

### Circumcision and baptism
In verses 11-12, Paul uses both the old covenant sign of circumcision and the new covenant sign of baptism to show how Christians are united with Christ and freed from sin.

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Flesh

This is a complex issue. "Flesh" is possibly a metaphor for our sinful nature. Paul is not teaching that the physical part of man is sinful. Paul appears to be teaching that, while Christians are alive ("in the flesh"), we will continue to sin. But our new nature will be fighting against our old nature. Paul also uses "flesh" in this chapter to refer to the physical body.

### Implicit information
Paul mentions several issues in this chapter that imply information about the context of the church in Colossae. It is best to allow the text to remain uncertain over the actual details. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
+COL 2 intro p3uc 0 # Colossians 02 General Notes
#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Circumcision and baptism
In verses 11-12, Paul uses both the old covenant sign of circumcision and the new covenant sign of baptism to show how Christians are united with Christ and freed from sin.

#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

##### Flesh

This is a complex issue. "Flesh" is possibly a metaphor for our sinful nature. Paul is not teaching that the physical part of man is sinful. Paul appears to be teaching that, while Christians are alive ("in the flesh"), we will continue to sin. But our new nature will be fighting against our old nature. Paul also uses "flesh" in this chapter to refer to the physical body.

##### Implicit information
Paul mentions several issues in this chapter that imply information about the context of the church in Colossae. It is best to allow the text to remain uncertain over the actual details. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 2 1 tt6v 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to encourage the believers in Colossae and Laodicea to understand that Christ is God and that he lives in believers, so they should live in the same way they received him. COL 2 1 dqg5 ἡλίκον ἀγῶνα ἔχω ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 how great a struggle I have had for you Paul has exerted much effort in developing their purity and understanding of the gospel. COL 2 1 fn4z τῶν ἐν Λαοδικίᾳ 1 those at Laodicea This was a city very close to Colossae where there was also a church for which Paul was praying. COL 2 1 rj7d figs-synecdoche ὅσοι οὐχ ἑόρακαν τὸ πρόσωπόν μου ἐν σαρκί 1 as many as have not seen my face in the flesh Here "face in the flesh" represents the person as a whole. Alternate translation: "all those who have never seen me personally" or "all those whom I have never met face to face" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) -COL 2 2 ge1w figs-pronouns 0 so that their hearts Paul includes the Galatians even though he uses a different pronoun. Alternate translation: "so that their hearts and yours" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) +COL 2 2 ge1w figs-pronouns Ἵνα … αἱ καρδίαι αὐτῶν 0 so that their hearts Paul includes the Galatians even though he uses a different pronoun. Alternate translation: "so that their hearts and yours" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) COL 2 2 a4px συμβιβασθέντες 1 brought together This means brought together in a close relationship. COL 2 2 kdg8 figs-metaphor πᾶν πλοῦτος τῆς πληροφορίας τῆς συνέσεως 1 all the riches of full assurance of understanding Paul speaks of a person who is completely sure that the good news is true as though that person were rich in physical things. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 2 qgi2 τοῦ μυστηρίου τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the secret truth of God This is knowledge that can be revealed only by God. @@ -89,119 +89,119 @@ COL 2 2 v13e Χριστοῦ 1 that is, Christ Jesus Christ is the secret truth COL 2 3 w74d figs-activepassive ἐν ᾧ εἰσιν πάντες οἱ θησαυροὶ τῆς σοφίας καὶ γνώσεως ἀπόκρυφοι 1 In him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden Only Christ can reveal God's true wisdom and knowledge. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 2 3 w4mr figs-metaphor οἱ θησαυροὶ τῆς σοφίας καὶ γνώσεως 1 the treasures of wisdom and knowledge Paul speaks of God's wisdom and knowledge as if they were material wealth. Alternate translation: "the very precious wisdom and knowledge" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 3 vd98 figs-doublet τῆς σοφίας καὶ γνώσεως 1 wisdom and knowledge These words mean basically the same thing here. Paul uses them together to emphasize that all spiritual understanding comes from Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) -COL 2 4 j8di ὑμᾶς παραλογίζηται 1 trick This means to cause someone to believe something that is not true, so he acts on that belief, and suffers harm as a result. -COL 2 4 y4r3 ἐν πιθανολογίᾳ 1 persuasive speech speech that will make a person think differently +COL 2 4 j8di παραλογίζηται 1 trick This means to cause someone to believe something that is not true, so he acts on that belief, and suffers harm as a result. +COL 2 4 y4r3 πιθανολογίᾳ 1 persuasive speech speech that will make a person think differently COL 2 5 g1rp figs-metonymy τῇ σαρκὶ ἄπειμι 1 not with you in the flesh The person's flesh, or physical body, is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: "not physically present with you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 2 5 bz56 figs-idiom τῷ πνεύματι σὺν ὑμῖν εἰμι 1 I am with you in spirit Being with someone in spirit is a metaphor for thinking continually about that person. Alternate translation: "I continually think about you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) COL 2 5 ev9p τὴν τάξιν 1 good order doing things properly -COL 2 5 hth1 0 the strength of your faith "how nothing and no one can cause you to stop believing" +COL 2 5 hth1 τὸ στερέωμα ... πίστεως ὑμῶν 0 the strength of your faith "how nothing and no one can cause you to stop believing" COL 2 6 m3f1 figs-metaphor ἐν αὐτῷ περιπατεῖτε 1 walk in him Walking on a path is a metaphor for how a person lives his life. The words "in him" refer to being in close relationship with Christ and so doing what pleases him. Alternate translation: "live your lives the way he wants you to" or "live so that people can see that you belong to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 7 e2x6 figs-idiom 0 Be rooted ... be built ... be established ... abound These words explain what it means to "walk in him." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +COL 2 7 e2x6 figs-idiom ἐρριζωμένοι ... ἐποικοδομούμενοι ... βεβαιούμενοι ... περισσεύοντες 0 Be rooted ... be built ... be established ... abound These words explain what it means to "walk in him." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) COL 2 7 fw47 figs-metaphor ἐρριζωμένοι ... ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Be rooted in him Paul speaks of a person with true faith in Christ as if that person were a tree growing in solid ground with deep roots. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 7 tb5m figs-metaphor 0 be built on him Paul speaks of a person with true faith in Christ as if that person were a building that has a strong foundation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 7 tb5m figs-metaphor ἐποικοδομούμενοι ἐν αὐτῷ 0 be built on him Paul speaks of a person with true faith in Christ as if that person were a building that has a strong foundation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 7 yh83 βεβαιούμενοι τῇ πίστει 1 be established in faith "trust in Jesus for everything" COL 2 7 l1is καθὼς ἐδιδάχθητε 1 just as you were taught This is best stated without naming or otherwise calling attention to the teacher, who was Epaphras ([Colossians 1:7](../01/07.md)). Alternate translation: "just as you learned" or "just as they taught you" or "just as he taught you" COL 2 7 j47d figs-metaphor περισσεύοντες ἐν εὐχαριστίᾳ 1 abound in thanksgiving Paul speaks of thanksgiving as if it were objects that a person could obtain more of. Alternate translation: "be very thankful to God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 8 cbw5 0 Connecting Statement: Paul urges the believers to be careful not to turn to the words and rules of others because nothing can add to the fullness of God that believers have in Christ. -COL 2 8 lm1v 0 See that "Make sure that" -COL 2 8 ga9l figs-metaphor 0 captures you Paul speaks of the way a person can believe false teachings (because they believe false things or love the wrong things) as if someone had physically caught and held that person by force. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 8 lm1v βλέπετε 0 See that "Make sure that" +COL 2 8 ga9l figs-metaphor ὑμᾶς ἔσται ὁ συλαγωγῶν 0 captures you Paul speaks of the way a person can believe false teachings (because they believe false things or love the wrong things) as if someone had physically caught and held that person by force. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 8 p3vx τῆς φιλοσοφίας 1 philosophy religious doctrines and beliefs that are not from God's word but are based on man's thoughts about God and life COL 2 8 t8xx figs-metaphor κενῆς ἀπάτης 1 empty deceit Paul speaks of false ideas that produce nothing and so are without value as though they are containers with nothing in them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 8 l9jt 0 the tradition of men ... the elements of the world Both Jewish traditions and pagan (Gentile) belief systems are worthless. "The elements of the world" perhaps refers to evil spirits that claimed to rule the world and that were adored by people. But some interpreters view "the elements of the world" as people's basic teachings about the world. +COL 2 8 l9jt τὴν παράδοσιν τῶν ἀνθρώπων … τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου 0 the tradition of men ... the elements of the world Both Jewish traditions and pagan (Gentile) belief systems are worthless. "The elements of the world" perhaps refers to evil spirits that claimed to rule the world and that were adored by people. But some interpreters view "the elements of the world" as people's basic teachings about the world. COL 2 9 ahq5 ἐν αὐτῷ κατοικεῖ πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα τῆς Θεότητος σωματικῶς 1 in him all the fullness of God lives in bodily form "God's total nature lives in physical form in Christ" COL 2 10 lbk7 figs-metaphor ἐστὲ ἐν αὐτῷ πεπληρωμένοι 1 You have been filled in him Paul speaks of people as though they were containers into which God has placed Christ. Alternate translation: "You are made complete in Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 10 je36 figs-metaphor 0 who is the head over every power and authority Christ is the ruler over every other ruler (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 10 je36 figs-metaphor ὅς ἐστιν ἡ κεφαλὴ πάσης ἀρχῆς καὶ ἐξουσίας 0 who is the head over every power and authority Christ is the ruler over every other ruler (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 11 xeq7 figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ καὶ περιετμήθητε 1 In him you were also circumcised Paul is speaking of those who belong to Christ as if they were inside Christ's body. This can also be made active. Alternate translation: "When you joined the church in baptism, God circumcised you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 2 11 ii43 figs-metaphor περιτομῇ ἀχειροποιήτῳ 1 a circumcision not done by humans With this metaphor, Paul says that God has made Christian believers acceptable to himself in a way that reminded him of circumcision, the ceremony through which Hebrew male babies were added to the community of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 12 ln8e figs-metaphor συνταφέντες αὐτῷ ἐν τῷ βαπτισμῷ 1 You were buried with him in baptism Paul speaks of being baptized and joining the assembly of believers as if it were being buried with Christ. This can be made active. Alternate translation: "God buried you with Christ when you joined the church in baptism" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -COL 2 12 g1rq figs-metaphor ἐν ... ᾧ ... συνηγέρθητε 1 in him you were raised up With this metaphor, Paul speaks of the new spiritual life of believers that God made possible by making Christ come alive again. This can be made active. Alternate translation: "because you have joined yourself to Christ, God raised you up" or "in him God caused you to live again" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) +COL 2 12 g1rq figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ ... συνηγέρθητε 1 in him you were raised up With this metaphor, Paul speaks of the new spiritual life of believers that God made possible by making Christ come alive again. This can be made active. Alternate translation: "because you have joined yourself to Christ, God raised you up" or "in him God caused you to live again" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 2 12 rec6 figs-activepassive συνηγέρθητε 1 you were raised up Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God raised you up" or "God caused you to live again" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -COL 2 13 v6vi figs-metaphor 0 When you were dead Paul speaks of unresponsiveness to God as if it were death. Alternate translation: "When you Colossian believers were unable to respond to God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 13 f9ms figs-metaphor 0 you were dead ... he made you alive With this metaphor Paul speaks of coming into new spiritual life as if it were coming back to life physically. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 13 v6vi figs-metaphor ὑμᾶς νεκροὺς ὄντας 0 When you were dead Paul speaks of unresponsiveness to God as if it were death. Alternate translation: "When you Colossian believers were unable to respond to God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 13 f9ms figs-metaphor ὑμᾶς νεκροὺς ὄντας … συνεζωοποίησεν ὑμᾶς 0 you were dead ... he made you alive With this metaphor Paul speaks of coming into new spiritual life as if it were coming back to life physically. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 13 wh4z νεκροὺς ... ἐν τοῖς παραπτώμασιν καὶ τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν 1 dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcision of your flesh You were dead on two accounts: 1) you were spiritually dead, living a life of sin against Christ and 2) you were not circumcised according to the law of Moses. COL 2 13 k2hw χαρισάμενος ἡμῖν πάντα τὰ παραπτώματα 1 forgave us all of our trespasses "he forgave us, both us Jews and you Gentiles, of all our trespasses" COL 2 14 w22z figs-metaphor ἐξαλείψας τὸ καθ’ ἡμῶν χειρόγραφον τοῖς δόγμασιν, ὃ ἦν ὑπεναντίον ἡμῖν 1 He canceled the written record of debts that stood against us Paul speaks of the way God forgives our sins as if it were the way a person, to whom many people owe money or goods, destroys the record of that debt so they do not have to pay him back. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 15 gh24 figs-metaphor 0 made a public spectacle of them In Roman times, it was common practice for the Roman armies to have a victory parade when they returned home, displaying all the prisoners they had captured and goods they had obtained. God was victorious over the evil powers and authorities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 15 cg37 figs-metonymy 0 by the cross Here "the cross" stands for Christ's death on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 2 15 gh24 figs-metaphor ἐδειγμάτισεν ἐν παρρησίᾳ 0 made a public spectacle of them In Roman times, it was common practice for the Roman armies to have a victory parade when they returned home, displaying all the prisoners they had captured and goods they had obtained. God was victorious over the evil powers and authorities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 15 cg37 figs-metonymy ἐν αὐτῷ 0 by the cross Here "the cross" stands for Christ's death on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 2 16 cii9 ἐν βρώσει, καὶ ἐν πόσει 1 in eating or in drinking The law of Moses included what one can eat and drink. "for what you eat or what you drink" -COL 2 16 b4kd 0 about a feast day or a new moon, or about Sabbath days The law of Moses specified the days to celebrate, to worship, and to offer sacrifice. "for the way you celebrate feast days or new moons or the Sabbath" -COL 2 17 ip3a figs-metaphor 0 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance is Christ A shadow shows the shape of an object, but it is not the object itself. In a similar way, the festivals, celebrations, and Sabbath show us something about how God would save people, but those things do not save people. The savior is Christ. Alternate translation: "These are like a shadow of what would happen, but the reality is Christ" or "These are like a shadow of the savior who would come, but the savior is Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 18 zv2t figs-metaphor 0 Let no one ... judge you out of your prize Here Paul refers to false teachers as if they were corrupt judges at an athletic contest who would unjustly disqualify the believers from winning the prizes they deserve, and he speaks of Christ saving a person as if Christ were giving a prize to the winner of such a contest. Alternate translation: "Let no one ... disqualify you from winning a prize" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 16 b4kd ἐν μέρει ἑορτῆς, ἢ νουμηνίας, ἢ Σαββάτων 0 about a feast day or a new moon, or about Sabbath days The law of Moses specified the days to celebrate, to worship, and to offer sacrifice. "for the way you celebrate feast days or new moons or the Sabbath" +COL 2 17 ip3a figs-metaphor ἅ ἐστιν σκιὰ τῶν μελλόντων, τὸ δὲ σῶμα τοῦ Χριστοῦ 0 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance is Christ A shadow shows the shape of an object, but it is not the object itself. In a similar way, the festivals, celebrations, and Sabbath show us something about how God would save people, but those things do not save people. The savior is Christ. Alternate translation: "These are like a shadow of what would happen, but the reality is Christ" or "These are like a shadow of the savior who would come, but the savior is Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 18 zv2t figs-metaphor μηδεὶς ὑμᾶς καταβραβευέτω 0 Let no one ... judge you out of your prize Here Paul refers to false teachers as if they were corrupt judges at an athletic contest who would unjustly disqualify the believers from winning the prizes they deserve, and he speaks of Christ saving a person as if Christ were giving a prize to the winner of such a contest. Alternate translation: "Let no one ... disqualify you from winning a prize" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 18 b5ce figs-metonymy θέλων ... ταπεινοφροσύνῃ 1 who wants humility The word "humility" is a metonym for actions one does to make others think that one is humble. Alternate translation: "who wants you to do things to show that you are humble" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -COL 2 18 kn5d figs-metaphor ἑόρακεν ἐμβατεύων 1 enters into the things he has seen Here Paul speaks about people who claim to have dreams and visions from God and who talk proudly about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 18 kn5d figs-metaphor ἃ ἑόρακεν ἐμβατεύων 1 enters into the things he has seen Here Paul speaks about people who claim to have dreams and visions from God and who talk proudly about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 18 p7q4 figs-activepassive φυσιούμενος ὑπὸ τοῦ νοὸς τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 becomes puffed up by his fleshly thinking Here Paul says that sinful ways of thinking make a person arrogant. Alternate translation: "puffs himself up by means of his fleshly thinking" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) COL 2 18 wp42 figs-metaphor φυσιούμενος 1 puffed up Here a person who boasts is spoken of as if he were an object into which someone had blown air to make it larger than it should be. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 18 if94 figs-metaphor τοῦ νοὸς τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτοῦ 1 his fleshly thinking Here the idea of flesh stands for the sinful human nature. "the sinful thoughts he naturally thinks" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 19 m2dz figs-metaphor 0 He does not hold on to the head A person not trusting in Christ is spoken of has if they do not hold firmly to the head. Christ is spoken of as if he were the head of a body. Alternate translation: "He does not firmly grasp Christ, who is like the head of a body" or "He does not cling to Christ, who is like the head of a body" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 2 19 r4ca figs-metaphor 0 It is from the head that the whole body throughout its joints and ligaments is supplied and held together Paul speaks of the church, which is ruled and empowered by Christ, as if it were a human body. Alternate translation: "It is from the head that God supplies the whole body throughout its joints and ligaments and holds it together" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 19 m2dz figs-metaphor οὐ κρατῶν τὴν κεφαλήν 0 He does not hold on to the head A person not trusting in Christ is spoken of has if they do not hold firmly to the head. Christ is spoken of as if he were the head of a body. Alternate translation: "He does not firmly grasp Christ, who is like the head of a body" or "He does not cling to Christ, who is like the head of a body" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 2 19 r4ca figs-metaphor ἐξ οὗ πᾶν τὸ σῶμα διὰ τῶν ἁφῶν καὶ συνδέσμων ἐπιχορηγούμενον καὶ συνβιβαζόμενον 0 It is from the head that the whole body throughout its joints and ligaments is supplied and held together Paul speaks of the church, which is ruled and empowered by Christ, as if it were a human body. Alternate translation: "It is from the head that God supplies the whole body throughout its joints and ligaments and holds it together" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 20 yg7h figs-metaphor εἰ ἀπεθάνετε σὺν Χριστῷ ἀπὸ τῶν στοιχείων τοῦ κόσμου 1 If you died together with Christ to the elements of the world With this metaphor, Paul speaks of a believer as a person who is spiritually united with Christ: as Christ died, so the believer has spiritually died; as Christ has come back to life, so the believer has come back to spiritual life, that is, to responsiveness to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 2 20 uu77 ὡς ζῶντες ἐν κόσμῳ δογματίζεσθε 1 live as obligated to the world "think you must obey the desires of the world" COL 2 20 fe1k figs-metonymy τοῦ κόσμου 1 the world the thoughts, desires, and assumptions of the sinful majority of the world's people (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 2 21 v9e7 0 Connecting Statement: The rhetorical question that begins with the words "why do you live as obligated to the world" in verse 20 ends here. COL 2 21 n3ne figs-rquestion 0 "Do ... touch"? The rhetorical question that begins with the words "why do you live as obligated to the world" in verse 20 ends here. Paul uses this question to rebuke the Colossians for following the false beliefs of the world. "you should not live as obligated to the world: 'Do ... touch'!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) -COL 2 21 b392 μὴ ἅψῃ! μηδὲ γεύσῃ! μηδὲ θίγῃς 1 "Do not handle, nor taste, nor touch" Paul is quoting what other people have been telling the Colossians. "why do you believe them when they say, 'Do not handle, nor taste, nor touch'?" or "you should not obey them when they say, 'Do not handle, nor taste, nor touch'" -COL 2 23 y2dc 0 These rules have the wisdom of self-made religion and humility and severity of the body "These rules seem wise to unbelieving people because they allow those who follow them to appear humble because they hurt their own bodies" +COL 2 21 b392 μὴ ἅψῃ μηδὲ γεύσῃ μηδὲ θίγῃς 1 "Do not handle, nor taste, nor touch"? Paul is quoting what other people have been telling the Colossians. "why do you believe them when they say, 'Do not handle, nor taste, nor touch'?" or "you should not obey them when they say, 'Do not handle, nor taste, nor touch'" +COL 2 23 y2dc ἅτινά ἐστιν λόγον μὲν ἔχοντα σοφίας ἐν ἐθελοθρησκείᾳ καὶ ταπεινοφροσύνῃ, ἀφειδίᾳ σώματος 0 These rules have the wisdom of self-made religion and humility and severity of the body "These rules seem wise to unbelieving people because they allow those who follow them to appear humble because they hurt their own bodies" COL 2 23 e7p5 οὐκ ἐν τιμῇ τινι πρὸς πλησμονὴν τῆς σαρκός 1 have no value against the indulgence of the flesh "do not help you stop following your human desires" -COL 3 intro qtl2 0 # Colossians 03 General Notes
## Structure and formatting

The second part of this chapter parallels Ephesians 5 and 6.

## Special concepts in this chapter

### Old and new self
The old and new self mean the same as the old and new man. The term "old man" probably refers to the sinful nature with which a person is born. The "new man" is the new nature or new life that God gives a person after they come to believe in Christ. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Character
Many of the things Paul encourages his readers to pursue or avoid are not actions but character qualities. Because of this, they may be difficult to translate. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

### "The things above"

Where God dwells is often pictured as being located "above." Paul says to "seek the things above" and to "think about the things above." He is implying Christians should seek and think about heavenly and godly things.
+COL 3 intro qtl2 0 # Colossians 03 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

The second part of this chapter parallels Ephesians 5 and 6.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Old and new self
The old and new self mean the same as the old and new man. The term "old man" probably refers to the sinful nature with which a person is born. The "new man" is the new nature or new life that God gives a person after they come to believe in Christ. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

##### Character
Many of the things Paul encourages his readers to pursue or avoid are not actions but character qualities. Because of this, they may be difficult to translate. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

##### "The things above"

Where God dwells is often pictured as being located "above." Paul says to "seek the things above" and to "think about the things above." He is implying Christians should seek and think about heavenly and godly things.
COL 3 1 ya97 0 Connecting Statement: Paul warns the believers that because they are one with Christ, they ought not do certain things. COL 3 1 r5yh figs-idiom εἰ οὖν 1 If then This is an idiom that means "because." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -COL 3 1 t1jv figs-pastforfuture τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 God has raised you with Christ Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Possible meanings are 1) because God has caused Christ to come alive again, God has already given the believers in Colossae new spiritual life. Alternate translation: "God has given you new life because you belong to Christ" or 2) because God has caused Christ to come alive again, the believers in Colossae can know that after they die they will live with Christ, and Paul can speak of the believers living again as if it has already happened. Alternate translation: "you can be sure that God will give you life as he has caused Christ to come alive again" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) -COL 3 1 p3fw ἄνω 1 things above "things in heaven" +COL 3 1 t1jv figs-pastforfuture συνηγέρθητε τῷ Χριστῷ 1 God has raised you with Christ Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Possible meanings are 1) because God has caused Christ to come alive again, God has already given the believers in Colossae new spiritual life. Alternate translation: "God has given you new life because you belong to Christ" or 2) because God has caused Christ to come alive again, the believers in Colossae can know that after they die they will live with Christ, and Paul can speak of the believers living again as if it has already happened. Alternate translation: "you can be sure that God will give you life as he has caused Christ to come alive again" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) +COL 3 1 p3fw τὰ ἄνω 1 things above "things in heaven" COL 3 3 l9yk figs-metaphor ἀπεθάνετε γάρ 1 For you have died As Christ actually died, so God counts the Colossian believers as having died with Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 3 3 gkz6 figs-activepassive ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν κέκρυπται σὺν τῷ Χριστῷ ἐν τῷ Θεῷ 1 your life is hidden with Christ in God Paul speaks of people's lives as if they were objects that can be hidden in containers and speaks of God as if he were a container. Alternate translation: Possible meanings are 1) "it is as though God has taken your life and concealed it with Christ in God's presence" or 2) "only God knows what your true life really is, and he will reveal it when he reveals Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 3 4 n4nj figs-metonymy 0 who is your life Christ is the one who gives spiritual life to the believer. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 3 4 n4nj figs-metonymy ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν 0 who is your life Christ is the one who gives spiritual life to the believer. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 5 p9w9 ἀκαθαρσίαν 1 uncleanness impure behavior COL 3 5 e65k πάθος 1 passion strong, lustful desire COL 3 5 h5v4 τὴν πλεονεξίαν, ἥτις ἐστὶν εἰδωλολατρία 1 greed, which is idolatry "greed, which is the same thing as idolatry" or "do not be greedy because that is the same as worshiping idols" -COL 3 6 s9lm ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 wrath of God God's anger against those who do evil as shown by what he does to punish them. +COL 3 6 s9lm ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 wrath of God God's anger against those who do evil as shown by what he does to punish them. COL 3 6 bxk8 figs-idiom 0 the sons of disobedience This is an idiom that means they were characterized by disobedience. The abstract noun "disobedience" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "disobedient people" or "people who disobey him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -COL 3 7 p4q8 figs-metaphor 0 It is in these things that you also once walked Paul speaks of the way a person behaves as if it were a road or path a person walks on. Alternate translation: "These are the things you used to do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 3 7 p4q8 figs-metaphor ἐν οἷς καὶ ὑμεῖς περιεπατήσατέ 0 It is in these things that you also once walked Paul speaks of the way a person behaves as if it were a road or path a person walks on. Alternate translation: "These are the things you used to do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 3 7 s824 figs-metaphor ὅτε ἐζῆτε ἐν τούτοις 1 when you lived in them Possible meanings are 1) "when you practiced these things" or 2) "when you lived among the people who disobey God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 3 8 d3wr 0 evil intentions "desire to do wicked deeds" +COL 3 8 d3wr κακίαν 0 evil intentions "desire to do wicked deeds" COL 3 8 lgz1 βλασφημίαν 1 insults speech used to hurt others COL 3 8 f59z αἰσχρολογίαν 1 obscene speech words that do not belong in polite conversation COL 3 8 n23c figs-metonymy ἐκ τοῦ στόματος ὑμῶν 1 from your mouth Here "mouth" is a metonym for talk. "in your talk" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 9 c6tk 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to tell the believers how to live and reminds them that Christians should treat everyone according to the same standard. COL 3 9 vsd8 figs-metaphor ἀπεκδυσάμενοι τὸν παλαιὸν ἄνθρωπον σὺν ταῖς πράξεσιν αὐτοῦ 1 you have taken off the old man with its practices Here Paul is speaking of a Christian's rejecting his old sinful life as if it were an old garment that he takes off in order to put on a new garment. It was very common for Israelites such as Paul to speak of moral qualities as if they were pieces of clothing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 3 10 brx6 figs-metaphor 0 and you have put on the new man Here Paul is speaking of a Christian's rejecting his old sinful life as if it were an old garment that he takes off (verse 9) in order to put on a new garment. It was very common for Israelites such as Paul to speak of moral qualities as if they were pieces of clothing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 3 10 brx6 figs-metaphor καὶ ἐνδυσάμενοι τὸν νέον 0 and you have put on the new man Here Paul is speaking of a Christian's rejecting his old sinful life as if it were an old garment that he takes off (verse 9) in order to put on a new garment. It was very common for Israelites such as Paul to speak of moral qualities as if they were pieces of clothing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 3 10 d15v figs-metonymy εἰκόνα 1 the image This refers to Jesus Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 11 t2w2 figs-metonymy οὐκ ἔνι Ἕλλην καὶ Ἰουδαῖος, περιτομὴ καὶ ἀκροβυστία, βάρβαρος, Σκύθης, δοῦλος, ἐλεύθερος 1 there is no Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman These terms are examples of the categories of people that Paul says do not matter for God. God sees every person alike, not by race, religion, nationality, or social status. Alternate translation: "race, religion, culture, and social status do not matter" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 11 vt4t βάρβαρος 1 barbarian a foreigner who does not know local customs COL 3 11 n7by Σκύθης 1 Scythian This is someone from the land of Scythia, which was outside the Roman Empire. Greeks and Romans used this word for someone who grew up in a place where everyone did wicked things all the time. -COL 3 11 i964 figs-explicit 0 Christ is all, and is in all Nothing is excluded or left out of the rule of Christ. Alternate translation: "Christ is all important and lives in all his people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) +COL 3 11 i964 figs-explicit ἀλλὰ πάντα καὶ ἐν πᾶσιν Χριστός 0 Christ is all, and is in all Nothing is excluded or left out of the rule of Christ. Alternate translation: "Christ is all important and lives in all his people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) COL 3 12 b5ti figs-activepassive ὡς ἐκλεκτοὶ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἅγιοι καὶ ἠγαπημένοι 1 as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved This can be made active. Alternate translation: "as those whom God has chosen for himself, whom he desires to see live for him alone, and whom he loves" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) -COL 3 12 d217 figs-metaphor 0 put on a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience The "heart" is a metaphor for feelings and attitudes. Here it is spoken of as if it has certain feelings and attitudes, and as if it were clothing to wear. Alternate translation: "have a merciful, kind, humble, gentle, and patient heart" or "be merciful, kind, humble, gentle, and patient" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 3 12 d217 figs-metaphor ἐνδύσασθε … σπλάγχνα οἰκτιρμοῦ, χρηστότητα, ταπεινοφροσύνην, πραΰτητα, μακροθυμίαν 0 put on a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience The "heart" is a metaphor for feelings and attitudes. Here it is spoken of as if it has certain feelings and attitudes, and as if it were clothing to wear. Alternate translation: "have a merciful, kind, humble, gentle, and patient heart" or "be merciful, kind, humble, gentle, and patient" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 3 13 r8iy ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων 1 Bear with one another "Be patient with one another" or "Accept each other even when you disappoint each other" COL 3 13 rts1 χαριζόμενοι ἑαυτοῖς 1 Be gracious to each other "Treat each other better than they deserve for you to treat them" COL 3 13 p474 figs-abstractnouns πρός ... ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 has a complaint against The abstract noun "complaint" can be stated as "complain." Alternate translation: "has a reason to complain against" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -COL 3 14 x5g8 figs-metaphor 0 have love, which is the bond of perfection Here "bond of perfection" is a metaphor for something that causes perfect unity among people. Alternate translation: "love one another because it will unite you perfectly together. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 3 15 hdg5 figs-metonymy 0 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts Paul speaks of the peace that Christ gives as if it were a ruler. Possible meanings are 1) "Do everything so that you can have peaceful relationships with each other" or 2) "Allow God to give you peace in your heart" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 3 14 x5g8 figs-metaphor τὴν ἀγάπην, ὅ ἐστιν σύνδεσμος τῆς τελειότητος 0 have love, which is the bond of perfection Here "bond of perfection" is a metaphor for something that causes perfect unity among people. Alternate translation: "love one another because it will unite you perfectly together. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 3 15 hdg5 figs-metonymy ἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Χριστοῦ βραβευέτω ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 0 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts Paul speaks of the peace that Christ gives as if it were a ruler. Possible meanings are 1) "Do everything so that you can have peaceful relationships with each other" or 2) "Allow God to give you peace in your heart" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 15 i9hg figs-metonymy ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 in your hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for a people's minds or inner being. Alternate translation: "in your minds" or "inside of you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -COL 3 16 w9dv figs-metaphor 0 Let the word of Christ live in you Paul speaks of Christ's word as if it were a person capable of living inside other people. "Word of Christ" here is a metonym for the teachings of Christ. Alternate translation: "Be obedient to the instructions of Christ" or "Always trust Christ's promises" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 3 16 w9dv figs-metaphor ὁ λόγος τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐνοικείτω ἐν ὑμῖν 0 Let the word of Christ live in you Paul speaks of Christ's word as if it were a person capable of living inside other people. "Word of Christ" here is a metonym for the teachings of Christ. Alternate translation: "Be obedient to the instructions of Christ" or "Always trust Christ's promises" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 16 h5k9 νουθετοῦντες ἑαυτοὺς 1 admonish one another "caution and encourage one another" -COL 3 16 ubi5 0 with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs "with all sorts of songs to praise God" -COL 3 16 cnj1 figs-metonymy ἐν ... τῇ χάριτι, ᾄδοντες ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 Sing with thankfulness in your hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for people's minds or inner being. Alternate translation: "Sing with thankfulness in your minds" or "Sing and be thankful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 3 16 ubi5 ψαλμοῖς, ὕμνοις, ᾠδαῖς πνευματικαῖς 0 with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs "with all sorts of songs to praise God" +COL 3 16 cnj1 figs-metonymy ἐν τῇ χάριτι, ᾄδοντες ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 Sing with thankfulness in your hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for people's minds or inner being. Alternate translation: "Sing with thankfulness in your minds" or "Sing and be thankful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 17 g8p8 ἐν λόγῳ ἢ ἐν ἔργῳ 1 in word or in deed "in speaking or in acting" -COL 3 17 uix9 figs-metonymy ἐν ... ὀνόματι Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ 1 in the name of the Lord Jesus Acting in the name of a person here is a metonym for acting to help other people think well of that person. Alternate translation: "to honor the Lord Jesus" or "so that others will know you belong to the Lord Jesus and think well of him" or "as if the Lord Jesus himself were doing it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 3 17 uix9 figs-metonymy ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ 1 in the name of the Lord Jesus Acting in the name of a person here is a metonym for acting to help other people think well of that person. Alternate translation: "to honor the Lord Jesus" or "so that others will know you belong to the Lord Jesus and think well of him" or "as if the Lord Jesus himself were doing it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 17 bv84 figs-metaphor δι’ αὐτοῦ 1 through him Possible meanings are 1) because he has done great deeds or 2) because he has made it possible for people to speak to God and so give him thanks. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 3 18 flu9 0 Connecting Statement: Paul then gives some special instructions to wives, husbands, children, fathers, slaves, and masters. -COL 3 18 tt9u αἱ γυναῖκες, ὑποτάσσεσθε τοῖς ἀνδράσιν 1 Wives, submit to "Wives, obey" +COL 3 18 tt9u αἱ γυναῖκες, ὑποτάσσεσθε τοῖς 1 Wives, submit to "Wives, obey" COL 3 18 b2y3 ἀνῆκεν 1 it is appropriate "it is proper" or "it is right" COL 3 19 lc4a μὴ πικραίνεσθε πρὸς 1 do not be bitter against "do not be harsh with" or "do not be angry toward" COL 3 21 bvi3 μὴ ἐρεθίζετε τὰ τέκνα ὑμῶν 1 do not provoke your children "do not needlessly make your children angry" COL 3 22 cx6a ὑπακούετε ... τοῖς κατὰ σάρκα κυρίοις 1 obey your masters according to the flesh "obey your human masters" COL 3 22 iy1n πάντα ... μὴ ἐν ὀφθαλμοδουλεία, ὡς ἀνθρωπάρεσκοι 1 things, not with eyeservice as people pleasers "things. Do not obey only when your master is watching, as though you need only to please people" -COL 3 22 r22m figs-metonymy 0 with a sincere heart "Heart" here is a metonym for a person's thoughts or intentions. Alternate translation: "with all honest intentions" or "with sincerity" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 3 22 r22m figs-metonymy ἐν ἁπλότητι καρδίας 0 with a sincere heart "Heart" here is a metonym for a person's thoughts or intentions. Alternate translation: "with all honest intentions" or "with sincerity" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 3 23 arw4 ὡς τῷ Κυρίῳ 1 as to the Lord "as you would work for the Lord" -COL 3 24 f3ed Κυρίου ... τὴν ἀνταπόδοσιν τῆς κληρονομίας 1 the reward of the inheritance "the inheritance as your reward" +COL 3 24 f3ed τὴν ἀνταπόδοσιν τῆς κληρονομίας 1 the reward of the inheritance "the inheritance as your reward" COL 3 24 p3pw figs-metaphor κληρονομίας 1 inheritance Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 3 25 u5lx 0 anyone who does unrighteousness will receive the penalty The phrase "receive the penalty" means to be punished. Alternate translation: "anyone who does unrighteousness will be punished" or "God will punish anyone who does what is unrighteous" +COL 3 25 u5lx ὁ ... ἀδικῶν, κομιεῖται ὃ ἠδίκησεν 0 anyone who does unrighteousness will receive the penalty The phrase "receive the penalty" means to be punished. Alternate translation: "anyone who does unrighteousness will be punished" or "God will punish anyone who does what is unrighteous" COL 3 25 ak8j ἀδικῶν 1 who does unrighteousness who actively does wrong of any kind COL 3 25 c9fx figs-abstractnouns οὐκ ἔστιν προσωπολημψία 1 there is no favoritism The abstract noun "favoritism" can be expressed with the verb "favor." To favor some people is to judge them by different standards so the result is better for them than for others who do the same actions. Alternate translation: "God does not favor anyone" or "God judges everyone by the same standard" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) -COL 4 intro nm3y 0 # Colossians 04 General Notes
## Structure and formatting

[Colossians 4:1](../../col/04/01.md) appears to belong with the topics of Chapter 3 instead of Chapter 4.

## Special concepts in this chapter

### "In my own hand"
It was common in the ancient Near East for the author to speak and someone else to write down the words. Many of the New Testament letters were written this way. Paul wrote the final greeting himself.

## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

### Secret truth

Paul refers to a "secret truth" in this chapter. The role of the church in the plans of God was once unknown. But God has now revealed it. Part of this involves the Gentiles having equal standing with the Jews in the plans of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])
+COL 4 intro nm3y 0 # Colossians 04 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

[Colossians 4:1](../../col/04/01.md) appears to belong with the topics of Chapter 3 instead of Chapter 4.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### "In my own hand"
It was common in the ancient Near East for the author to speak and someone else to write down the words. Many of the New Testament letters were written this way. Paul wrote the final greeting himself.

#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

##### Secret truth

Paul refers to a "secret truth" in this chapter. The role of the church in the plans of God was once unknown. But God has now revealed it. Part of this involves the Gentiles having equal standing with the Jews in the plans of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])
COL 4 1 qhd2 0 Connecting Statement: After speaking to masters, Paul ends his special instructions to the different kinds of believers in the church at Colossae. COL 4 1 ae3y figs-doublet τὸ δίκαιον καὶ τὴν ἰσότητα 1 right and fair These words mean almost the same thing and are used to emphasize the things that are morally correct. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) -COL 4 1 t9wy καὶ ... ὑμεῖς ἔχετε Κύριον ἐν οὐρανῷ 1 you also have a master in heaven God wants the relationship between an earthly master and his slave to be loving the way God, the heavenly master, loves his earthly servants, including the earthly slaves' masters. +COL 4 1 t9wy καὶ ὑμεῖς ἔχετε Κύριον ἐν οὐρανῷ 1 you also have a master in heaven God wants the relationship between an earthly master and his slave to be loving the way God, the heavenly master, loves his earthly servants, including the earthly slaves' masters. COL 4 2 sct4 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Here the word "us" refers to Paul and Timothy but not the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) COL 4 2 wx86 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to give instructions to believers on how to live and speak. COL 4 2 pp1c τῇ προσευχῇ προσκαρτερεῖτε 1 Continue steadfastly in prayer "Keep praying faithfully" or "Keep praying consistently" @@ -209,11 +209,11 @@ COL 4 3 ub1i figs-metaphor ὁ Θεὸς ἀνοίξῃ ... θύραν 1 God wou COL 4 3 lj4f ἀνοίξῃ ... θύραν τοῦ λόγου 1 open a door for the word "make an opportunity for us tp preach his message" COL 4 3 ce37 τὸ μυστήριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 the secret truth of Christ This refers to the gospel of Jesus Christ, which was not understood before Christ came. COL 4 3 q4jx figs-metonymy δι’ ὃ ... δέδεμαι 1 Because of this, I am chained up Here "chained" is a metonym for being in prison. Alternate translation: "It is for proclaiming the message of Jesus Christ that I am now in prison" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -COL 4 4 hm5w 0 Pray that I may make it clear "Pray that I might be able to speak the message of Jesus Christ clearly" +COL 4 4 hm5w ἵνα φανερώσω αὐτὸ 0 Pray that I may make it clear "Pray that I might be able to speak the message of Jesus Christ clearly" COL 4 5 z3ax figs-metaphor ἐν σοφίᾳ περιπατεῖτε πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω 1 Walk in wisdom toward those outside The idea of walking is often used for the idea of conducting one's life. Alternate translation: "Live in such a way that those who are not believers will see that you are wise" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 4 5 b525 figs-metaphor τὸν καιρὸν ἐξαγοραζόμενοι 1 redeem the time To "redeem" something means to restore it to it's rightful owner. Here time is spoken of as something that can be restored and used to serve God. Alternate translation: "do the best things you can with your time" or "put the time to its best use" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 4 6 fuv5 figs-metaphor 0 Let your words always be with grace. Let them be seasoned with salt Food with salt is a metaphor for words that teach others and that others enjoy hearing. Alternate translation: "Let your conversation always be gracious and attractive" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) -COL 4 6 c1w4 0 so that you may know how you should answer "so that you may know how to answer questions from anyone about Jesus Christ" or "so that you may be able to treat every person well" +COL 4 6 fuv5 figs-metaphor ὁ λόγος ὑμῶν πάντοτε ἐν χάριτι, ἅλατι ἠρτυμένος 0 Let your words always be with grace. Let them be seasoned with salt Food with salt is a metaphor for words that teach others and that others enjoy hearing. Alternate translation: "Let your conversation always be gracious and attractive" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) +COL 4 6 c1w4 εἰδέναι πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς ... ἀποκρίνεσθαι 0 so that you may know how you should answer "so that you may know how to answer questions from anyone about Jesus Christ" or "so that you may be able to treat every person well" COL 4 7 vtb1 0 General Information: Onesimus was a slave of Philemon in Colossae. He had stolen money from Philemon and run away to Rome where he became a Christian through the ministry of Paul. Now Tychicus and Onesimus are the ones bringing Paul's letter to Colossae. COL 4 7 ut91 0 Connecting Statement: Paul closes with special instructions about certain people as well as greetings to and from individual believers. COL 4 7 xzz4 τὰ κατ’ ἐμὲ 1 the things concerning me "everything that has been happening to me" @@ -221,25 +221,25 @@ COL 4 7 p7c1 σύνδουλος 1 fellow slave "fellow servant." Though Paul is COL 4 8 vyq5 figs-exclusive τὰ περὶ ἡμῶν 1 about us These words do not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) COL 4 8 fr1z figs-metaphor παρακαλέσῃ τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν 1 may encourage your hearts The heart was thought to be the center of many emotions. Alternate translation: "may encourage you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) COL 4 9 yqh9 τῷ πιστῷ καὶ ἀγαπητῷ ἀδελφῷ 1 the faithful and beloved brother Paul calls Onesimus a fellow Christian and servant of Christ. -COL 4 9 n15d ὑμῖν γνωρίσουσιν 1 They will tell "Tychicus and Onesimus will tell" +COL 4 9 n15d γνωρίσουσιν 1 They will tell "Tychicus and Onesimus will tell" COL 4 9 vb7j πάντα ... τὰ ὧδε 1 everything that has happened here They will tell the Colossian believers all that is taking place where Paul is currently living. Tradition says Paul was in Rome under house arrest or in prison at this time. COL 4 10 wmf4 Ἀρίσταρχος 1 Aristarchus He was in prison with Paul in Ephesus when Paul wrote this letter to the Colossians. COL 4 10 cg3a ἐὰν ἔλθῃ 1 if he comes "if Mark comes" COL 4 11 bm6s Ἰησοῦς, ὁ λεγόμενος Ἰοῦστος 1 Jesus who is called Justus This is a man who also worked with Paul. -COL 4 11 ci74 figs-metonymy ἐκ περιτομῆς οὗτοι, μόνοι συνεργοὶ εἰς τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 These alone of the circumcision are my fellow workers for the kingdom of God Paul uses "circumcision" here to refer to Jews because, under the Old Testament law, all male Jews had to be circumcised. Alternate translation: "These three men are the only Jewish believers working with me to proclaim God as king through Christ Jesus" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 4 11 ci74 figs-metonymy οἱ ὄντες ἐκ περιτομῆς οὗτοι, μόνοι συνεργοὶ εἰς τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 These alone of the circumcision are my fellow workers for the kingdom of God Paul uses "circumcision" here to refer to Jews because, under the Old Testament law, all male Jews had to be circumcised. Alternate translation: "These three men are the only Jewish believers working with me to proclaim God as king through Christ Jesus" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) COL 4 11 p8e9 ἐκ περιτομῆς οὗτοι, μόνοι 1 These alone of the circumcision "These men—Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus—alone of the circumcision" COL 4 12 et2g 0 General Information: Laodicea and Hierapolis were towns close to Colossae. COL 4 12 gg86 Ἐπαφρᾶς 1 Epaphras Epaphras was the man who had preached the good news to the people in Colossae ([Colossians 1:7](../01/07.md)). -COL 4 12 rq61 0 one of you "from your city" or "your fellow townsman" +COL 4 12 rq61 ὁ ἐξ ὑμῶν 0 one of you "from your city" or "your fellow townsman" COL 4 12 ek51 δοῦλος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 a slave of Christ Jesus "a committed disciple of Christ Jesus" COL 4 12 p8ff πάντοτε ἀγωνιζόμενος ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐν ταῖς προσευχαῖς 1 always strives for you in prayer "earnestly prays for you" COL 4 12 nuh9 σταθῆτε τέλειοι καὶ πεπληροφορημένοι 1 you may stand complete and fully assured "you may stand mature and confident" COL 4 13 k8vv μαρτυρῶ ... αὐτῷ, ὅτι ἔχει πολὺν πόνον ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 I bear witness of him, that he works hard for you "I have observed that he has worked very hard for you" COL 4 14 hq1k Δημᾶς 1 Demas This is another co-worker with Paul. -COL 4 15 sc5g τοὺς ἐν Λαοδικίᾳ ἀδελφοὺς 1 brothers Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women. -COL 4 15 zkp3 τοὺς ἐν Λαοδικίᾳ ἀδελφοὺς 1 in Laodicea a city very close to Colossae where there was also a church +COL 4 15 sc5g τοὺς ... ἀδελφοὺς 1 brothers Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women. +COL 4 15 zkp3 ἐν Λαοδικίᾳ 1 in Laodicea a city very close to Colossae where there was also a church COL 4 15 wyk3 Νύμφαν, καὶ τὴν κατ’ οἶκον αὐτῆς ἐκκλησίαν 1 Nympha, and the church that is in her house A woman named Nympha hosted a house church. Alternate translation: "Nympha and the group of believers that meets in her house" -COL 4 17 d39x figs-you εἴπατε Ἀρχίππῳ," βλέπε τὴν διακονίαν ἣν παρέλαβες ἐν Κυρίῳ, ἵνα αὐτὴν πληροῖς 1 Say to Archippus, "Look to the ministry that you have received in the Lord, that you should fulfill it Paul reminds Archippus of the task God had given him and that he, Archippus, was under obligation to the Lord to fulfill it. The words "Look," "you have received," and "you should fulfill" all refer to Archippus and should be singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) +COL 4 17 d39x figs-you " βλέπε τὴν διακονίαν ἣν παρέλαβες ἐν Κυρίῳ, ἵνα αὐτὴν πληροῖς 1 Say to Archippus, "Look to the ministry that you have received in the Lord, that you should fulfill it Paul reminds Archippus of the task God had given him and that he, Archippus, was under obligation to the Lord to fulfill it. The words "Look," "you have received," and "you should fulfill" all refer to Archippus and should be singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) COL 4 18 an7s 0 Connecting Statement: Paul closes his letter with a greeting written in his own handwriting. COL 4 18 h3kx figs-metonymy μνημονεύετέ μου τῶν δεσμῶν 1 Remember my chains Paul speaks of chains when he means his imprisonment. Alternate translation: "Remember me and pray for me while I am in prison" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) -COL 4 18 w2vm figs-metonymy 0 May grace be with you Here "grace" stands for God, who shows grace or acts kindly to believers. Alternate translation: "I pray that our Lord Jesus Christ would continue to act graciously toward you all" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) +COL 4 18 w2vm figs-metonymy ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 0 May grace be with you Here "grace" stands for God, who shows grace or acts kindly to believers. Alternate translation: "I pray that our Lord Jesus Christ would continue to act graciously toward you all" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])