front:intro l9fr 0 # Introduction to Isaiah\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the Book of Isaiah\n\n1. Yahweh judges his people but gives them hope (chapters 1–12)\n1. Isaiah prophesies against many nations (13–23)\n1. Universal judgment and promise of redemption (24–27)\n1. The people of Yahweh judged (28–31)\n1. The righteous kingdom (32–33)\n1. The nations judged; the ransomed will be restored (34–35)\n1. Hezekiah and Sennacherib (36–39)\n1. Yahweh comforts his people and will restore them (40–45)\n1. Prophecies against Babylon (46–48)\n1. The servant of Yahweh (49–55)\n1. Ethics of Yahweh’s kingdom (56–59)\n1. Restored Jerusalem (60–66)\n\n\n### What is the Book of Isaiah about?\n\nThe first part of the Book of Isaiah (chapters 1–39) contains many different prophecies. Some of Isaiah’s prophecies are about how God would send an army to destroy the southern kingdom of Judah. Some of the prophecies are about how God would punish other nations of the world. The end of the first part (chapters 36–39) tells how Isaiah helped King Hezekiah when the Assyrians were about to attack Jerusalem.\n\nThe second part of the Book of Isaiah (chapters 40–66) has prophecies about how God will comfort and restore his people. He will do this through his chosen servant. By the suffering of this servant, God will forgive his people (chapter 53). This servant will also cause Gentiles to worship Yahweh. The Book of Isaiah ends with a prophecy about God creating a new heavens and earth.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nTranslators can use the traditional title, “The Book of Isaiah” or just “Isaiah.” Or they may call it “The Book about Isaiah” or “The Sayings of Isaiah.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n### When was the Book of Isaiah written?\n\nIsaiah prophesied around 740–700 B.C., when the Assyrian Empire was becoming more powerful. Isaiah spoke the prophecies from God to the people of Judah during the reigns of Kings Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The story of Isaiah helping King Hezekiah (chapters 36–39) is also found in 2 Kings 19–20.\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### What did Isaiah prophesy about the future Messiah of Israel?\n\nJews and Christians have interpreted many passages in Isaiah to be about the Messiah. In 9:1–7, Isaiah described a child being born who would rule over David’s kingdom. In chapter 11, Isaiah described a descendant of David who would have God’s spirit upon him. Several prophecies in chapters 40–66 are about “the servant.” This servant will comfort the people, rule righteously, and suffer so that God will forgive the people for sinning against him. The New Testament writers interpret these prophecies to be about Jesus Christ.\n\n### What did Isaiah mean by the “last days”?\n\nIsaiah prophesied of the “last days” (2:2) as some later or final period of time. The book of Isaiah was one of the first books to include prophesies about the last days. Isaiah said that in the last days there would be a future kingdom of Israel. Jerusalem would be its main city, and people from all over the world would go there to learn about Yahweh and worship him. The New Testament writers understood the “last days” to have begun with the coming of Jesus (Acts 2:17, Hebrews 1:2).\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### What is the meaning of the term “Israel”?\n\nThe name “Israel” is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was the son of Isaac. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/israel]])\n\n### What are some characteristics of prophetic literature in the Book of Isaiah?\n\nMost of Isaiah’s prophecies are in poetic form. Many prophets in Israel used poetry when they spoke important messages that they w
1:intro q326 0 # Isaiah 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:2–31, which records what Yahweh told Isaiah to tell the people of Israel.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Woe\n\nThe prophecy of this chapter serves as a warning to the people of the kingdom of Judah. If they do not change their evil ways, Yahweh will punish them. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/woe]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\n\nThere are many vivid metaphors used to describe Judah’s sin. Their sin is described as a sickness that spreads. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])\n\n### Rhetorical Questions\n\nYahweh uses several rhetorical questions in this chapter. The purpose of these questions is to convince the people of Judah of their sin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1:1 qur5 The vision of Isaiah … that he saw 0 Alternate translation: “This is the vision of Isaiah … that Yahweh showed him” or “This is what God showed Isaiah”
1:1 zfq5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Amoz 0 Amoz was the father of Isaiah.
1:1 i66y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Judah and Jerusalem 0 “Judah” refers to the southern kingdom of Israel. “Jerusalem” was its most important city. The names of the places represent the people who live in them. Alternate translation: “those living in Judah and Jerusalem” or “the people of Judah and Jerusalem”
1:1 qsh3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah 0 This is an idiom and refers to the time when each king reigned. They reigned one after the other, not all at the same time. Alternate translation: “when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah were kings of Judah”
1:2 qju5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:2 m42x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Hear, heavens, and give ear, earth 0 Although these prophecies were meant for the people of Jerusalem and Judah to hear, Isaiah knows they will not listen. This could mean: (1) he speaks in apostrophe, as though the “heavens” and “earth” would be able to listen to what Yahweh said, or (2) the words “heavens” and “earth” are metonyms and a merism for all living beings everywhere. Alternate translation: “you who live in the heavens … you who live on the earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1:2 v1jh Yahweh 0 This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
1:2 q3lw I have nourished and brought up children, but they have rebelled against me 0 Words that Yahweh spoke and which Isaiah is speaking to the Israelites for Yahweh.
1:2 nn1n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I have nourished and brought up children 0 Yahweh speaks as if his words were food and as if the Israelites were his children. Alternate translation: “I have taken care of the people living in Judah like they were my children”
1:3 k1dl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the donkey his master’s feeding trough 0 You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: “the donkey knows his master’s feeding trough” or “the donkey knows where his master gives him food”
1:3 i9j2 but Israel does not know, Israel does not understand 0 This probably means “but the people of Israel do not know me, they do not understand that I am the one who cares for them.”
1:3 gxd1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Israel 0 This is a metonym for the people of Israel. Judah is part of what had been the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel”
1:4 s8qu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:4 w37n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a people weighed down with iniquity 0 Something very heavy that a person might carry is a metaphor for their many sins. Alternate translation: “their sin is like a heavy bag on their shoulders that makes it hard for them to walk”
1:4 j97s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor offspring of evildoers 0 The word “offspring” is a metaphor for people who do what others have done. Alternate translation: “people who do the same evil they see others doing”
1:5 epw9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:5 xc8l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why are you still being beaten? Why do you rebel more and more? 0 Isaiah uses these questions to scold the people of Judah. The questions can be translated as statements. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You keep doing things that Yahweh has to punish you for. You continue to rebel against him.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1:5 wax8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you you 0 Here the word “you” refers to the people who live in Judah and so is plural.
1:5 gh9d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The whole head is sick, the whole heart is weak 0 This metaphor compares the nation of Israel to a person who has been beaten. Alternate translation: “You are like someone whose head is wounded and whose heart is weak” or “You are like someone whose whole mind and heart are sick”
1:6 v5ua rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives there is no part unharmed 0 This can be stated positively. It can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “every part of you has been harmed” or “someone has harmed every part of you”
1:6 txm6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they have not been closed, cleansed, bandaged, nor treated with oil 0 This metaphor compares the punishment God has given Israel to physical wounds. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one has closed, cleansed, bandaged, or treated them with oil” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1:7 ei5u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:7 e6tr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Your country is ruined 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They have ruined your country” or “Your enemies have ruined your country”
1:7 gv8j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive your cities are burned 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they have burned your cities”
1:7 r1um your fields—in your presence, strangers are destroying them 0 Alternate translation: “people who are not from your own country steal the crops from your fields while you watch”
1:7 l3um rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns abandoned devastation 0 “empty and devastated.” This abstract noun phrase can be expressed as verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “they have destroyed the land and no one lives there”
1:7 ygn5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive overthrown by strangers 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “strangers have overthrown your country” or “a foreign army has completely conquered it”
1:8 c1rf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The daughter of Zion is left 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I have left the daughter of Zion”
1:8 lkv3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom The daughter of Zion 0 The “daughter” of a city means the people of the city. Alternate translation: “The people of Zion” or “The people who live in Zion”
1:8 xl8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile is left like a hut in a vineyard, like a shed in a garden of cucumbers 0 This could mean: (1) “has become as small as a hut in a vineyard or a shed in a garden of cucumbers” or (2) “is left the way a farmer leaves a hut in a vineyard or a shed in a garden of cucumbers when he is finished with them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1:9 qe2a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive us … we 0 Isaiah is using the words **us** and **we** to refer to himself and to all the people of Judah and Jerusalem, so use the inclusive form of those words in your translation if your language marks that distinction.
1:9 y4cq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit we would have been like Sodom, we would have been like Gomorrah 0 How Judah would have been like Sodom and Gomorrah can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “God would have destroyed us, like he destroyed the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:10 p3g9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:10 vtc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you rulers of Sodom … you people of Gomorrah 0 Isaiah is comparing the people of Judah to Sodom and Gomorrah to emphasize how sinful they have become. Alternate translation: “you rulers who are as sinful as the people of Sodom … you people who are as wicked as those who lived in Gomorrah”
1:11 r739 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What is the multitude of your sacrifices to me? 0 God is using a question to scold the people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Your many sacrifices mean nothing to me!”
1:12 z32c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:12 p91g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion who has required this of you, to trample my courts? 0 The word “trample” means to step on and crush with one’s feet. God is using a question to scold the people who live in Judah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “no one told you to stomp around in my courtyards!”
1:13 qg5t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns incense is an abomination to me 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **abomination**, you can express the same idea with the verb “hate.” Alternate translation: “I hate the incense the priests burn”
1:13 y2mq I cannot tolerate these wicked assemblies 0 This could mean: (1) “I cannot allow you to gather together because of the wicked things you do” or (2) “I cannot allow myself to watch you gather together because of the wicked things you do.”
1:14 x2u9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:14 u5nj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your new moons and your appointed feasts 0 The words “new moons” are a metonym for the celebrations of the new moon. They are also a synecdoche for all regular celebrations. Alternate translation: “your celebrations of the new moon and your other regular feasts” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1:14 v251 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they are a burden to me; I am tired of enduring them 0 This compares how God feels about the people’s celebrations to carrying a heavy object. Alternate translation: “they are a heavy load that I am tired of carrying”
1:15 tc81 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I hide my eyes from you 0 This idiom is a way of saying “I will not look at you” or “I will not pay attention to you”
1:15 l6q5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your hands are full of blood 0 This is the reason that God will not listen to their prayers. The blood likely refers to violence that they have done against people. Alternate translation: “because it is like your hands are covered with the blood of those you have harmed” or “because you are guilty of violence”
1:16 tc5d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:16 kug1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Wash, cleanse yourselves 0 Here God compares a person who stops sinning with one who washes his body. Alternate translation: “Repent and wash the sin from your heart like you wash the dirt from your body”
1:16 i5wc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor remove the evil of your deeds from my sight 0 God was not telling them to do their evil deeds somewhere else, but to stop doing them. Alternate translation: “stop doing the evil deeds that I see you doing”
1:17 h8bt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor make straight the oppression 0 God speaks of people who oppress others as if they had made crooked something that should be straight, and he calls on them to make that object straight again. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **oppression**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “make sure that those helpless people you have harmed no longer suffer from the bad things you have done to them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1:17 btn7 give justice to the fatherless 0 Alternate translation: “be fair to the children who do not have fathers”
1:17 q1c7 defend the widow 0 Alternate translation: “protect the women whose husbands have died”
1:18 nj1x Come now, and let 0 Yahweh graciously and lovingly invites the people to listen to what he is about to say. “Please listen to me. Let” or “Pay attention; I want to help you. Let”
1:18 j1pw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive let us reason together 0 “let us think about this together” or “we need to discuss this” or “what are we going to do?” Yahweh invites the people to discuss the future. Here the word “us” refers to Yahweh and includes the people of Judah.
1:18 nf9s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor though your sins are like scarlet, they will be white like snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool 0 Isaiah is speaking of the people as if they were wearing clothes that were supposed to be white wool and of their sins as if they were red stains on the clothes. If Yahweh forgives their sins, it will be as if their clothes become white again.
1:18 ep8f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like scarlet 0 Scarlet is a bright red color. Alternate translation: “bright red”
1:18 yt5e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile white like snow 0 White is often a symbol for holiness or purity. “Snow” refers to something like frozen rain that is very white. Since this simply describes something as very white, you could replace it with something else that is white: “white as a seashell” or “white as a dove.” This means that their sins will be forgiven.
1:18 qe12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile red like crimson 0 Crimson is a dark red color. Alternate translation: “dark red”
1:18 e5qz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit like wool 0 Wool is the hair of a sheep or goat. How they will be like wool can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “white like wool” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:19 wgy5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys If you are willing and obedient 0 Here, “willing” and “obedient” are used together to express one idea. Alternate translation: “If you willingly obey”
1:20 qs1e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the sword will devour you 0 The word “sword” refers to Judah’s enemies. Also, the word “devour” compares Judah’s enemies coming to kill them to a wild animal that attacks and eats other animals. Alternate translation: “your enemies will kill you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:20 m82k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the mouth of Yahweh has spoken it 0 The word “mouth” emphasizes that Yahweh has spoken and what he says will certainly happen. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has spoken” or “Yahweh has said that this will happen”
1:21 lhv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:21 bhm8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy How the faithful city 0 This exclamation shows Isaiah’s anger and sadness about the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “See how the people of Jerusalem, who had been faithful to God”
1:21 v446 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor has become a prostitute 0 Isaiah compared the people to a woman who is not loyal to her husband but who sleeps with other men for money. The people were no longer loyal to God but were worshiping false gods. Alternate translation: “acts like a prostitute”
1:21 v25z rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns but now she is full of murderers 0 The pronoun “she” refers to the city of Jerusalem. In this culture, it was conventional to refer to cities with feminine pronouns. In your translation, use whatever pronoun would be natural. Alternate translation: “it was full”
1:22 n46w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your silver has become impure, your wine mixed with water 0 Possible meanings are that Isaiah uses silver and wine as metaphors for: (1) the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “You are like silver that is no longer pure, and like wine that is mixed with water” or (2) the good deeds that the people formerly did. Alternate translation: “You used to do good deeds, but now your bad deeds make your good deeds worthless”
1:23 jw4m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:23 auk9 bribes … payoffs 0 People give “bribes” as gifts to dishonest rulers so the rulers will then act unjustly. Rulers receive “payoffs” as gifts from those who make profits from unjust laws that the ruler has passed.
1:23 q1cz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor runs after payoffs 0 A person eagerly desiring for someone to give him a bribe is spoken of as if the payoff were running away and the person were running after it. Alternate translation: “everyone desires for someone to pay money to them to make dishonest decisions”
1:23 qzn3 They do not defend the fatherless 0 Alternate translation: “they do not protect those who do not have fathers”
1:23 yi82 nor does the widow’s legal plea come before them 0 Alternate translation: “nor do they listen when widows go to them for help against those who break the law” or “and they do not help widows who go to them for help against those who break the law”
1:24 ez3r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah begins to speak Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:24 iza8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is the declaration of the Lord Yahweh of hosts, the Mighty One of Israel 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what the Lord Yahweh of hosts, the Mighty One of Israel, has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, the Mighty One of Israel, have declared”
1:24 qk17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I will take vengeance against my adversaries, and avenge myself against my enemies 0 Both of these phrases mean basically the same thing. The words “take vengeance against my adversaries” speak more of Yahweh doing whatever he needs to do to those who work against him so he can be happy. The words “avenge myself against my enemies” speak more of Yahweh justly punishing his enemies. Alternate translation: “I will punish those who opposed me” or “I will do what pleases me to those who work against me, and I will justly punish my enemies”
1:25 f62p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will turn my hand against you 0 Here “hand” refers to God’s power which he would use to punish his people. Alternate translation: “I will begin to use all my power against you”
1:25 z1i3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor refine away your dross as with lye 0 Here the process in which God removes his people’s sin is spoken of as if her were separating metal from the bad things mixed with it. The words “as with lye” adds another metaphor, because lye is used in soap, not in refining metal. Alternate translation: “and like fire removing the dirt from silver, I will remove all the evil from among you”
1:26 usx1 at the first … at the beginning 0 These are two ways of speaking of the first part or beginning of Israel’s history, when Israel first became a nation.
1:26 i1s1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will be called 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will call you”
1:26 d4ji rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the city of righteousness, a faithful town 0 Here “city” and “town” refer to the people living in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the city where the people are righteous and loyal to God”
1:27 glh4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:27 qa1v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Zion will be redeemed by justice, and her repentant ones by righteousness 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. This could mean: (1) “Yahweh will redeem Zion because the people there do what is just, and he will redeem those who repent because they do what Yahweh says is right” or (2) “Yahweh will redeem Zion because he is just, and he will redeem those who repent because he is righteous” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1:27 z5g9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Zion 0 This is a metonym for the people who live on Mount Zion.
1:28 fi96 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Rebels and sinners will be crushed together 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will destroy those who rebel and sin against him”
1:28 ekb3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive those who abandon Yahweh will be done away with 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh will completely do away with those who turn away from him” or “and Yahweh will kill all who reject him”
1:29 aa8s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:30 sp75 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile For you will be like an oak whose leaf fades, and like a garden that has no water 0 Water gives life to trees and gardens. The people have cut themselves off from Yahweh, who gives them life.
1:31 sh9k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks Yahweh’s words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
1:31 a5w2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile his work like a spark 0 This compares the person’s deeds or evil works to a spark that falls on tinder and sets it on fire. Alternate translation: “his work will be like a spark that starts a fire”
2:intro pr4a 0 # Isaiah 2 General Notes\n\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 2:2–22.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n\n### The last days\n\n\nSee the discussion of the "last days" in the General Introduction to Isaiah.\n\n\n### Idolatry\n\n\nWhile the first prophecy of Isaiah concerned the lack of justice in Judah, this chapter focuses on the presence of idolatry in Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]])
2:1 tt88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
2:1 p86l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Judah and Jerusalem 0 “Judah” and “Jerusalem” are metonyms for the people who live there. Alternate translation: “those living in Judah and Jerusalem”
2:2 f17l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the mountain of Yahweh’s house will be established 0 This can be stated (1) as a description. Alternate translation: “The mountain of Yahweh’s house will stand” or (2) in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will establish the mountain on which his temple is built”
2:2 i5hb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor as the highest of the mountains 0 Isaiah speaks of importance as if it were physical height. Alternate translation: “the most important of the mountains” or “the most important place in the world”
2:2 h16p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor it will be raised up above the hills 0 Isaiah speaks of honor in metaphor as if it were physical height. This can be stated (1) in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will honor it more than any other hill” or (2) as a metonym for the people who worship there. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will honor the people who worship there more than he honors any other people” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:2 p88m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy all the nations 0 Here “nations” is a metonym for the people of those nations. Alternate translation: “people from all the nations”
2:2 p7rl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will flow to it 0 The people around the world going to the mountain of Yahweh is compared to how a river flows. This emphasizes that many people will come, not just a few people. Alternate translation: “will flow like a river to it” or “will go to it”
2:3 nl4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
2:3 u8i5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism he may teach us some of his ways, and we may walk in his paths 0 The words “ways” and “paths” are metaphors for the way a person lives. If your language has only one word for the ground on which people walk, you may combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “he may teach us his will so that we may obey him” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:3 qq6t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For out of Zion will go the law, and the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem 0 These phrases mean the same thing. Isaiah was emphasizing that all nations will understand that the truth is found in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “People in Zion will teach God’s law, and people in Jerusalem will teach the word of Yahweh”
2:3 w2vd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For out of Zion will go the law 0 “For the law will go out from Zion.” Isaiah speaks as if the law were something like a river that moves without people doing anything. Alternate translation: “Those to whom they teach the law will go out from Zion” or “Yahweh will proclaim his law from Zion”
2:3 t76v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem 0 “the word of Yahweh will go out from Jerusalem.” Isaiah speaks as if the word of Yahweh were something like a river that moves without people doing anything. You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: “Those to whom they teach the word of Yahweh will go out from Jerusalem” or “Yahweh will proclaim his word from Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2:4 u4wn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
2:4 htf9 they will hammer their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks 0 The people of the nations will turn their weapons of war into tools for farming.
2:4 j77g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche swords … spears … sword 0 These words are synecdoches for weapons of any kind.
2:4 i5uh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche plowshares … pruning hooks 0 These words are synecdoches for tools of any kind that people use in peaceful activity.
2:4 fq2w they will hammer their swords into plowshares 0 “they will make their swords into tools for planting seeds.” A plowshare is a blade that people use to dig into soil so they can plant seeds there.
2:4 d586 their spears into pruning hooks 0 “they will hammer their spears into pruning hooks” or “they will make their spears into tools for caring for plants.” A pruning hook is a knife that people use to cut unwanted branches off of plants.
2:4 u818 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy nation will not lift up sword against nation 0 “no nation will lift up its sword against another nation.” The sword is a metonym for war. Alternate translation: “one nation will not fight wars against another nation”
2:4 fii3 nor will they train for war 0 “nor will they even train to fight wars.” The writer expects his reader to believe that those who fight wars train before they fight and that some who train do not fight.
2:5 i7e1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIn 2:5 Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah, and in 2:6 he speaks to Yahweh. Both times he speaks in the form of a poem.
2:5 rm7q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy House of Jacob 0 “You descendants of Jacob.” The word “house” is a metonym for the people who live in the house, the family. Here “Jacob” represents the nation of Judah, but it would be best to use “Jacob” here.
2:5 h3c9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor let us walk in the light of Yahweh 0 Isaiah speaks of people learning and then doing what Yahweh wants them to do as if they were walking at night with a lamp that Yahweh has provided so they can see the path. Alternate translation: “let us learn how Yahweh wants us to live and then live that way”
2:6 uvd9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns For you have abandoned your people 0 “For you have left your people” and do not care what happens to them. Here the word “you” refers to Yahweh and so is singular.
2:6 uh4h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they are filled with customs from the east 0 Isaiah speaks as if the people were containers who were full of something from the east. Possible meanings are that he speaks of: (1) the deeds that the eastern peoples do. Alternate translation: “they do all the time the evil things the people who live in lands east of Israel do” or (2) people, specifically those who claim to speak to dead people, who have come from the east to do evil deeds. Alternate translation: “many diviners have come from the east and now live there” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2:6 n8bj rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction they shake hands with sons of foreigners 0 Clasping hands together is the symbol of friendship and peace. Alternate translation: “they make peace and work together with people who are not from Israel”
2:7 fld8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to Yahweh in the form of a poem.
2:7 t4r6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Their land is full of silver and gold … their land also is full of horses 0 Isaiah speaks as if the land were a container in which someone had placed silver, horses, and idols. The word “land” is a metonym for the people themselves, and the words “is full of” is a metaphor for the people possessing these items. Alternate translation: “They possess much silver and gold … they also possess many horses” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:8 cyh2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Their land also is full of idols 0 Isaiah speaks as if the land were a container in which someone had placed silver, horses, and idols. The word “land” is a metonym for the people themselves, and the words “is full of” is a metaphor for the people possessing these items. Alternate translation: “They also possess many idols” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:8 zic5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the craftsmanship of their own hands, things that their own fingers have made 0 These two phrases mean almost the same thing and emphasize that these are not real gods. If your language has no general word for something someone has made, you can combine these two phrases into one. Alternate translation: “things that they themselves have made”
2:8 au6k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche craftsmanship of their own hands 0 The word “hands” is a synecdoche for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “their own craftsmanship” or “their own work” or “things they have made with their hands”
2:8 sup5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche things that their own fingers have made 0 The word “fingers” is a synecdoche for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “things that they have made with their own fingers”
2:9 uqg2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIn 2:9 Isaiah finishes speaking to Yahweh. In 2:10–11 Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah. Both times he speaks in the form of a poem.
2:9 itw7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The people will be bowed down, and individuals will fall down 0 Here being low to the ground represents people who are completely humiliated because they realize all they trusted in is worthless, and they can do nothing to help themselves. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will make the people ashamed, and they will realize that all they trusted in is worthless” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2:9 rbg3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor do not raise them up 0 The words “raise them up” are a metaphor for Yahweh forgiving the people. Alternate translation: “do not forgive them”
2:10 gxz3 Go into the rocky places 0 Possible meanings are the people should go into: (1) caves on steep hillsides or (2) places where there are many large rocks among which to hide.
2:10 y6bc hide in the ground 0 Possible meanings are that the people should hide: (1) in natural holes in the ground or (2) in pits that they dig in the ground.
2:10 iv7d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns from the terror of Yahweh 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **terror**, you can express the same idea with the verb “terrifying.” Alternate translation: “to get away from Yahweh’s terrifying presence” or “from Yahweh because you will be extremely afraid of him”
2:10 sf9n the glory of his majesty 0 “the great beauty and power he has as king” or “his royal splendor.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 2:10](../02/10.md).
2:11 hp3l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The lofty gaze of man will be brought low 0 “Yahweh will bring down the lofty gaze of man.” A man with a “lofty gaze” is looking above everyone to show them that he is better than they are. Here all people are guilty of thinking they are better than Yahweh, and the way they look at those who worship Yahweh, is a metonym for their pride. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will make ashamed all people because they think they are better than he is” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:11 i99t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the pride of men will be brought down 0 “The pride of men” here is a metonym for proud people, and being “brought down” is a metaphor for being humbled or ashamed. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will bring down proud men” or “Yahweh will make proud people ashamed of themselves” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2:11 f7iq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Yahweh alone will be exalted 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will praise only Yahweh”
2:11 akb4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom on that day 0 This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “on the day that Yahweh judges everyone”
2:12 u89l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem.
2:12 ypp7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive who is proud and raised up 0 One who is “raised up” is proud and considers himself better than other people. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “who is proud and who raises himself above other people” or “who is proud and thinks that he is better than other people” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:12 ew97 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet who is proud … who is arrogant 0 Someone who is arrogant speaks and acts as if he is better than other people. These two phrases have similar meanings and are used together to emphasize that Yahweh will punish them.
2:12 t5zf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive he will be brought down 0 “every proud person will be brought down.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will humble him”
2:13 icm3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor against all the cedars of Lebanon … against all the oaks of Bashan 0 The “day of Yahweh of Hosts” will be against the cedars and oaks. This could mean: (1) these trees are a metaphor for the proud people whom God will judge or (2) God will actually destroy these mighty trees.
2:14 d97m against 0 In 2:14–16 Isaiah lists things that God will destroy. This could mean: (1) these refer to prideful people that God will humble or (2) God will actually destroy all these things in the list.
2:14 mud8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor mountains … hills 0 These words are metaphors for the pride of the Israelites. They also appear in [Isaiah 2:2](../02/02.md).
2:14 td8x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom that are lifted up 0 This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “that are very high”
2:15 u56r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor high tower … impregnable wall 0 These refer to things people would build around their cities so they could defend themselves against their enemies. They are a metaphor for the Israelites’ pride and belief that they had no need for Yahweh and could stand against any punishment Yahweh would mete out to them for their sins.
2:16 ns89 ships of Tarshish … beautiful sailing vessels 0 These refer to large boats that people used to travel far on the sea and bring back goods to the cities.
2:17 dx3l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The pride of man will be brought low 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “He will bring low every proud man” or “He will humiliate every proud man”
2:17 sjb9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns the haughtiness of men will fall 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **haughtiness**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “those people who are haughty will stop being haughty”
2:17 ij1n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Yahweh alone will be exalted 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “people will praise only Yahweh”
2:19 ii4y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Men will go … from the terror 0 The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Men will go … to hide from the terror”
2:19 dm1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys the glory of his majesty 0 Here the word “glory” describes “majesty.” Alternate translation: “the beauty he has as king”
2:19 p1ch when he rises to terrify the earth 0 Alternate translation: “when Yahweh takes action and causes the people of the earth to be terribly afraid of him”
2:20 x4cz rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown to the moles and bats 0 Moles are small animals that dig and live underground. Bats are small flying animals that sometimes live in caves. Alternate translation: “to the animals”
2:21 hs4f the crevices in the rocks … the clefts of the ragged rocks 0 If your language does not have two different words for “crevice” and “cleft,” the space that appears between the two parts of a rock when it splits, you can combine these two phrases into one.
2:21 ikz7 from the terror of Yahweh 0 because they are very afraid of Yahweh. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 2:19](../02/19.md).
2:21 rn5i the glory of his majesty 0 “the great beauty and power he has as king” or “his royal majesty.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 2:10](../02/10.md).
2:21 nz4j when he rises to terrify the earth 0 “when Yahweh takes action and causes the people of the earth to be terribly afraid of him.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 2:19](../02/19.md).
2:22 c4s2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit whose life-breath is in his nostrils 0 This describes how man is human and weak by emphasizing that he needs to breath to live. Alternate translation: “who is weak and will die” or “who needs the breath in his nose to live”
2:22 hw38 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion for what does he amount to? 0 Isaiah uses a question to remind the people of something they should already know. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “for man amounts to nothing!” or “for man is not worth anything!”
3:intro bgn6 0 # Isaiah 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter is a continuation of the material in the previous chapter. Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 3:1–26, which is a vision Isaiah receives. These are the words of Yahweh.\n\n### Judgment\n\nThis chapter is structured as a judgment against the Jews. God is acting as a judge reading the list of convictions against them and then he reads the judgment. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Exile\n\nWhile the previous part of the prophecy in chapter 2 discussed the last days, this part of the prophecy predicts the exile of Judah to Babylon. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])
3:1 b6ce rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor support and staff 0 Both of these words refer to a walking stick, on which someone leans for support. This idea here stands for the things that people need the most in order to live: food and water. Alternate translation: “everything that supports you” or “everything that you depend on”
3:2 c9rl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the mighty man … the warrior … the judge … the prophet … the one who practices divination … the elder 0 This is a list of categories of people that others depend on. Since they do not refer to particular individuals, they can all be translated with plural nouns as in the UST. Alternate translation: “the mighty men … the warriors … the judges … the prophets … the ones who practices divination … the elders”
3:2 zv6c the one who practices divination 0 This is a person who claims that he can tell the future by looking at things like animal parts and leaves. See how you translated similar words in [Isaiah 2:6](../02/06.md).
3:3 q6s4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the captain of fifty … the respected citizen … the counselor … the expert craftsman … the skillful enchanter 0 This is a list of categories of people that others depend on. Since they do not refer to particular individuals, they can all be translated with plural nouns as in the UST. Alternate translation: “the captains of fifty … the respected citizens … the counselors … the expert craftsmen … the skillful enchanters”
3:3 kui6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers the captain of fifty 0 This could mean: (1) the word “fifty” represents the exact amount of soldiers that the captain led. Alternate translation: “the captains of 50 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “fifty” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a small military unit. Alternate translation: “the captain of a small military unit”
3:4 y5ha rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I will place mere youths as their leaders, and the young will rule over them 0 These phrases mean basically the same thing. This could mean: (1) “I will place young people as their leaders, and those young people will rule over them” or (2) “youths” is a metaphor for simple and foolish men. Alternate translation: “I will place over them leaders who are immature, like young people, and those bad leaders will rule over them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:4 l2g7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I will place 0 Here the word “I” refers to Yahweh. This can also be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh says, ‘I will place”
3:5 f5ah rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The people will be oppressed, every one by another, and every one by his neighbor 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Everyone will be cruel to others and will mistreat his neighbor”
3:6 erd8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor let this ruin be in your hands 0 Here “hands” represents authority. Alternate translation: “take charge of this ruin” or “rule over this ruin”
3:6 l4fv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor this ruin 0 This could mean: (1) many or most of the buildings in the city of Jerusalem were destroyed or (2) the people in Jerusalem have no more prosperity or leadership. Alternate translation: “this city, which is now ruined”
3:7 p9fr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will not be a healer 0 Solving the people’s troubles is spoken of as if it were healing them. Alternate translation: “No, I cannot fix this problem” or “No, I cannot help you”
3:8 un4e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Jerusalem has stumbled, and Judah has fallen 0 Disobeying God is spoken of as if it were stumbling and falling.
3:8 c8ii rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the eyes of his glory 0 Here “the eyes” stands for God himself, who is glorious. Alternate translation: “him who is glorious” or “Yahweh who is glorious”
3:9 j4qh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The look on their faces witnesses against them 0 Expressions of arrogance on people’s faces are spoken of as if the expressions were persons who could testify against the proud people. Alternate translation: “The prideful looks on their faces show that they oppose Yahweh”
3:9 iu71 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile they tell of their sin like Sodom; they do not hide it 0 Here the people of Judah are said to be like the people of Sodom, because they openly boasted about their sins. Alternate translation: “like the people of Sodom, they talk about their sins and let everyone know about them”
3:9 p1nv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy For they have completed a catastrophe for themselves 0 The catastrophe is still coming, but the people have finished doing what will cause it to come. The catastrophe’s causes are spoken of here as if they were the catastrophe itself. Alternate translation: “For they have done everything that will cause a catastrophe to happen”
3:10 s8ek Tell the righteous person that it will be well 0 Alternate translation: “Tell the one who is doing what is right that I will make things good for him”
3:10 yki9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the righteous person 0 This refers to righteous people in general. Alternate translation: “righteous people”
3:10 s5vz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for they will eat the fruit of their deeds 0 Deeds are spoken of as if they were trees giving fruit that can be eaten. The fruit stands for the reward for doing good deeds. Alternate translation: “for they will receive their reward for their good deeds” or “for they will receive their reward for the good things they have done”
3:10 i1nt they will eat the fruit of their deeds 0 The Hebrew text has these plural pronouns here, but they refer to any righteous person. Translators can choose to translate them as singular: “he will eat the fruit of his deeds.”
3:11 ti8h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy for the recompense of his hands will be done to him 0 Here “hands” stands for the deeds that the person has done. Alternate translation: “for what the wicked person has done to others will be done to him”
3:12 yn5p My people … My people 0 This could mean: (1) Isaiah is talking and “My” refers to Isaiah, or (2) Yahweh is talking and “My” refers to Yahweh.
3:12 zg6p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor children are their oppressors 0 This could mean: (1) “young people have become their leaders and they oppress the people” or (2) “their leaders are immature like children and oppress the people.”
3:12 j52r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit women rule over them 0 While the people of Israel had had some strong women leaders, such as Deborah ([Judges 5:7](../jud/05/07.md)) and Miriam ([Micah 6:4](../06/04.md)), in general men tended to be the leaders in Israel because they were physically stronger and that was an important qualification in the ancient culture. The Bible is not saying here that women are inferior to men or that they do not make good leaders. Rather, the implicit meaning is that enemy armies would kill most of the strong men in Israel, so that few of them would be left to serve as leaders. (Isaiah says this specifically in verses 1–4 of this chapter.) Alternate translation: “for there are no strong men left to rule over it”
3:12 t5bp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor those who guide you lead you astray and confuse the direction of your path 0 It was common in the Ancient Middle East to speak of a nation’s leaders as if they were shepherds. As shepherds lead the sheep along good paths to safety, leaders should teach the people the truth and help them do what is right. Judah’s leaders were not doing this. Alternate translation: “your leaders are like bad shepherds who lead you away from good paths and do not show you where to go”
3:13 c84g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh stands up for an accusation; he is standing to accuse the people 0 Isaiah speaks of Yahweh’s decision to judge and punish the people as if Yahweh were bringing a legal accusation in a courtroom against the people of Israel. The second part of this line means the same thing as the first part, but it says it a little more completely. Alternate translation: “It is as though Yahweh had taken his place in a courtroom and were ready to accuse the people” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
3:14 exq5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will come with judgment 0 Judgment is spoken of as if it were an object that one could bring to another person. Alternate translation: “will announce his judgment” or “will declare his judgment”
3:14 j6us rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you You have ruined the vineyard 0 Here “you” refers to the elders and rulers. Yahweh is speaking of his people as if they were a vineyard. Like someone who fails to care for a vineyard so that the vines give no more grapes, the elders and leaders are discouraging the Israelites from serving God. Alternate translation: “My people are like a vineyard, and you have ruined it” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:14 k6ua rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the poor 0 This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: “those who are poor”
3:15 k4yw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why do you crush my people and grind the faces of the poor? 0 Yahweh asks this question in order to accuse the leaders of the people. This accusation can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am angry with you evil men because you are crushing my people and grinding the faces of the poor!”
3:15 jjf2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor crush my people 0 Making people suffer is spoken of as if it were crushing them with a very heavy weight. Alternate translation: “cruelly harm my people”
3:15 df4t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor grind the faces of the poor 0 Making people suffer is spoken of as if it were rubbing their faces into the ground. Alternate translation: “harm the poor and make them suffer”
3:15 a6jh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person This is the declaration of the Lord Yahweh of hosts 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what the Lord Yahweh of hosts has declared” or “this is what I, the Lord Yahweh of hosts, have declared”
3:16 u9pn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the daughters of Zion 0 Zion, meaning here the city of Jerusalem, is spoken of as if it were a woman with her daughters. Alternate translation: “the women of Zion”
3:16 hb7z with their necks extended 0 Alternate translation: “in an arrogant way””
3:16 fv4y with flirting eyes 0 Looking at men in a way that makes the men think the women want sexual relations.
3:16 ip6r walking with tiny steps as they go 0 This is how they would walk to attract men, possibly because the bracelets on their ankles were connected by chains decorated with bells so they could not take normal steps.
3:18 m577 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the Lord will remove 0 Here what the Lord causes others to do is spoken of as the Lord doing it himself. Alternate translation: “the Lord will cause others to remove”
3:18 ify9 ankle jewelry 0 a decoration that women wear on the ankle, just above the foot
3:18 r8vh head bands 0 a decoration that women wear over the head and hair
3:18 kb3y crescent ornaments 0 moon-shaped ornaments that people wear in the belief that they will protect the person from evil
3:19 hp8a ear pendants 0 jewelry that hangs from the ear or over the ear
3:19 a5ha bracelets 0 a decoration that women wear on the arm near the hands
3:19 wfq5 veils 0 a very thin material used to cover a woman’s head and face
3:20 sa4a headscarves 0 long, thin pieces of cloth that women tie around the head or hair
3:20 ny93 ankle chains 0 These are decorations that women wear near the feet. Often the chains hang down to make a gentle noise.
3:20 tw31 sashes 0 a piece of cloth that people wear around the waist or across the chest
3:20 jqq5 perfume boxes 0 a small box or bag containing perfume that women wore on chains or strings around their necks so they smelled good
3:20 a1uq lucky charms 0 jewelry that people wear in the belief that it will bring good luck
3:21 pg1c rings 0 a decoration worn around the finger
3:21 f1fe nose jewels 0 a decoration worn in or through the nose
3:22 l57q festive robes 0 a long, loose garment with decorations that was worn over other clothes for everyone to see
3:22 i2i1 mantles 0 a cloth worn over the shoulders on the outside of the clothes
3:22 a51r veils 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 3:19](../03/19.md).
3:22 vtu3 handbags 0 a bag to used to carry small things
3:23 la8f hand mirrors 0 a small surface, held in one’s hand and used to see oneself
3:23 d2el fine linen 0 a soft cloth worn by rich people
3:23 p3s4 head pieces 0 a cloth or small hat worn over the hair
3:23 g51h wraps 0 a decorative cloth that a woman would wrap around herself to make her beautiful
3:24 cn6w sash 0 a piece of cloth that people wear around the waist or across the chest. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 3:20](../03/20.md).
3:24 b6ca a rope 0 This may refer to a rope that enemies would tie on the people of Judah when they captured them. Or it might mean that Jerusalem’s women would have nothing to wear but rough clothing secured with ropes.
3:24 c3sv well-arranged hair, baldness 0 Alternate translation: “pretty hair, their heads will be bald”
3:25 ng43 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Your men will fall by the sword, and your strong men will fall in war 0 Falling represents being killed, and the sword represents battle. Alternate translation: “Your men will be killed in battle, and your strong men will be killed in war” or “Enemies will kill your soldiers in battle”
3:26 kz3l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jerusalem’s gates will lament and mourn 0 Here the city gates represent the people who sit at the public places near the city gates. Alternate translation: “The people of Jerusalem will sit at the city gates and cry and mourn”
3:26 qeu2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification she will be alone and sit upon the ground 0 Isaiah speaks of the people of Jerusalem, whom no one will save from their enemies, as if they were the city itself and as if they were a woman who sits on the ground because all her friends have deserted her. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4:intro xy1x 0 # Isaiah 4 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### More women than men\n\nThis chapter describes a time when there will be many more women than men in Judah. This is because so many of Judah’s fighting men will have died before the exile. Those who come through this difficult time will be a holy remnant. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/remnant]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Branch of Yahweh\n\nScholars are divided over the possible meaning of this metaphor. Some believe it is a reference to the Messiah, while others believe it is a reference to the faithful remnant. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])
4:1 ke3e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom let us take your name 0 This phrase means “let us marry you.”
4:2 ki64 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the branch of Yahweh will be beautiful 0 This could mean: (1) “branch” is a synecdoche that represents the crops Yahweh will cause to grow in the land of Israel. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cause the crops in Israel to be beautiful” or (2) “branch” is a metaphor that refers to the Messiah. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:2 ree3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the fruit of the land will be tasty and delightful for those survivors in Israel 0 “Fruit” sometimes simply represents food produced in the land, and sometimes it represents spiritual blessings. This could mean: (1) God will cause the land to produce good food again. Alternate translation: “the people who are still in Israel will enjoy the best food from the land” or (2) the future Messiah will bring spiritual blessings to the people in the land.
4:3 z8mg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the one who is left in Zion and the one who remains in Jerusalem 0 Both of these statements mean the same thing. Here “the one who” does not refer to a specific person but to people in general who are still alive in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “everyone who remains in Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
4:3 gb1i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be called holy 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Lord will call them holy” or “will belong to the Lord”
4:3 pe1n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive everyone who is written down as living in Jerusalem 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “everyone whose name is on the list of the people who live in Jerusalem”
4:4 af4y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor when the Lord will have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion 0 This expression speaks of sin as if it were physical dirt. Alternate translation: “after the Lord removes the sins of the daughters of Zion as someone washes away filth”
4:4 el4d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy will have cleansed the blood stains from Jerusalem’s midst 0 “Blood stains” here represents violence and murder. Alternate translation: “will have taken away those in Jerusalem who harm innocent people”
4:4 i2xn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor by means of the spirit of judgment and the spirit of flaming fire 0 This is how God would remove the sin from Jerusalem. Here “spirit” probably represents the activity of judging and burning. Alternate translation: “by judgment and flaming fire”
4:4 si1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the spirit of flaming fire 0 This could mean: (1) this is a metaphor that means Yahweh will remove sinners from Zion like a fire removes impurities or (2) “flaming fire” is a metonym that represents the destruction in general of all the sinners. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4:5 yk4j a canopy over all the glory 0 This could mean: (1) a canopy for protecting the glorious city, or (2) a canopy consisting of God’s glory that will protect the city. If the first meaning is followed, then it may further mean that the city is glorious because Yahweh is present in it.
4:5 h7ct canopy 0 This is a cloth that is hung over something to cover it for protecton.
5:intro g25h 0 # Isaiah 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Woe\n\nThis chapter presents a series of woes, or judgments against those who are spoken against. Most of these judgements are due to the lack of justice in Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/woe]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Allegory\n\nThis chapter begins as an allegory. An allegory is a story with a symbolic meaning. This allegory is meant to teach the Jews that they sinned against Yahweh and that there was nothing more he could have done for them. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])\n\n### Animals being present where people once lived\n\nVerse 17 (“Then the sheep will feed as in their own pasture, and in the ruins of the rich people, lambs will graze”) is an example of the Old Testament’s prophets’ habit of describing complete ruin and desolation in terms of a picture of animals--usually wild animals, but here sheep and lambs--living in or feeding in those places. Whether the picture is of flocks or wild animals, the purpose is to say that the human habitation has gone back to wild nature, and that this has happened because of God’s punishment on the people.
5:1 wd3z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah tells a parable about a farmer and his vineyard. The farmer represents God and the vineyard represents the people of Judah, the southern kingdom of the Israelites.
5:2 qk26 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit He built a tower in the middle of it 0 “He made a tall building in the middle of the vineyard to watch over it.” Someone would stand at the top of the tower to watch the vineyard and make sure that no animals or people went into it. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear.
5:2 qfu3 built a winepress 0 “dug a pit to squeeze out the grape juice.” A winepress is a low place carved out of rock in the ground where workers step on the grapes to crush them with their feet, in order to remove the grape juice.
5:3 crw5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables 0 # General Information:\n\nIn Isaiah’s parable of the vineyard, the owner of the vineyard, who represents God, speaks to the people of Jerusalem and Judah about his vineyard.
5:3 x6tw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun inhabitant of Jerusalem and man of Judah 0 These expressions refer in general to all people living in Jerusalem and Judah, so they can be translated with plural nouns. Alternate translation: “all of you who live in Jerusalem and Judah”
5:3 c6vk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor judge between me and my vineyard 0 The idea of a space separating two things is often used to express the idea of choosing one or the other of those things. Alternate translation: “decide who has acted right, I or my vineyard”
5:4 cy5z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What more could have been done for my vineyard, that I have not done for it? 0 The owner uses this question to make a statement about his vineyard. This rhetorical questions can be translated as a stataement. Alternate translation: “I have done all that I could do for my vineyard!”
5:4 ka3q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion When I looked for it to produce grapes, why did it produce wild grapes? 0 The owner uses a question to say that his vineyard should have produced good grapes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I wanted it to make good grapes, but it only produced worthless grapes”
5:5 d9l9 remove the hedge 0 “take away the border of bushes.” A hedge is a row of bushes or small trees that have been planted in order to protect a garden or some other kind of area. Here “hedge” probably refers to the thorn bushes that were planted to grow on the stone wall surrounding the vineyard.
5:5 msh2 I will turn it into a pasture 0 “I will allow animals to go there and eat.” This is a grassy place where animals feed.
5:5 b6y6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive it will be trampled down 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “animals will trample it down”
5:6 vvv3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive it will not be pruned nor hoed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one will prune it or hoe it” or “no one will cut off the branches that are not needed, and no one will take care of the soil”
5:6 e15p rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguage briers and thorns will spring up 0 Briers and thorns are often used as symbols of ruined cities and land.
5:7 dnz9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables For the vineyard of Yahweh of hosts is the house of Israel 0 Isaiah states that the vineyard in the parable represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “For the vineyard of Yahweh of hosts represents the house of Israel” or “The people of Israel are like the vineyard of Yahweh, Lord of the angel armies”
5:7 l82n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the house of Israel 0 The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “Israel” or “the kingdom of Israel” or “the people of Israel”
5:7 rxv5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the man of Judah his pleasant planting 0 The people of Judah are spoken of as if they are a vine that Yahweh planted. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah are like a vine that Yahweh planted for Yahweh’s pleasure” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5:7 kmz3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the man of Judah 0 Here “man” represents all the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah”
5:7 ebr9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns he waited for justice, but instead, there was killing 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **justice**, you can express the same idea with the verb “do what is fair.” If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **killing**, you can express the same idea with “killed one another.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh waited for the people to do what is fair, but instead they killed one another”
5:7 dtn9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis for righteousness 0 The phrase “he waited” is understood from earlier in the verse. It can be repeated to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “He waited for righteousness” or “He waited for them to do what is right”
5:7 hhv8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis instead, a shout for help 0 The words “there was” are understood from earlier in the verse. They can be repeated to make the meaning clear. The reason people shouted out for help can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “instead, there was a shout for help” or “instead, those who were weak shouted out for someone to help them because others were attacking them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
5:7 s93f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun a shout 0 This expression probably stands for many shouts.
5:8 m6ai rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit to those who join house to house, who join field to field 0 “to those who take more and more houses, and who take more and more fields.” Isaiah assumes that his audience knows that the law forbids someone from taking land from a family permanently. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear.
5:10 x1d1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit a ten-yoke vineyard 0 The size of the vineyard is represented by the number of pairs of oxen that could plow it in one day. Each pair of oxen would be connected by a yoke. Alternate translation: “a vineyard that is large enough for ten pairs of oxen to plow it”
5:10 xm5c rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume one bath 0 “one bath of wine” or “22 liters of wine”
5:10 wyg4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume one homer of seed will yield only an ephah 0 “220 liters of seed will produce only 22 liters of grain.” One homer equals ten ephahs.
5:11 w596 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism those who rise up early in the morning … who linger late into the night 0 This refers to people who do nothing all day but drink alcoholic drinks.
5:11 e3cu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor until wine inflames them 0 Here the power of wine to make its drinkers drunk is spoken of as if it were inflaming them, that is, setting them on fire. Alternate translation: “until they are drunk with wine”
5:12 uj2g harp, lute, tambourine, flute, and wine 0 These musical instruments and the wine imply that the people enjoying these things are celebrating very much.
5:12 rum8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown tambourine 0 A musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be beaten with the hand. It probably had pieces of metal around the side that sounded when the player shook it. The tambourine was small enough for the player to hold it and shake it with one hand.
5:12 mpb9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns the doings of his hands 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **doings**, you can express the same idea with the verb “done” or “created.” Alternate translation: “what he has done” or “what he has created”
5:12 d7ca rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the doings of his hands 0 Here the metonym “hands” represents the person who has done something. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh has done”
5:13 e8j7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture my people have gone into captivity 0 In prophecy things that will happen in the future are often referred to as if they had already happened. This emphasizes that the prophecy will certainly come true. Alternate translation: “enemies from other countries will take my people, Israel, as slaves”
5:13 ek1f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit for lack of understanding 0 What they do not understand can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “because they do not understand Yahweh or his law”
5:14 lq6k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Sheol has made its appetite greater and has opened its mouth very wide 0 This phrase speaks of Sheol, which stands here for the grave, to an animal that is ready to eat other animals. It implies that many, many people will die. Alternate translation: “death is like a hungry animal that has opened its mouth wide to eat up many people”
5:14 l95b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture their elite, the people, their leaders, and the revelers and those who are happy among them, descend into Sheol 0 The prophet speaks of the future as if it were happening now. Alternate translation: “Many people of Israel, their important people and common people, their leaders and those who enjoy wild parties, will go into Sheol”
5:15 hv2s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Man will be forced to bend down, and mankind will be humbled 0 The phrases used together mean the same thing and are used together for emphasis. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated similar words in [Isaiah 2:9](../02/09.md). Alternate translation: “God will make every person bow down and be humble” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
5:15 kvv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture Man will be forced to bend down, and mankind will be humbled 0 Future events are spoken of as if they have already happened.
5:15 bal8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction Man will be forced to bend down 0 Bending down often symbolizes being humiliated.
5:15 npg6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the eyes of the lofty will be cast down 0 Looking down is often a sign of being ashamed. See how you translated similar words in [Isaiah 2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “the eyes of proud people will look down in shame” or “people who were proud are now ashamed”
5:15 kj8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the lofty 0 Here proud, arrogant people are spoken of as if they are high above other people. Alternate translation: “proud”
5:16 unu8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Yahweh of hosts will be exalted in his justice 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will praise Yahweh of hosts because he is just”
5:16 veu5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will be exalted 0 Being honored is spoken of as if it were being lifted high. Alternate translation: “will be greatly honored”
5:17 s6dd the sheep will feed as in their own pasture 0 Yahweh will destroy the city of Jerusalem, which was called a “vineyard” in [Isaiah 5:1](../05/01.md). It will become good for nothing except for sheep to eat grass there.
5:17 cj7g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile in the ruins, lambs will graze as foreigners 0 That is, the lambs will graze there. The land will be worthless for any other use.
5:18 w5kt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Woe to those who pull along iniquity with useless cords and who pull along sin as if it were with a cart rope 0 These phrases mean basically the same thing. They speak of people who continue to sin on purpose as if they were using all their strength to pull a heavy cart along. God will punish them for their sin. Alternate translation: “Woe to those who work hard to sin as a person who drags a cart by a rope” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:19 fje3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony those who say 0 This refers to those who continue to sin (verse 18) and then mockingly challenge God to stop them. Alternate translation: “those mockers who say”
5:19 fg4f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor let the plans of the Holy One of Israel come 0 God’s plans are spoken of as if they were objects that could come by themselves. Alternate translation: “let the Holy One of Israel accomplish his plans”
5:20 wfp3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who represent darkness as light, and light as darkness … bitter as sweet, and sweet as bitter 0 Those who do these things are the same as those “who call evil good, and good evil.” These things are opposites and people know the difference between them, but some people lie and say that bad things are good. Alternate translation: “They are like people who call darkness light and light darkness. They are like people who call bitter things sweet and sweet things bitter”
5:21 ivi4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to those who are wise in their own eyes 0 Here the metonym “eyes” refers to their thoughts. Alternate translation: “to those who consider themselves to be wise”
5:24 k429 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism as the tongue of fire devours stubble, and as the dry grass goes down in flame 0 These phrases mean basically the same thing. God will punish the people described in [Isaiah 5:18–23](./18.md). Alternate translation: “as a fire burns up stubble and grass” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5:24 mbt4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor their root will rot, and their blossom will blow away like dust 0 Isaiah speaks of these people as if they were a dying plant. Alternate translation: “they will die like a plant whose roots have rotted and whose blossom has dried up and blown away in the wind”
5:25 pkf2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the anger of Yahweh is kindled 0 Isaiah speaks of Yahweh’s anger as if it were a fire. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is very angry”
5:25 u4m4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture He has reached out with his hand against them and has punished them 0 The prophet speaks of the future as if it had already happened. He does this to insist that the prophecy certainly will come about. Alternate translation: “he will punish them with his powerful hand”
5:25 k8d7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy has reached out with his hand against them 0 Here “hand” refers to God’s power and control. Alternate translation: “has shown his power against them”
5:25 lyq9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile their corpses are like garbage in the streets 0 The dead bodies are allowed to lie in the streets as if they were garbage. This implies that many will die but that no one will be there to bury them. The word “garbage” can also be translated as “refuse” or “manure.”
5:25 sgw7 In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand 0 Alternate translation: “Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand”
5:25 b3v6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his hand is still stretched out 0 Here “hand” represents God’s power and control. Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. Alternate translation: “he will still be ready to punish them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:26 jin3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism He will lift up a signal flag for far away nations and will whistle for those at the end of the earth 0 Isaiah says the same thing in two different ways. God causing the armies of nations that are far away from Judah to come and attack is spoken of as if he would raise a flag and whistle to call them to Judah Alternate translation: “He will call for the armies of nations that are far away from Judah and tell them to come” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:26 i94d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet speedily and promptly 0 These words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how quickly they will come. Alternate translation: “very quickly”
5:27 q27w tire … stumble … slumbers … sleeps 0 These four words progress from being tired from work to being unable to walk well, to being unable to stay awake, to full sleep, so all four should appear in the translation.
5:28 j18k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile their horses’ hooves are like flint 0 “their hooves are like hard stone.” Isaiah compares the hard part of a horse’s foot to flint, which is a hard stone that can cause sparks when struck. This could mean: (1) Isaiah compares their hooves to flint so to describe the frightening image of their feet causing sparks as they run or (2) Isaiah compares their hooves to flint to emphasize how strong their hooves are which enables the horse to do whatever their master want them to do.
5:28 a4f3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile their chariot wheels like storms 0 Isaiah compares the chariot wheels to storms in order to imply that they will destroy everything in their path. Alternate translation: “the wheels of the chariots will spin like a windstorm”
5:29 dv1u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy young lions 0 A young age is a metonym for strength. Alternate translation: “the strongest lions”
5:29 jhq5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will growl and seize the prey 0 Isaiah compares the enemy killing the people of Judah to a lion killing a weaker animal. This could mean: (1) lions make a sound not as loud as a roar just before they strike, or (2) the writer is using two words to mean the same thing. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
5:30 x52f will roar … sea roars 0 The word “roar” here is translated “growl” in verse 29. Use your language’s word for the sound of waves in a storm or heavy rain or some other frightening natural sound.
5:30 rw65 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor even the light will be made dark by the clouds 0 Here darkness represents suffering and disaster. This metaphor can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the dark clouds will completely block the light of the sun” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
6:intro g9bq 0 # Isaiah 6 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 6:3–4,7, 9–13.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Heaven\n\nThis vision described in this chapter is probably a scene in heaven. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]])\n\n### Isaiah’s call\nThis chapter record Isaiah’s call to prophetic ministry. It recognizes the holiness of God and Isaiah recognizes his need for holiness. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/call]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Inevitability\n\nThe way Yahweh speaks in this chapter shows the inevitability of the punishment of Yahweh against the people of Judah. The punishment must now come. It is too late for repentance. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
6:1 fpg5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet he was high and elevated 0 The words “high” and “elevated” emphasize that the throne was very high and above everything around it. The height of the throne represents how great and powerful the Lord is.
6:1 s9gi filled the temple 0 “filled the palace.” The word used for temple here is often used to refer to the palace of kings.
6:2 rmg2 Above him were the seraphim 0 The word “seraphim” is the plural of seraph. This means the Lord was seated on the throne and the seraphim were standing or flying near the Lord ready to serve him.
6:2 rar1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown seraphim 0 This word suggests that the creatures might have a fiery appearance or resemble snakes. Because we do not know exactly what “seraphim” means, you could translate this as “winged creatures” or “winged living things.” Or, you can borrow the word and use it in your language. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])
6:2 jct3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis with two each covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew 0 The words “wings” and “seraph” are understood. Alternate translation: “with two wings each seraph covered his face, and with two wings he covered his feet, and with two wings he flew”
6:3 d6y7 Each one called to another and said 0 Alternate translation: “The seraphim called out to one another and said” or “The winged creatures proclaimed to one another”
6:3 vxd8 Holy, holy, holy, is Yahweh of hosts 0 Repeating the word “holy” three times indicates God is completely holy. Alternate translation: “Yahweh of hosts is holy beyond all else” or “Yahweh of hosts is completely holy”
6:3 m7tr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The whole earth is full of his glory 0 This speaks of the earth as if it were a container and glory were the contents in the container. Alternate translation: “Everything on the earth is evidence of God’s glory”
6:4 dki2 The foundations of the thresholds shook at the voices of those who were crying out 0 Alternate translation: “When the seraphim called out, their voices shook the doorways and their foundations”
6:4 tz4y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the house was filled with smoke 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “smoke filled the temple” or “smoke filled the palace”
6:5 v2ty rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Woe is me! For I am doomed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I am in great trouble! Terrible things will happen to me”
6:5 ws6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy of unclean lips 0 Here “lips” represent what a person speaks. And, people saying things that are unacceptable to God is spoken of as if their lips were physically unclean. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:5 kz1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche my eyes have seen 0 Here “eyes” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “I have seen”
6:6 vk6r rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown seraphim 0 This word suggests that the creatures might have a fiery appearance or resemble snakes. Because we do not know exactly what “seraphim” means, you could translate these as “creatures” or “living things” or “beings.” Or you can borrow the word and use it in your language. See how you translated this word in [Isaiah 6:2](../06/02.md). (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])
6:7 wf8i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism your guilt has been taken away, and your sin atoned for 0 These two phrases say basically the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has taken away your guilt and has forgiven your sins” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
6:7 g4x1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your guilt has been taken away 0 Yahweh no longer considering a person to be guilty is spoken of as if “guilt” were an object that someone could take away from someone else.
6:8 n956 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the voice of the Lord say 0 Here “voice” represents the Lord himself. Alternate translation: “the Lord say”
6:8 at9k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Whom shall I send 0 It is implied that Yahweh will send someone to speak his message to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “Whom shall I send to be a messenger to my people”
6:8 ria2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive who will go for us 0 Yahweh is using the word **us** to refer both to himself and to the members of the heavenly council to whom he is speaking, so use the inclusive form of the word in your translation if your language marks that distinction.
6:9 iq3c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative Listen, but do not understand; see, but do not perceive 0 This could mean: (1) the imperatives “do not understand” and “do not perceive” express what God is causing to happen. Alternate translation: “You will listen, but Yahweh will not let you understand; you will look carefully, but Yahweh will not allow you to understand” or (2) the imperatives “Listen” and “see” express the idea of “if.” Alternate translation: “Even if you listen you will not understand; even if you look carefully, you will not understand”
6:9 m1yh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis Listen, but do not understand; see, but do not perceive 0 You can state clearly the understood information. Alternate translation: “Listen to Yahweh’s message, but do not understand what it means; look at what Yahweh is doing, but do not realize what it means”
6:10 q3as rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Make the heart of this people insensitive 0 Here “heart” represents a person’s mind. A person who does not think clearly and is unable to understand and care about what is happening is spoken of as if his heart were insensitive. Alternate translation: “Make these people unable to understand” or “Make the minds of these people dull” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:10 wd4q Make the heart of this people 0 It may be more natural to translate “heart” and “this” as plurals. Alternate translation: “Make the hearts of these people”
6:10 ffe8 Make the heart … insensitive 0 This command means that Yahweh will use Isaiah’s message to cause the people to understand even less and to make them less sensitive to what Yahweh is doing.
6:10 pqr2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor their ears dull, and blind their eyes 0 “make it so that they cannot hear, and make it so that they cannot see.” Isaiah making people to not understand Yahweh’s message or what he is doing is spoken of as if Isaiah were making them deaf and blind.
6:10 qi8r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears 0 People being able to understand Yahweh’s message and what he is doing is spoken of as if the people were able physically to see and hear.
6:10 sbg9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy understand with their heart 0 Here “heart” represents as person’s mind. Truly understanding something and caring about what is happening is spoken of as if the people were to understand with their hearts.
6:10 fs74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor then turn 0 Repenting and starting to obey Yahweh is spoken of as if the people were physically to turn towards him. Alternate translation: “follow me again” or “then start trusting in me again”
6:10 h53y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive be healed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I would heal them”
6:11 wx9r Until cities crash into ruins and are without inhabitants, and the houses are without people 0 Alternate translation: “Until all the cities and houses are ruined and no one lives there”
6:11 b56y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom the land falls into a desolate waste 0 Here “falls into” is an idiom that means to become something worse. Alternate translation: “the land becomes a desolate waste”
6:12 wed8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person until Yahweh has sent the people far away, and the solitude of the land is great 0 Here Yahweh speaks about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “until I, Yahweh, have sent all the people far away from their land, so that no one is left”
6:13 p7xa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive it will again be destroyed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “armies will again destroy the land of Israel”
6:13 r74f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a terebinth or an oak is cut down and whose trunk remains, the holy seed is in its stump 0 This simile means that even after Yahweh destroys Israel, he will still set apart people from among the Israelites to serve him.
6:13 h3vb rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown terebinth 0 a kind of oak tree
6:13 tbt2 trunk … stump 0 A trunk is the thick main stem of a tree. A stump is the part of a tree that remains in the ground after the tree is cut down.
6:13 p9id rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the holy seed 0 The people who will serve Yahweh after armies destroy Israel are spoken of as if they were set apart as a holy seed.
7:intro kcq7 0 # Isaiah 7 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 7:7–9, 18–25.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### “Young woman” or "virgin" in 7:14\nIn verse 14, Isaiah uses a specific term that describes a woman who has reached the age at which she is able to have children but who has not yet had a child. This term could apply to a woman who was married or to a woman who was not yet married. Some translators of the Bible have translated this term as “virgin” because they have considered it to be a prophesy of how the Messiah would be born of a woman who had never had sexual relations with a man. Jesus was born in this way ([Matthew 1:18](../01/18.md), [Luke 1:34](../01/34.md)). Other translators have considered that the initial reference of this prophecy was to the wife of Ahaz, the queen of Judah, who had not yet given birth to a royal heir, and so they translate the term as "young woman," since she was married. (The fact that there was no heir to the throne may have provided an occasion for the enemies of Judah to try to make someone else king, as verse 6 describes.) Understood this way, the prophecy would be a promise that Ahaz's queen would indeed give birth to a royal heir (this child became the godly king Hezekiah) and the dynasty of David would continue, particularly since God would also defeat those enemies. It is possible that this prophecy had an initial fulfillment in Hezekiah and a later fulfillment in Jesus. Some languages may be able to accommodate both possibilities by using a term such as the English word "maiden," which has the same general range of reference as the term that Isaiah uses. This is what the ULT does. If your language does not have such a term, if a translation of the Bible already exists in your region, you may wish to use a term similar to the one that it uses; if a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, decide which interpretive possibility you would like to express in your translation.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Israel\n\nIn this chapter, the name Israel describes the northern of the two kingdoms into which the former larger kingdom of Israel, which David and Solomon had ruled, had become divided. This chapter also refers to this northern kingdom as Ephraim, using the name of its most prominent tribe.
7:1 u9lp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom During the days of Ahaz … king of Judah 0 “When Ahaz … was king of Judah” This was when the events happened.
7:1 vuv8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Rezin … and Pekah … went up 0 The author speaks as if the kings were the armies they led. Alternate translation: “Rezin … and Pekah … led their armies up”
7:1 py2k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to war against it 0 The author speaks as if the city itself were the people who live in it. Alternate translation: “to war against the people of Jerusalem”
7:2 fs5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive It was reported to the house of David 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the house of David heard the report” or “someone reported to the house of David”
7:2 lbv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the house of David 0 The word “house” is a metonym for the family living in the house. Alternate translation: “King Ahaz and his counselors”
7:2 y882 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy that Aram was allied with Ephraim 0 Here “Aram” and “Ephraim” refer to their kings. Here “Ephraim” represents the whole northern kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “that Rezin, the king of Aram was helping Pekah, the king of Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
7:2 k9yy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile His heart trembled, and the heart of his people, as the trees of the forest shake in the wind 0 The trembling of their hearts at this news is compared to the way trees shake when the wind blows through them. Alternate translation: “Ahaz and his people were very afraid”
7:3 u3qa rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Shear-Jashub 0 Translators may also add a footnote that says, “The name Shear-Jashub means ‘a remnant will return.’” The meaning may have given hope to Ahaz.
7:3 dcs8 at the end of the conduit of the upper pool 0 Alternate translation: “where the water flows out of the tunnel and enters the upper pool”
7:3 jx5e conduit 0 man-made ditch or tunnel through which water flows
7:3 iiu7 road 0 If your language has a word for a road or path that people have made smooth by filling in the low places and lowering the high places, you can use it here.
7:3 v3uw rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Launderer’s Field 0 This could mean: (1) this is the proper name by which the people called the field or (2) this is the common noun that the people used to talk about the field, “the launderer’s field” or “the field where men wash wool” or “the field where women wash clothes.”
7:3 cts4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Launderer’s Field 0 A launderer is either: (1) a man who washes wool that someone has cut from the sheep, “Wool Washer Field,” or (2) a woman who washes dirty clothes, “Clothes Washer Field.”
7:4 ze8i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor do not be afraid or intimidated by these two smoldering firebrands, by the fierce anger of Rezin and Aram, and of Pekah son of Remaliah 0 God compares Rezin and Pekah to burning sticks whose fire has gone out and are making smoke now. God is emphasizing that they are not real threats to Judah. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “do not let Rezin and Pekah make you afraid; their fierce anger is like a burning stick whose fire has gone out and there is only smoke” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
7:4 uy6n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet afraid or intimidated 0 The words “afraid” and “intimidated” mean the same thing and can be translated as one word. Alternate translation: “afraid”
7:5 ss12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Aram, Ephraim, and the son of Remaliah 0 The words “Aram” and “Ephraim” refer to the kings of these lands. Also, “Ephraim” represents the northern kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “Rezin the king of Aram and Pekah the son of Remaliah, king of Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
7:5 ysl6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you have planned evil against you 0 Here “you” is singular and refers to Ahaz.
7:6 yu1t rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names son of Tabeel 0 It is unknown who this man is.
7:8 vb6l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the head of Damascus is Rezin 0 Here “head” is a metonym for the most important part. It is implied that Rezin is only a man, and therefore cannot stop Yahweh’s plan. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “the king of Damascus is Rezin, who is only a man” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
7:8 y681 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers sixty-five years 0 “65 years”
7:8 gc27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Ephraim will be shattered and will no longer be a people 0 Here “Ephraim” refers to all of the northern kingdom of Israel. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “an army will destroy Ephraim, and there will no longer be a people of Israel”
7:9 el5p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the head of Samaria is Remaliah’s son 0 This means Pekah is the king of Samaria and all of Israel. Alternate translation: “the king of Samaria is Pekah, who is a weak man”
7:9 z477 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives If you do not remain firm in faith, surely you will not remain secure 0 This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “If you continue to believe in me, you will certainly remain safe”
7:11 f2n6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism ask for it in the depths or in the height above 0 Yahweh uses the word “depths” and “height” to mean Ahaz could ask him for anything.
7:11 li4c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns depths … height 0 The abstract nouns “depths” and “height” can be translated with prepositions. “places far below you … places far above you”
7:13 zw34 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy house of David 0 The word “house” is a metonym for the family living in the house. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 7:2](../07/02.md). Alternate translation: “King Ahaz, you and your counselors”
7:13 v36u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is it not enough for you people to test the patience of people? Must you also test the patience of my God? 0 These questions emphasize that the king has sinned greatly. Alternate translation: “You test the patience of people! Now you even test the patience of my God!”
7:14 ecy9 the young woman will conceive 0 Some ancient versions and some contemporary versions translate, “the virgin will conceive,” while others translate “the young woman will conceive.”
7:14 s44h rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names his name Immanuel 0 Translators may add a footnote that says: “The name Immanuel means ‘God with us.’”
7:15 jl15 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit He will eat curds and honey when he knows to refuse the evil and choose the good 0 People generally expect a child to know right from wrong once the child is a few years old. So the implication is that what Isaiah is describing will happen within a few years. Alternate translation: “Within a few years, he will eat curds and honey”
7:15 di2m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj refuse the evil and choose the good 0 Here “the evil” and “the good” refer to evil and good things in general. Alternate translation: “refuse to do evil deeds and choose to do good deeds”
7:16 dht9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj refuse the evil and choose the good 0 Here “the evil” and “the good” refer to evil and good things in general. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 7:15](../07/15.md). Alternate translation: “refuse to do evil deeds and choose to do good deeds”
7:16 f8jq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you you dread 0 “you fear.” Here “you” is singular and refers to Ahaz.
7:18 qve8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for a fly from the distant streams of Egypt, and for a bee from the land of Assyria 0 Here the armies of Egypt and Assyria are spoken of as if they are insects that will invade the land of Israel. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “for the armies of Egypt and Assyria, and their soldiers will be everywhere like flies and bees” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:20 v8kp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the Lord will shave with a razor that was hired beyond the Euphrates River—the king of Assyria 0 The word “razor” is a metaphor for the king of Assyria and his army, and Yahweh speaks of the king as if the king were a man who would do Yahweh’s work and then receive money from Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the Lord will call the king of Assyria from beyond the Euphrates River to work for him to shave you”
7:20 d2rx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that was hired 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that he bought”
7:20 yli5 the head … the hair of the legs … also … the beard 0 It was bad to have someone shave the top of the head; it was worse to have someone shave “the hair of the legs”; it was worst of all to have someone shave the beard.
7:20 y3tv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the head … the hair of the legs … the beard 0 Isaiah does not say whose head, hair, and beard the Lord is going to shave, but Ahaz and the reader would understand that this is a man; the man is a metaphor for the people living in the land of Judah.
7:20 tyl9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the head 0 Here “the head” represents the hair that grows on it. Alternate translation: “the hair on the head”
7:20 tkw6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism the hair of the legs 0 This could mean: (1) this is a polite way to speak of the hair on the lower body or (2) this speaks of the hair on the legs.
7:20 a1pl it will also sweep 0 If your language requires a person to be the subject of “will … sweep,” you can say, “the Lord will also sweep.” Alternate translation: “the razor will also sweep”
7:22 tsx4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns because of the abundance of milk which they shall give 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **abundance**, you can express the same idea with a clause. Alternate translation: “because they will give so much milk”
7:23 b3ry rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers there were a thousand vines … briers and thorns 0 “there were 1,000 vines.” That is, when Isaiah wrote, there were vineyards, in some of which were 1,000 vines or more each. He says that these vineyards will become full of briers and thorns.
7:23 y1fr rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers a thousand silver shekels 0 “1,000 silver shekels.” A shekel is a silver coin worth 4 days wage. Alternate translation: “1,000 silver coins” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])
7:23 hu8n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet briers and thorns 0 The words “briers” and “thorns” both refer to useless, thorny plants. It is not necessary to translate both words. Alternate translation: “thorn bushes” or “brier bushes”
7:24 sr7t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit because all the land will be briers and thorns 0 Why the hunters come to these lands can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “because there will be nothing in these lands but briers, thorns, and wild animals”
7:25 azm2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive They will stay away from all the hills that were cultivated with the hoe 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will stay away from the hills where they once prepared the soil to plant crops”
8:intro c8jg 0 # Isaiah 8 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 8:6–18, 21–22.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Trust in Yahweh\n\nIsrael will not trust in Yahweh. Instead, they will trust in their own power, their Gentile allies and the power of false gods. They will be punished because the power of Yahweh is greater than all of these. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])
8:3 j2ld rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism I went to the prophetess 0 It can be stated explicitly that Isaiah is married to the prophetess. Alternate translation: “I slept with my wife, the prophetess” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
8:4 g5hy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the riches of Damascus and the plunder of Samaria will be carried away by the king of Assyria 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the king of Assyria will carry away all the treasures of Damascus and Samaria”
8:6 k9mk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Because this people has refused the gentle waters of Shiloah 0 The words “gentle waters” are a metaphor for the law of the Lord. Alternate translation: “Because this people has rejected Yahweh’s law, which is like the gentle waters of Shiloah” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
8:6 x9t3 this people 0 If your language needs a plural here, you can translate this phrase and the following verbs as “these people have refused … are happy.” Alternate translation: “this people group”
8:6 mbx4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit is happy over Rezin and Remaliah’s son 0 The full meaning can be made explicit. See how you translated these men’s names in [Isaiah 7:1](../07/01.md). Alternate translation: “is happy that the armies of Assyria have defeated Rezin, king of Aram, and Pekah, Remaliah’s son, king of Israel”
8:7 l4ii rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns therefore the Lord is 0 Yahweh speaks of himself as if he were someone else to remind the people of who he is. Alternate translation: “therefore I, the Lord, am”
8:7 t9mv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the waters of the River, mighty and many, the king of Assyria and all his glory 0 The river symbolizes the army of Assyria. Alternate translation: “the army from Assyria, which is powerful like a mighty river”
8:8 ye6u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The River will sweep onward into Judah, flooding and passing on, until it reaches to your neck 0 The army of Assyria is like a flood of water. Alternate translation: “More and more soldiers will come like a river rising up to your neck”
8:8 yl2k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The River 0 This refers to the Euphrates River in Assyria. This is a metonym for the Assyrian soldiers, who will come from their homes by the Euphrates River ([Isaiah 8:7](../08/07.md)).
8:8 w2iu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Its outstretched wings will fill 0 This could mean: (1) as “the River” in the metaphor rises, its “wings” flow over and cover what had been dry land or (2) Isaiah changes metaphors and now speaks of Yahweh as a bird who is protecting the land, “But his outstretched wings will cover.”
8:8 j34k Immanuel 0 Translators may add a footnote that says: “The name Immanuel means ‘God with us.’” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 7:14](../07/14.md).
8:9 qq71 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive You peoples will be broken to pieces 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will break your armies to pieces”
8:9 qzg7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Listen, all you distant countries 0 Isaiah speaks as if people in other countries can hear him. Alternate translation: “Listen, all you people in far away places”
8:9 rer3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism arm yourselves for war and be broken in pieces; arm yourselves and be broken in pieces 0 This is basically the same thing, stated twice for emphasis. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you can prepare yourselves for battle, but I will defeat you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
8:10 q9aj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Form a plan, but it will not be carried out; issue the command, but it will not be carried out 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You can prepare to attack Judah, but you will not succeed”
8:10 mfw3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive it will not be carried out … it will not be carried out 0 To “carry out” a plan or command is to do what the person who makes the plan or command wants the hearer to do. These clauses can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you will not be able to do what you plan to do … your soldiers will not be able to do what their commanders tell them to do”
8:11 svz5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom Yahweh spoke to me, with his strong hand upon me 0 Here “his strong hand upon me” is an idiom that refers to Yahweh’s power. Alternate translation: “Yahweh spoke to me in a very powerful way”
8:11 pq3u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations warned me not to walk in the way of this people. 0 This is an indirect quote that ends in 8:17. Alternate translation: “warned me and said, ‘Do not act like this people.’”
8:12 zbg2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Do not call conspiracy anything that this people calls conspiracy 0 The people imagine there are conspiracies, and it makes them anxious. Alternate translation: “Do not worry like this people who think someone is always trying to harm them”
8:13 nnx7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations It is Yahweh of hosts whom you will honor as holy; he is the one you must fear, and he is the one you must dread 0 If you translate this as a direct quote, you can also translate it with Yahweh speaking in the first person: “But you will consider me, Yahweh of Hosts, as holy. And you will fear and be in awe of me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
8:14 pdv3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will become a sanctuary 0 The word “sanctuary” is a metaphor for Yahweh keeping his people safe and protecting them. Alternate translation: “He will protect them when they go to him”
8:14 w1mv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet he will be a trap and a snare to the people of Jerusalem 0 The words “trap” and “snare” mean almost the same thing and emphasize that when Yahweh decides to punish the people of Jerusalem they will not be able to escape. Alternate translation: “he will trap the people of Jerusalem so they cannot escape him”
8:15 nj22 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Many will stumble over it and fall and be broken, and be ensnared and captured 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Many people will stumble over the stone, and when they fall they will not get up. And many people will step into the trap, and they will not be able to get out”
8:15 q3r6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ensnared and captured 0 These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that they will be caught in the trap.
8:16 uss4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Bind up my testimony, seal the official record 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “Close up tightly the scroll with this message written on it”
8:16 qg84 my testimony … my disciples 0 It is unclear to whom the word “my” refers. It could be Isaiah or Yahweh. It is best to leave the pronouns ambiguous if your language will allow it.
8:17 y59u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy who hides his face from the house of Jacob 0 Yahweh’s “face” is a metonym for his blessing or favor. Alternate translation: “who has taken away his blessing from the house of Jacob” or “who no longer looks with favor on the house of Jacob”
8:18 b1mr I and the sons whom Yahweh has given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel 0 “I and the sons Yahweh has given me are like signs to warn the people of Israel.” The sons are Shear-Jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, whose names are a message to the people of Israel. (See: [Isaiah 7:3](../07/03.md) and [Isaiah 8:1](./01.md))
8:19 ld5t They will say to you, “Consult with those who speak with the dead and with spirits,” the ones who chirp and mutter incantations. But should a people not consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? 0 This could mean: (1) “They will say to you, ‘Consult with the mediums and spiritists, those who chirp and mutter incantations. Should a people not consult their gods? They should consult the dead on behalf of the living for teaching and for testimony.’” or (2) “When they say to you, ‘Consult with the mediums and spiritists, those who chirp and mutter incantations,’ should a people not consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony!”
8:19 im2e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you They will say to you 0 The word “they” refers to those who do not trust Yahweh. The word “you” is plural and refers to those who trust Yahweh.
8:19 sx96 the ones who chirp and mutter incantations 0 The words “chirp” and “mutter” refer to the sounds mediums and spiritists made when trying to speak to dead people. Alternate translation: “they people who whisper and mutter their magic words to try and speak to dead people”
8:19 zsh8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion But should a people not consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? 0 These questions are to show that people should consult God instead of foolishly trying to talk to dead people. Alternate translation: “But people should ask Yahweh to guide them. They should not seek answers from those who have died.”
8:20 i7kp To the law and to the testimony 0 This could mean: (1) “Pay attention to God’s instructions and teaching” or (2) “Then you must remember the teaching and testimony I gave.” ([Isaiah 8:16](../08/16.md)).
8:20 fav3 the law 0 This is the same word translated “official record” in [Isaiah 8:16](../08/16.md).
8:20 qpm5 the testimony 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 8:16](../08/16.md).
8:20 i61u If they do not say such things 0 Alternate translation: “If they do not speak of the law and the testimony”
8:20 vr4u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor it is because they have no light of dawn 0 Isaiah speaks of people who do not know God as if they were people walking in darkness without any light. Alternate translation: “it is because they are like a person lost in the dark”
8:22 c4e1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive They will be driven into a land of darkness 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will drive them out into complete darkness”
9:intro e336 0 # Isaiah 9 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter begins with a prophecy that is a continuation of the prophecy concluding the previous chapter. Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 9:1–21. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Messiah\n\nThe prophecy in 9:1–7 is about the coming Messiah. Parts of this prophecy were fulfilled when he first came to earth. Other parts are to be fulfilled when he will return in glory to earth. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Fulfillment of prophecies\n\nSome of the prophecies in this chapter were fulfilled in Isaiah’s lifetime while others are fulfilled in the distant future. Some scholars believe that there can be multiple fulfillments of each of these prophecies, while others see only one complete fulfillment.
9:1 c7zh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The gloom will be dispelled from her who was in anguish 0 Isaiah speaks of people who are spiritually lost as if they were walking around in total darkness. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will remove the darkness from her who was in anguish” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
9:1 q9g1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor her who was in anguish 0 “her who was suffering great pain and sadness.” This is probably a metaphor for the people of Judah.
9:1 y275 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy In an earlier time he humiliated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali 0 “Land” refers to the people who live in an area. Alternate translation: “In the past, the Lord humbled those living in Zebulun and Naphtali”
9:1 wtc7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy but in the later time he will make it glorious, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations 0 Here “it” refers to Galilee which represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “but in the future, the Lord will honor the people of Galilee of the nations, which is on the road between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River”
9:1 rv6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Galilee of the nations 0 Here “nations” represents the people from other nations that live in Galilee. Alternate translation: “Galilee, where many foreigners live”
9:2 emm3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor walked in darkness … lived in the land of the shadow of death 0 Isaiah speaks of the people living sinful lives and suffering because of it as if they had been walking in a dark or living in a land of shadow of death.
9:2 y2l2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a great light … light has shone 0 Here “light” represents hope and deliverance.
9:2 x5ah rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom the land of the shadow of death 0 The phrase “shadow of death” is an idiom that means absolute darkness. Alternate translation: “the land of deepest darkness”
9:3 fxk4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you You have multiplied the nation; you have increased their joy 0 The word “you” refers to Yahweh. The word “their” refers to the people of Israel, but Isaiah includes himself as part of Israel. Alternate translation: “Lord, you will greatly increase our people and our joy”
9:3 i1jr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile They rejoice before you like the joy at harvest time, as men rejoice when they divide the plunder 0 The joy that Yahweh will give Israel is described as the same kind of joy people have when they bring in a harvest or divide valuable plunder. Alternate translation: “They will rejoice before you as people rejoice when they gather their crops or when a battle is over and soldiers divide what they took”
9:4 i6r4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For the yoke of his burden … you have shattered as on the day of Midian 0 Isaiah speaks of the Israelites, who are the Assyrians’ slaves, as if they were an ox wearing a yoke. This will happen in the future, but he speaks as if it has already happened. Alternate translation: “For as on the day of Midian you will set the people of Israel free from being slaves to their oppressors like a person removes a yoke from the shoulders of an animal” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
9:4 k2hi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For the yoke of his burden … his shoulder … his oppressor 0 Isaiah speaks of the people of Israel as if they were one man. Alternate translation: “For the yoke of their burden … their shoulders … their oppressor”
9:4 eh66 the beam across his shoulder 0 The beam is the part of the yoke that goes over the shoulders of the ox.
9:4 hfq6 beam 0 Another possible meaning is “staff,” a long piece of wood that a person uses to beat the oxen so they will work and a symbol of one person’s power to rule other people.
9:4 d1k8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the rod of his oppressor 0 Isaiah speaks of the power the oppressor has over the people of Judah as if it were the piece of wood used by a person to beat oxen so they will work.
9:4 egd7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom as on the day of Midian 0 The word “day” is an idiom that can refer to an event that takes more than one day to happen. Alternate translation: “as when you defeated the Midianites”
9:5 klu8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive every boot treading in the tumult and the garments rolled in blood will be burned 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you will burn the boots of the soldiers and their clothes, which are covered with blood”
9:5 py1z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit burned, fuel for the fire 0 This can be made more explicit by translating it as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “burned. You will make the boots and the garments fuel for the fire”
9:6 h5x2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For to us a child has been born, to us a son has been given 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The word “us” refers to both the speaker and the hearer and so is inclusive. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “For the Lord will give to us a child” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
9:6 g3lc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the rule will be on his shoulder 0 His authority to rule is spoken of as if it were the robe that is a symbol of his authority. Alternate translation: “he will wear his royal robe on his shoulder” or “he will have authority to rule as king.”
9:7 nq8j Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end 0 Alternate translation: “As time passes he will rule over more and more people and enable them to live more and more peacefully”
9:7 yu3r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy rules on the throne of David 0 Sitting on the “throne of David” is a metonym for having the right to rule; only David’s descendants could be king over Israel. Alternate translation: “has the right to rule as David’s descendant”
9:7 k8w3 his kingdom, to establish it and sustain it with justice and with righteousness 0 This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “his kingdom. He will establish and protect his kingdom, and he will do what is fair and just”
9:7 ge32 Yahweh of hosts 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:9](../01/09.md).
9:8 x9c9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom The Lord sent a word against Jacob, and it fell on Israel 0 “Send a word” means to speak. Alternate translation: “The Lord has spoken against the people of Israel”
9:9 qbl6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit All the people will know, even Ephraim and the inhabitants of Samaria 0 What they will know can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “All the people will know that the Lord has judged them, even those in Ephraim and Samaria”
9:10 gj6i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit The bricks have fallen, but we will rebuild with chiseled stone; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place 0 The full meaning can be made explicit. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “We will replace the common bricks of our destroyed cities with expensive cut stone, and we will plant great cedar trees where ordinary sycamore trees grew” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
9:11 f9f7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Therefore Yahweh will raise up against him Rezin, his adversary 0 Here “Rezin” represents himself and his army. Alternate translation: “Therefore, Yahweh will bring Rezin and his army against the people of Israel”
9:11 imx9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Rezin 0 This is the name of a man. See how you translated Rezin in [Isaiah 7:1](../07/01.md).
9:11 hya1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom will stir up his enemies 0 The phrase “stir up” is an idiom that means to incite them to attack. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cause Israel’s enemies to attack”
9:12 ju29 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will devour Israel with open mouth 0 “Devour” is how wild animals eat their prey. Alternate translation: “Like a wild beast eating its prey, the army of the enemy will destroy the people of Israel”
9:12 gk5w In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand 0 “Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md).
9:12 kxn9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his hand is still stretched out 0 Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md). Alternate translation: “he will still be ready to punish them”
9:14 in46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor head and tail 0 Isaiah explains this metaphor in verse 15, so you do not need to add any information about its meaning here in your translation.
9:14 cj62 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor palm branch and reed 0 The “palm branch” grows high on the tree and is a metaphor for people who are important and rule others. The “reed” grows in shallow water and is a metaphor for people who are poor and unimportant and are ruled by others.
9:16 qp35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Those who lead this people lead them astray 0 The leaders causing people to disobey is spoken of as if the leaders led them on the wrong path. Alternate translation: “The leaders of Israel have caused the people to disobey God”
9:16 ck73 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor those who are led by them are swallowed up 0 This is a metaphor that can be stated in active form. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “those that they lead become confused” or (2) Alternate translation: “Yahweh destroys those that they lead” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
9:17 w5bb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche every mouth speaks foolish things 0 The word “mouth” refers to the person. Alternate translation: “every person speaks foolish things”
9:17 b4un In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand 0 “Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md).
9:17 v3li rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his hand is still stretched out 0 Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md). Alternate translation: “he will still be ready to punish them”
9:18 kf1q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Wickedness burns like a fire; it devours the briers and thorns; it even burns the thickets of the forest 0 The people’s evil deeds are spoken of as if they were a very destructive fire. This fire burns even the briers and thorns, plants that grow in places where people no longer live, and “the thickets of the forest” where no one has ever lived, because it has already destroyed the places where people were living.
9:18 ee5n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet briers … thorns 0 The words “briers” and “thorns” both refer to useless, thorny plants; they can be translated using one word. See how you translated these words in [Isaiah 7:23](../07/23.md). Alternate translation: “thorn bushes”
9:19 ctw3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Through the fury of Yahweh of hosts the land is scorched 0 Translate “Yahweh of hosts” as in [Isaiah 1:9](../01/09.md). If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Like fire that scorches the land, the Lord’s intense anger will destroy the people of Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
9:19 bg78 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom No man spares his brother 0 To “spare” someone means to save them from harm. Alternate translation: “No one does anything to help his own brother escape”
9:20 e6kn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy They will grab food on the right hand … on the left hand 0 This expression refers to two directions, the **right** and the **left**, to mean that the people will grab food in those and all other directions, wherever they can find it.
9:20 sl21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Each will even eat the flesh of his own arm 0 This could mean: (1) people will be so hungry that they will want to eat or will actually eat their own arms or (2) the word “arm” is a metaphor for the person’s neighbor.
9:21 y7rj In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand 0 “Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md).
9:21 gxv7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his hand is still stretched out 0 Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md). Alternate translation: “he will still be ready to punish them”
10:intro dc9a 0 # Isaiah 10 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter begins with a prophecy that is a continuation of the prophecy beginning in 8:21. Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 10:1–11, 13–14, 15–19, 27–34.\n(See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Yahweh’s sovereignty\nYahweh has so much power and authority that he controls all of the nations. He even controls the nations who do not worship him. He uses Assyria to punish the kingdom of Israel.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Rhetorical Questions\n\nThere are many rhetorical questions in this chapter. Yahweh uses rhetorical questions to make statements about Israel’s sin. The Assyrians use rhetorical questions in order to boast in their pride. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
10:1 gwe8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism to those who enact unjust laws and write unfair decrees 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “to those who make laws and decrees that are not fair to everyone”
10:2 qr4b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism They deprive the needy of justice, rob the poor of my people of their rights 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “They are unjust to the poor and needy among my people”
10:2 w83u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor make the fatherless their prey 0 Isaiah compares orphans to animals that other animals hunt and eat. This emphasizes that orphans are powerless and judges can easily harm them. Alternate translation: “harm children who do not have parents like an animal that goes after its prey”
10:3 gdt3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What will you do on judgment day … away? 0 Isaiah uses a question to scold those in Judah who harm the poor and weak people. Alternate translation: “You will be able to do nothing on judgment day … away!”
10:3 u4fv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To whom will you flee for help, and where will you leave your wealth? 0 Isaiah uses a question to scold those in Judah who harm the poor and weak people. Alternate translation: “You have nowhere to run for help, and you will have nowhere to hide your riches!”
10:4 iw4t Nothing remains, and you crouch 0 This could mean: (1) “None of your wealth remains as you crouch” or (2) “You can do nothing else but crouch.”
10:4 p3u9 you crouch among the prisoners or fall among the killed 0 Alternate translation: “your enemies will either take you as a prisoner or will kill you”
10:4 f4fy In all these things, his anger does not subside 0 “Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md).
10:4 dg4p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his hand is still stretched out 0 Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:25](../05/25.md). Alternate translation: “he will still be ready to punish them”
10:5 rrc2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the club of my anger, the rod by whom I wield my fury 0 Both of these phrases mean basically the same thing. Yahweh compares the king of Assyria to a weapon a person holds in his hand and hits other people with. It emphasizes that the king of Assyria and his army are a tool that Yahweh uses to punish Israel. Alternate translation: “who will be like a weapon in my hands that I will use to show my anger” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
10:6 bn37 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche I send him … I order him 0 The word “him” here also refers to the king of Assyria. But it does not mean God is only sending the king; he is sending with him the army of Assyria. Alternate translation: “I send the army of Assyria … I order them”
10:6 nvq3 against an arrogant nation and against the people who bear my overflowing wrath 0 Alternate translation: “to attack a nation full of proud people who have made me very angry”
10:6 i3fl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who bear my overflowing wrath 0 Yahweh speaks of his wrath as if it were more liquid than a container could hold; “the people” are trying to carry this container, but it is heavy, and Yahweh keeps pouring liquid in even after it starts to spill out. Alternate translation: “at whom I continue to be angry even after I have punished them”
10:6 ay7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile trample them like mud 0 Yahweh is speaking as if the enemies of Israel will literally walk on the Israelites and flatten them. He means that these enemies will completely defeat them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and to completely defeat the people of Israel”
10:7 y94n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit But this is not what he intends, nor does he think this way 0 The meaning of “this” and “this way” can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “But the king of Assyria does not intend to do what I tell him, nor does he think that I am using him as my weapon”
10:7 qn96 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet It is in his heart to destroy and eliminate many nations 0 The words “destroy” and “eliminate” mean basically the same thing. They are used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “He wants to completely destroy many nations”
10:8 pc5q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Are not all my princes kings? 0 The king of Assyria uses a question to emphasize what he believes everyone should already know. Alternate translation: “I have made captains of my army kings over lands I have conquered!”
10:9 y1s2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is not Kalno like Carchemish? Is not Hamath like Arpad? Is not Samaria like Damascus? 0 The king of Assyria uses these questions for emphasis. Alternate translation: “Kalno is no different from Carchemish. Hamath is no different from Arpad. Samaria is no different from Damascus. I have conquered them all!”
10:9 gl7w rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Kalno … Carchemish … Hamath … Arpad 0 These are all names of cities.
10:10 nda6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy As my hand has overcome 0 “Hand” here is a reference to military strength. Alternate translation: “As my powerful army has defeated” or “As I have conquered”
10:10 tpk7 my 0 This refers to the king of Assyria.
10:10 zf5l whose carved figures were greater 0 During this time people believed that the greatness of an idol showed how powerful the kingdom that had built it was. The king of Assyria is saying that because the idols in Jerusalem are not as great as the idols of the kingdoms he has defeated, Jerusalem would be less able to defeat him than they were.
10:11 g79t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy just as I did to Samaria and her worthless idols 0 The word “Samaria” refers to the people who lived there, and “her” refers to the city of Samaria. Cities and nations were often spoken of as if they were women. Alternate translation: “just as I did to the people of Samaria and their worthless idols”
10:11 y8en rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion will I not also do the same to Jerusalem and to her idols? 0 The king of Assyria used this question to emphasize the certainty that he will conquer the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “I will certainly do the same to Jerusalem and her idols!”
10:12 g3hp When the Lord has finished his work on Mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish 0 Yahweh speaks of himself as if he were someone else. “When I, the Lord, have finished my work on Mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish”
10:12 ly8r I will punish the speech of the arrogant heart of the king of Assyria and his prideful looks 0 Alternate translation: “I will punish the king of Assyria for the arrogant things he said and the look of pride on his face”
10:13 ty9n For he says 0 Alternate translation: “For the king of Assyria says”
10:13 f9lx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I have removed … I have stolen 0 Here the word “I” refers to the king of Assyria. He was the leader of the Assyrian army and took credit for what the army did at his command. Alternate translation: “my army has removed … They have stolen”
10:13 bqh5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a bull 0 “as strong as a bull.” Some ancient texts read, “like a mighty man.”
10:13 y4e1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I have brought down the inhabitants 0 This could mean: (1) the king of Assyria has shamed the people of the countries he conquered or (2) he has removed the kings of the nations so they no longer rule.
10:13 l61t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche I have brought 0 Here the word “I” refers to the king of Assyria. He was the leader of the Assyrian army and took credit for what the army did at his command. Alternate translation: “I and my army have brought” or “we have brought
10:14 a1xa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy My hand has seized 0 The hand is a metonym for either the king’s power or his army. Alternate translation: “In my power I have seized” or “My army has seized”
10:14 ij25 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile My hand has seized, as from a nest, the wealth of nations 0 The king of Assyria compares taking the treasures from the nations to a person taking eggs out of a bird’s nest. This emphasizes how easy it was for him and his army to conquer these other kingdoms. Alternate translation: “My army has stolen the wealth from the nations just as easily as a man takes eggs from a nest”
10:14 au8g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as one gathers abandoned eggs, I gathered all the earth 0 The king of Assyria speaks of taking over nations as if he was gathering eggs. Alternate translation: “just as a person takes eggs from a nest when the bird is not there to protect them, my army has taken the treasures of every nation”
10:14 yer6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile None fluttered their wings or opened their mouth or chirped 0 This compares the nations to a bird who sits quietly while her eggs are taken. This emphasizes that the nations did nothing while the army of Assyria took all of their possessions. Alternate translation: “And like a bird that does not make a sound or flap her wings when someone steals her eggs, the nations did nothing as we took their treasure”
10:15 kg69 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Will the ax boast about itself against the one who wields it? Will the saw praise itself more than the one who cuts with it? 0 The speaker uses these questions to mock the king of Assyria. Alternate translation: “An ax cannot boast that it is better than the one who holds it. And a saw does not get more glory than the one who cuts with it.”
10:15 e8a7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism It is as if a rod could lift up those who raise it, or as if a wooden club could lift up a person 0 These phrases mean basically the same thing and are used to strengthen the meaning of the two questions before it. This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “And neither can a rod or staff lift the person who picks it up”
10:16 n3zs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns Therefore the Lord Yahweh of hosts will send emaciation among his elite warriors 0 It is unclear whether Yahweh or Isaiah is speaking. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **emaciation**, you can express the same idea with the verb “make weak.” Alternate translation: “Therefore I, Lord Yahweh of hosts, will make the king’s strongest soldiers weak”
10:16 h9uv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile under his glory there will be kindled a burning like fire 0 Yahweh compares his punishment to a fire. This emphasizes that his punishment will completely destroy all the splendor and greatness of the kingdom of Assyria. Alternate translation: “I will destroy his greatness as if I were starting a fire to burn everything he is proud of”
10:17 xf7a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The light of Israel will become a fire 0 The phrase “light of Israel” refers to Yahweh. It is unclear whether Yahweh or Isaiah is speaking. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, the light of Israel, will become like a fire, able to destroy everyone that does not honor me”
10:17 x81s his Holy One a flame 0 “I, Yahweh, the Holy one of Israel, will become like a flame.” See how you translated “Holy One” in [Isaiah 1:4](../01/04.md).
10:17 nh6j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor it will burn and devour his thorns and briers 0 “The fire will burn and devour the king of Assyria’s thorns and briars.” The speaker compares the king of Assyria’s army to thorns and briers. This emphasizes how easily God will destroy them. Alternate translation: “I will destroy the Assyrians like a fire burning thorns and briers”
10:17 a8i4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet thorns … briers 0 The words “briers” and “thorns” both refer to useless, thorny plants; they can be translated using one expression. See how you translated these words in [Isaiah 7:23](../07/23.md). Alternate translation: “thorn bushes”
10:18 e4pz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh will consume the glory of his forest and of his fruitful land 0 This could mean: (1) “Yahweh will destroy the great forests and farmlands in the nation of Assyria” or (2) “Yahweh will destroy the army of Assyria as a fire burns up great forests and farmlands.”
10:18 ice3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism both soul and body 0 This could mean: (1) this emphasizes that God will completely destroy the forests and farmlands. Alternate translation: “completely” or (2) this means God will completely destroy the people of Assyria. The phrase “soul and body” refers to the spiritual part and the physical part of a person.
10:18 r1h9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile it will be like when a sick man’s life wastes away 0 This compares either the forests and farmlands of Assyria or the army of Assyria to a sick man as he lies in bed dying. This emphasizes how something so great can become weak and dying. Alternate translation: “they will be like a sick man who grows weak and dies”
10:19 li2a The remnant of the trees of his forest will be so few 0 Alternate translation: “What remains of the trees in the king’s forest will be so few”
10:20 whj2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom On that day 0 This refers to the time when God does the things that are described in [Isaiah 10:16–19](./16.md). Alternate translation: “At that time”
10:20 jx5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit that has escaped 0 The meaning can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “that has escaped from the army of Assyria”
10:22 l3hy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you your people, Israel, are 0 Here, **your** is singular. Possible meanings are: (1) God is speaking to Isaiah and “your” refers to Isaiah. Alternate translation: “your people Israel are” or (2) Isaiah or God is speaking to the nation of Israel and “your” refers to the nation. Alternate translation: “your people, O Israel, are”
10:22 tmc6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like the sand of the seashore 0 This emphasizes that there were a great number of people of Israel. Alternate translation: “are too many to count, like the sand on the seashore”
10:22 xt1x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Destruction is decreed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has decreed that he will destroy most of those who live in Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
10:22 gb5g as overflowing righteousness demands 0 This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “This must be done for the sake of perfect righteousness” or “Yahweh must do this because he is completely righteous”
10:23 m3jr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive carry out the destruction determined throughout the land 0 This can be translated in active form. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “destroy everything in the land just as he has determined to do” or (2) Alternate translation: “destroy the people in the land just as he has determined to do.”
10:24 ww5n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification the Assyrian 0 Isaiah speaks of the king of Assyria and his army as if he were one man. Alternate translation: “the king of Assyria and his army”
10:24 i2ep rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will strike you with the rod and raise his staff against you 0 The words “rod” and “staff” refer to pieces of wood that people use as clubs to beat animals and other people. Isaiah speaks of the way the Assyrians will rule over the Israelites as if the Assyrians were beating the Israelites with clubs. Alternate translation: “He will rule over you and make slaves of you”
10:24 an2d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche He will strike 0 The word “He” refers to “the Assyrian” which represents the king of Assyria and his army. Alternate translation: “He and his army will strike”
10:24 l3xf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit as the Egyptians did 0 The full meaning can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “as the Egyptians ruled over your ancestors and made them slaves”
10:25 w374 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns my anger will lead to his destruction 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **destruction**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I will destroy him because I am angry with him”
10:26 fnc8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will wield a whip against them 0 “will beat the Assyrians with a whip.” God will not really use a whip. This refers to God’s power to punish the Assyrians severely. Alternate translation: “will punish the Assyrians severely as if with a whip”
10:26 zpq7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names as when he defeated Midian at the rock of Oreb 0 This refers to when God helped a man named Gideon defeat the army of Midian.
10:26 vx2h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will raise his rod over the sea and lift it up as he did in Egypt 0 This speaks of God rescuing the people from the Assyrians as if they were the Egyptian army. This refers to when God caused the water of the Red Sea to split so the people of Israel could escape from the Egyptian army and so that the Egyptian army would drown in it. Alternate translation: “He will help you escape from the army of Assyria as he helped your ancestors escape the army of Egypt”
10:27 e1j7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive his burden is lifted from your shoulder and his yoke from off your neck 0 “Yahweh will lift the burden that Assyria has put on your shoulder, and he will remove the yoke that they have put on your neck.” These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The words “burden” and “yoke” refer to slavery. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will remove the Assyrians who oppress you and will stop them from making you their slaves” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
10:27 x77u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the yoke will be destroyed because of fatness 0 This expression suggests that the neck of the animal that is wearing the yoke will become too fat to fit the yoke any longer. This is a metaphor for Israel becoming so strong that the Assyrians can no longer rule them. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “your neck will become so fat that it will break the yoke” or “you will become so strong that you will no longer be the Assyrians’ slaves” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
10:28 dh9d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture has come … has passed … has stored 0 Isaiah speaks of these future events as though they have already happened.
10:28 c6sg rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Aiath … Migron … Michmash 0 These are all cities and villages near Jerusalem that the army of Assyria went through and caused trouble in.
10:29 nvp6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture have crossed … lodge … trembles … has fled 0 Isaiah speaks of these future events as though they have already happened.
10:29 fay6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Geba … Ramah … Gibeah 0 These are all cities and villages near Jerusalem that the army of Assyria went through and caused trouble in.
10:29 b3vg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Ramah trembles and Gibeah of Saul has fled 0 Here “Ramah” and “Gibeah of Saul” refer to the people who lived in those cities. Alternate translation: “The people of Ramah tremble and the people of Gibeah of Saul have fled”
10:30 y4ej rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom daughter of Gallim 0 The word “daughter” here refers to the people who live in the city. Alternate translation: “Gallim” or “people of Gallim”
10:30 ybe1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Gallim … Laishah … Anathoth 0 These are names of more cities and villages near Jerusalem that the Assyrian army traveled through causing fear among the people. All of these refer to the people who live in these places. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
10:31 dv9p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Madmenah … Gebim 0 These are names of more cities and villages near Jerusalem that the Assyrian army traveled through causing fear among the people. All of these refer to the people who live in these places. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
10:32 dub4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Nob 0 This is the name of a village or city near Jerusalem that the Assyrian army traveled through causing fear among the people. It refers to the people who live in this place. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
10:32 bf9q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom he will halt at Nob and shake his fist 0 Here “he” and “his” refer to the king of Assyria and his soldiers. People would shake their fists at people whom they were threatening. Alternate translation: “the army of Assyria will stop at Nob and threaten”
10:32 crq2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the mountain of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem 0 The words “mount” and “hill” are metonyms for the people who live on them. The words “mount of the daughter of Zion” mean almost the same thing as the words “hill of Jerusalem.” See how they are translated in [Isaiah 2:14](../02/14.md). Alternate translation: “the people of Mount Zion and the people living on the hill in Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
10:33 bh4r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will lop off the boughs … the lofty will be brought low 0 Isaiah speaks of the army of Assyria as if it were the tall trees in Lebanon. God will destroy the army like people cutting down the mighty trees of Lebanon. This emphasizes that though the army is strong, God has the power to destroy it.
10:33 qb4e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will lop off the boughs 0 “will cut off the big branches of the trees.” In order to make it clear that this refers to the army of Assyria, it can be translated as a simile: He will destroy the army of Assyria like strong men cutting off the big branches of trees.
10:33 jg1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the tallest trees will be cut down 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he will cut down the tallest trees”
10:33 uza4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the tallest trees 0 This is a metaphor for “the strongest soldiers.”
10:33 n2ts rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the lofty will be brought low 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he will bring down the lofty people”
10:34 f4p6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will chop down the thickets … and Lebanon in his majesty will fall 0 Isaiah speaks of the army of Assyria as if it were the tall trees in Lebanon. God will destroy the army like people cutting down the mighty trees of Lebanon. This emphasizes that though the army is strong, God has the power to destroy it.
10:34 xu8i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the thickets of the forest 0 “the dense shrubs in the forest.” This is possibly a metaphor for those people who are not well known.
10:34 g78z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Lebanon in his majesty will fall 0 “the forests of Lebanon will no longer be so grand.” This is possibly a metaphor for the Assyrian army. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will defeat the army of Assyria, as mighty as it is”
11:intro v1l2 0 # Isaiah 11 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Messiah\n\nThe prophecies of this chapter focus on the coming Messiah. Some of these prophecies concern the first coming of Jesus, while some reference a future day of restoration. The author transitions between these time periods without telling his reader. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Ambiguity\n\nIt is uncertain what period of time these prophecies refer to or who will fulfill them. The translator should allow this uncertainty and ambiguity to remain. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
11:1 fxf2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism A shoot will sprout from the stump of Jesse … a branch out of his roots will bear fruit 0 Isaiah speaks of Jesse and his descendants as if they were a tree that had been cut down. Both of these phrases tell about a descendant of Jesse who would be king. Alternate translation: “As a shoot sprouts out of a tree stump, so a descendant of Jesse will become king over what remains of Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
11:1 b412 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the stump of Jesse 0 A stump is what remains of a tree after it is chopped down. The “stump of Jesse” represents what was left of the kingdom that Jesse’s son David was once king of.
11:2 ptc5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The Spirit of Yahweh will rest upon him 0 Resting upon him represents being with him and helping him. The word “him” refers to the one who would become king.
11:2 jsu4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the Spirit of wisdom … the Spirit of instruction … the Spirit of knowledge … the fear of Yahweh 0 Here the word “Spirit” refers to an ability or quality that the Spirit of Yahweh would give him. Alternate translation: “and he will cause him to have wisdom and understanding, instruction and might, knowledge and the fear of Yahweh”
11:3 euz8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit he will not judge by what his eyes see 0 The phrase “what his eyes see” refers to seeing things that are not important for judging a person rightly. Alternate translation: “he will not judge a person simply by seeing what the person looks like”
11:3 vff3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit nor decide by what his ears hear 0 “and he will not decide by what his ears hear.” The phrase “what his ears hear” refers to hearing what people say about someone. Alternate translation: “and he will not judge a person simply by hearing what others say about him”
11:4 qt3z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the poor … the humble … the wicked 0 These phrases refer to people who have these qualities. Alternate translation: “poor people … humble people … wicked people”
11:4 i8ls rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth … with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing.
11:4 t6i4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth 0 The word “earth” here represents the people on earth. Striking them with the rod of his mouth represents judging them, and that judgement will lead to punishment. Alternate translation: “He will judge the people of the earth, and they will be punished”
11:4 ud4k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked 0 The “breath of his lips” represents him judging them. Alternate translation: “he will judge wicked people, and they will be killed”
11:5 izw4 the belt of his waist … the belt around his hips 0 This could mean: (1) the belt is used to secure one’s clothes so he can work, or (2) the belt is an undergarment, or (3) the belt is a sash that a king wears to show his authority.
11:5 d2b4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Righteousness will be the belt of his waist 0 Wearing righteousness like a belt represents being righteous. This could mean: (1) the king’s righteousness will enable him to rule. Alternate translation: “His righteousness will be a like a belt around his waist” or (2) the king’s righteousness would show his authority to rule. Alternate translation: “He will rule righteously”
11:5 xpa4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis faithfulness the belt around his hips 0 The words “will be” are understood in this phrase. Alternate translation: “faithfulness will be the belt around his hips”
11:5 z7kt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor faithfulness the belt around his hips 0 Wearing faithfulness like a belt represents being faithful. This could mean: (1) the king’s faithfulness will enable him to rule, or (2) the king’s faithfulness will show his authority to rule. Alternate translation: “his faithfulness will be a like a belt around his hips” or “he will rule faithfully”
11:6 x4db 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah describes what the world will be like when the king rules. There will be complete peace in the world. This is shown by the peace that there will be even among animals. Animals that normally kill other animals will not kill them, and they will all be safe together.
11:6 vib1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun The wolf … the leopard … the young lion 0 These phrases refer to these animals in general, not to a specific wolf or leopard. These are all strong animals that attack and eat other animals. Alternate translation: “Wolves … leopards … young lions”
11:6 ns1s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the lamb … the young goat … the calf … the fattened calf 0 The phrases refer to these animals in general, not to a specific lamb or goat. These are all animals that eat grass and straw. Other animals sometimes attack and eat them. Alternate translation: “lambs … young goats … calves … fattened calves … Cows … oxen”
11:6 uz7p rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown leopard 0 a large cat with yellow fur and black spots that kills and eats other animals
11:6 z3nc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the calf, the young lion and the fattened calf, together 0 The phrase “will be” is understood. Alternate translation: “the calf, the lion, and the fattened calf will be together”
11:7 u4nf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the bear … The lion 0 These phrases refer to these animals in general, not to a specific wolf or leopard. These are all strong animals that attack and eat other animals. Alternate translation: “Wolves … leopards … young lions … bears … Lions”
11:7 i5nr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun The cow … the ox 0 The phrases refer to these animals in general, not to a specific lamb or goat. These are all animals that eat grass and straw. Other animals sometimes attack and eat them. Alternate translation: “lambs … young goats … calves … fattened calves … Cows … oxen”
11:7 u76u rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown bear 0 a very large animal with thick hair and sharp claws that kills and eats other animals
11:8 bkr7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit A baby will play over the hole of the snake 0 It can be stated clearly that the baby will be safe because the snake will not bite it. Alternate translation: “Babies will play safely over the hole of the snake”
11:8 nmp6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the snake … the serpent’s den 0 These phrases refer to poisonous snakes in general. Alternate translation: “snakes … serpents’ dens”
11:9 zv3a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the earth will be full of knowledge of Yahweh 0 The phrase “knowledge of Yahweh” represents people who know Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the earth will be full of those who know Yahweh” or “those who know Yahweh will cover the earth”
11:9 asy7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as the waters cover the sea 0 This phrase is used to show how full the earth will be of people who know Yahweh. You may want to help your readers to understand that it does this by using words that are similar to the words in the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “as the seas are full of water”
11:10 b699 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the root of Jesse 0 This refers to Jesse’s and King David’s descendant who would become the king that was told about in [Isaiah 1:1](../01/01.md). Alternate translation: “Jesse’s descendant king” or “the king descended from Jesse”
11:10 x6gn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile will stand as a banner for the peoples 0 A banner is a flag that a king would raise as a sign for people to see it and come to him. Alternate translation: “will be like a sign for the peoples” or “will attract the peoples to come to him”
11:11 g27p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the Lord will again extend his hand to recover the remnant of his people 0 The hand is a reference to God’s power. Alternate translation: “the Lord will again use his power to bring back the remnant of his people”
11:11 nr2i rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Pathros … Elam … Hamath 0 These are names of places.
11:12 f68i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will set up a banner for the nations 0 This could mean: (1) “The Lord will set up the king as a banner for the nations” or (2) “The king will set up a banner for the nations”
11:12 n4s1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche from the four corners of the earth 0 The earth is pictured as if it has four corners, and those corners are its most distant places. Yahweh is using those distant places to mean everywhere that is closer as well. Alternate translation: “from all over the earth”
11:13 tv6k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns He will turn aside the envy of Ephraim 0 Ephraim here refers to the descendants of the northern kingdom of Israel. The noun “envy” can be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “He will stop the people of Ephraim from being envious”
11:13 f12r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Judah will no longer be hostile to Ephraim 0 Judah here refers to the descendants of the southern kingdom. This phrase can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he will stop the people of Judah from being hostile” or “he will stop the people of Judah from hating”
11:14 j77a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they will swoop down on the Philistine hills 0 The people of Israel and Judah are pictured as if they were birds that fly down quickly to attack a person or animal. Alternate translation: “they will go quickly to the Philistine hills to attack the people there”
11:15 u6da rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor With his scorching wind he will wave his hand over the Euphrates River 0 Waving his hand over something represents his power to change it. Alternate translation: “By his power he will cause a scorching wind to blow on the Euphrates River”
11:15 k4y5 his scorching wind 0 This is a strong or hot wind that causes some of the water in rivers to dry up.
11:15 hj6s so it can be crossed over in sandals 0 Alternate translation: “so that people can cross over it even while wearing their sandals”
11:16 e52k There will be a highway 0 A highway is a large road that many people can travel on. “Yahweh will make a road”
11:16 b1xk in their coming up from the land of Egypt 0 Alternate translation: “when they came up from the land of Egypt”
12:intro x9cy 0 # Isaiah 12 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### “That day”\nThe time of this day is unclear. It may be a time in the near future for Isaiah, or a time in the distant future for him. In the latter case, it would reference the last days. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Tense\n\nExtra care must be taken in translating the tense of this chapter. The author talks about the future, but frequently changes to speak in the present tense. Some languages will have difficulty speaking in this way.
12:1 b681 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit On that day 0 It can be stated clearly what time is being referred to. Alternate translation: “At that time” or “When the king rules”
12:1 cgh8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification your wrath has turned away 0 God’s wrath is spoken of as if it were a person that could turn away and leave. It means that God has stopped being angry. Alternate translation: “You are no longer angry with me”
12:2 il35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor God is my salvation 0 God causing someone’s salvation is spoken of as if God were that salvation. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **salvation**, you can express the same idea with the noun “savior” or the verb “save.” Alternate translation: “God causes my salvation” or “God is my savior” or “God is the one who saves me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
12:2 g2h1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh is my strength 0 God causing someone to be strong is spoken of as if Yahweh were their strength. Alternate translation: “Yahweh makes me strong”
12:2 d9eg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor song 0 The word “song” here represents what a person sings about. Alternate translation: “the one I joyfully sing about”
12:3 ig6e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation 0 Isaiah speaks of people being saved as if they were getting salvation the way people get water out of well. Alternate translation: “you will rejoice when he saves you, as people rejoice when they draw water from a well”
12:4 ut6u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy call upon his name 0 Here “his name” refers to Yahweh. Calling on him represents either praising him or asking him for help. Alternate translation: “praise him loudly” or “call to him to help you”
12:4 wi1x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy proclaim that his name is exalted 0 Here “his name” refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “proclaim that he is exalted” or “proclaim that he is great”
12:6 b2j7 for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel 0 Alternate translation: “because the Holy One of Israel, who lives among you, is mighty” or “because the Holy One of Israel is mighty and he lives among you”
13:intro qak7 0 # Isaiah 13 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Prophecies\n\nIt is unclear who is addressed by these prophecies. At times, it appears to be the people of Judah, while at other times it seems to reference the last days. This ambiguity should remain in translation. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])
13:1 ifl8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy about Babylon 0 The name of the city stands for the people of Babylon. Alternate translation: “about the people of Babylon”
13:1 t34a rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Amoz 0 Amoz was the father of Isaiah. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:1](../01/01.md).
13:2 dkx5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the gates of the nobles 0 This could mean: (1) “the gates of Babylon where the nobles live” or (2) “the gates of the nobles’ large houses”
13:3 mlu4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I have called my mighty men to execute my anger 0 Executing God’s anger represents punishing people because of God’s anger. Alternate translation: “I have called my mighty soldiers to punish the people of Babylon because they have made me angry”
13:3 ye22 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit even my proudly exulting ones 0 “even those who proudly exult.” Why they proudly exult can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “even my people who proudly exult because of the great things I do”
13:4 pl8f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis The noise of a multitude in the mountains, as of many people 0 The words “there is” are understood. The phrases “multitude” and “many people” mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “There is the noise of many people in the mountains” or “There is the noise of a great crowd of people in the mountains”
13:4 gi1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis The noise of a tumult of the kingdoms like many nations gathered together 0 The words “there is” are understood. The words “kingdoms” and “nations” here refer to the same thing. Alternate translation: “There is the noisy commotion of many kingdoms gathered together”
13:5 dlj9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his instruments of judgment 0 The soldiers that God is sending to attack Babylon are spoken of as if they were weapons. “Judgment” represents punishment because God has judged Babylon. Alternate translation: “the army that he will use to punish Babylon” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
13:6 dff2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the day of Yahweh is near 0 Something that is about to happen soon is spoken of as if it is coming near. Alternate translation: “the day of Yahweh will happen soon”
13:6 x1dx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor it comes with destruction from the Almighty 0 The word “it” refers to the day of Yahweh. “It comes with destruction” means that destruction will happen on that day. “Destruction from the Almighty” means that the Almighty will destroy them. Alternate translation: “on that day, the Almighty God will destroy them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
13:7 zbv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor every heart melts 0 People being terribly afraid is spoken of as if their hearts melt. Alternate translation: “everyone is terribly afraid”
13:8 cx1n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification pain and agony will seize them 0 People suddenly feeling terrible pain and sorrow is spoken of as if the pains and sorrows were people who grab them. Alternate translation: “they will suddenly feel terrible pain and agony”
13:8 f5tf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor like a woman in labor 0 Being in labor represents giving birth to a baby. Alternate translation: “like a woman giving birth to a baby” or “like the pain of a woman who is giving birth to a baby”
13:8 ixg7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor their faces will be aflame 0 Their faces being hot and red is spoken of as if they were burning. Possible reasons for their faces being hot are: (1) the people are very afraid or (2) the people feel ashamed or (3) the people cry. Alternate translation: “their faces will be hot and red”
13:9 wx9a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the day of Yahweh comes with cruel wrath and overflowing anger 0 The day coming with wrath and anger means that there will be wrath and anger on that day. The abstract nouns “wrath” and “anger” can be expressed with the adjectives “furious” and “angry.” Alternate translation: “on the day of Yahweh, he will be furious and extremely angry” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
13:9 g4nq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor overflowing anger 0 Anger here is spoken of as if the one who is angry is a container filled with anger. Overflowing anger means that he is extremely angry.
13:9 i8e4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns to make the land a desolation 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **desolation**, you can express the same idea with the verb “ruin.” Alternate translation: “to ruin the land”
13:10 njr5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom will not give their light 0 Giving light represents “shining.” Alternate translation: “will not shine”
13:10 mgq5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The sun will be darkened 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will darken the sun” or “The sun will be dark”
13:11 n1em rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the world 0 This refers to people. Alternate translation: “the people of the world”
13:11 e48c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the wicked … the proud … the ruthless 0 These phrases refer to people who have these qualities. Alternate translation: “wicked people … proud people … ruthless people”
13:11 j6vq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will bring down the arrogance of the ruthless 0 Being low often represents being humble. Bringing down people’s arrogance represents making them humble. Alternate translation: “will humble the ruthless”
13:12 myy1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I will make men more rare than fine gold 0 Why there will be so few people can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I will cause so many people to die that living people will be more rare than fine gold”
13:12 fe8w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism men more rare than fine gold … mankind harder to find than the pure gold of Ophir 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing.
13:12 bwf1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names pure gold of Ophir 0 Ophir was the name of a place where there was pure gold.
13:14 d26d rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown Like a hunted gazelle or like a sheep with no shepherd 0 Yahweh speaks of the defenseless people of Israel as if they were a gazelle or a sheep that was being chased by hunters or wild animals. Alternate translation: “Like gazelles that run away swiftly when people hunt them, and like sheep that have no shepherd run away from wild animals” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
13:14 mn88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown gazelle 0 an animal that is similar to a deer. People hunt them, and wild animals sometimes attack and kill them.
13:15 e18y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Every one who is found will be killed … every one who is captured will die by the sword 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemy will kill with the sword everyone they find” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
13:16 zj38 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Their infants also will be dashed in pieces 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemy will also dash their infants to pieces” or “The enemy will beat their infants until they die”
13:16 hv3v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit before their eyes 0 Here the people are represented by their “eyes” to emphasize what they see. It can be stated clearly that the parents are unable to help their infants. Alternate translation: “in front of them” or “while their parents helplessly watch” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
13:16 j6pn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Their houses will be plundered 0 This means that everything valuable will be stolen from their houses. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemy will plunder the people’s houses” or “The enemy will steal everything valuable from the people’s houses”
13:16 tfy7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis their wives raped 0 This means that the enemies will attack the women and force them to have sex with them. The words “will be” are understood. This can also be expressed with an active form. Alternate translation: “their wives will be raped” or “their enemies will rape their wives” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
13:17 nqb5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I am about to stir up the Medes to attack them 0 Making people want to do something is spoken of as stirring them up. Alternate translation: “I am about to make the Medes want to attack them”
13:18 xh97 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Their bows will strike down 0 Here “their bows” is a metonym for the soldiers who use the bows. Alternate translation: “Their soldiers will use bows and arrows to kill”
13:19 cz67 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the most admired of kingdoms 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the kingdom that people most admire”
13:19 z4ui rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Then Babylon … will be overthrown by God 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then God will destroy Babylon, the most admired of kingdoms, the splendor of Chaldean pride, as he destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah”
13:19 qt9e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns the splendor of Chaldean pride 0 The abstract nouns “splendor” and “pride” can be translated with adjectives. The word “splendor” refers to the beautiful appearance of Babylon. Alternate translation: “the beautiful city that the Chaldeans are so proud of”
13:20 lb19 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet It will not be inhabited or lived in 0 The two verbs mean basically the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one will live in it” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
13:20 zgq2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom from generation to generation 0 The phrase “generation to generation” refers to all generations of people who will live in the future. Alternate translation: “for ever” or “ever again”
13:20 vjg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun The Arab 0 This refers to Arab people in general, not one person. Alternate translation: “Arabs” or “Arab people”
13:21 a5fz rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown owls 0 Owls are wild birds that hunt at night.
13:21 tw7k rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown ostriches 0 Ostriches are large wild birds that run fast and cannot fly.
13:22 r81d rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown Hyenas 0 Hyenas are large wild animals that look like dogs and eat dead animals. Their loud cry sounds like a person laughing.
13:22 inv9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis jackals in the beautiful palaces 0 The words “will cry” are understood. Alternate translation: “jackals will cry in the beautiful palaces”
13:22 wym1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Her time is near, and her days will not be delayed 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. “Her time” and “her days” both refer to the time that God has chosen for Babylon to be destroyed. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The time that all of this will happen to the people of Babylon is near, and nothing will stop it” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
14:intro k7wp 0 # Isaiah 14 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 14:4–27, 29–32.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Satan\n\nIt is believed that this chapter references Satan. It describes Satan as a star fallen from heaven. There are five important statements beginning with the words “I will” which appear to show the essence of Satan’s sin. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/satan]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n### Babylon\n\nThis is the name of the kingdom that conquered Judah, but it is also the name representing Satan’s kingdom in prophecies. They were not yet a world power when these words were spoken. It should be translated as “Babylon,” but translators should be aware of its dual meaning.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Israel\n\nThe use of Israel in this chapter is in reference to the nation or people group of Israel. It is this Israel who will be restored and not the kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])
14:1 i59z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh will have compassion on Jacob 0 Here “Jacob” refers to the descendants of Jacob. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will have mercy on the descendants of Jacob”
14:1 i2au rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy attach themselves to the house of Jacob 0 The house of Jacob refers to the descendants of Jacob, the Israelites. Alternate translation: “unite with the descendants of Jacob”
14:2 s7ge The nations will bring them to their own place 0 Alternate translation: “The nations will bring the descendants of Jacob back to the land of Israel”
14:2 v647 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the house of Israel 0 This refers to the Israelites, the descendants of Israel. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Israel”
14:2 v5tj They will take captive those who had captured them 0 Alternate translation: “The Israelite soldiers will take as captives those who had captured Israelites”
14:3 alz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you from your suffering and anguish 0 The word “your” is singular, but it refers to the people of Israel. Also, “suffering” and “anguish” mean basically the same thing and are used together for emphasis. Alternate translation: “from the things that have caused you to suffer greatly” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
14:4 bb3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the proud fury ended 0 The words “how and “has” are understood. Alternate translation: “how the proud fury has ended” or “his pride and fury have ended”
14:4 a26w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the proud fury ended 0 The “proud fury” refers to the king of Babylon being proud and treating other nations cruelly. Alternate translation: “his cruelty has ended” or “he can no longer oppress people”
14:5 gb7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh has broken the staff of the wicked 0 The staff of the wicked probably refers to a stick that wicked people would hit other people with. Breaking that stick represents destroying their power to treat people cruelly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has destroyed the power of the wicked”
14:5 bz1k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the scepter of those rulers 0 A scepter represents a ruler’s power to rule. Breaking the scepter represents destroying the ruler’s power. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has destroyed the power of the wicked rulers”
14:7 sk3p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The whole earth 0 This refers to everyone on earth. Alternate translation: “everyone on earth”
14:8 w8ty rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Even the cypress trees rejoice over you with the cedars of Lebanon 0 Isaiah speaks of the trees as if they were people who could rejoice. This emphasizes that it is such a great thing that God has stopped the king of Babylon that even nature would rejoice if it could. Alternate translation: “It will be as if even the cyprus trees and the cedars of Lebanon rejoice over you”
14:8 qr3b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit rejoice over you 0 Why they rejoice can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “rejoice that God has made you powerless”
14:8 a29a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Since you are laid low 0 Being laid low represents being made powerless and unimportant. Alternate translation: “Since you have become powerless”
14:9 k8jm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Sheol below is eager to meet you 0 Sheol is spoken of as if it were a person who is eager to meet his guests. This implies that the king dies. Alternate translation: “Sheol is like a host eager to meet you”
14:9 hb56 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification It arouses the dead for you, all the kings of the earth 0 “it wakes up the dead for you, all the kings of the earth.” Sheol is spoken of as if it were a person that could wake up those who are in it. Alternate translation: “All the dead kings of the earth in Sheol wake up to greet you”
14:10 m71x Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nThis is part of the taunt song that the Israelites will sing to the king of Babylon. Here they sing about what the dead kings in Sheol will say to him.
14:10 ykp8 They all will speak and say to you 0 The word “they” refers to the dead kings in Sheol, and the word “you” refers to the king of Babylon.
14:11 d9xe rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your pomp has been brought down to Sheol 0 The dead kings will speak of the king of Babylon having no more splendor as if his splendor had gone down to Sheol. Alternate translation: “Your splendor ended when God sent you here to Sheol”
14:11 lm34 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor with the sound of your string instruments 0 People would make music on string instruments to honor the king. The dead kings will speak of people no longer honoring the king of Babylon with music as if the music went to Sheol. Alternate translation: “along with the sound of people playing music to honor you”
14:11 x7m3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Maggots are spread under you 0 The maggots under his dead body are spoken of as if they were a mat or bed. Alternate translation: “You lie on a bed of maggots” or “You lie on many maggots”
14:11 bsu7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor worms cover you 0 The worms all over his body are spoken of as if they were covering him like a blanket. Alternate translation: “Worms cover you like a blanket” or “There are worms all over your body”
14:12 g41s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor How you are fallen from heaven, daystar, son of the morning 0 The daystar is a bright star that rises just before morning. The people of Israel will refer to the king of Babylon in terms of this star in order to imply that he once was great, but now he was not. Alternate translation: “You were like the bright morning star, but you have fallen from the sky”
14:12 tms3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor How you are cut down to the ground 0 The people of Israel will speak of the king of Babylon as if he were a tree that was cut down. Alternate translation: “You are defeated like a tree that someone has cut down to the ground”
14:13 fum9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I will sit on the mount of assembly 0 This alludes to the myth that many people in the Ancient Near East knew, that the Canaanite gods met in council on the top of a mountain in the northern part of Syria. Sitting on the mountain represents ruling with the gods. Alternate translation: “I will rule on the mountain where the gods assemble”
14:13 fr5j in the far reaches of the north 0 The mountain in the north was apparently called Zaphon. Some modern versions say “far away on the sides of Zaphon.” Alternate translation: “in the most northern places”
14:15 ytw5 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nThis is part of the taunt song that the Israelites will sing to the king of Babylon.
14:15 lyk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Yet you are now brought down to Sheol 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But now God has sent you down to Sheol”
14:16 ne9m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is this the man 0 The people will use this question either to mock the king of Babylon, or to express their shock at what has happened to him. Alternate translation: “Surely, this is not the man”
14:16 uu7r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy who made the earth tremble 0 This could mean: (1) the earth trembled as the king’s army marched to conquer people, or (2) this refers to the people of the earth trembling in fear of him.
14:16 i1pd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor shook kingdoms 0 This could mean: (1) this is a metaphor for “conquered kingdoms” or (2) this is metonymy for “terrified the people of kingdoms.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
14:18 k97g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit all of them lie down in honor 0 This means that their bodies were buried in an honorable way. Alternate translation: “all the kings who have died are buried in an honorable way”
14:19 s2s8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor But you are cast out of your grave 0 Being thrown out of the grave represents not being buried. Alternate translation: “But you are not buried. Your body is left on the ground”
14:19 a19s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a branch thrown away 0 A branch thrown away represents something worthless. Alternate translation: “like a worthless branch that is tossed aside”
14:19 zn4w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The dead cover you like a garment 0 This represents many dead bodies being on top of his body. Alternate translation: “The bodies of dead people completely cover your body” or “The bodies of dead soldiers are piled on top of your body”
14:19 s24w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy those pierced by the sword 0 This describes “the dead” spoken of at the beginning of this sentence. Being pierced by the sword represents being killed in battle. Alternate translation: “those who were killed in battle”
14:19 vwg8 who go down to the stones of the pit 0 The pit refers either to hell, or to a large hole in the ground where many dead bodies are simply dumped.
14:20 p1jq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You will not join them in burial 0 The word “them” refers to the other kings who died and were buried properly. Joining them in burial represents being buried as they were. Alternate translation: “you will never be buried as other kings were buried”
14:20 dax2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The offspring of evildoers will never be mentioned again 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one will ever speak again about the descendants of evildoers”
14:21 m117 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns Prepare your slaughter for his children 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **slaughter**, you can express the same idea with the verb “kill.” Alternate translation: “Get ready to kill the children of the king of Babylon”
14:21 usu5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns for the iniquity of their ancestors 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **iniquity**, you can express the same idea with the verb “sinned greatly.” Alternate translation: “because their forefathers have sinned greatly”
14:21 dsj6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy so they will not rise up 0 Here “rise up” represents either becoming powerful or attacking. Alternate translation: “so they will not become powerful” or “so they will not attack”
14:21 urm2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor possess the earth 0 This represents taking control of the people on the earth, in this case by conquering them. Alternate translation: “take control of the peoples on the earth” or “conquer the peoples on the earth”
14:21 pdw1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor fill the whole world with cities 0 This represents causing the world to have many cities on it. Alternate translation: “build cities all over the world”
14:22 sk3n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is the declaration of Yahweh of hosts 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh of hosts has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, have declared”
14:23 nzb4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification I will also make her 0 The word “her” refers to the city of Babylon. Cities were often spoken of as if they were women. Alternate translation: “I will also make it”
14:23 s45f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a possession of owls 0 This represents wild animals living in the city because there are no people there. Alternate translation: “a place where owls live” or “a place where wild animals live”
14:23 kg27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor into pools of water 0 Causing there to be swamps or ponds of stagnant water where the city was is spoken of as making the city into those things. Alternate translation: “into a place where there are stagnant ponds”
14:24 ff86 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism as I have intended, so it will come about; and as I have purposed, so it will be 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “the things that I have planned will surely happen”
14:25 x38v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will break the Assyrian in my land 0 Breaking represents defeating. Alternate translation: “I will defeat the Assyrian in my land” or “I will cause the Assyrian in my land to be defeated”
14:25 bf5r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the Assyrian 0 This represents the Assyrian king and his army. Alternate translation: “the king of Assyria and his army” or “the Assyrian army”
14:25 w75i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor trample him underfoot 0 This represents completely defeating him.
14:25 a5nv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Then his yoke will be lifted from off them and his burden from off their shoulder 0 This can be expressed with an active verb. Alternate translation: “Then I will lift his yoke from them and his burden from their shoulder”
14:25 tr41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Then his yoke will be lifted from off them and his burden from off their shoulder 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Lifting the yoke and burden represents setting people free from slavery. Alternate translation: “Then I will set the Israelites free from slavery to Assyria like removing a heavy burden from their shoulder” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
14:26 zf8b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive This is the plan that is intended for the whole earth 0 The idea of “is intended” can be expressed with an active verb. Alternate translation: “This is the plan that God intends for the whole earth”
14:26 vlj3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor this is the hand that is raised over all the nations 0 God being ready to punish the nations is spoken of as if he raised his hand in order to hit them. The word “hand” may also represent his power. Alternate translation: “this is Yahweh’s power to punish all the nations” or “this is how Yahweh will punish the nations” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
14:27 m56z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion who will stop him? 0 This question emphasizes that no one can stop Yahweh. Alternate translation: “there is no one who can stop him.”
14:27 g997 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His hand is raised 0 This represents Yahweh being ready to punish the nations. Alternate translation: “He is ready to punish them”
14:27 s25e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion who will turn it back? 0 This question is used to say that no one can turn back God’s hand. Turning back his hand represents stopping him from punishing the nations. Alternate translation: “no one can turn it back.” or “no one can stop him from punishing them.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
14:29 erk5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the rod that struck you is broken 0 The rod that struck Philistia represents a king who sent his army to attack them. Being broken represents either being dead or being defeated. Alternate translation: “the king that sent his army against you is dead” or “the army that attacked you is defeated”
14:29 f3g7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For out of the serpent’s root will grow out an adder … his offspring will be a fiery flying serpent 0 These two phrases are both the image of a serpent’s offspring being even more harmful than the serpent. They represent a king’s successor being more powerful and cruel than the first king. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
14:29 i1ui rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a fiery flying serpent 0 Here the word “fiery” probably refers to the serpent’s poisonous bite, and the word “flying” refers to its quick movements. Alternate translation: “a quickly moving poisonous snake”
14:30 c4km rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The firstborn of the poor 0 This represents the poorest people. Alternate translation: “The poorest people” or “The poorest of my people”
14:30 nhy1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will kill your root with famine that will put to death all your survivors 0 Here “your root” refers to the people of Philistia. Alternate translation: “I will kill your people with famine that will put to death all your survivors”
14:31 i9fx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Howl, gate; cry, city 0 Here “gate” and “city” represent the people at the city gates and in the cities. “Howl, you people at the city gates; cry, you people in the cities”
14:31 t4fi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you will melt away 0 Melting away represents becoming weak because of fear. Alternate translation: “you will grow weak with fear”
14:31 re77 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit For out of the north comes a cloud of smoke 0 This implies that a large army is coming from the north. Alternate translation: “For from the north comes a large army with a cloud of smoke”
14:31 m73z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a cloud of smoke 0 This could mean: (1) this represents a cloud of dust that the army stirs up as they travel on dry dirt roads. Alternate translation: “a cloud of dust” or (2) there is a lot of smoke because of all the things that the army destroys and burns. Alternate translation: “much smoke”
14:32 ld7h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion How will they respond to the messengers of that nation? 0 The author uses this question to introduce his instruction about how the Israelites should speak to the messengers. Alternate translation: “This is how we will answer the messengers of Philistia.”
14:32 geq9 Yahweh has founded Zion 0 Alternate translation: “Yahweh started Zion”
14:32 q7h8 in her 0 Alternate translation: “in Jerusalem” or “there”
14:32 k8ir the afflicted of his people 0 Alternate translation: “those of his people who have been afflicted”
15:intro u6k8 0 # Isaiah 15 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter shifts from discussing Judah to the nation of Moab. Moab is punished by Yahweh, even though he is not a god they worship. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/god]])
15:1 ss3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture 0 # General Information:\n\nOften in prophecy events that will happen in future are described as happening now or in the past. This emphasizes that the event will certainly happen.
15:1 y4g4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ar … Kir 0 These are names of cities and towns in Moab.
15:1 x1z2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Ar of Moab is laid waste and destroyed 0 The words “laid waste” and “destroyed” mean the same thing and emphasize that the city was completely ruined. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Enemy armies will completely destroy Ar of Moab” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
15:2 z4py rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Dibon … Nebo … Medeba 0 These are names of cities and towns in Moab.
15:2 bsv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom went up to the heights to weep 0 Here “up to the heights” refers to a temple or altar that was built on high ground like a hill or mountain side. Alternate translation: “went up to the temple on the hilltop to weep”
15:2 kq2g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Moab laments over Nebo and over Medeba 0 These place names refer to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “the people of Moab will weep because of what happened to the cities of Nebo and Medeba”
15:2 w2hx rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction All their heads are shaved bare and all their beards are cut off 0 They do this to show their extreme sadness. AT” “They will all shave their heads and cut off their beards and grieve”
15:3 xag9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction they wear sackcloth 0 They do this to show their extreme sadness. Alternate translation: “they wear sackcloth and mourn”
15:4 ad56 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Heshbon … Elealeh … Jahaz 0 These are names of cities and towns.
15:4 hfj7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Heshbon and Elealeh call out 0 These city names represent the people of these cities. “The people of Heshbon and Elealeh call out”
15:4 e3i9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy they tremble within themselves 0 Physical trembling is a symptom of fear and represents fear. Alternate translation: “they will be completely filled with fear” or “they tremble with fear”
15:5 k79u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche My heart cries out for Moab 0 Here God is represented by his “heart” which emphasizes his emotions. God speaks of his great sadness as if his heart cried out. Alternate translation: “I am extremely sad about what is happening to Moab” (See also: or [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
15:5 nqe8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Zoar … Eglath Shelishiyah … Luhith … Horonaim 0 These are names of cities and towns.
15:5 y7d7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns over their destruction 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **destruction**, you can express the same idea with the verb “destroyed.” Alternate translation: “because their city is destroyed”
15:6 yr4r rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Nimrim 0 This is the name of a city or town.
15:8 me26 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The cry has gone around the territory of Moab 0 People’s crying out and others hearing it is spoken of as if the cry had gone out. Alternate translation: “People all over the territory of Moab cry out”
15:8 teq6 the wailing as far as Eglaim and Beer Elim 0 The words “has gone” are understood. People’s wailing and others hearing it is spoken of as if the wailing had gone as far away as these two places. Alternate translation: “the wailing has gone as far as Egalim and Beer Elim” or “people even as far away as Elaim and Beer Elim wail”
15:8 sc3g rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Eglaim … Beer Elim 0 These are names of cities and towns. Dimon was the principal city of the country of Moab. Several modern versions have “Dibon” instead of “Dimon.”
15:9 fd7d rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Dimon 0 This is the name of a city or town. Dimon was the principal city of the country of Moab. Several modern versions have “Dibon” instead of “Dimon.”
15:9 i5we rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy but I will bring even more upon Dimon 0 Here “I” refers to Yahweh. Also, “Dimon” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “but I will cause even more trouble for the people of Dimon”
16:intro ww5p 0 # Isaiah 16 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThis chapter is a continuation of the previous chapter and is a prophecy against the nation of Moab. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 16:1–12.
16:1 tn1s rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction Send rams to the ruler of the land 0 The Moabites will send rams to the king of Judah so that he might protect them from the enemy army.
16:1 yi43 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Selah 0 This is the name of a city.
16:1 g19r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom the daughter of Zion 0 The “daughter” of a city means the people of the city. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:8](../01/08.md). Alternate translation: “the people of Zion” or “the people who live in Zion”
16:2 teb4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As wandering birds, as a scattered nest, so the women of Moab are at the fords of the Arnon River 0 All the people of Moab, which includes the women, are forced to flee from their homes. Alternate translation: “Like birds without a home, the women of Moab will flee across the river to another land”
16:2 r8tb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet As wandering birds, as a scattered nest 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing.
16:3 sm3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor provide some shade like night in the middle of the day 0 The heat of the middle of the day represents the Moabites’ suffering from their enemies, and shade represents protection from their enemies. Comparing the shade to night shows that they want strong protection. Alternate translation: “protect us completely from our enemies as a large shadow protects people from the hot sun” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
16:4 q1sn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor be a hiding place for them from the destroyer 0 Providing a hiding place is spoken of as being a hiding place. Alternate translation: “give them a place to hide from those who are trying to destroy them” or “hide them from those who want to destroy them”
16:5 uvx1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy A throne will be established in covenant faithfulness 0 Here “throne” refers to the power to rule as king. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will be faithful to the covenant and he will appoint a king” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
16:5 v5l7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy one from David’s tent will faithfully sit there 0 Here “David’s tent” represents David’s family, including his descendants. Sitting on the throne represents ruling. Alternate translation: “a descendant of David will rule faithfully”
16:5 e78m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor as he seeks justice 0 Seeking justice represents wanting to do what is just.
16:6 k39y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy We have heard of Moab’s pride, his arrogance, his boasting, and his anger 0 The words “Moab’s” and “his” refer to the people of Moab. Alternate translation: “We have heard that the people of Moab are proud and arrogant, boastful and angry”
16:6 w42t We have heard 0 Possible meanings are that: (1) Isaiah is speaking and “We” refers to him and the people of Judah, or (2) God is speaking and “We” refers to God.
16:6 h6ze But his boastings are empty words 0 Alternate translation: “But what they say about themselves means nothing” or “But what they boast about is not true”
16:7 p8b8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy So Moab wails for Moab—they all wail 0 “Moab” represents the people of Moab. “So all the people of Moab will cry out loud over what has happened to their cities”
16:8 ce7l rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sibmah … Jazer 0 These are names of cities.
16:8 h33k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The rulers of the nations have trampled the choice vines 0 The land of Moab was known for its vineyards. Here God describes the land of Moab as one large vineyard. This emphasizes that the rulers, which refers to the armies, completely destroyed everything in Moab. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
16:9 r1yu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will water you with my tears 0 God speaks of his deep sorrow for these places as if he would cry much and his many tears would fall on them. Alternate translation: “I will cry much for you”
16:9 uuj5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy For on your fields of summer fruits and harvest I have ended the shouts of joy 0 The “shouts of joy” represent people shouting for joy about the harvest of their fruit trees. Alternate translation: “Because of what I will do, you will no longer shout for joy when you harvest your fields of summer fruit”
16:10 zu17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I have put an end to the shouts of the one who treads 0 Here “the shouts” refers to the joy of the people who tread the grapes to produce the wine. Alternate translation: “therefore the people who tread the grapes do not shout with joy”
16:11 yx3n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche So my heart sighs like a harp for Moab 0 The phrase “my heart” represents Yahweh and his sad feelings. He compares his sigh to the sound of a sad song played on a harp. Alternate translation: “So I sigh like a sad song on a harp” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
16:11 bc51 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Moab 0 This refer to the people of Moab.
16:11 r8w1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis my inward being for Kir Hareseth 0 The phrase “my inward being” represents Yahweh. The word “sighs” is understood from the previous phrase. See how you translated Kir Hareseth in [Isaiah 16:7](../16/07.md). Alternate translation: “my inward being sighs for Kir Hareseth” or “I am very sad for the people of Kir Hareseth”
16:11 q54t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Kir Hareseth 0 This is a metonym for the people of the city. Alternate translation: “the people of Kir Hareseth”
16:12 r3gm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Moab … himself … his 0 All of these words refer to the people of Moab.
17:intro uhu9 0 # Isaiah 17 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThe ULT sets the lines in 17:1–6, 9–14 farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text because they are part of a long quotation.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Damascus\n\nThis chapter prophesies destruction against the people of Damascus. Damascus was the capital of Aram. The people of Damascus worship gods other than Yahweh and have fought Yahweh’s people. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Ephraim\n\nThis chapter prophesied destruction against the kingdom of Israel. They are also called Ephraim in this chapter. Both the northern kingdom of Israel and Aram were conquered at about the same time in history.
17:1 c1yu rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names about Damascus 0 Damascus is the name of a city. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 7:8](../07/08.md).
17:2 ez1z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The cities of Aroer will be abandoned 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. “All the people will abandon the cities of Aroer” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
17:3 c462 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Fortified cities will disappear from Ephraim 0 Ephraim was the largest tribe in Israel. Here it represents the entire northern kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “Strong cities will disappear from Israel”
17:3 iyi9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the kingdom from Damascus 0 The words “will disappear” are understood from the previous phrase. Damascus was where the king of Aram ruled from. The kingdom disappearing represents the king no longer having royal power. Alternate translation: “the kingdom will disappear from Damascus” or “there will be no royal power in Damascus” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
17:3 p2wt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is the declaration of Yahweh of hosts 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 14:22](../14/22.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh of hosts has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, have declared”
17:4 d7vw It will come about 0 This phrase is used here to mark an important event that will happen. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
17:4 zp66 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the glory of Jacob will become thin, and the fatness of his flesh will become lean 0 Here “Jacob” refers to the kingdom of Israel. Israel would no longer be glorious. Rather it would be weak and poor. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
17:5 xe3f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile It will be as when a harvester gathers the standing grain … in the Valley of Rephaim 0 There will be nothing left in the land after God punishes the people of Israel.
17:5 m9mp rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names the Valley of Rephaim 0 This is a valley where people normally grew and harvested much food.
17:6 l99v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Gleanings will be left 0 The word “Gleanings” here represents the people who will still live in Israel. Alternate translation: “But there will be a few people left in Israel”
17:6 jq39 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as when the olive tree is shaken 0 People harvested olive trees by shaking them so that the olives would fall out. Alternate translation: “like the few olives that remain on the olive trees after people harvest them”
17:6 ghf6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis four or five 0 The word “olives” is understood from the phrase before this. Alternate translation: “four or five olives”
17:6 j9w2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is the declaration of Yahweh, the God of Israel 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh, the God of Israel, has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, the God of Israel, have declared”
17:7 srr9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom men will look toward their Maker … will look to the Holy One of Israel 0 Looking toward God here represents hoping that he will help them. Alternate translation: “men will hope that their Maker, the Holy One of Israel, will help them”
17:7 yg6i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche men will look 0 The word “men” represents people in general. Alternate translation: “people will look”
17:7 ab45 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche their eyes will look 0 Here “eyes” represents the people who look. Alternate translation: “they will look” or “the people will look”
17:8 ci52 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy They will not look to the altars 0 Looking to the altars represents worshiping idols with the hope that the idols will help them. Alternate translation: “They will not worship idols at their altars” or “The people of Israel will not go to their altars and ask their idols to help them”
17:8 gg5j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the work of their hands 0 Here the people are represented by their “hands” to emphasize that they made the altars or idols. Alternate translation: “that they made with their hands” or “which they themselves built”
17:8 g7l9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy what their fingers have made … the Asherah poles or the sun images 0 The second phrase identifies the things that the people made. Speaking of the fingers here emphasizes that the people made them, so these things are not real gods. Alternate translation: “the Asherah poles or the sun images, which they themselves made”
17:9 c6p6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit that were forsaken because of the people of Israel 0 It can be made explicit who left these lands. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that the Hivites and Amorites left after the people of Israel came” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
17:10 y72p For you have forgotten 0 Here “you” refers to the people of Israel. The word “forgotten” does not mean they have no memory of God. It means they no longer obey him. Alternate translation: “For you no longer obey”
17:10 y983 the God of your salvation 0 Alternate translation: “the God who saves you”
17:10 s6lq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor have ignored the rock of your strength 0 This compares God to a large rock which people could climb on to get away from their enemies or hide behind. Alternate translation: “have ignored God, who is like a rock that protects you” or “have ignored the one who protects you”
17:12 kh1i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The uproar of many peoples, that roar like the roaring of the seas 0 An uproar is a very loud noise. Alternate translation: “The sound of many people, that is very loud like the seas”
17:12 cbz3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile the rushing of nations, that rush like the rushing of mighty waters 0 The enemy armies appear to be a powerful force that no one can stop. Alternate translation: “the nations come rushing in like the mighty waters”
17:12 u4ze rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the rushing of nations 0 The word “nations” refers to the armies of those nations. Alternate translation: “the rushing of the enemy armies”
17:13 ls6k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism before the wind like chaff on the mountains … like weeds whirling before a storm 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. The enemy armies seem powerful but God will easily stop them and send them away. Alternate translation: “like chaff on the mountains that the wind blows away … like weeds that whirl and blow away as a storm approaches” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
17:14 jpf9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor This is the portion of those 0 What happens to them is spoken of as if it is a portion that they inherit. Alternate translation: “This is what happens to those”
18:intro qz72 0 # Isaiah 18 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Cush\n\nThis chapter records prophecies against the nation of Cush. They are being punished by Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\n\nThis chapter uses many metaphors to describe the destruction coming to the people of Cush. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
18:1 w55y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Woe to the land of the rustling of wings, which is along the rivers of Cush 0 Here, the phrase **the rustling of wings** could mean (1) the boats that have sails are spoken of as having wings. Alternate translation: “Woe to those who live in the land beyond the rivers of Cush, whose many ships look like insects on the water” or (2) the rustling of wings refers to the noise of insects that have wings, perhaps locusts.
18:2 fa3r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor by the sea 0 The Nile River was very wide, and people in Egypt and Cush referred to it as “the sea.” Alternate translation: “on the great river” or “along the Nile River”
18:2 na6w rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown vessels of papyrus 0 Papyrus is a tall plant that grows along the side of the Nile River. People bound together papyrus bundles to make boats. Alternate translation: “papyrus boats” or “boats made of reeds” or
18:2 v2kg a nation tall and smooth … a people feared far and near … a nation strong and trampling down, whose land the rivers divide 0 These phrases all describe the people of one nation.
18:2 zul8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy a nation tall and smooth 0 The word “nation” here refers to the people of that nation. Alternate translation: “a nation whose people are tall and have smooth skin”
18:2 x6y2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism a people feared far and near 0 The words “far” and “near” are used together to mean “everywhere.” Alternate translation: “a people who are feared everywhere” or “a people that everyone in the earth fears”
18:2 s5qq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy a nation strong and trampling down 0 Trampling down represents conquering other nations. Alternate translation: “a nation that is strong and conquers other nations”
18:2 r4hc the rivers divide 0 This probably refers to many rivers that flow through the nation so they divide it into different parts.
18:3 mj1l Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nVerse 3 tells what the messengers in [Isaiah 18:2](../18/02.md) must say to the people of the world.
18:3 bil8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism All you inhabitants of the world … you who live on the earth 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “All you people on the earth”
18:3 ru4b when a signal is lifted up on the mountains, look; and when the trumpet is blown, listen 0 The signal and trumpet were to call people to battle. The commands to look and listen are commands to pay attention and prepare for battle. Alternate translation: “pay attention when the signal is lifted up on the mountains and the trumpet is blown”
18:3 fd8p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit when a signal is lifted up on the mountains, look 0 The signal was a flag used to call people to battle. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “pay attention when you see the battle flag on the mountains” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
18:3 art9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit when the trumpet is blown, listen 0 The trumpets were used to call people to battle. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “pay attention when you hear the sound of the battle trumpets” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
18:4 d5k5 0 # General Information:\n\nGod uses a parable about a farmer in a vineyard in order to describe how he will punish a certain nation. That nation is either Ethiopia or Ethiopia’s enemy.
18:4 b3dz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I will quietly observe from my home 0 What God will observe can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I will quietly observe that nation from my home” or “From my home, I will quietly watch what the people of that nation do”
18:4 xwg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like the simmering heat in sunshine, like a cloud of mist in the heat of harvest 0 These phrases show how quietly God will watch the nation.
18:5 uxf1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Before the harvest 0 This is a harvest of grapes. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Before the grape harvest”
18:5 he2s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit when the blossoming is over 0 It can be stated clearly that this refers to blossoms on grape vines. Alternate translation: “when flowers have finished growing on the grape vines”
18:5 i3wm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit he will cut off the sprigs with pruning hooks 0 Yahweh will cut off the branches before the grapes can ripen. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cut off the branches with knives before their produce fruit”
18:6 dev6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables They will be left together 0 God seems to change from telling the parable to speaking more directly about the nation. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Those who are killed will be left together” or “Like branches that are cut off and thrown away, the bodies of those who are killed will be left on the ground”
18:6 f1vz The birds will summer on them 0 “The birds will eat them during the summer.” The word “birds” refers to birds that eat the flesh of dead bodies.
18:6 dh75 all the animals of the earth 0 Alternate translation: “all kinds of wild animals”
18:6 lpf3 will winter on them 0 Alternate translation: “will eat them in the winter”
18:7 y8hc a people tall and smooth … a people feared far and near … a nation strong and trampling down, whose land the rivers divide 0 These phrases all describe the people of one nation. See how you translated these phrases in [Isaiah 18:2](../18/02.md).
18:7 gc7i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism a people feared far and near 0 The words “far” and “near” are used together to mean “everywhere.” Alternate translation: “a people who are feared everywhere” or “a people that everyone in the earth fears”
18:7 n6h8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy a nation strong and trampling down 0 Trampling down represents conquering other nations. Alternate translation: “a nation that is strong and conquers other nations”
18:7 wrg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to the place of the name of Yahweh of hosts, to Mount Zion 0 The word “name” refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to Mount Zion, where Yahweh of hosts dwells”
19:intro y3c4 0 # Isaiah 19 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 19:1–18.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Egypt\n\nThis chapter prophesied destruction against the nation of Egypt. Their destruction will come from internal division instead of being conquered by another nation. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Imagery\n\nSome of the imagery used in this chapter may be connected to the worship of specific false gods. One important god the people of Canaan worshiped was Baal, the god of rain or storms. One of the important gods the Egyptians worshiped was Ra, the god of the sun. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “In that day”\nThis changes the reference from the time when Assyria comes to dominate the world and looks to a more distant future day.
19:1 pi3g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh rides on a swift cloud 0 Yahweh seems to be pictured here as riding on a cloud as if he was riding in a chariot.
19:1 st7u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification the idols of Egypt quake before him 0 The idols are described as having feelings of fear as Yahweh approaches. Alternate translation: “the idols of Egypt tremble in fear before Yahweh”
19:1 qi24 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the hearts of the Egyptians melt within themselves 0 The heart melting represents losing their courage. Alternate translation: “the Egyptians have no more courage”
19:2 k6cl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis a man against his neighbor 0 The words “will fight” are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “a man will fight against his neighbor”
19:2 v5rq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy city will be against city 0 The word “city” represents the people of the city. Alternate translation: “people of one city will fight against people of another city” or “people from different cities will fight against one another”
19:2 k42s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis kingdom against kingdom 0 The words “will be” or “will fight” are understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “kingdom will be against kingdom” or “kingdom will fight against kingdom”
19:2 usw7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy kingdom against kingdom 0 The word “kingdom” refers to a smaller kingdom within Egypt. It may also be called a province. It represents the people of that kingdom or province. Alternate translation: “the people of one province will be against the people of another province” or “people from different provinces will fight against one another”
19:3 k6nj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The spirit of Egypt will be weakened from within. I will destroy his advice 0 The nation of Egypt is spoken of here as if it was a person.
19:3 h9az rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The spirit of Egypt will be weakened from within 0 This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “I will weaken the spirit of Egypt from within”
19:3 t2yv I will destroy his advice, though they sought the advice of … spiritualists 0 Alternate translation: “They sought the advice of … spiritualists, but that will do them no good. It will not stop me from destroying his advice”
19:3 j1kh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns I will destroy his advice 0 This could mean: (1) Yahweh will cause the advice that he gives to be ineffective or (2) Yahweh will cause him to be unable to give any advice. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **advice**, you can express the same idea with the verb “advise.” Alternate translation: “I will confuse those who advise the king”
19:4 e7zd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will give the Egyptians into the hand of a harsh master 0 Here “hand” refers to power or control. Alternate translation: “I will give the Egyptians over to the control of a harsh master”
19:4 f37v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is the declaration of the Lord Yahweh of hosts 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 3:15](../03/15.md). Alternate translation: “this is what the Lord Yahweh of hosts has declared” or “this is what I, the Lord Yahweh of hosts, have declared”
19:5 buc6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The waters of the sea will dry up, and the river will dry up and become empty 0 Egyptians referred to the Nile River as “the sea.” These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “The Nile River will completely dry up”
19:6 mqq8 become foul 0 Alternate translation: “become foul-smelling” or “stink”
19:6 v3vr will dwindle 0 Alternate translation: “become smaller and smaller”
19:6 by1b the reeds and flags will wither away 0 Here, **reeds** and **flags** refer to two similar kinds of water plants. Alternate translation: “the plants along the river will die and decay”
19:7 tkv1 every sown field beside the Nile 0 Alternate translation: “the fields near the Nile where people have planted crops”
19:8 wx4h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit The fishermen will wail and mourn, and all who cast a hook into the Nile will mourn, and those who spread nets on the waters will grieve 0 These three phrases mean basically the same thing. If necessary, the reason they will grieve can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “The fishermen who catch fish with hooks or nets will cry in despair because the fish in the Nile have died” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
19:8 u2jx rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown cast a hook into the Nile 0 In order to catch fish, some people put a little food on a hook, tie the hook to a string, and throw the hook into the water. When a fish tries to eat the food, its mouth gets stuck on the hook, and the person pulls the fish out of the water.
19:8 u1tx rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown spread nets on the waters 0 In order to catch fish, some people toss a net on the water. When fish get caught in it, they pull the net with the fish out of the water.
19:9 ram5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown combed flax 0 Flax is a plant that grows along the Nile River. People comb its fibers in order to separate them, and use them to make thread for linen cloth.
19:10 m3g2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will be crushed 0 Being crushed represents being discouraged. Alternate translation: “will be discouraged”
19:11 tj8g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The princes of Zoan are completely foolish. The advice of the wisest advisors of Pharaoh has become senseless 0 These two phrases are similar in meaning. Either the princes of Zoan are also the wisest advisors or Pharaoh, or they are another group of people that also are shown to be foolish.
19:11 ut1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Zoan 0 This is a city in northern Egypt.
19:11 hg6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion How can you say to Pharaoh … kings? 0 Isaiah uses a question to mock those in Egypt who claim to be wise. Alternate translation: “You foolishly say to Pharaoh … kings.”
19:12 vn7v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where then are your wise men? 0 Isaiah uses a question to mock the wise men. The word “your” refers to Pharaoh. Alternate translation: “You do not have any wise men.” or “Your wise men are fools.”
19:12 yi3f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony Let them tell you and make known what Yahweh of hosts plans concerning Egypt 0 Isaiah is implying that wise men should be able to understand God’s plans, but Isaiah does not really believe they are wise. Alternate translation: “If they were really wise, they would be able to tell you what Yahweh of hosts plans concerning Egypt”
19:13 xcx6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they have made Egypt go astray, who are the cornerstones of her tribes 0 The princes of Zoan and Memphis are spoken of as if they are the cornerstones of buildings because they are an important part of the community. Alternate translation: “the leaders have made Egypt go astray”
19:13 ws7v rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Memphis 0 This is a city in the northern part of Egypt.
19:13 wv4n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy made Egypt go astray 0 The word “Egypt” represents the people of Egypt. Going astray represents doing what is wrong. Alternate translation: “made the people of Egypt go astray” or “made the people of Egypt do what is wrong” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
19:14 djx6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh has mixed a spirit of distortion into her midst 0 Isaiah speaks of Yahweh’s judgment as if Egypt was a cup of wine. He speaks of Yahweh causing the leaders’ thoughts to be distorted as if their distorted thoughts were a liquid that Yahweh mixed in with the wine. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has judged them by distorting their thoughts” or “Yahweh has judged Egypt by distorting its leaders’ thoughts, as intoxicating drinks confuse people’s thoughts”
19:14 d2iu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification into her midst 0 Here “her” refers to Egypt. Nations are sometimes spoken of as if they were women. Alternate translation: “within Egypt”
19:14 pf3i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy they have led Egypt astray 0 Here, “they” refers to the leaders described in the previous verses. The word “Egypt” represents the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: “the princes have led the people of Egypt astray”
19:14 veh2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor have led Egypt astray 0 Leading people astray represents influencing them to do what is wrong.
19:14 yj4b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a drunk staggering in his vomit 0 Isaiah speaks of the people of Egypt doing what is wrong as if they were made to wander about like a drunken person.
19:15 h1pl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor whether head or tail 0 The “head,” the part of an animal a person would want to be, represents the leader. The “tail” is the opposite and represents people who follow. Alternate translation: “whether leader or follower”
19:15 h6vu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor palm branch or reed 0 The “palm branch” grows high on the tree and represents people who are wealthy and important. The “reed” grows in shallow water and represents people who are poor and unimportant. See how you translated similar phrases in [Isaiah 9:14](../09/14.md). Alternate translation: “whether they are important or unimportant” or “whether rich or poor”
19:16 yjs8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Egyptians will be like women 0 This emphasizes that the people of Egypt will be afraid and helpless when God punishes them.
19:16 q4i9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy because of the upraised hand of Yahweh of hosts that he raises over them 0 Here “hand” refers to God’s power, and raising the hand against them represents punishing them. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh of hosts has raised his powerful hand to punish them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
19:17 zin3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The land of Judah will become a cause of staggering to Egypt 0 The “land of Judah” and “Egypt” refer to the people in those places. The Egyptians will stagger because they are afraid. Alternate translation: “The people of Judah will cause the Egyptians to stagger” or “The people of Judah will cause the Egyptians to be terribly afraid”
19:17 ad9e Whenever anyone reminds them of her, they will be afraid 0 Here, “them” and “they” refer to the Egyptians and “her” refers to the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “Whenever anyone reminds the Egyptians of the people of Judah, the Egyptians will be afraid”
19:18 n3bi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy there will be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak 0 This refers to the people of those cities. Alternate translation: “the people in five Egyptian cities will speak”
19:18 p6li rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the language of Canaan 0 This refers to Hebrew, the language of the people of God living in the land of Canaan. Here Canaan represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “the language of the people of Canaan”
19:18 hr4a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive One of these will be called 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. “People will call one of these cities”
19:18 qu9b rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants called The City of the Sun 0 It is not clear whether the Hebrew word translated “Sun” here means “sun” or “destruction.” It is also not clear what the name tells us about the city. Alternate translation: “the city called Sun City” or “the city called Destruction City”
19:19 mnu1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit a stone pillar at the border to Yahweh 0 The phrase “the border” refers to the border of Egypt. Alternate translation: “a stone pillar to Yahweh at the border of Egypt”
19:20 vgv1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns It will be as a sign and a witness to Yahweh of hosts in the land of Egypt 0 The abstract nouns “sign” and “witness” can be expressed with the verbs “show” and prove.” Alternate translation: “The altar will show and prove that Yahweh of hosts is in the land of Egypt”
19:20 w4gy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit to Yahweh of hosts in the land of Egypt 0 Yahweh being in the land of Egypt represents the people of Egypt worshiping him. Alternate translation: “that the people in the land of Egypt worship Yahweh of hosts”
19:20 knh3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit he will deliver them 0 Who Yahweh will deliver them from can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will deliver the Egyptians from their oppressors”
19:21 rad5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh will become known to Egypt 0 Here “Egypt” refers to the people of Egypt. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will make the people of Egypt know him” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
19:21 r2vl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit They will worship 0 The object of their worship can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “They will worship Yahweh”
19:21 bcm9 will make vows to Yahweh and fulfill them 0 Alternate translation: “will make promises to Yahweh and keep them” or “they will make promises to Yahweh and they will do what they have promised to do”
19:22 pvf9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh will afflict Egypt 0 Here, “Egypt” refers to the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will afflict the people of Egypt”
19:22 u4gc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis afflicting and healing 0 The word “them” is understood in this phrase. Alternate translation: “afflicting them and healing them”
19:22 i7ek afflicting and healing 0 How this phrase relates to the phrase before it can be made clear with the words “after” and “also.” Alternate translation: “and after he afflicts them, he will also heal them”
19:23 g1ca there will be a highway 0 A highway is a large road on which many people can travel.
19:23 s63v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the Assyrian will come 0 “the Assyrian” refers to a person from Assyria, but represents anyone from Assyria who comes to Egypt. Alternate translation: “Assyrians will come”
19:23 h5zp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the Egyptian to Assyria 0 The words “will come” are understood. Alternate translation: “the Egyptian will come to Assyria”
19:23 vjm5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the Egyptian 0 This refers to a person from Egypt, but represents anyone from Egypt who comes to Assyria. Alternate translation: “Egyptians”
19:23 vdk8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the Egyptians will worship with the Assyrians 0 The object of their worship can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the Egyptians and Assyrians will worship Yahweh”
19:24 x4sx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Israel will be the third with Egypt and Assyria 0 The names of the three nations represent the people of those nations. Alternate translation: “the Israelites will be the third with the Egyptians and Assyrians”
19:24 d63v rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal be the third with 0 This could mean: (1) “join together with” or (2) “be the third blessing with” or (3) “be equal to.”
19:25 ial4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Blessed be Egypt, my people; Assyria, the work of my hands; and Israel, my inheritance 0 The names of the three nations refer to the people of those nations. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I have blessed you, people of Egypt, because you are my people; and I have blessed you, people of Assyria, because I created you; and I have blessed you, people of Israel, because I securely possess you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
19:25 hd4u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the work of my hands 0 Here “hands” refers to God’s power and action.
20:intro qqp3 0 # Isaiah 20 General Notes\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Naked and barefoot\n\nThis is an image used in this chapter to describe Assyria’s victory over Egypt and Ethiopia. While they will be defeated, they will not be totally destroyed. Instead, they will be left with nothing. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
20:1 g7u8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he fought against Ashdod and took it 0 Ashdod refers to the army of Ashdod. Alternate translation: “he fought against the army of Ashdod and defeated it”
20:2 xk5u walking naked and barefoot 0 “walking around without clothes and without sandals.” Here the word “naked” probably refers to wearing only his undergarments.
20:3 mig7 an omen 0 Alternate translation: “a warning”
20:4 k9su rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the king of Assyria will lead away the captives 0 The king orders his army to do this task. Alternate translation: “the king of Assyria will have his army lead away the captives”
20:4 y6cb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit will lead away the captives of Egypt, and the exiles of Cush 0 It can be stated clearly that they will first attack and capture people. Alternate translation: “will attack Egypt and Cush and capture their people and lead them away”
20:4 j58w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to the shame of Egypt 0 Egypt refers to the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: “which will bring shame on the people of Egypt”
20:5 x6ix rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy because of Cush their hope and of Egypt their glory 0 Hope and glory refer to their trust in the military power of these countries. Alternate translation: “because they had trusted in the power of the armies of Cush and Egypt”
20:6 a114 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive where we fled for help to be rescued 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “where we fled to so they would rescue us”
20:6 ul8x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion now, how can we escape? 0 The author uses this question to emphasize how hopeless their situation was. Alternate translation: “now there is no way for us to escape!”
21:intro b7ty 0 # Isaiah 21 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 21:1–10, 13–17.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Cush\n\nDumah and Seir are places in Edom. Part of this chapter is a prophecy against Cush. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### The desert by the sea\n\nThis is a metaphor for an unknown nation. Scholars are divided over the proper identity of this nation, but it is probably Babylon. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### Mystery\n\nThe fulfillment of this chapter is very mysterious. It is unknown who is truly being addressed and how this is to be fulfilled in history. The translator should not attempt to give the reader insight into this prophecy’s fulfillment. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
21:1 x48q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy about the desert by the sea 0 This refers to the people who live in Babylon as being a desert, even though God has not made it into a desert yet. This event will certainly happen. Alternate translation: “about the people who live in a land that soon will be a desert” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
21:1 x94u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Like stormwinds sweeping through the Negev 0 Isaiah compares the army that will attack the people to a storm with strong winds. They will be quick and powerful.
21:1 k1uh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit from the wilderness 0 Here “wilderness” refers to the wilderness of Judea.
21:2 gk1g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive A distressing vision has been given to me 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh showed me a troubling vision”
21:2 y49p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Go up and attack, Elam; besiege, Media 0 In the vision given to Isaiah, Yahweh speaks to the armies of Elam and Media as if they are there listening to him.
21:2 n5ct rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis Go up and attack, Elam; besiege, Media 0 It is understood that they are to attack the Babylonians. Alternate translation: “Go up and attack the Babylonians, you soldiers of Elam; go and besiege the Babylonians, you soldiers of Media”
21:2 x1bk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Elam … Media 0 Here “Elam” and “Media” represent the soldiers from these places.
21:2 ic7h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will stop all her groaning 0 Here “her” represents all the people who are suffering because of the Babylonians. Yahweh will cause them to stop groaning when he sends the armies of Elam and Media to destroy the Babylonians.
21:3 sy98 my loins are filled with pain 0 The vision that Isaiah sees is so troubling it causes him physical pain. Here he describes the pain and cramping in the middle part of his body.
21:3 lm8g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile pains like the pains of a woman in labor have taken hold of me 0 Isaiah compares his pain to the pain of a woman giving birth. This emphasizes the great pain he is feeling.
21:3 dv2a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive I am bowed down by what I heard 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “What I heard has caused me to bend over in pain”
21:3 eaj7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive I am disturbed by what I saw 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “what I saw has greatly troubled me”
21:5 v634 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit anoint your shields with oil 0 Soldiers would put oil on their leather shields so they would stay soft and not crack during battle.
21:6 m5sh post a watchman 0 Alternate translation: “tell a watchman to stand on the wall of Jerusalem”
21:7 qai9 a chariot, a pair of horsemen 0 Alternate translation: “a soldier riding in a chariot, a pair of horses pulling it”
21:8 v2w1 Lord, on the watchtower I stand 0 Here “Lord” refers to the person with authority that commanded the watchman to stand on the wall of Jerusalem.
21:9 x4x6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Babylon has fallen, fallen 0 Babylon being completely defeated by their enemies is spoken of as if Babylon has fallen. Here “Babylon” is a metonym that represents the people of Babylon. Alternate translation: “The people of Babylon are completely defeated” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
21:10 yv9c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My threshed and winnowed ones, children of my threshing floor 0 The people of Israel suffering because of the Babylonians is spoken of as if the people were grain that was threshed and winnowed.
21:11 f2ac rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names about Dumah 0 This is another name for Edom. Here “Dumah” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “about the people of Dumah” or “about the people of Edom” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
21:11 z8pb rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Seir 0 This is the name of mountains west of Edom.
21:11 fhv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Watchman, what is left of the night? Watchman, what is left of the night? 0 This is repeated to emphasize that the person asking the question is worried and nervous.
21:12 h8eg If you want to ask, then ask; and come back again 0 Alternate translation: “Ask me now what you want to know, but also come back later and ask again”
21:13 qlh5 A declaration 0 Alternate translation: “This is what Yahweh declares” or “This is the message of Yahweh”
21:13 bs2m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy about Arabia 0 Arabia refers to the population of Arabia. Alternate translation: “about the people of Arabia”
21:13 q4gt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit In the wilderness of Arabia 0 Arabia does not have a forest. Alternate translation: “Far off from the road in Arabia” or “Out in the bushes of Arabia”
21:14 ck51 fugitives 0 A fugitive is a person who runs away so that his enemy will not capture him. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 15:5](../15/05.md).
21:14 b4b7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche with bread 0 Here “bread” represents food in general.
21:15 y9if rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy from the sword, from the drawn sword, from the bent bow 0 Here “sword” and “bow” represents the soldiers who attack the inhabitants of Tema. Alternate translation: “from their enemies who attack them with swords and bows”
21:15 tnx9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor from the weight of war 0 The terror and suffering that is experienced during war is spoken of as if war were a heavy weight on people. Alternate translation: “from the horrors of war”
21:16 y8lk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit as a laborer hired for a year would see it 0 “as a hired laborer would count the days of a year.” A hired worker is careful to count the days so that he works exactly the amount of time he is paid to work. This means Kedar will be defeated in exactly one year.
21:16 z33f rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names of Kedar 0 This is a region in Arabia. Kedar represents the population of Kedar. Alternate translation: “of the people of Kedar” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
22:intro j95f 0 # Isaiah 22 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Repentance\n\nOn this day of judgment, Judah should be repenting of their sin. Instead, they are celebrating it. Although Judah avoids Yahweh’s punishment through the Assyrians, their punishment will still come. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “Valley of Visions”\nThis is a metaphor used in this prophecy against the nation of Judah. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
22:1 k9gg A declaration 0 Alternate translation: “This is what Yahweh declares” or “This is Yahweh’s message”
22:1 r9lq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy about the Valley of Vision 0 Here “Valley” refers to those who live in the valley, that is, Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “about those who live in the Valley of Vision” or “about those who live in Jerusalem”
22:1 eln4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What is the reason that you have all gone up to the housetops? 0 Isaiah uses a question to scold the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “You should not go and stand on the tops of your houses.”
22:2 l5a8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Your dead were not killed with the sword 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Enemy soldiers did not kill your people”
22:2 g7up rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy with the sword 0 Here “sword” represents the soldiers who fight in battle.
22:3 sd8r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive but they were captured without using a bow 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but the enemy captured your rulers who were not even carrying a bow”
22:3 geh4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive all of them were captured together 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the enemy captured all of them together”
22:4 yy7y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy of the daughter of my people 0 Here “daughter” represents the people and may imply Isaiah’s feeling of love for them. Alternate translation: “of my people whom I love” or “of my people” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
22:5 mv8s For there is a day 0 Alternate translation: “For there will be a time”
22:5 b51a of tumult, treading down, and confusion for the Lord Yahweh of hosts 0 Alternate translation: “when the Lord Yahweh of hosts will cause panic, treading down, and confusion”
22:5 p1ny treading down 0 This could mean: (1) this refers to soldiers marching or (2) people in general are running in panic and not sure where to go.
22:5 nbr9 in the Valley of Vision 0 This refers to Jerusalem. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 22:1](../22/01.md).
22:5 q2i2 people crying out to the mountains 0 This could mean: (1) “people in the mountains will hear their cries” or (2) “the people’s cries will echo off the mountains”
22:6 qte5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Elam takes up the quiver 0 The quiver is a bag to carry arrows and represents the archer’s weapons. Alternate translation: “The soldiers of Elam take their bows and arrows”
22:6 v2pq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Kir lays the shield bare 0 Here “Kir” represents the soldiers. Alternate translation: “the soldiers of Kir will take their shields out of their covers”
22:6 x6a2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Kir 0 Kir is a city in Media.
22:7 hn61 your choicest valleys 0 Here “your” refers to the people of Jerusalem. Isaiah does include himself as one of the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “our best valleys”
22:8 yr3v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns He took away the protection of Judah 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **protection**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will take away everything that has protected the people of Judah”
22:8 a1h5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom you looked in that day to the weapons 0 Here the phrase “to look to” means to trust in something. Alternate translation: “to defend yourselves you will get the weapons”
22:9 b84f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit you collected the water of the lower pool 0 The people will store water so that they will have enough to drink while their enemies surround the city.
22:12 h6es rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction for shaved heads 0 This was a sign of mourning and repenting.
22:13 ct44 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we will die 0 Here “eat and drink” represents having a party and over indulging in food and wine. Alternate translation: “we may as well have fun now by eating and drinking all we want, for we will die soon”
22:14 f7iw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche This was revealed in my ears by Yahweh of hosts 0 Here “ears” represents Isaiah as a whole. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh of hosts revealed this to me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
22:14 g3sh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Surely this iniquity will not be forgiven you, even when you die 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Surely I will not forgive you for these sinful things you have done, even when you die”
22:14 bmu5 even when you die 0 This could mean: (1) Yahweh will never forgive them, even after they die or (2) Yahweh will not forgive them until they die.
22:15 v7mw rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Shebna 0 This is the name of the manager of the king’s palace in Jerusalem.
22:15 lkg6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy who is over the house 0 Here “house” represents those in the king’s palace. Alternate translation: “who is in charge of all those who work in the palace”
22:16 ly8w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What are you doing here and who gave you permission … in the rock? 0 Yahweh uses this question to scold Shebna. Alternate translation: “You have no right … in the rock!”
22:16 kv47 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism cut out a tomb … hewing out a grave … carving out a resting place 0 These three phrases all refer to making a burial tomb.
22:16 ux5x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit on the heights 0 The most important people in Israel had tombs in the highest places.
22:18 g81e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will surely wind you round and round, and toss you like a ball into a vast country 0 The enemy soldiers coming and taking Shebna as a captive to a foreign land is spoken of as if Yahweh were throwing him like a ball into another land.
22:18 i1nz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy you will be the shame of your master’s house 0 Here “house” represents the people who work in the king’s palace. Alternate translation: “you will cause shame for all those in your master’s palace”
22:19 jhf3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will thrust you from your office and from your station. You will be pulled down 0 Yahweh causing Shebna to no longer work in the king’s palace is spoken of as if Yahweh will throw him to the ground.
22:19 gg54 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive You will be pulled down 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will bring you down from your honored position”
22:20 t9nz rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Eliakim … Hilkiah 0 These are names of men.
22:21 hnw8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will clothe him with your tunic and put on him your sash 0 Yahweh causing Eliakim to take Shebna’s place in the king’s palace is spoken of as if Yahweh will dress Eliakim in Shebna’s clothes that represent his authority in the king’s palace.
22:21 rpb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your tunic … your sash 0 Here the tunic and sash represent authority in the king’s palace.
22:21 e26e sash 0 This is a piece of cloth that people wear around the waist or across the chest. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 3:20](../03/20.md).
22:21 xz46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy into his hand 0 Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “to him”
22:21 h2he rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will be a father 0 Eliakim caring for and protecting the people of Judah is spoken of as if he would be their father. Alternate translation: “He will be like a father”
22:21 y2lj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to the house of Judah 0 Here “house” represents the people. Alternate translation: “to the people of Judah”
22:22 q3km rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will place the key of the house of David on his shoulder … none will open 0 Here “key” represents authority. This speaks of Eliakim having authority that no one can oppose as if he had the key to the palace and no one else could lock or unlock the door. Alternate translation: “I will put him in charge of those who work in the king’s palace, and when he makes a decision no one will be able to oppose him” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
22:23 h3j8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will fasten him, a peg in a secure place 0 Yahweh causing Eliakim’s authority to be strong and secure in the king’s palace is spoken of as if Eliakim were a peg and Yahweh will set him firmly in the palace wall.
22:23 re2x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he will become a seat of glory for his father’s house 0 Here “seat of glory” represents a place of honor. Alternate translation: “Eliakim will bring honor to his family”
22:23 vm1p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his father’s house 0 Here “house” represents family. Alternate translation: “his father’s family” or “his family”
22:24 gzh4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will hang on him all the glory of his father’s house 0 Yahweh causing Eliakim’s whole family to be honored because of Eliakim is spoken of as if Eliakim were a peg in the wall and his family were something that hangs on the peg. Alternate translation: “They will give honor to his whole family because of him”
22:24 p4as rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor every small container from the cups to all the jugs 0 This continues to speak of Eliakim as a peg. His offspring will be like cups that hang on the peg. This means his descendants will be honored because of him.
22:25 tll3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the peg driven in a firm place … will be cut off 0 Yahweh causing Shebna to lose his authority in the king’s palace is spoken of as if Shebna were a peg in the wall that breaks off and falls to the ground. This emphasizes that Shebna thought his authority was secure but God will remove him.
22:25 l3m8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the weight that was on it will be cut off 0 Here “weight” represents Shebna’s power and authority. It is spoken of as if it were an object hanging on the peg that represents Shebna. Yahweh causing Shebna to lose his power and authority is spoken of as if someone were to cut off the object that was hanging on the peg. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
23:intro zw88 0 # Isaiah 23 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Phoenicia\n\nThis chapter prophesies destruction against several cities in Phoenicia as well as in Tarshish. The exact location of Tarshish is unknown. Because of the locations mentioned in this chapter, it appears that the Assyrians will conquer many of the nations on the Mediterranean Sea. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
23:1 p3kt A declaration about Tyre 0 Alternate translation: “This is what Yahweh declares about Tyre”
23:1 fmd1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Howl, you ships of Tarshish 0 Here “ships” represents the men on the ships. Isaiah speaks to the men on the ships of Tarshish as if they could hear him. Alternate translation: “Cry out in despair you men on the ships of Tarshish” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
23:1 vu39 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names from the land of Cyprus it has been revealed to them 0 This phrase can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the men heard about Tyre when they were in the land of Cyprus” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
23:2 h8zu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Be silent, you inhabitants of the coast 0 Isaiah speaks to the people who live on the coast as if they could hear him.
23:2 b9vq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom Be silent 0 This is an idiom. Here silence is meant to signal shock and amazement. Alternate translation: “Be shocked”
23:2 e3zr of the coast 0 The “coast” is the land near or around the sea or ocean. Here it refers to the people who live in Phoenicia which borders the Mediterranean sea.
23:2 x6g6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the merchant of Sidon, who travels over the sea, has filled you 0 Here “merchant” means “many merchants.” Alternate translation: “the merchants of Sidon, who travel over the sea, have made you rich”
23:3 z18x rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Upon the great waters was the grain of Shihor 0 Shihor was the name of a valley near the Nile River in Egypt known for its production of grain. Alternate translation: “The men traveled on the large sea to transport the grain from Shihor in Egypt”
23:3 jsl4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession the harvest of the Nile was her produce 0 The “harvest of the Nile” refers to the grain that was harvested near the Nile River and transported on the river and then to Phoenicia.
23:3 hf67 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy it became the commerce of the nations 0 Commerce is the activity of buying and selling goods. Here “nations” represents the people. Alternate translation: “you were where people from other nations came to buy and sell goods”
23:4 er55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification for the sea has spoken, the mighty one of the sea … nor brought up young women 0 This could mean: (1) Yahweh describes the city of Tyre as a mother who speaks about the people who live in the city as her children, or (2) Yahweh is describing the Mediterranean Sea as speaking. The people of Tyre considered the sea their god and father. In either meaning the speaker mourns because its children are destroyed.
23:6 bk9d Cross over to Tarshish 0 “Make your way to Tarshish.” Tarshish was the farthest land the people of Tyre traveled to do business. It will be the only place of safety for those who escape from Tyre.
23:7 m498 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Has this happened to you, the joyful city, whose origin is from ancient times … to settle? 0 Yahweh uses a question to mock Tyre. This rhetorical questions can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “This has indeed happened to you who were full of joy in the ancient city of Tyre … to settle.”
23:7 md2c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the joyful city 0 Here “city” represents the people. Alternate translation: “the joyful people who live in the city of Tyre”
23:7 qlk4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche whose feet carried her far away to foreign places to settle 0 Here “feet” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “who went to distant places to live and make money”
23:7 ws35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy her far away 0 Here “her” refers to the city of Tyre which represents the people of Tyre.
23:8 q8gu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has planned this against Tyre … of the earth? 0 Isaiah uses a question to mock Tyre. The word “this” refers to God’s plans to destroy Tyre which Isaiah described in 23:1–7. Also, “Tyre” refers to the people who live in Tyre. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “It was Yahweh who has planned to destroy the people of Tyre … of the earth.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
23:8 lz33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the giver of crowns 0 Here “crown” refers to the power a person has as a ruler over people. Alternate translation: “who gives people power to rule over others”
23:8 irz8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor whose merchants are princes 0 The merchants are compared to princes to emphasize how much power they had when they went to different lands. Alternate translation: “whose merchants are like princes”
23:8 qwj2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive whose traders are the honored ones of the earth 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whose traders the people of the earth give the highest honors”
23:9 fxa3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy her pride … her glory … her honored ones 0 Here “her” refers to the city of Tyre which represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “their pride … their glory … their honored one”
23:10 h9st rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Plow your land, as one plows the Nile, daughter of Tarshish. There is no longer a marketplace in Tyre 0 This could mean: (1) Isaiah is telling the people of Tarshish to start planting crops since they can no longer trade with Tyre or (2) Isaiah is telling the people of Tarshish they are free from Tyre’s control. Alternate translation: “Pass through your land like a river, daughter of Tarshish. The people of Tyre no longer have any power”
23:10 kfi3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy daughter of Tarshish 0 The “daughter” of a city represents the people of the city. Alternate translation: “the people of Tarshish” or “the people who live in Tarshish”
23:11 tv4t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh has reached out with his hand over the sea, and he has shaken the kingdoms 0 Yahweh using his power to control the sea and the people of mighty kingdoms is spoken of as if Yahweh reached out his hand and shook kingdoms.
23:11 vi8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy has reached out with his hand over the sea 0 Here “hand” refers to God’s power and control. Alternate translation: “has shown his power over the sea”
23:12 rx71 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy oppressed virgin daughter of Sidon 0 Here “virgin daughter” represents the people of Sidon. Alternate translation: “people of Sidon, because other people will oppress you”
23:13 ns9f See the land of the Chaldeans 0 Here, **Chaldeans** here is another name for Babylonians. Alternate translation: “See what happened to the land of the Babylonians” or “See what has happened to Babylonia”
23:13 y57n siege towers 0 Soldiers built towers or dirt ramps to attack over the walls of a city.
23:14 vas5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Howl, you ships of Tarshish 0 Here “ships” represents the men on the ships. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 23:1](../23/01.md).
23:14 mrm4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive for your refuge has been destroyed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for enemies have destroyed your refuge”
23:15 j3vb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years 0 Since people will no longer go to Tyre to buy or sell goods, it will be like they have forgotten about the city. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for seventy years it will be like the people have forgotten about Tyre”
23:15 sm6g rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers for seventy years 0 “for 70 years”
23:15 y1ei rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor like in the song of the prostitute 0 This speaks about the people of Tyre as if they were a prostitute.
23:16 q76p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Take a harp, go about the city, you forgotten prostitute … so that you may be remembered 0 This speaks about the people of Tyre as if they were a prostitute (verse 15). Just as a prostitute who is no longer popular may sing in the streets to regain her former lovers, the people of Tyre will try to get people from other nations to return to them to continue trading so that the people of Tyre will be rich and powerful again.
23:16 sp8f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive so that you may be remembered 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that people remember you” or “so that people return to you”
23:17 ri8p It will come about that 0 This phrase is used here to mark an important event that will happen. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
23:17 b4c1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers seventy years 0 “70 years”
23:17 bpr9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh will help Tyre 0 Here “Tyre” represents the people who live in Tyre. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will help the people of Tyre”
23:17 au66 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor she will start making money again by doing the work of a prostitute … of the earth 0 Isaiah compares the people of Tyre with a prostitute. Just as the prostitute sells herself for money to any man, the people of Tyre will again buy and sell to all kingdoms. Alternate translation: “And like a prostitute they will buy and sell will all the kingdoms of the earth”
23:18 jdj2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive They will not be stored up or kept 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The merchants will not store away their money”
23:18 if24 those who live in Yahweh’s presence 0 Alternate translation: “those who obey and serve Yahweh”
23:18 y9rb to supply them with abundant food 0 Alternate translation: “so they will have enough food to eat”
24:intro a6m4 0 # Isaiah 24 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nWhile it appears that this chapter is a continuation of the prophecy from the previous chapter, it actually looks at the whole of the Assyrian conquest as Yahweh’s punishment on the world. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Covenant\n\nThe mention of an “everlasting covenant” in this chapter is probably not to a specific covenant with Abraham or Moses. Instead, it is an expectation that mankind would obey Yahweh. Some consider this to be a covenant Yahweh made with Adam. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Reign of Yahweh\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator should not add explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])
24:1 itu1 to empty the earth 0 Alternate translation: “to make the earth desolate” or “to destroy everything on the earth”
24:2 v1j9 It will come about that 0 This phrase marks an important event. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
24:2 b89l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis as with … so with 0 What Yahweh will do is not stated here, but it is understood. This shows that God will treat all people the same way. Alternate translation: “as Yahweh scatters … so he will scatter”
24:2 h3vp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the priest … the giver of interest 0 In 24:2 Isaiah lists several classes of people. They can be expressed as plural nouns as in the UST. Alternate translation: “the priests … those who give interest”
24:2 bb46 the receiver of interest 0 “the one who owes money.” The word “interest” means the extra money someone has to pay so that he may borrow money.
24:2 i24e the giver of interest 0 Alternate translation: “the one who is owed money”
24:3 w1xb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The earth will be completely devastated and completely stripped 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will completely devastate the earth and he will remove everything with value”
24:3 fpt4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The earth 0 everything that is on the earth
24:4 br27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The earth dries up and withers, the world shrivels up and fades away 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “Everything on earth will dry up and die”
24:4 hpm9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The earth … the world 0 Both of these represent everything that is on the earth.
24:5 me5f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The earth is polluted by its inhabitants 0 The people sinning and making the earth unacceptable to God is spoken of as if the people made the earth physically unclean. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The people have polluted the earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
24:5 mw6f they have transgressed the laws, violated the statutes, and broken the everlasting covenant 0 Alternate translation: “they have not obeyed God’s laws and statutes, and they have broken God’s eternal covenant”
24:6 kcu7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a curse devours the earth 0 Yahweh cursing the earth and destroying it is spoken of as if a curse were either a wild animal that completely eats the earth or a fire that completely burns up the earth.
24:6 an7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive its inhabitants are found guilty 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will declare that the people are guilty”
24:10 nje8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The city of chaos has been broken down 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will break down the city of chaos”
24:10 q3a5 The city of chaos 0 This could mean: (1) the city was in chaos before the Lord breaks it down; the people did not obey God, the government was corrupt, and the city was full of drinking and parties, or (2) the city will be in chaos after God breaks it down. The walls and buildings that were once built strong and tall are now in ruins on the ground. With either meaning it does not mean one city. It refers to cities in general.
24:10 rk9d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive every house is closed up and empty 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the people will close up their houses and leave them empty”
24:11 wxr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism all joy is darkened, the gladness of the land has disappeared 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “all joy will be gone from the earth”
24:11 y34e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy gladness of the land 0 Here “land” represents the people of the earth.
24:12 dme3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns In the city is left a desolation 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **desolation**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “desolate” or “empty.” Alternate translation: “The city is desolate” or “The city is left empty”
24:12 zs7r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun In the city 0 This is not a specific city but cities in general.
24:13 j5j7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as when an olive tree is beaten, as the gleanings when the grape harvest is done 0 This compares the nations after Yahweh devastates the land to trees and vines after their fruit has been picked. This means there will be very few people left in the land.
24:14 zd27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom They will lift up their voices and shout the majesty of Yahweh 0 The phrase “lift up their voices” is an idiom that means to speak loudly. Alternate translation: “They will sing and shout about the majesty of Yahweh”
24:14 h3vk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit and will joyfully shout from the sea 0 Here “the sea” refers to the Mediterranean Sea which is west of Israel. Alternate translation: “and those in the west towards the sea will shout with joy”
24:15 l9zj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Therefore in the east glorify Yahweh 0 The phrase “in the east” represents the people living east of Israel. Isaiah is commanding these people as if they were there with him. But, he is talking to the people in the future after God devastates the earth. Alternate translation: “Therefore everyone from distant lands in the east will glorify Yahweh” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
24:15 w2f4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy in the isles of the sea give glory 0 Isaiah is commanding the people who live on the islands in the Mediterranean sea as if they were there with him. But, he is talking to the people in the future after God devastates the earth. Alternate translation: “everyone in the islands will give glory” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
24:15 ip1j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to the name of Yahweh 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to Yahweh”
24:16 zwk3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive we have heard 0 Here “we” refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel. Isaiah is describing something in the future as if it has already happened. Alternate translation: “we will hear” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
24:16 zy21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I have wasted away, I have wasted away 0 Isaiah repeats this phrase to emphasize his anguish. He was very concerned because he saw people who deceived others and did not do what they promised to do. Alternate translation: “I have become very weak”
24:16 u7aa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The treacherous have dealt treacherously; yes, the treacherous have dealt very treacherously 0 Isaiah repeats this phrase to emphasize his anguish. Alternate translation: “Indeed, those who deceive are now deceiving others” or “Indeed, the deceivers have acted deceitfully”
24:17 ec2n Terror, the pit, and the snare are upon you, inhabitants of the earth 0 Alternate translation: “You people of the earth will experience terror, the pit, and the snare”
24:17 f3ea rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the pit, and the snare 0 Here “pit” and “snare” represent all the different bad things that will happen to people. People will run away to escape one bad thing but they will just experience another bad thing.
24:18 gix7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche caught in the snare 0 Here the “snare” represents all the different bad things that will happen to people. People will run away to escape one bad thing but they will just experience another bad thing.
24:18 v3vg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be caught in the snare 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the snare will catch him”
24:18 h1cr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The windows of the heavens will be opened 0 This speaks of large amounts of rain falling from the sky as if Yahweh opened a window in the sky and let the water pour through. Alternate translation: “The sky will split open and torrents of rain will fall”
24:18 irf6 the foundations of the earth will shake 0 The word “foundation” normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. Isaiah says even the structure that holds the earth will shake. Alternate translation: “the earth will shake terribly” or “there will be a terrible earthquake”
24:19 r4mc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The earth will be completely broken, the earth ripped apart; the earth will be violently shaken 0 These passive clauses can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The earth will break and split apart; the earth will shake violently”
24:20 gqx5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The earth will stagger like a drunken man and it will sway back and forth like a hut 0 These similes emphasize how the earth will shake back and forth.
24:20 j3i5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Its sin will be heavy on it and it will fall and never rise again 0 This speaks of the earth as if it were a person and transgressions were a heavy object. The person tries to carry the heavy weight but the weight causes the person to fall and not be able to stand back up. Here the earth represents the people of the earth who cause Yahweh to destroy the earth because of their sins. Alternate translation: “The sins of the people are many and so Yahweh will destroy the earth, and the earth will be like a person who falls and cannot get back up” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
24:21 l4tv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the host of the heaven 0 A host is an army. Here “the host of the heaven” refers to the many powerful spirits in the heavens. It can be stated clearly that they are evil. Alternate translation: “the powerful beings” or “the evil spiritual beings”
24:22 m1h2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive They will be gathered together, prisoners in a pit, and will be shut up in a prison 0 Here “pit” refers to a dark room or hole in a prison. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will gather them together as his prisoners and lock them in the dungeon of a prison”
24:22 a1hh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive they will be punished 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will punish them”
24:23 jhu9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Then the moon will be ashamed, and the sun disgraced 0 The sun and the moon are described as a person who is ashamed of being in front of someone with greater power. In the presence of Yahweh, the light of the moon and sun will seem less bright.
25:intro p6t1 0 # Isaiah 25 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter shifts from being a prophecy against the nations to the personal praises of Isaiah. He praises Yahweh for the deliverance of his people. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/deliverer]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Reign of the Messiah\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator should not add explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])
25:1 fw3y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy praise your name 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “praise you”
25:1 e938 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive things planned long ago 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “things you planned long ago”
25:1 th82 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns in perfect faithfulness 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” Alternate translation: “because you are perfectly faithful”
25:2 a6p6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the city 0 This is not referring to a certain city. It means cities in general.
25:3 s2dv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy a city of ruthless nations 0 Here “city” and “nations” represent the people who live there.
25:4 c6es rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you have been a place of safety … a shelter … a shelter from the storm … a shade from the heat 0 Yahweh protecting his people is spoken of as if he were a place that the people could go to be safe and comforted.
25:4 n142 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile When the breath of the ruthless was like a storm against a wall 0 Ruthless people oppressing the people of God is spoken of as if they were a storm beating against a wall.
25:4 y8cs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the ruthless 0 This is a nominal adjective. Alternate translation: “ruthless people” or “those who are ruthless”
25:5 bf3r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like heat in a dry land 0 This compares the enemies of God’s people to the heat that dries up the land. This emphasizes how much the enemies cause the people of God to suffer.
25:5 t81k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as the heat is subdued … ruthless ones is answered 0 Yahweh stopping ruthless people from singing and boasting is compared to a cloud providing shade on a hot day. This emphasizes that Yahweh comforts his people by stopping those who cause them to suffer.
25:5 pqi6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive as the heat is subdued by the shade of a cloud 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “just like when a cloud passes overhead and subdues the heat”
25:5 adv7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the song of the ruthless ones is answered 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you will stop the ruthless people from singing”
25:7 m1ll rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the covering over all peoples, the web woven over all the nations 0 Death, suffering, and sadness are spoken of as if they were a dark cloud or web that covers everyone on the earth. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
25:8 n8s2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will swallow up death forever 0 Yahweh causing people to live forever is spoken of as if he would swallow death.
25:8 p3ey rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the disgrace of his people he will take away from all the earth 0 Yahweh causing the people to never be ashamed again is spoken of as if disgrace were an object that Yahweh would take away.
25:9 bh2b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive It will be said 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will say”
25:10 d1jb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy For on this mountain the hand of Yahweh will rest 0 The “hand” represents God’s power. For Yahweh’s hand to rest on “this mountain” means he will protect his people Alternate translation: “The power of Yahweh will be on this mountain” or “For on Mount Zion Yahweh will protect his people” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
25:10 zd1u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Moab will be trampled down in his place, even as straw is trampled down in a pit filled with manure 0 Yahweh destroying the people of Moab is spoken of as if he would step on them and crush them. This is compared to how people trampled on straw to mix it with manure. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
25:10 liv7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Moab will be trampled down in his place 0 Here Moab represents the people of Moab. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will trample the people in the land of Moab” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
25:11 dsp1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile They will spread their hands … his hands to swim 0 This simile emphasizes how badly Yahweh will humiliate the people of Moab. They will spread their hands in dung like a swimmer spreads his hands in water.
25:11 kk8y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will bring down their pride 0 Yahweh humiliating a proud person is spoken of as if pride were something high and Yahweh would cause it to be low.
25:11 cmz8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy in spite of the skill of their hands 0 Here “hands” represents the power to do or make something. Alternate translation: “in spite of the great things they have built” or “in spite of the great things they have done”
25:12 i3tb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Your high fortress walls he will bring down to the ground, to the dust 0 This speaks of Yahweh causing armies to bring down the walls as if he himself were going to bring them down. Alternate translation: “He will send an army to bring your high fortress walls to the ground, to the dust”
25:12 m6re rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person Your high fortress 0 Here “Your” refers to the people of Moab. It can be stated in third person to be consistent with the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Their high fortress”
26:intro im4d 0 # Isaiah 26 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “That day”\nThis is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator should not add explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
26:1 u2d5 In that day 0 Alternate translation: “At that time”
26:1 p5n8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive this song will be sung in the land of Judah 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the people in the land of Judah will sing this song”
26:1 vc1e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor God has made salvation its walls and ramparts 0 God’s power to protect and save his people is spoken of as if his salvation were walls around a city.
26:2 q8p1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the righteous nation that keeps faith 0 Here “nation” represents the people. Alternate translation: “the righteous and faithful people”
26:3 x8wp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The mind that is stayed on you 0 Here “mind” represents a person’s thoughts. Also “you” refers to Yahweh. The phrase “stayed on you” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “The person who continually thinks about you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
26:4 k4ey rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh, is an everlasting rock 0 Yahweh having the power to protect his people is spoken of as if he were a tall rock where people could go to escape from their enemies.
26:5 vry8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will bring down those who live proudly 0 Yahweh humiliating those who are proud is spoken of as if proud people were up high and he would cause them to come down low.
26:5 lh5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the fortified city 0 This means fortified cities in general not a specific city.
26:5 mc9n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he will lay low … he will level 0 Yahweh causing an army to destroy fortified cities is spoken of as if Yahweh would do it himself.
26:6 uu7e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism It will be trampled down by the feet of the poor and the treading of the needy 0 Both statements mean the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The poor and oppressed people will trample on the ruins of the city” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
26:7 a6cq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The path of the righteous is level … the path of the righteous you make straight 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. People obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if they were walking on his path. Yahweh ensuring the people that what they do is right is spoken of as if he were making the path level and straight for them. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
26:8 xz29 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor in the path of your judgments, Yahweh, we wait for you 0 Doing what Yahweh judged to be right is spoken of walking on his path. Alternate translation: “we wait for you, Yahweh, as we continue to do what you judged to be right”
26:8 xk92 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive we wait 0 Here “we” refers to Isaiah and all righteous people who are speaking to Yahweh.
26:8 cn7i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your name and your reputation are our desire 0 Here “name” and “reputation” represent Yahweh’s character which represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “our only desire is to honor you”
26:9 uq9i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor my spirit within me seeks you earnestly 0 Wanting to know Yahweh and his laws better is spoken of as if the person were seeking to find Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I earnestly want to know you better”
26:9 psm8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche my spirit within me seeks you earnestly 0 Here “spirit” represents the speaker as a whole.
26:10 yd2r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Let favor be shown to the wicked one, but he will not learn righteousness 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Even if Yahweh is kind to wicked people, they still do not learn to do what is right”
26:10 v6id rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the wicked one 0 This means wicked people in general.
26:10 we5i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy In the land of uprightness 0 Here “land” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “In the land where the people do what is right”
26:10 cl5a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy does not see the majesty of Yahweh 0 Here “see” represents realizing something. Alternate translation: “does not realize that Yahweh is great”
26:11 nvi7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your hand is lifted up 0 Yahweh preparing to punish wicked people is spoken of as if his hand were raised and about to hit the wicked people.
26:11 c1n1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy they will see your zeal for the people 0 Here “see” represents realizing something. Alternate translation: “they will realize that you are eager to bless your people”
26:11 q4xz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive be put to shame 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they will be ashamed”
26:11 bh8p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor fire of your adversaries will devour them 0 Yahweh punishing and completely destroying his adversaries is spoken of as if he would send a fire that will completely burn them up.
26:11 b1pq fire of your adversaries 0 Here “of” does not mean the fire belongs to the adversaries but that the fire is intended to be used against the adversaries. Alternate translation: “your fire will completely burn them up”
26:12 f2jb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive for us 0 Here “us” refers to Isaiah and includes all the righteous people.
26:13 pb5l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy but we praise your name alone 0 Here “name” represents the person of God. Alternate translation: “but we praise you alone”
26:14 yt3t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor made every memory of them to perish 0 Yahweh causing people to no longer remember those he destroyed is spoken of as if Yahweh made their memory perish or die.
26:15 mic5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism You have increased the nation, Yahweh, you have increased the nation 0 This clause is repeated for emphasis. Here “nation” represents the people. Alternate translation: “You have greatly increased the number of people in our nation” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
26:16 m26y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person they looked to you 0 Here “they” refers to the people of Israel. This would include Isaiah. Alternate translation: “we looked to you”
26:16 vn3a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom looked to you 0 This idiom means they asked Yahweh for help.
26:16 q3db rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns when your discipline was on them 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **discipline**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “when you disciplined them”
26:17 w2a9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As a pregnant woman … cries out in her labor pains 0 This compares the people to a woman giving birth. This emphasizes their suffering and crying when Yahweh disciplined them.
26:18 j8g2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile but it is as if we have only given birth to wind 0 “but it is as if we have only given birth to air” or “it is like we gave birth to nothing.” This is a simile that emphasizes that the people’s suffering resulted in nothing. Alternate translation: “but nothing good resulted from it”
26:18 qd8n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy We have not brought salvation to the earth, and the inhabitants of the world have not fallen 0 Here “earth” represents the people who live on the earth. The meaning is unclear, but it seems to mean that the people of Israel have not been able to save themselves or other people by defeating their enemy in battle. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
26:18 v5pe rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns We have not brought salvation to the earth 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **salvation**, you can express the same idea with the verb “save.” Alternate translation: “We have not saved the inhabitants of the earth”
26:18 il5k and the inhabitants of the world have not fallen 0 Alternate translation: “nor have we caused the wicked people of the world to fall in battle”
26:19 tuj5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj Your dead will live 0 This can be reworded so that the nominal adjective “dead” is expressed as the verb “have died.” Alternate translation: “Your people who have died will live again”
26:19 ak1f Your dead 0 This could mean: (1) “Your” refers to Yahweh or (2) “Your” refers to the people of Israel. If you choose option two you could translate it as “Our dead.”
26:19 d48t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Awake 0 This speaks of dead people coming back to life as if they were waking up from sleep.
26:19 cvc4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism you who live in the dust 0 This is a polite way of referring to those who have died. Alternate translation: “those who are dead and buried”
26:19 zv5y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for your dew is the dew of light 0 Yahweh acting kindly towards his people and bringing them back to life is spoken of as if it were the dew that causes the plants to live.
26:19 gnz9 for your dew 0 This could mean: (1) “your” refers to Yahweh and this is the dew that Yahweh gives or (2) “your” refers to the people of Israel and this is the dew they receive from Yahweh.
26:19 m8v6 dew of light 0 This could mean: (1) “light” refers to Yahweh’s power to make dead people alive again. Alternate translation: “dew from Yahweh” or (2) “light” refers to the morning time when dew is on the plants. Alternate translation: “dew in the morning”
26:19 gb4p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the earth will bring forth its dead 0 “the earth will give birth to those who died.” Yahweh causing dead people to come back to life is spoken of as if the earth would give birth to those who have died. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh will cause those who have died to rise from the earth”
26:20 k2ad rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns until the indignation has passed by 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **indignation**, you can express the same idea with the adjective “angry.” Alternate translation: “until Yahweh is no longer angry with us”
26:21 rcq2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification the earth will uncover her bloodshed, and will no longer conceal her slain 0 Yahweh revealing all murders that have happened on the earth so that he can punish the murderers is spoken of as if the earth itself will reveal everyone who has been murdered.
27:intro p2zg 0 # Isaiah 27 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Leviathan\n\nThis was an ancient type of dragon or serpent. It is possible that this is a reference to Satan, who is also described as a serpent and a dragon. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/satan]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “That day”\nThis is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator should not add explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
27:1 u82j On that day 0 Alternate translation: “At that time”
27:1 zm2d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh with his hard, great and fierce sword will punish 0 Yahweh having the power to destroy his enemies is spoken of as if he had strong, large sword.
27:2 w1yf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor A vineyard of wine, sing of it 0 “Sing about the vineyard of wine.” This speaks about the people of Israel as if they were a vineyard that produced fruit. Alternate translation: “Sing about the people of Israel as if they were a vineyard that produced grapes for wine”
27:3 rpd8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism night and day 0 The words “night” and “day” are combined here to mean “all the time.” Alternate translation: “all the time” or “continually”
27:4 av5d Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nThis continues to speak about the people of Israel as if they were a vineyard ([Isaiah 27:2–3](./02.md)).
27:4 s3xp I am not angry, Oh, that there were briers and thorns! In battle I would march against them 0 Alternate translation: “I am not angry. If there were briers and thorns I would march against them in battle”
27:4 z6jj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis I am not angry 0 It is understood that Yahweh is not angry with his people any longer. Alternate translation: “I am not angry with my people any longer”
27:4 v9e5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor that there were briers and thorns 0 The enemies of the people of Israel are spoken of as if they were briers and thorns growing in the vineyard.
27:4 bic8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor In battle I would march against them 0 Yahweh fighting his enemies is spoken of as if he were a warrior in an army.
27:4 ij4d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I would march against them; I would burn them all together 0 Here Isaiah combines different images to speak of Yahweh’s enemies. He speaks of them as if they are briers and thorns but also as soldiers in an army.
27:5 j31l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns unless they grasp my protection 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **protection**, you can express the same idea with the verb “protect.” Alternate translation: “unless they ask me to protect them”
27:5 je5d make peace with me; let them make peace with me 0 Alternate translation: “they ask to live peacefully with me; I want them to live peacefully with me”
27:6 cx3i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor In the coming day 0 This speaks about a day as if it travels and arrives somewhere. Alternate translation: “In the future”
27:6 f8jg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Jacob will take root; Israel will blossom and bud 0 Yahweh blessing the people of Israel and causing them to prosper is spoken of as if they were a vine that grows roots and blossoms. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Israel will prosper like a vine that has taken root and blossomed”
27:6 jk11 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jacob … Israel 0 Here “Jacob” and “Israel” are metonyms that represent the descendants of Jacob.
27:6 eia2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they will fill the surface of the ground with fruit 0 Yahweh causing the people of Israel to prosper greatly so that they can help other people is spoken of as if they were a vine that grows so much fruit that it would cover the earth.
27:7 am12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Has Yahweh attacked Jacob and Israel as he attacked those nations who attacked them? 0 The question is used to contrast the severity of God’s punishment. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has certainly punished the enemy nations more severely than he punished the people of Israel.”
27:7 r118 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jacob … Israel 0 These represent the descendants of Jacob.
27:7 ukm8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Have Jacob and Israel been killed as in the slaughter of those nations that were killed by them? 0 This question too is used to contrast the severity of God’s punishment. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has not killed the people of Israel like they killed their enemies from other nations.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
27:8 f4he rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you In exact measure you have contended 0 Here “you” refers to God. Yahweh punishing his people as much as they needed is spoken of as if God’s punishment were something that could be measured. Alternate translation: “But you did punish them as much as was needed” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
27:8 kfc2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy sending Jacob and Israel away 0 This represents the descendants of Jacob. Alternate translation: “sending the Israelites away”
27:8 rqg2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he drove them away with his fierce breath in the day of the east wind 0 Yahweh’s power to send his people away to a foreign country is spoken of as if Yahweh used his breath to blow them to a foreign country. Alternate translation: “the power of Yahweh drove them out like a fierce wind from the east”
27:9 nf4r So in this way 0 This could mean: (1) “this” refers to Yahweh sending the people into exile as Isaiah mentioned in the previous verse or (2) “this” refers to the actions that Isaiah will mention in the next part of verse 9.
27:9 l9b7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the iniquity of Jacob will be atoned for 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will purge the sin from the Israelites” or “Yahweh will forgive the sins of the Israelites”
27:9 yjh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy iniquity of Jacob … removal of his sin 0 Here “Jacob” represents the descendants of Jacob. Alternate translation: “iniquity of the Israelites … removal of their sins”
27:9 zy5g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the full fruit 0 This speaks of the results of an action as if it were the fruit that grows as on a tree or vine. Alternate translation: “the result”
27:9 x5ca rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he will make all the altar stones as chalk and crushed to pieces, and no Asherah poles or incense altars will remain standing 0 Here “he” refers to Jacob who represents his descendants. Alternate translation: “They will completely destroy all the altars on which they sacrifice to false gods, and they will remove all the Asherah idols and the altars on which they burn incense to false gods”
27:10 fw6l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture For the fortified city is … consumes its branches 0 Here Isaiah describes an event that will happen in the future as if it already happened. This emphasizes that it certainly will happen.
27:10 na1y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive For the fortified city is desolate, the habitation is deserted and forsaken like the wilderness 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The cities that were strong and had many people living in them will become empty like a desert”
27:10 b7hh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun the fortified city … the habitation 0 This does not refer to a specific city or habitation but to cities and habitations in general.
27:10 mv1s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun a calf feeds, and there he lies down and consumes 0 Here “calf” represents calves or cattle in general. Alternate translation: “calves feed, and there they lie down and consume”
27:11 k9fn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor When the boughs … not a people of understanding 0 The people becoming so weak because they disobey Yahweh so that enemies can easily destroy them is spoken of as if they are dry branches that women break off of a tree.
27:11 k85z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive When the boughs are withered, they will be broken off. Women will come and make fires with them 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When the branches wither, women will come and break them off and make fires with them”
27:11 pi5e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit this is not a people of understanding 0 This can be made more explicit. Alternate translation: “this is not a people who understands Yahweh or his law”
27:11 js5n a people 0 This could mean: (1) “people” refers to the people of Israel or (2) “people” refers the people of foreign nations who oppress the people of Israel.
27:11 v3yx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Therefore their Maker will not have compassion on them, and he who made them will not be merciful to them 0 Both clauses mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “Because they do not understand, Yahweh, the one who made them, will not be merciful to them”
27:12 n43h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh will thresh 0 Yahweh gathering his people to bring them back from the foreign nations to the land of Israel is spoken of as if he were threshing wheat to separate the grain from the chaff.
27:12 nx3t from the Euphrates River to the Wadi of Egypt 0 Isaiah mentions the Euphrates River and the Wadi of Egypt to mean that Yahweh will bring back the people of Israel who were exiled in lands near those waters, that is, Assyria and Egypt. The Euphrates River is northeast of Israel, and the Wadi of Egypt is southwest of Israel.
27:12 v8t2 the Wadi of Egypt 0 Alternate translation: “the brook of Egypt”
27:12 gz3e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you … will be gathered together one by one 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will gather you together one by one”
27:13 i56v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive a great trumpet will be blown 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone will blow a trumpet loudly”
27:13 qs1g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the perishing ones in the land of Assyria will come, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt 0 The understood information can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “those who are in exile and dying in the land of Assyria and the land of Egypt will return to the land of Israel”
27:13 bdq2 holy mountain 0 The “holy mountain” is Mount Zion, in Jerusalem. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 11:9](../11/09.md).
28:intro np8h 0 # Isaiah 28 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\n\nThere are many metaphors used to describe Yahweh’s punishment as well as the sin of the people of Ephraim. In one such metaphor, they are described as being drunk. Construction and weather metaphors are also used in this chapter. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “That day”\nThis is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
28:1 j6gg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Woe to the proud garland … on the head of the lush Valley of those who are overcome with wine 0 A “garland” is a crown made of flowers. Here it represents the city of Samaria, the capital of Israel, which sits above a fertile valley. Samaria and its people being destroyed is spoken of as if the flowers in the garland will grow old and stop being beautiful.
28:2 s6hx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the Lord sends one who is mighty and strong 0 Here “one” refers to a mighty king who also represents his powerful army. Alternate translation: “the Lord sends a king with his powerful army”
28:2 xf11 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile storm of hail 0 A “storm of hail” or hailstorm happens when hard pieces of ice fall from the sky. Here it is a simile that refers to the enemy army that Yahweh will send to destroy the people of Samaria.
28:2 ew8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will throw each garland crown down to the ground 0 The king and his powerful army destroying the people of Samaria and their city is spoken of as if the king will throw the people’s garlands onto the ground.
28:3 pp4k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The proud garland of the drunkards of Ephraim will be trodden underfoot 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemy army will crush the proud drunkards of Samaria as if they were crushing flowers under their feet”
28:3 wtt6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor proud garland … of Ephraim 0 A “garland” is a crown made of flowers. Here it represents the city of Samaria, the capital of Israel, which sits above a fertile valley.
28:4 qq5i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor that is on the head of the rich valley 0 The city of Samaria, the capital of Israel, sits above a fertile valley.
28:4 yw2k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile will be as the first ripe fig … gulps it down 0 This speaks of the enemy soldiers seeing the beauty of Samaria and quickly plundering it as if they were a person who sees the first fig of the season and quickly eats it.
28:5 twb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will become a beautiful crown and a diadem of beauty 0 Yahweh is spoken of as if he were to become a beautiful crown that the people who honor him as their true king would wear.
28:5 llj8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet a beautiful crown and a diadem of beauty 0 These mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “a beautiful crown”
28:6 mx85 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns a spirit of justice for him who sits in judgment, and strength for those who 0 This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns “justice” and “strength” are expressed as adjectives. These words can begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cause the judges to be just and will cause to be strong those who”
28:6 bay6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom a spirit of justice 0 A person who has a “spirit of justice” is someone who has the characteristic of justice and is a just person.
28:6 sak7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom sits in judgment 0 This idiom means the person has the authority to judge.
28:6 t37f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom strength for those who turn back their enemies at their gates 0 Here “to turn back” is an idiom that means to defeat in battle. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cause the soldiers to be strong so that they defeat their enemies when the enemies attack their city”
28:7 a7gn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun The priest and the prophet 0 This does not mean a specific priest or prophet. It refers to priests and prophets in general. Alternate translation: “The priests and the prophets”
28:7 lfv9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism reel with wine, and stagger with strong drink 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the priests and the prophets cannot do their job because they are very drunk. Alternate translation: “stumble around because they are drunk”
28:7 v8we rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they are swallowed up by wine 0 Their drinking so much that they can no longer think properly is spoken of as if the wine swallowed them. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the wine is causing them to be confused” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
28:7 d4bm staggering in vision and reeling in decision 0 Just like they are too drunk to walk correctly, they are too drunk to understand the visions God gives them or to make good decisions.
28:9 ny13 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To whom will he teach knowledge, and to whom will he explain the message? 0 The drunk prophets and priests use a question to criticize Isaiah, who is trying to correct them. Alternate translation: “The drunk prophets and priests say, ‘Isaiah should not be trying to teach us about Yahweh’s message!’”
28:9 t6vi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To those who are weaned from milk or to those just taken from the breasts? 0 The drunk prophets and priests use a question to criticize Isaiah, because they feel that he is treating them like babies. Alternate translation: “He should not treat us like babies!” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
28:10 fb5v For it is command upon command, command upon command; rule upon rule, rule upon rule; here a little, there a little 0 The drunk prophets and priests criticize Isaiah because they feel that Isaiah is repeating simple commands as if he were talking to a child.
28:11 hfl6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche with mocking lips and a foreign tongue he will speak to this people 0 Here “lips” and “tongue” represent the foreigners who speak a different language than the Israelites do. It is implied that this refers to the Assyrian army that will attack Israel. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will speak to this people through enemy soldiers who will speak a foreign language” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
28:12 gkx1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns This is the rest 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **rest**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “This is the resting place”
28:12 se68 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns give rest to him who is weary 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **rest**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “let whoever is tired come and rest”
28:12 v7ew rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns this is the refreshing 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **refreshing**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “this is the place where you can be refreshed”
28:13 z6r4 So the word of Yahweh 0 Alternate translation: “So Yahweh’s message”
28:13 ds6z command upon command, command upon command; rule upon rule, rule upon rule; here a little, there a little 0 These are the words that the drunk priests and prophets used to criticize how Isaiah teaches them. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 28:10](../28/10.md).
28:13 i6sd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive so that they may go and fall backward, and be broken, ensnared, and captured 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in order that the army of Assyria will come and defeat them and take them as captives”
28:13 b7le rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor go and fall backward, and be broken 0 People losing in battle to the enemy army is spoken of as if the people will fall down and break.
28:13 c32b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ensnared 0 The enemy soldiers capturing the people of Israel is spoken of as if they were hunters that catch an animal in a snare.
28:15 u1bd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol we have reached an agreement 0 Both of these statements mean basically the same thing. This could mean: (1) the leaders of Jerusalem have used magic or sorcery to try to make an agreement with the gods of the place of the dead so that these gods would protect them from dying or (2) this is a metaphor that speaks of the leaders having made an agreement with the leaders of Egypt. The leaders of Jerusalem were so confident that the Egyptians would protect that it was like they had made an agreement with the gods of the place of the dead. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
28:15 x2p3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor So when the overwhelming whip passes through, it will not reach us 0 This speaks of Yahweh’s judgment and punishment as if it were a whip that would strike the people. And the whip is spoken of as if it were a flood that would pass through Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “As a result, when everyone else is suffering and dying, nothing will harm us”
28:15 r8ix rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For we have made a lie our refuge, and taken shelter in falsehood 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. A “lie” and “falsehood” are spoken of as if they were places where a person could go to hide. The leaders in Jerusalem would not have said they trust in a lie. They believed they were truly safe. But Isaiah knows they are not safe, because they trust in lies. Alternate translation: “For lies and falsehoods have become like a place where we can hide from danger” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
28:15 ux1b a lie our refuge … taken shelter in falsehood 0 This could mean: (1) the leaders trust in their own lies that they have said in order to protect themselves or (2) the leaders trust that the covenant they have made with the false gods of the place of the dead will keep them safe or (3) the leaders trust that the agreement they have made with the Egyptians will keep them safe.
28:16 tf5e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will lay in Zion a foundation stone … sure foundation 0 Yahweh sending a strong person to help the people of Israel is spoken of as if Yahweh is constructing a strong foundation for a building.
28:17 yd66 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will make justice the measuring stick, and righteousness the plumbline 0 Yahweh testing according to his justice and righteousness to determine if the people are just and righteous is spoken of as if he were a builder using tools to determine that something is the correct length and perfectly level.
28:17 xg82 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Hail will sweep away 0 Yahweh causing a large amount of hail to fall is spoken of as if it would be an overwhelming flood. Alternate translation: “Hailstorms will destroy”
28:17 gv6t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Hail … the floodwaters 0 This could mean: (1) these are a synecdoche representing anything in general that will cause destruction or (2) these are a metaphor referring to the enemy army that Yahweh will send to destroy the people of Jerusalem. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
28:17 adc4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the refuge of lies … the hiding place 0 This speaks about “lies” as if they were a place a person could go to hide. They represent what the leaders of Jerusalem trusted in to keep them safe from Yahweh’s punishment. This could mean: (1) the leaders trust in their own lies that they have said in order to protect themselves or (2) the leaders trust that the covenant they have made with the false gods of the place of the dead will keep them safe or (3) the leaders trust that the agreement they have made with the Egyptians will keep them safe. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 28:15](../28/15.md). (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
28:18 ah82 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Your covenant with death will be dissolved, and your agreement with Sheol will not stand 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will cancel the covenant you have with death, and I will cancel the agreement you have with Sheol”
28:18 fvw2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor covenant with death … agreement with Sheol 0 This could mean: (1) the leaders of Jerusalem had used magic or sorcery to try to make an agreement with the gods of the place of the dead so that these gods would protect them from dying or (2) this is a metaphor that speaks of the leaders having made an agreement with the leaders of Egypt. The leaders of Jerusalem were so confident that the Egyptians would protect that it was like they had made an agreement with the gods of the place of the dead. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 28:15](../28/15.md).
28:18 mry1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche When the raging flood passes through 0 This could mean: (1) “flood” is a synecdoche that represents anything in general that will cause destruction or (2) “flood” is a metaphor referring to the enemy army that Yahweh will send to destroy the people of Jerusalem. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
28:18 var2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will be overwhelmed by it 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it will overwhelm you” or “it will destroy you”
28:19 g9nc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom morning by morning 0 This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “every day”
28:19 g4wk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism by day and night 0 This means “throughout the entire day”
28:20 ex86 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs For the bed is too short for a man to stretch out on, and the blanket too narrow for him to wrap himself in 0 This was probably a proverb that the people knew at the time. It means that what they believe will keep them safe from Yahweh’s punishment will disappoint them like a bed that is too short or a blanket that is too narrow.
28:21 pp9n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom Yahweh will rise up 0 Yahweh preparing to act is spoken of as if he were sitting and then rising up.
28:21 e2cw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Mount Perazim … Valley of Gibeon 0 These refer to places where God miraculously defeated enemy armies. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
28:21 l963 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet his strange work … his strange deed 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. This work is strange because God is using a foreign army to defeat the people of Jerusalem rather than helping the people of Jerusalem defeat their enemies.
28:22 upp3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your bonds will be tightened 0 Yahweh punishing the people even more severely is spoken of as if he would tighten their bonds. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will tighten your bonds” or “Yahweh will punish you even more severely” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
28:22 fdu9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns a decree of destruction on the earth 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **destruction**, you can express the same idea with the verb “destroy.” Alternate translation: “that he is going to destroy people throughout the land”
28:23 bjv1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables 0 # General Information:\n\nThis begins a parable that ends in 28:29.
28:23 twz5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Pay attention and listen to my voice; be attentive and listen to my words 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second phrase is used to strengthen the first.
28:23 lsh4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to my voice 0 Here “voice” represents what Isaiah says. Alternate translation: “to what I say”
28:24 nvu3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Does a farmer who plows all day to sow, only plow the ground? Does he continually break up and harrow the field? 0 Isaiah uses rhetorical questions to make the people think deeply. Alternate translation: “A farmer does not plow the ground over and over and continually work the soil without ever sowing seed.”
28:25 fsr6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion does he not scatter caraway seed, sow the cumin, put in the wheat in rows and the barley in the right place, and the spelt at its edges? 0 Isaiah uses a question to make the people of Jerusalem think deeply. If your language does not have a word for each of these seeds, they can be stated more generally. Alternate translation: “he will certainly plant each kind of seed in the correct way and in the proper places.”
28:25 pd1v rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown caraway … cumin 0 These are names of plants that are spices. Translators may represent them in general as seeds of spices used to spice food.
28:25 v8fq rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown wheat … barley … spelt 0 These are all names of plants that are grains. Translators may represent them in general as seeds of grains.
28:26 x6gc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism His God instructs him; he teaches him wisely 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “Yahweh helps the farmer know how to care for each kind of plant”
28:27 w7aj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the caraway seed is not threshed with a sledge 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the farmer does not separate the caraway seed from the plant with a heavy club”
28:27 j2hy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive nor is a cartwheel rolled over the cumin 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “nor does he roll a heavy wheel over the cumin seed”
28:27 r6a8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive but caraway is beaten with a stick, and cumin with a rod 0 Isaiah describes the correct way for a farmer to separate the seed from the plant. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but he beats the caraway with a stick, and he beats cumin with a rod”
28:28 zb1a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Grain is ground for bread but not too finely 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The farmer grinds the grain for bread but not so that it is too small”
28:29 vw1a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit This too comes … excellent in wisdom 0 This concludes the parable started in [Isaiah 28:23](../28/23.md). The implied lesson of the parable is that farmers are wise enough to listen to Yahweh’s instructions about planting and threshing. But the leaders of Jerusalem are foolish for not listening to Yahweh’s instructions that he is speaking through Isaiah.
28:29 fh5n Yahweh of hosts 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:9](../01/09.md).
29:intro e58i 0 # Isaiah 29 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter begins a series of “woes” against specific nations. It presents judgments against the kingdoms of Ephraim and eventually Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/woe]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Ariel\n\nThis is another name for Jerusalem. It is an uncommon name.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Prophecies\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
29:1 p34x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Woe to Ariel 0 Here “Ariel” represents the people who live in the city of Ariel. Alternate translation: “How terrible it will be for the people of Ariel”
29:1 kp7k rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ariel 0 This is another name for Jerusalem, and it means “altar.” If possible translate this as “Ariel” rather than “Jerusalem” since the meaning of “Ariel” is important in 29:2.
29:1 wh6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony Add year to year; let the festivals come round 0 “Keep celebrating your festival year after year.” This is an ironic statement. Yahweh tells the people to keep celebrating their festivals where they sacrifice to him, but he knows it will not prevent him from destroying them.
29:2 rhv8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy But I will besiege 0 The word “I” refers to Yahweh. This represents Yahweh causing an enemy army to besiege Jerusalem.
29:2 fh77 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy she will 0 Here “she” refers to Ariel, which represents the people of Ariel. Alternate translation: “the people of Ariel will”
29:2 w19k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet mourning and lamenting 0 The words “mourning” and “lamenting” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of mourning. Alternate translation: “they will mourn deeply”
29:2 uey1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like Ariel 0 Translators may add a footnote that says, “The name Ariel means ‘altar.’”
29:3 aqb4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will encamp against you 0 The word “I” refers to Yahweh. This represents Yahweh causing an enemy army to surround Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “I will command the army of your enemies to surround you”
29:3 z8vg rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown palisade … siege works 0 A “palisade” is a tower armies would build to attack cities with high walls. Also “siege works” refers to other various weapons armies would build to attack cities.
29:4 xp4f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive You will be brought down 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Your enemy will bring you down” or “Your enemy will humble you”
29:4 ak9b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile will speak from the ground; your speech will be low from the dust. Your voice will sound like a spirit that speaks from the ground, and out of the dust your speech will whisper 0 All of these statements mean basically the same thing. They emphasize that the people who once spoke with proud words will be weak and grieving after the enemy defeats them. Alternate translation: “you will only be able to speak with weak whispers like a spirit speaking from where dead people dwell” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
29:5 ei77 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The great number of your invaders will become like fine dust, and the multitude of the ruthless ones as chaff that passes away 0 This emphasizes how weak and insignificant the invading army is before God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will easily remove the horde of your invaders and the multitude of the ruthless ones”
29:5 vl7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the ruthless ones as chaff 0 The translator can supply the verb “will become.” Alternate translation: “the soldiers who show you no mercy will become as chaff”
29:6 gh4q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you Yahweh of hosts will come to you 0 The word “you” refers to the people of Jerusalem. This could mean: (1) “Yahweh of hosts will come to help you” or (2) “Yahweh of hosts will come to punish you.”
29:7 th7g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet It will be like a dream, a vision of the night 0 The phrase “a vision of the night” is the same thing as “a dream.” The two phrases emphasize that soon it will be like the invading army was never there. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
29:7 t56e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy fight against Ariel 0 The name “Ariel” is another name for Jerusalem, and it represents the people who live there. See how you translated “Ariel” in [Isaiah 29:1](../29/01.md). Alternate translation: “fight against the people of Ariel”
29:7 h99v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy her stronghold. They will attack her and her fortifications to press upon her 0 The word “her” refers to Ariel which represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “their stronghold. They will attack the city of Ariel and its defenses and cause the people to be in great distress”
29:8 ncq1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile It will be like when a hungry man dreams he is eating … his thirst not quenched 0 These similes mean that the enemy will expect victory but they will fail because God will not allow them to conquer Jerusalem.
29:8 b3vv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yes, so will be the great number of nations that fights against Mount Zion 0 Here “Mount Zion” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “Yes, this will be what happens to the armies from the nations who fight against the people who live on Mount Zion”
29:9 thb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Astonish yourselves and be astonished 0 The word “yourselves” refers to the people of Jerusalem. Why they are astonished can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Be astonished at what I am telling you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
29:9 un3a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor blind yourselves and be blind 0 The people ignoring what Yahweh says is spoken of as if they would make themselves blind. Alternate translation: “keep being ignorant and spiritually blind to what I am showing you”
29:9 h71h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Be drunk, but not with wine; stagger, but not with beer 0 The people being senseless and not understanding what Yahweh is doing is spoken of as if they were drunk. Alternate translation: “Be senseless like a drunk person, but it is not because you have drank too much wine or beer”
29:10 g6xx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For Yahweh has poured out on you the spirit of deep sleep 0 Here “the spirit of” means “to have the characteristic of” being asleep. Yahweh causing the people to be asleep is spoken of as if “the spirit” were a liquid that he poured out on the people. Also “deep sleep” is a metaphor that means the people are senseless and cannot understand what Yahweh is doing. Alternate translation: “The reason you are senseless is because Yahweh has caused you to be spiritually asleep”
29:10 u6aj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He has closed your eyes, the prophets, and has covered your heads, the seers 0 Yahweh causing the people to be senseless and not to understand what he is doing is spoken of as if he closed their eyes and covered their heads so they could not see. Alternate translation: “It is as though Yahweh has closed the eyes of the prophets and covered the heads of the seers”
29:11 jvz4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile All revelation has become to you as the words of a book that is sealed 0 The other prophets in Jerusalem are unable to hear or understand God’s message. Alternate translation: “All that Yahweh has revealed is to you like a sealed book”
29:11 vii8 is sealed, which men might give to one who is learned 0 This can be stated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “is sealed. A person may take the sealed book to someone who can read”
29:12 z14w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive If the book is given to one who cannot read 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “If a person takes the book to someone who cannot read”
29:13 hp14 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy This people comes close to me with their mouths and honors me with their lips 0 The words “mouths” and “lips” represent what people say. Here it also represents saying something but not truly meaning it. Alternate translation: “The people of Jerusalem pretend to worship me and honor me with what they say”
29:13 z6q5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy but their heart is far from me 0 Here “heart” is a metonym that represents a person’s thoughts and emotions. The people not being truly devoted to Yahweh is spoken of as if their hearts were far away from him. Alternate translation: “but they do not honor me in their thoughts” or “but they are not truly devoted to me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
29:13 u7h6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Their honor for me is only a commandment of men that has been taught 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They honor me only because that is what people tell them to do”
29:14 ya7e Therefore, see, I will proceed to do a marvelous thing among this people, wonder after wonder 0 Alternate translation: “Therefore, look and see! I am going to do wonderful and marvelous things among you that you will not be able to explain”
29:14 cb9j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The wisdom of their wise men will perish, and the understanding of their prudent men will disappear 0 Both of these statements mean the same thing. Yahweh showing that the wise people cannot understand or explain what Yahweh does is spoken of as if their wisdom and understanding will vanish. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
29:15 a41v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who deeply hide their plans from Yahweh 0 People trying to make plans without Yahweh knowing about it is spoken of as if they hide their plans in a deep place where Yahweh cannot see. Alternate translation: “who try to hide their plans from Yahweh” or “who try to keep Yahweh from finding out what they are planning to do”
29:15 yh8d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit whose deeds are in darkness 0 It is implied that they are secretly doing evil things. Alternate translation: “who do evil things in the dark so no one can see them”
29:15 mt4k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who sees us, and who knows us? 0 They use a question to emphasize that they believe no one knows what they are doing. Alternate translation: “No one, not even Yahweh, sees us or knows what we are doing!”
29:16 tt3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom You turn things upside down 0 This is an idiom that means to distort what is true. Alternate translation: “You make things opposite of the way they should be” or “You distort the truth”
29:16 ak5f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Should the potter be considered like clay, so that the thing that is made should say about him who made it & “He does not understand”? 0 Yahweh who created humans is spoken of as if he were a potter and humans were the clay. This metaphor emphasizes that it is foolish for humans to reject or criticize the one who created them. Alternate translation: “Should you consider me, your maker, to be like the clay rather than the potter? It is as if a potter created something, and that thing said about the potter, ‘He did not make me,’ or ‘He does not understand.’”
29:16 m1ba rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Should the potter be considered like clay & “He does not understand”? 0 This question is used to scold the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Obviously, the potter should not be considered like clay … ‘He does not understand.’”
29:17 vcq7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Lebanon will be turned into a field, and the field will become a forest 0 This could mean: (1) this is literal and Yahweh will cause the places where trees grew wild in Lebanon to become fruitful fields or (2) this is a metaphor and the large forests of Lebanon represent powerful oppressors, and the crops that grow in the field and become a forest are the common people who are suffering. This means Yahweh will humble those who are powerful, but he will honor those who are suffering.
29:17 p68s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Lebanon will be turned into a field 0 Here “Lebanon” represents the large cedar forests in Lebanon. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will turn the mighty forests of Lebanon into a field” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
29:18 q8r1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the deaf will hear the words of a book, and the eyes of the blind will see out of the deep darkness 0 This could mean: (1) this is literal and Yahweh will cause deaf people to hear and blind people to see or (2) this is a metaphor that means Yahweh will enable the people to hear and understand his message or (3) it may mean both options 1 and 2.
29:18 d7au rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the eyes of the blind 0 Here “eyes” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “those who are blind”
29:19 y383 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The oppressed will again rejoice in Yahweh, and the poor among men will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “The poor and oppressed people will again be happy because of what Yahweh, the Holy One of Israel, has done”
29:20 st9w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj For the ruthless will cease 0 The nominal adjective “the ruthless” can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: “For the ruthless people will cease” or “For there will no longer be cruel people”
29:20 m2ji rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the scoffer will vanish 0 The nominal adjective “the scoffer” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “those who scoff will vanish” or “the people who mock will disappear”
29:20 i5cr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive All those who love to do evil will be eliminated 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will eliminate all those who love to do evil”
29:21 zp8p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit who by a word make a man out to be an offender 0 This refers to giving testimony in court against someone. Alternate translation: “who testify against a man and make him out to be an offender” or “who say in court that an innocent man is guilty of doing something wrong”
29:21 wl2h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They lay a snare for him who seeks justice at the gate and put the righteous down with empty lies 0 The evil people doing anything they can to stop a good person is spoken of as if the evil people set a trap like a hunter catching his prey. Alternate translation: “They lie and try to stop those who want to do what is fair and right”
29:22 i8ii rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit who redeemed Abraham 0 This possibly refers to when Yahweh called Abraham from his home country and sent him to the promised land.
29:22 v978 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jacob will no longer … his face 0 Here “Jacob” represents his descendants. Alternate translation: “Jacob’s descendants will no longer … their faces”
29:22 a47e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom nor will his face be pale 0 This is an idiom that means he will no longer be afraid. Alternate translation: “nor will he be afraid”
29:23 j9rv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he sees his children 0 The words “he” and “his” speak of Jacob (verse 22) and represent his descendants. Alternate translation: “Jacob’s descendants will no longer … their faces … they see their children”
29:23 ri6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy But when he sees his children, the work of my hands 0 Here “hands” represents Yahweh’s power and action. Alternate translation: “When they see all the children I have given them and all that I have done”
29:23 m7l3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy they will make my name holy 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “they will honor me”
29:23 k7hc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy They will make holy the name of the Holy One of Jacob 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh. Yahweh refers to himself as “the Holy One of Jacob.” Alternate translation: “They will honor me, the Holy One of Jacob” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
29:23 hf61 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person of the God of Israel 0 Yahweh refers to himself as “the God of Israel.” Alternate translation: “of me, the God of Israel”
29:24 ajl7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Those who err in spirit 0 Here “spirit” represents a person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “Those who are wrong in what they think” or “Those who are wrong in their attitude”
29:24 ly72 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit will gain understanding 0 This can be made more explicit to explain what they will understand. Alternate translation: “will begin to understand Yahweh and his laws”
29:24 uc4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit complainers will learn knowledge 0 This can be made more explicit to explain what knowledge they will learn. Alternate translation: “those who complain will begin to know that what Yahweh teaches them is true”
30:intro e211 0 # Isaiah 30 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter continues the series of “woes” against specific nations. It presents judgments against the people of Ephraim and Judah when they desired to make an alliance with Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/woe]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Negev\n\nThis is an area between Egypt and Judah. The people would have had to travel though it in order to get to Egypt. No one really lived in this area and it was known to be very dangerous.\n\n### Trust\n\nThe people were to trust in Yahweh. Only he could provide them with protection. The people were punished for their lack of trust when they were in trouble, but Yahweh only required that they trust him. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “That day”\nThis is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. The chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
30:1 e6vd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the rebellious children 0 Yahweh speaks about his people as if they were his children.
30:1 dq2r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
30:1 cu63 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns They make plans, but not from me 0 This can be reworded so that If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **plans**, you can express the same idea with the verb “plan.” Alternate translation: “They plan to do things, but they do not ask me what I want them to do”
30:1 vep2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive but they were not directed by my Spirit 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but my Spirit did not direct them”
30:1 sdp8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they add sin to sin 0 Continuing to sin is spoken of as if sins were objects that could be stacked on one another. Alternate translation: “they continue to sin more and more”
30:2 ed8h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns They seek protection from Pharaoh 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **protection**, you can express the same idea with the verb “protect.” Alternate translation: “They ask Pharaoh to protect them”
30:2 k8ag rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor take refuge in the shadow of Egypt 0 Egypt’s protection from enemy armies is spoken of as if it were a shadow that protects someone from the burning heat of the sun. Alternate translation: “they rely on the Egyptians to keep them safe”
30:3 frg3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns Therefore Pharaoh’s protection will be your shame, and the refuge in Egypt’s shade, your humiliation 0 This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns “protection,” “shame,” and “humiliation” are expressed as adjectives or verbs. Alternate translation: “Therefore you will be ashamed because you relied on Pharaoh to protect you; you will be humiliated because you relied on the Egyptians to keep you safe”
30:3 z473 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the refuge in Egypt’s shade 0 Egypt’s protection from enemy armies is spoken of as if it were a shadow that protects someone from the burning heat of the sun.
30:6 h1jl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun of the lioness and the lion, the viper and fiery flying serpent 0 This refers to these types of animals in general. Alternate translation: “where lionesses and lions dwell, and where there are vipers and serpents”
30:6 ian2 fiery flying serpent 0 Here the word “fiery” probably refers to the serpent’s poisonous bite and the word “flying” refers to its quick movements. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 14:29](../14/29.md).
30:6 rmj1 they carry their riches 0 Alternate translation: “the people of Judah carry their riches”
30:7 x8ua rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names I have called her Rahab, who sits still 0 There were popular stories about a sea monster named Rahab. The name Rahab means “strength” or “arrogance.” Alternate translation: “I call Egypt a loud boaster who does nothing”
30:8 x97k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for the time to come 0 This speaks of time as if it travels and arrives somewhere. Alternate translation: “for a future time”
30:9 v3bl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lying children, children who will not hear the instruction of Yahweh 0 This speaks of Yahweh’s people as if they were his children. This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “They behave like children who lie and do not listen to what Yahweh commands”
30:11 x6bb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Turn aside from the way, stray off the path 0 How Yahweh wants his people to behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path on which to walk. To disobey Yahweh is spoken of as if the person strays away from Yahweh’s path.
30:12 hd23 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy trust in oppression and deceit and lean on it 0 This could mean: (1) the leaders of Judah are trusting in the Egyptian leaders who rule by oppressing and deceiving others or (2) the leaders of Judah have oppressed and deceived their own people in order to take their money and send it to the Egyptians leaders as payment for protection.
30:12 t871 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person lean on it 0 Here the word “it” refers to “oppression and deceit.” Alternate translation: “lean on them”
30:12 km37 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom lean on 0 This is an idiom that means to trust or rely on something.
30:13 f58j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile so this sin will be to you like a broken part … in an instant 0 This simile means that God will destroy the people of Judah suddenly because of their sin.
30:13 rwu8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis like a broken part ready to fall 0 It is understood that this is a broken part of a wall. Alternate translation: “like a broken part of a wall that is ready to fall”
30:13 c7k8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns whose fall will happen suddenly 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **fall**, you can express the same idea with the verb “fall.” Alternate translation: “that will suddenly fall”
30:13 m5ka rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet suddenly, in an instant 0 These mean the same thing and emphasize how quickly the wall will fall.
30:14 amd2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will break it 0 Here “it” refers to the part in the wall that is about to fall. The part in the wall is a metaphor that represents the people of Judah and their sin mentioned in [Isaiah 30:12–13](./12.md).
30:14 id9b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a potter’s vessel is broken 0 This simile means that the piece of wall will break as quickly and completely as a clay jar that falls to the ground.
30:14 k6fi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive there will not be found 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one will be able to find” or “there will not be”
30:14 gs9n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy fire from the hearth 0 The word “fire” here refers here to ashes. Alternate translation: “ashes from the fireplace”
30:15 jh13 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor In returning and resting you will be saved 0 Repenting is spoken of as if it were physically returning to Yahweh. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will save you from your enemies if you will repent and rest knowing that I will take care of you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
30:15 zs7v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit resting 0 It is implied that the people rest because they trust that Yahweh will take care of them.
30:15 am9c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit in quietness and in trust will be your strength 0 Quietness here refers to not being anxious and worried. It is implied that they are not worried because they trust in Yahweh. Alternate translation: “You will be strong if you are quiet and trust in me”
30:16 x48z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit we will flee on horses 0 Apparently these are horses that the people of Judah received from the Egyptians.
30:17 cy2g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis One thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will flee 0 The word “solider” is understood. Alternate translation: “One thousand soldiers will flee at the threat of one enemy soldier; at the threat of five enemy soldiers all of your soldiers will flee”
30:17 l2rt rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers One thousand 0 “1,000”
30:17 g8ks rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile until your remnant will be like a flagstaff on the top of a mountain, or like a flag on a hill 0 This simile means there will be so few people left that they will be like a single flag on top of a hill.
30:20 s89h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the bread of adversity and the water of affliction 0 Here “bread” and “water” make up the diet of a very poor person. The whole phrase represents the hard times and poverty of the people.
30:20 m8au rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche you will see your teacher with your own eyes 0 Here “eyes” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “you yourselves will see your teacher”
30:21 yk8d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Your ears will hear 0 Here “ears” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “You will hear”
30:21 n9ys rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor This is the way, walk in it 0 How Yahweh wants his people to behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path. To obey Yahweh is spoken of as if it were a person walking on his path.
30:21 day3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left 0 Disobeying Yahweh is spoken of as if the person turned left or right off of Yahweh’s path.
30:22 z2re rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile You will throw them away like a menstrual rag 0 This simile means they will throw away their idols like they were garbage.
30:22 n2zf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification You will say to them, “Get out of here.” 0 This speaks of the idols as if they could hear and get up and leave a place. Yahweh means that the people will no longer need or want the idols.
30:23 hjh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche bread with abundance from the ground 0 Here “bread” represents food in general. Alternate translation: “he will cause the ground to produce plenty of food for you to eat”
30:24 e7ff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that has been winnowed with a shovel and a fork 0 Shovels and forks were used to throw the grain in the air so the wind would blow away the chaff, leaving only the part that could be eaten. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that you have winnowed with a shovel and a pitchfork”
30:25 n5xk On every high mountain … every high hill 0 Isaiah describes what will be an ideal situation after Yahweh rescues his people. Although the language may be exaggerated, you should translate this just as Isaiah described it.
30:25 lg8s in the day of the great slaughter when the towers fall 0 Alternate translation: “when Yahweh slaughters your enemies and causes their strong towers to fall”
30:25 k7p7 in the day 0 Alternate translation: “at the time”
30:26 bbc3 The light of the moon will be like the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be seven times brighter, like the sunlight of seven days 0 Isaiah describes what will be an ideal situation after Yahweh rescues his people. Although the language may be exaggerated, you should translate this just as Isaiah described it.
30:26 vup8 the light of the sun will be seven times brighter, like the sunlight of seven days 0 Alternate translation: “the sun will shine as bright as seven suns” or “the sun will give as much light in one day as it normally does in seven days”
30:26 s1jc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh will bind up the breaking of his people and heal the bruises of his wounding them 0 Yahweh comforting his people and causing their suffering to end is spoken of as if he would put bandages on their wounds.
30:27 q2s3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the name of Yahweh … like a devouring fire 0 Yahweh being extremely angry is spoken of as if he were a large fire.
30:27 vs12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the name of Yahweh comes 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh comes”
30:27 yjg9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche His lips are full of fury, and his tongue is like a devouring fire 0 Here “lips” and “tongue” are metonyms that represent Yahweh speaking. And, Yahweh speaks with so much anger and power that it is spoken of as if his tongue were a fire. Alternate translation: “When he speaks his fury is like a fire that destroys everything” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
30:28 n6lp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile His breath is like an overflowing torrent 0 This compares the air coming out of Yahweh’s mouth to a flood to emphasize its power to destroy.
30:28 r2gf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to sift the nations with the sieve of destruction 0 Yahweh separating the people of the nations and destroying the wicked people is spoken of as if Yahweh puts the nations in a sieve. This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will separate and destroy the wicked people of the nations”
30:28 wqj9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His breath is a bridle in the jaws of the peoples to cause them to wander away 0 Yahweh having the power to cause people’s plans to fail or causing them to be destroyed is spoken of as if his breath were a bridle that steers people off the correct path.
30:28 rhf2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown a bridle in the jaws of the peoples 0 A “bridle” is a device that people put over a horse’s head to guide it. The bridle contains a small piece called a “bit” that goes in the horse’s mouth. Alternate translation: “a bridle on the heads of the peoples” or “a bit in the jaws of the peoples”
30:29 m8dh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as in the night when a holy feast is observed 0 This simile emphasizes how happy the people will be.
30:29 x78j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive when a holy feast is observed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when you observe a holy feast”
30:29 guu5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy gladness of heart 0 Here “heart” represents a person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “you will be glad”
30:29 esh8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as when one goes … Rock of Israel 0 This simile emphasizes how happy the people will be.
30:29 u4kf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to the Rock of Israel 0 Yahweh having the power to protect his people is spoken of as if he were a rock on which the people could climb and escape from enemies. Alternate translation: “to Israel’s protective rock” or “which is like a protective rock for Israel”
30:30 h7qb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy show the motion of his arm 0 Here “arm” represents the power of God. It is implied that Yahweh will show his power by destroying his people’s enemies. Alternate translation: “show that he is powerful by destroying your enemies” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
30:30 mr74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor in storming anger and flames of fire 0 Yahweh’s anger is spoken of as if it were a storm or a fire. Alternate translation: “in anger that is like a storm and flames of fire” or “in great anger”
30:31 aq83 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive For at the voice of Yahweh, Assyria will be shattered 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “For when Yahweh speaks he will shatter the soldiers of Assyria”
30:31 x1az rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Assyria will be shattered 0 Isaiah speaks of Assyria’s fear as if Assyria is an object that Yahweh’s voice shatters. Alternate translation: “Assyria will be terrified”
30:31 h8gw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Assyria 0 Here this represents the soldiers of Assyria.
30:32 w9ms rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Every stroke of the appointed rod that Yahweh will lay on them 0 Yahweh causing an army to defeat the Assyrians is spoken of as if Yahweh would hit the Assyrians with a rod.
30:32 wu2h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be accompanied 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah will accompany it”
30:32 d8x2 tambourines 0 This is a musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be hit and with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 5:12](../05/12.md).
30:32 vj9i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he battles and fights with them 0 Yahweh causing the enemy army to defeat the Assyrians is spoken of as if Yahweh were a warrior who would fight along with the enemy army.
30:33 z2rq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive For a place of burning was prepared long ago 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “For long ago Yahweh prepared a place for burning”
30:33 ry8p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit a place of burning 0 This phrase is the meaning of the word “Topheth.” Topheth is a place in the Hinnom Valley, south of Jerusalem, where at one time people burned their children as sacrifices to a false god.
30:33 lpk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit it is prepared for the king 0 It is implied that this refers to the king of Assyria. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh prepared it for the king of Assyria” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
30:33 dbe3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The breath of Yahweh, like a stream of brimstone, will set it on fire 0 This speaks of Yahweh’s breath as if it were a river of fire that will set the pile on fire.
31:intro a5pj 0 # Isaiah 31 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter continues the series of “woes” against specific nations. It presents judgments against the people of Ephraim and Judah when they desired to make an alliance with Egypt. It also prophesies the destruction of Assyria. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/woe]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Trust\n\nThe people were to trust in Yahweh. Only he could provide them with protection. They were punished for their lack of trust when they were in trouble, but Yahweh only required that they trust him. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “That day”\nThis is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])\n\n### Israel\n\nThe use of the term “Israel” in this chapter is in reference to the northern kingdom of Israel exclusively.
31:1 mn6p go down to Egypt 0 The phrase “go down” is used here because Egypt is lower in Elevation than Jerusalem.
31:1 u5k2 those who go down 0 Alternate translation: “those people of Judah who go down”
31:1 fq71 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lean on horses 0 This speaks about people relying on their horses to help them as if they were leaning on their horses. Alternate translation: “rely on their horses”
31:2 rf4c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom he will bring disaster 0 Here the word “bring” means to “cause.” Alternate translation: “he will cause disasters to happen”
31:2 uq3q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will not retract his words 0 The phrase “retract his words” speaks of a person not fulfilling what they said they will do as if the words that he had said were something that he could pull back to himself. Here it says that Yahweh will not do this, meaning he will fulfill what he has said. Alternate translation: “he will do what he said he would do”
31:2 ncg3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy evil house 0 This refers to evil people who live there. Alternate translation: “all who do evil things”
31:3 qmy9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Egypt is a man 0 Here Egypt refers to the soldiers of Egypt. Alternate translation: “The soldiers of Egypt are men”
31:3 al1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit their horses flesh and not spirit 0 This means that their horses are only horses and not spiritual beings. Alternate translation: “their horses are only horses; they are not powerful spirits”
31:3 ee2s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy When Yahweh reaches out with his hand 0 The term “hand” is often used in reference to God’s power and action. Alternate translation: “When Yahweh uses his power against them”
31:3 b7mw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive both the one who helps will stumble, and the one who is helped will fall 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Stumbling and falling are metaphors of failing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “these two things will happen: I will destroy Egypt, who helps you, and I will destroy you, whom Egypt helps” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
31:3 mv55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the one who is helped 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one who is seeking help”
31:4 bfb4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As a lion … thus Yahweh of hosts 0 “A lion … in the same way Yahweh of hosts.” Here Yahweh speaks of how he will defend the people who belong to him and not be scared away by comparing himself to a lion who guards it’s prey.
31:4 j6qt thus Yahweh of hosts will descend … that hill 0 It may be more clear if you move the last line to before the first line: “Yahweh of hosts will descend to fight on Mount Zion, on that hill, as a lion, even a young lion”
31:4 cwq4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet a lion, even a young lion 0 “a female lion or killer lion.” This is a doublet with both phrase referring to a fierce lion. Alternate translation: “a lion”
31:4 vef8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom when a group of shepherds is called out against it 0 The phrase “called out against it” means to be sent out to chase the lion away. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when someone sends shepherds to chase the lion away” (See also: or [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
31:4 i5s6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit from their sound 0 The shepherds would make loud noises to try and chase away the lion. Alternate translation: “from the loud noises that they make”
31:4 jrv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit will descend 0 “will come down.” This refers to descending from heaven. Alternate translation: “will come down from heaven”
31:4 wv7p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism on Mount Zion, on that hill 0 Both of the phrases refer to Mount Zion. Alternate translation: “on Mount Zion”
31:5 yn4w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Like birds in flight, so Yahweh of hosts will protect Jerusalem 0 Here the way that Yahweh protects Jerusalem is compared to the way that a mother bird protects her baby birds in their nest.
31:5 s9xj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will protect and rescue as he passes over it and preserves it 0 This speaks of how Yahweh protects and rescues Jerusalem, describing him as a bird that flies over the city. Alternate translation: “he will protect and rescue the city from it’s enemies”
31:7 f2zn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche that your own hands have sinfully made 0 Here the people are referred to by their “hands” the emphasize that they made something with their hands. Alternate translation: “that you have sinned by making with you own hands”
31:8 vll3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Assyria will fall by the sword; a sword not wielded by man will consume him 0 “Sword” refers to military might. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God’s sword, and not a man’s sword, will destroy the Assyrian army” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
31:8 ib91 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive his young men will be forced to do hard labor 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “enemies will capture their young men and force them to do hard labor”
31:9 cb3x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns They will lose all confidence because of terror 0 The word “confidence” can be expressed with the adjective “confident.” The word “terror” can be expressed with the adjective “terrified.” Alternate translation: “They will no longer be confident because they are so terrified”
31:9 awn7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism whose fire is in Zion and whose firepot is in Jerusalem 0 Both of these clauses mean the same thing and are used together for emphasis. Here God’s presence and his power to judge and destroy are spoken of as if they were a fire. Alternate translation: “whose powerful presence is in Zion” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
32:intro qg44 0 # Isaiah 32 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Reign of the Messiah\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
32:1 bfx3 Look 0 This word is used here to draw peoples’ attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”
32:2 he1m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm 0 This compares the king and princes who protect the people to a shelter. Alternate translation: “the rulers will protect the people like a shelter does in a storm”
32:2 i91q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like streams of water in a dry place 0 This is another comparison that means that the rulers will provide for the needs of the people. Alternate translation: “they will provide for the people like streams of water in a dry place”
32:2 vxn9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like the shade of a great rock in a land of weariness 0 This is another comparison that means that the rulers will provide comfort and rest for the people. Alternate translation: “they will provide rest for the people like a huge rock gives shade to weary people”
32:3 d51u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Then the eyes … attentively 0 Both of these phrases emphasize that the leaders will enable the people to understand God’s truth.
32:4 byg3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj The rash … the stutterer 0 This refers to people who act rashly and people who stutter. Alternate translation: “The rash person … the stuttering person”
32:5 dap4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The fool will no longer be called honorable 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one will give honor to the fool”
32:5 zlq8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive nor the deceiver called principled 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. “The deceiver” refers to a person who is deceptive. Alternate translation: “nor will anyone show respect to the person who deceives” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
32:6 zh17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj For the fool speaks folly, and his heart plans evil 0 “The fool” refers to foolish people. Also, “folly” and “evil” may be expressed as adjectives. Alternate translation: “For the foolish person says foolish things and his heart plans evil things” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
32:6 z5gt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche his heart plans evil 0 Here the foolish person is referred to by his heart to emphasize his inner thoughts. Alternate translation: “he plans evil things in his heart”
32:6 y9ue rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the hungry empty 0 “The hungry” refers to hungry people. They are hungry because they have empty stomachs. Alternate translation: “the hungry person have an empty stomach” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
32:6 b6mz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the thirsty he causes to lack drink 0 “The thirsty” refers to people who are thirsty. Alternate translation: “he causes the thirsty person to have nothing to drink”
32:7 br91 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj The deceiver’s 0 This refers to a person who deceives others. Alternate translation: “The deceptive person’s”
32:7 fwx8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj to ruin the poor with lies 0 “The poor” refers to poor people. Also, the phrase “to ruin” does not means to kill them but to harm them by telling lies about them. Alternate translation: “to harm the poor people by telling lies”
32:8 em4r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom he will stand 0 This means that he will be successful. Alternate translation: “he will be successful”
32:9 yi6d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my voice 0 Isaiah refers to himself by his voice to emphasize what he says. Alternate translation: “me speak”
32:10 g6m5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive your confidence will be broken 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Also, Isaiah speaks of them no longer being confident as if their confidence were a physical object that is broken. Alternate translation: “you will no longer be confident”
32:10 t219 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the grape harvest will fail 0 This means that there would not be good grapes to harvest. Alternate translation: “there will be no grapes for you to harvest”
32:11 suv5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit take off your fine clothes and make yourselves bare 0 Here “bare” does not necessarily mean naked, but to wear minimal covering such as undergarments. Alternate translation: “take off you fine clothes and make yourself unclothed” or “take off your fancy clothes”
32:11 dhb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction put on sackcloth around your waists 0 This is an act of grieving or mourning. Alternate translation: “put sackcloth around waists as you grieve”
32:12 n8hm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit You will wail for the pleasant fields, for the fruitful vines 0 This means that they will cry out loudly as they grieve what happens to their fruitful fields and vines. Alternate translation: “You will wail because of what happens to your pleasant fields and fruitful vines”
32:13 prc1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification the once joyful houses 0 Here the houses are described as joyful because of the joyful people in them. Alternate translation: “your houses where you were once joyful”
32:14 ftk1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive For the palace will be forsaken, the crowded city will be deserted 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “For the people will forsake the palace and the crowds will abandon the city”
32:14 ut34 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the hill 0 This refers to the fort built on the top of the hill. Alternate translation: “the fort on the hill”
32:14 l4wz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the hill and the watchtower will become caves 0 This speaks of the fort and the watchtower being abandoned as if they became caves. Alternate translation: “the hill and the watchtower will become abandoned and empty”
32:14 g5yl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit a joy of wild donkeys, a pasture of flocks 0 This means the these animals will enjoy the grass that grows among the abandon fort and watchtower. Alternate translation: “the wild donkeys and the flocks of sheep will eat the grass there”
32:14 x8t3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole forever 0 This is an exaggeration for a very long time. Alternate translation: “an extremely long time”
32:15 ai5k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive until the Spirit is poured 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “until Yahweh pours the Spirit”
32:15 m9lm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the Spirit is poured on us 0 This speaks of Yahweh giving him Spirit to his people as if his Spirit were a liquid that he would pour on them. Alternate translation: “the Spirit is given to us”
32:15 f3x2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy from on high 0 Here heaven is referred to as “on high.” Alternate translation: “from heaven”
32:15 i9yh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the fruitful field is considered as a forest 0 This can be written in active form. This compares how overly bountiful the fruitful fields are by comparing them to a thick, dense forest. Alternate translation: “people will say that the fruitful fields have grown thick like a forest” or “the fruitful fields will be overly bountiful” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
32:16 uzl5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification justice will reside … righteousness will live 0 Isaiah describes “justice” and “righteousness” as a person who lives in these places. This means the people who live in these places will do what is just and right. Alternate translation: “people will act justly in the wilderness and people will act righteously in the fertile fields
32:17 w4zs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The work of righteousness will be peace; and the result of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever 0 These two phrases are parallel and both give results of righteousness. These can be combined. Alternate translation: “The result of people acting righteously is that there will be peace, and quietness, and confidence forever”
32:19 stg9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the forest is destroyed, and the city is completely annihilated 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it destroys the forest and completely destroys the city”
32:20 wd7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you who sow beside all the streams will be blessed, you who send out your ox and donkey to graze 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This refers to Yahweh blessing all of his people and speaks of the things that are normal for his people to do. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will bless you, as you plant your crops in fields alongside the streams and as you send out your ox and donkey to graze in the pasture” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
33:intro bx2g 0 # Isaiah 33 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter continues the series of “woes.” It speaks against ungodly or evil people in general. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/woe]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])
33:1 uq8j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nIsaiah speaks in poetry for Yahweh to the Assyrians.
33:1 vi89 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive who has not been destroyed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom others have not destroyed”
33:1 uz7b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will be destroyed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “others will destroy you”
33:2 ktn1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy be our arm 0 Here Yahweh’s arm refers to his strength. This speaks of Yahweh strengthening them as if Yahweh would use his strength to act for them. Alternate translation: “give us strength” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
33:2 k72t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche every morning 0 This refers to the whole day, not just the morning. Alternate translation: “every day”
33:2 zfi5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis our salvation 0 This understood verb “be” may be supplied. Also, the word “salvation” may be expressed with the verb “save.” Alternate translation: “be our salvation” or “save us” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
33:2 vt7m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession in the time of trouble 0 This refers to the times when they are experiencing trouble. Alternate translation: ““when we have troubles”
33:3 bxw1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit At the loud noise the peoples flee 0 Possible meanings of **the loud noise** are: (1) it refers to Yahweh’s voice. Alternate translation: “The peoples flee at the sound of your loud voice” or (2) it refers the loud sounds of Yahweh’s army. Alternate translation: “The people flee at the sound of your army”
33:3 mt58 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom arise 0 This means to begin doing something. Alternate translation: “begin acting”
33:3 bws5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the nations are scattered 0 This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “the nations scatter”
33:4 jx3k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your spoil is gathered as the locusts gather; as locusts leap, men leap on it 0 This compares how quick and eager Yahweh’s people are when they gather the spoils from their enemies to the eagerness of locusts when they gather food. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Your people gather spoils from your enemies with the same fierceness as the locusts have who devour green plants” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33:5 f7z4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Yahweh is exalted 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is greater than anyone else”
33:5 gk4n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will fill Zion with justice and righteousness 0 This speaks of Yahweh ruling Zion with his justice and righteousness as if he were filling Zion with justice and righteousness. Alternate translation: “He will rule Zion with justice and righteousness”
33:6 gy6i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will be the stability in your times 0 This speaks of Yahweh causing his people to be secure as if he were the stability himself. The phrase “your times” refers to their lives. Alternate translation: “He will make you secure all your lives” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
33:6 fe6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge 0 This refers to the things that Yahweh will give to them. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **salvation**, you can express the same idea with the verb “save.” The abstract nouns “wisdom” and “knowledge” can be expressed with adjectives. Alternate translation: “and he will give you an abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge” or “he will save you and cause you to be very wise and knowledgeable” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
33:6 p3md rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the fear of Yahweh is his treasure 0 This speaks of fearing Yahweh as if it were a treasure that Yahweh gives his people. Alternate translation: “revering Yahweh will be like a valuable treasure that he will give to you” or “to fear Yahweh will be as valuable to you as a treasure”
33:7 f6lb Look 0 This word is used here to draw peoples’ attention to what is said next. It is also used here to mark a new section in the book. Alternate translation: “Listen”
33:7 m76k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the diplomats hoping for peace weep bitterly 0 This means they weep because they do not succeed in making peace. Alternate translation: “the diplomats hope for peace but they do not succeed and so they weep bitterly”
33:8 pf64 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The highways are deserted; there are no more travelers 0 Both of the phrases emphasize that there are no travelers on the highways. These can be combined and stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People no longer travel on the highways” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33:8 ftm2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Covenants are broken, witnesses are despised, and mankind is not respected 0 This passage may refer to general conditions of corruption in Israel, or it may refer to the nation’s inability to make reliable peace treaties with Assyria. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People break covenants that they have made, people ignore the testimony of witnesses, and people do not respect one another”
33:9 czb9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The land mourns and withers away 0 This speaks of the land becoming dry as if it were a person mourning. Alternate translation: “The land becomes dry and its plants wither away”
33:9 na5c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Lebanon is ashamed and withers away 0 Here “Lebanon” represents Lebanon’s trees. This speaks of the trees withering and decaying as if they were a person who is ashamed. Alternate translation: “Lebanon’s trees wither and decay” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
33:9 dj2w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Sharon is like a desert plain 0 This compares how dry Sharon is to a desert plain. Alternate translation: “Sharon is as dry as a desert plain”
33:9 aiz6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Bashan and Carmel shake off their leaves 0 Here Bashan and Carmel are represented by their trees. Alternate translation: “there are no more leaves on the trees in Bashan and Carmel”
33:10 d6gh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will I arise 0 To arise or stand up is a metaphor for no longer watching and thinking and instead beginning to act. Alternate translation: “will I begin to act”
33:10 gmq4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive now I will be lifted up; now I will be elevated 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. These two phrases have basically the same meaning and emphasize Yahweh being exalted. Alternate translation: “now I will exalt myself and show that I deserve for everyone to honor me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
33:11 il71 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You conceive chaff, and you give birth to stubble 0 This speaks of the Assyrians making plans as if they were conceiving and giving birth to their plans as a mother gives birth to a baby. This speaks of their plans being useless by comparing them to chaff. Alternate translation: “You make plans that are as useless as chaff and straw”
33:11 f2w8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your breath is a fire that will consume you 0 Here the Assyrians’ plans are referred to as their “breath.” This speaks of their plans causing them to die as if their plans would literally burn up their bodies. Alternate translation: “your plans will cause you to die” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
33:12 q832 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The peoples will be burned to lime, as thornbushes are cut down and are burned 0 This compares how the peoples’ dead bodies will be burned to the way thornbushes are burned. Also, If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Fire will burn the peoples’ bodies to lime in the same way that a farmer cuts down thornbushes and burns them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33:13 qf2k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism You who are far away, hear what I have done; and, you who are near, acknowledge my might 0 Yahweh uses the words “far away” and “near” to mean all people. The word “might” can be expressed with the adjective “mighty.” Alternate translation: “All people everywhere hear what I have done and acknowledge that I am mighty” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
33:14 hr7p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification trembling has seized the godless ones 0 This speaks of the godless people trembling as if their trembling were an enemy that had seized them. Alternate translation: “the godless ones are overwhelmed with trembling”
33:14 l4yq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Who among us … burnings? 0 It is implied that the sinners in Zion ask these questions. Alternate translation: “They say, ‘Who among us … burnings?’”
33:14 p2p3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who among us can sojourn with a raging fire? Who among us can sojourn with everlasting burnings? 0 These rhetorial questions have basically the same meaning and emphasize that no one can live with fire. Here fire represents Yahweh’s judgment. Alternate translation: “No one can live with raging fire! No one can live with everylasting burns!” or “No one can live bearing Yahweh’s judgment, it is like an everlasting fire!” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
33:15 a3sk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom He who walks 0 Here walking refers to living. Alternate translation: “He who lives”
33:15 kmw5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns who despises the gain of oppression 0 The noun phrase “the gain of oppression” can be expressed as a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “who hates the riches that come from harming other people”
33:16 jr9e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor this is the man who will dwell on the heights, his place of defense will be the fortress among the cliffs 0 This speaks of the man being safe as if he lived in a home on a high hill. These two phrase are parallel and the second phrase describes the place where the man lives. Alternate translation: “he will be safe, like a man who home is built on a high hill, in a rocky place that is easy to defend” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
33:16 t3ae rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the heights 0 This refers to a high hill or mountainside. Alternate translation: “the high hill” or “the mountainside”
33:16 p4zt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the fortress among the cliffs 0 This speaks of rocky areas that are easy to defend as if they were actually fortresses. Alternate translation: “the large piles of rocks”
33:17 vd1r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Your eyes will see … they will see 0 This refers the audience by their “eyes.” Alternate translation: “You will see … you will see”
33:17 d8s5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the king in his beauty 0 The king’s royal robes are referred to as “his beauty.” Alternate translation: “the king in his beautiful robes”
33:18 h85u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Your heart will recall the terror 0 This refers to the audience by their “hearts.” “The terror” refers to their war with the Assyrians. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “You will remember the terror that the Assyrians caused you when they attacked” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
33:18 m1ib rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion where is the scribe, where is he who weighed the money? Where is he who counted the towers? 0 These rhetorical question are asked to emphasize that the Assyrian officials are gone. These questions may be written as statements. Alternate translation: “The officers of Assyria who counted the tax money that we were forced to pay to them have disappeared! Those men who counted our towers are gone!”
33:18 v7nn weighed the money 0 Money was valuable metal; its value was determined by its weight.
33:19 b6t2 the defiant people, a people of a strange language that you do not understand 0 Alternate translation: “a fierce people who speak a language that you do not understand”
33:20 ex3i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession the city of our feasts 0 This means that they have their festival and feasts at this city. Alternate translation: “the city where we have our feasts” or “they city where we celebrate our festivals”
33:20 gq29 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche your eyes will see 0 The people are referred to by their “eyes” to emphasize what they are seeing. Alternate translation: “you will see”
33:20 tj7h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a tent that will not be removed 0 This speaks of Zion being secure and well establish as if it were secure tent. This can be stated in active form and written as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “it will be secure, like a tent that no one will ever remove” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33:20 z75i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor whose stakes will never be pulled up nor will any of its cords be broken 0 This is part of the metaphor that compares Zion to a secure tent. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whose stakes no one will ever pull up and whose cords no one will ever break” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33:21 js4c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive Yahweh in majesty will be with us, in a place of broad rivers and streams 0 Here “us” refers to Isaiah and includes the people of Judah. This speaks of the safety of living with Yahweh as if it were a place that has rivers around it so that enemies cannot attack it. Alternate translation: “Yahweh who is majestic will be with us, and we will be safe as if we were in a place surrounded by broad rivers” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
33:22 x9zc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive our … us 0 This refers to Isaiah and includes the people of Judah.
33:23 er96 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your riggings are slack; they cannot hold the mast in place; they cannot spread the sail 0 This could mean: (1) The Assyrian army is like a boat that is unable to move through the water: the ropes that support the mast and sail have come loose and no longer support the mast, so the sail is useless ([Isaiah 33:1](../33/01.md)) or (2) the people of Judah are no longer at war: “You have loosened the cords that supported your flagpole; the flag no longer flies” ([Isaiah 33:17–22](./17.md).
33:23 a64j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive when the great spoil is divided 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when they divide the treasure”
33:23 tx7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the lame 0 This refers to people who are cannot walk. Alternate translation: “those who are lame”
33:24 brw9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the people who live there will be forgiven for their iniquity 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will forgive the sins of the people who live there”
34:intro rp2m 0 # Isaiah 34 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Destruction\n\nThere are many images used in this chapter which describe destruction. Here each of these metaphors describes complete destruction. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Prophecy\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
34:1 l8gx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism 0 # General Information:\n\nYahweh is speaking in poetry.
34:1 xx72 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The earth and all that fills it must listen, the world, and all things that come from it 0 Here the earth is spoken of as being required to listen to Yahweh to emphasize that it is under Yahweh’s authority. These two parallel phrases are metonyms for all the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “In all places everywhere on earth, everyone must listen to what I say” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
34:1 q1g4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the world, and all things that come from it 0 This is the second of two parallel phrases. The understood words may be supplied in this phrase. Alternate translation: “the world, and all things that come from it must listen”
34:2 maf7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture he has completely destroyed them, he has handed them over to the slaughter 0 Often prophets speak of things that will happen in the future as if they have already happened. This emphasizes the event will certainly happen. Alternate translation: “he will completely destroy them, he will give them over to the slaughter”
34:3 g8nr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The bodies of their dead will be thrown out 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one will bury their dead”
34:3 kc9q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj their dead 0 This refers to the dead people. Alternate translation: “those who died”
34:4 ta5s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the sky will be rolled up like a scroll 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This compares what Yahweh will do to the sky to a person rolling up a scroll. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will roll up the sky in the same way that a person rolls up a scroll” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
34:4 g3vj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile all their stars will fade away, as the leaf fades from off the vine, and as the overripe figs from the fig tree 0 This emphasizes even the things in the sky that people thought would be there forever will fall as easily as a leaf. Alternate translation: “all the stars will fall from the sky like a leaf falls from a vine or a fig falls from a tree”
34:5 zep4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor when my sword will have drunk its fill in heaven 0 Yahweh describes himself as a warrior bearing a sword. The phrase “drunk its fill” speaks of Yahweh’s sword as if it were a person who has eaten and become satisfied. Yahweh uses this imagery to emphasize that there will be a lot of destruction in heaven and to state its completion. Alternate translation: “when I am finished destroying things in heaven” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
34:5 zs1y look 0 This word is used here to draw the listener’s attention and to have them imagine the things being said. Alternate translation: “listen” or “and then”
34:5 dh31 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor it will now come down on Edom, on the people I am setting apart for destruction 0 The word “it” refers to Yahweh’s sword. This continues the metaphor about Yahweh destroying things with a sword. Alternate translation: “I will come to punish the people of Edom, the people whom I have set aside for me to destroy”
34:5 n7uq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy on Edom 0 Edom refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “on the people of Edom”
34:6 z82l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The sword of Yahweh is dripping with blood and covered with fat … of rams 0 This speaks of Yahweh killing the people as if he were a priest sacrificing animals. He does this by describing the sword of a priest. Alternate translation: “Yahweh sacrifices them as a priest sacrifices animals, whose sword drips with the blood and fat of lambs, goats, and rams”
34:6 e9tg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns For Yahweh has a sacrifice in Bozrah and a great slaughter in the land of Edom 0 The words “sacrifice” and “slaughter” may be expressed here as verbs. Alternate translation: “For Yahweh will sacrifice many people in Bozrah and kill many people in the land of Edom”
34:6 hx1f rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Bozrah 0 This is an important city in Edom.
34:7 x9xv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Their land will be drunk with blood 0 This describes the amount of blood that will soak into the ground by comparing the land to a drunk person. Alternate translation: “Their land will be soaked with blood”
34:7 cw9p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification their dust made fat with fatness 0 Here “dust” means the dirt on the ground. This describes the amount of fat that will soak into the dirt by comparing it to a person that has become fat from eating so much animal fat. Alternate translation: “the dirt will be full of the fat of the animals”
34:8 ypt1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom it will be a day of vengeance for Yahweh 0 Here “day” is an idiom for a point in time; it is not a literal “day.” Alternate translation: “it will be the time when Yahweh gets revenge”
34:8 f6ru rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit he will pay them back for the cause of Zion 0 This means that he will take revenge on them for how they had previously waged war against the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “he will give them the punishment they deserve for what they had done to the people of Zion”
34:9 b8cq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The streams of Edom will be turned into pitch … become burning pitch 0 The water and land becoming useless for drinking or growing food because it is burnt and covered in pitch and sulfur is spoken of as if their streams and land will actually become pitch and sulfur. Alternate translation: “The streams in Edom will be full of pitch and the ground will be covered with burning sulfur and burning pitch”
34:10 smi7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism It will burn night and day 0 This means all of the time. Alternate translation: “It will burn throughout the night and the day” or “It will burn constantly, all night and all day”
34:10 tvh4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom from generation to generation 0 The phrase “generation to generation” refers to all generations of people who will live in the future. See how you translated this phrase in [Isaiah 13:20](../13/20.md). Alternate translation: “forever”
34:11 yd3v will live there 0 Alternate translation: “will live in the land of Edom”
34:11 drt9 owl 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 13:21](../13/21.md).
34:11 q1gl raven 0 This is a large black bird. It is difficult to identify some of the precise kinds of birds mentioned in this passage. However, they were all birds that preferred to live in places where there were no people, so they symbolize deserted places.
34:11 pgr3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will stretch over it the measuring line of ruin and the plumbline of destruction 0 This speaks of Yahweh as if he were a careful builder as he causes destruction in Edom. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will measure that land carefully; he will measure it to decide where to cause ruin and destruction”
34:12 t7ih rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole all her princes will be nothing 0 This exaggerates the princes losing their royal status by saying that they will become nothing. Alternate translation: “all her princes will no longer rule”
34:16 qji5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession Search through the scroll of Yahweh 0 The phrase “the scroll of Yahweh” means that it contains the messages spoken by Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Read carefully what is written in this scroll that contains the messages of Yahweh”
34:16 w98b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives None will lack for a mate 0 This can be written as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “Each animal will have a mate”
34:16 zh4w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche for his mouth has commanded it 0 Yahweh is referred to by his “mouth” to emphasize what he has said. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh has commanded it”
34:17 wiz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He has cast lots for their places 0 This speaks of Yahweh deciding where to cause the animals to live as if he actually cast lots for their places. Alternate translation: “He has determined where they will live”
34:17 n3hj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his hand has measured it out for them by a cord 0 This refers to the way that people measured things in biblical times. Alternate translation: “he has given the animals their places”
34:17 f3tu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom from generation to generation they will 0 The phrase “generation to generation” refers to all generations of people who will live in the future. See how you translated the phrase “from generation to generation” in [Isaiah 13:20](../13/20.md). Alternate translation: “forever they will” or “they will always”
35:intro wlq4 0 # Isaiah 35 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Reign of the Messiah\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])
35:1 s4b3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The wilderness and the Arabah will be glad; and the desert will rejoice 0 These two phrases have basically the same meaning. These places are described as being glad, like a person is glad, because they have received water and are blossoming. Alternate translation: “It will be like the wilderness and the Arabah are glad and the desert will rejoice” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
35:1 pis9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche blossom 0 This speaks of the plants in the desert blossoming as if the desert itself were blossoming. Alternate translation: “its plants will blossom”
35:2 f7wa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile it will blossom abundantly 0 This compares the way the plants of the desert blossom to the way a rose (verse 1) has many blossoms. Alternate translation: “The desert will grow many new plants and trees”
35:2 eqm8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification and rejoice with joy and singing 0 This speaks of the desert as if it were happy and singing like a person. Alternate translation: “it will be as though everything is rejoicing and singing”
35:2 tt4e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the glory of Lebanon will be given to it 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This speaks of Yahweh making the desert looks as glorious as Lebanon as if he were giving the desert Lebanon’s glory. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will give it the glory of Lebanon” or “Yahweh will make it as glorious as Lebanon” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35:2 cy7n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the splendor of Carmel and Sharon 0 This speaks of Yahweh making the desert look beautiful as Carmel and Sharon as if he were giving the desert their splendor. The understood information may be supplied. Alternate translation: “the splendor of Carmel and Sharon will be given to it” or “Yahweh will make it as splendid as Carmel and Sharon” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
35:2 y6hb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet the glory of Yahweh, the splendor of our God 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize Yahweh’s appearance.
35:3 f8st rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Strengthen the weak hands, and steady the knees that shake. 0 The words “weak hands” and “knees that shake” represent a person who is fearful. Alternate translation: “Strengthen those whose hands are weak and whose knees shake from fear”
35:4 duk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche those with a fearful heart 0 Here people are referred to by their hearts, which emphasize their inner feelings. Alternate translation: “to those who are fearful”
35:4 yx44 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God 0 This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns “vengeance” and “recompense” are expressed as the verb “punish.” The words “vengeance” and “recompense” mean the same thing and emphasize that God will punish Judah’s enemies. Alternate translation: “your God will punish your enemies for what they have done” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
35:5 qq2t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the eyes of the blind will see 0 “The blind” refers to people who are blind. They are referred to by their “eyes” to emphasize their healing. Alternate translation: “blind people will see” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
35:5 n5na rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the ears of the deaf will hear 0 “The deaf” refers to people who cannot hear. They are referred to by their “ears” to emphasize their healing. Alternate translation: “deaf people will hear” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
35:6 tk9j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile the lame man will leap like a deer 0 Deer can jump far and high. Jumping like a deer is an exaggeration for being able to move about quickly and easily. Alternate translation: “the lame man will jump high” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
35:6 jfl8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the mute tongue will sing 0 This refers to people who cannot speak. They are referred to by their “tongues” to emphasize their healing. Alternate translation: “mute people will sing”
35:6 hbh2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis streams in the wilderness 0 The understood verb may be supplied. Alternate translation: “streams will flow in the wilderness”
35:7 szb4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit The burning sand will become a pool 0 This means that a pool of water will appear in the hot sand. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “A pool will appear in the burning sand”
35:7 jn3e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification the thirsty ground 0 Here the dry ground is described as being thirsty. Alternate translation: “the dry ground”
35:7 y4rh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the thirsty ground springs of water 0 This means that springs will appear in the dry ground. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “springs of water will appear in the thirsty ground”
35:8 cz9h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive A highway will be there called The Holy Way 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “A highway will be there that has the name The Holy Way”
35:8 ese5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj The unclean 0 This refers to unclean people. A person who God considers spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. Alternate translation: “Those who are unclean” or “People who are not acceptable to God” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35:8 nfa5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom him who walks in it 0 This is an idiom. Here “walking” refers to “living.” This refers to the person who lives a holy life. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “who lives in the holy way” or “who lives a holy life” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
35:9 ns9h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive they will not be found there 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one will find them there”
35:9 aui1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the redeemed 0 This refers to people who God has redeemed. Alternate translation: “those who are redeemed” or “those who God has redeemed”
35:10 s1di rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj The ransomed of Yahweh 0 To “ransom” means to “rescue.” This refers to people whom Yahweh has rescued. Alternate translation: “Those whom Yahweh has rescued”
35:10 q3ha rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche everlasting joy will be on their heads 0 This uses a person’s head to mean the person as a whole. Alternate translation: “they will have everlasting joy”
35:10 x841 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet gladness and joy … sorrow and sighing 0 The words “gladness” and “joy” mean basically the same thing, as do “sorrow” and “sighing.” Together they emphasize the intensity of these emotions.
35:10 b5lz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification gladness and joy will overtake them 0 This speaks of the people being overwhelmed by gladness and joy by giving these emotions the human quality of being able to overtake someone by force. Alternate translation: “they will be overwhelmed by joy and gladness”
35:10 d5f7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification sorrow and sighing will flee away 0 This speaks of the people no longer being sorrowful and sighing by giving these emotions the human ability to run away. Alternate translation: “they will no longer be sorrowful and sighing”
36:intro r5x3 0 # Isaiah 36 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThe previous chapters have been constructed as prophecy and contain many poetic elements. This chapter switches to a narrative and is a discussion between the officials from Assyria and Judah. To make the meaning clear here, it may be helpful to set apart the extended quotations by setting them farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Trust\n\nThe people of Judah were to trust in Yahweh because only he could provide them with protection. The people of Jerusalem were protected because they trusted in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Rhetorical Questions\n\nThe Assyrian commanders use rhetorical questions in this chapter to mock or insult Judah and their God, Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
36:1 np79 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sennacherib 0 This is the name of the king of Assyria.
36:1 y3xq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Sennacherib … attacked all the fortified cities 0 Here Sennacherib represents himself and his army. Alternate translation: “Sennacherib and his army … attacked all the fortified cities”
36:2 df93 the chief commander 0 Some versions of the Bible translate this as “the Rabshakeh.” This is the Assyrian word for one of the highest ranking military leaders in Assyria.
36:2 su6h rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names the launderers’ field 0 This could mean: (1) this is the proper name by which the people called the field or (2) this is the common noun that the people used to talk about the field, “the launderers’ field” or “the field where men wash wool” or “the field where women wash clothes.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 7:3](../07/03.md).
36:2 ilm6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names the launderers’ field 0 Here, **the launderers** are either: (1) men who wash wool that someone has cut from the sheep, “wool washers field,” or (2) women who wash dirty clothes, “clothes washers field.” See how you translated this in [Isaiah 7:3](../07/03.md).
36:3 in74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Hilkiah … Eliakim 0 See how you translated these men’s names in [Isaiah 22:20](../22/20.md).
36:3 pc89 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Shebna 0 See how you translated this man’s name in [Isaiah 22:15](../22/15.md).
36:3 ch95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Asaph … Joah 0 These are names of men.
36:4 p18f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What is the source of your confidence? 0 The king of Assyria uses this question to challenge Hezekiah and to say that he does not have a good source for confidence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have no reliable source for your confidence.”
36:5 qam5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy there is counsel and strength for war 0 “you have the council and the strength to go to war.” The phrase “strength for war” refers to having a large enough and strong enough army with weapons. Alternate translation: “you have enough military council, strong men, and weapons to go to war”
36:5 cx3g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Now in whom are you trusting? Who has given you courage to rebel against me? 0 The king of Assyria uses questions to ridicule Hezekiah for believing he has the strength to rebel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No matter in whom you trust, you will not have the courage to rebel against me.”
36:6 riv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy trusting in Egypt 0 Here “Egypt” refers to the Egyptian army. Alternate translation: “trusting in the Egyptian army”
36:6 p2hf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor that splintered reed that you use as a walking staff, but if a man leans on it, it will stick into his hand and pierce it 0 This speaks of Egypt, specifically its army and its Pharaoh, as if it were a splintered reed to emphasize that relying on them would not help them but would only harm them. Alternate translation: “that is like walking with a splintered reed for a staff. If a man leans on it, it will stick into his hand and pierce it”
36:6 ha6p splintered reed 0 A reed is the long, thin stem of a plant like tall grass. If it is splintered or damaged it cannot carry any weight.
36:6 d7dx walking staff 0 This is a stick that someone would use for support when walking, made of whatever kind of tree limb that is found along the way.
36:7 rnl2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion is not he the one whose high places and altars Hezekiah has taken away … Jerusalem”? 0 The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule the people and to imply that Yahweh was angry about what Hezekiah did and would not protect them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “he is the one whose high places and altars Hezekiah has taken away … Jerusalem.” or “he is the one whom Hezekiah insulted by tearing down his high places and altars … Jerusalem.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
36:7 dd7s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations has said to Judah and to Jerusalem, “You must worship before this altar in Jerusalem”? 0 This can be written as an indirect quote. “Judah” and “Jerusalem” refer to the people who live in them. Alternate translation: “has told the people of Judah and Jerusalem that they must worship only at this altar in Jerusalem.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
36:8 cxf8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers two thousand horses 0 “2,000 horses”
36:8 kf72 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony if you are able to find riders for them 0 The chief commander continues to ridicule Hezekiah and his army by implying that he did not have many soldiers.
36:9 kkc7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion How could you resist even one captain … servants? 0 The chief commander continues to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. When he says “you,” referring to Hezekiah, he is actually referring to Hezekiah’s army. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Your army could not even defeat one captain … servants.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
36:10 i4d9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Now then, have I traveled up here without Yahweh to fight against this land and destroy it? 0 The chief commander uses another question to ridicule Hezekiah and the people of Judah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I came here with Yahweh’s command to destroy Jerusalem.”
36:10 lp4l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy without Yahweh 0 Here “Yahweh” refers to Yahweh’s orders. Alternate translation: “without Yahweh’s command”
36:10 rme7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy against this land and destroy it … Attack this land and destroy it 0 This means to fight against the people and cause destruction in the place where they live. The land referred to here is Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “against this people and destroy their land … Attack these people and destroy their land”
36:11 gv2d Shebnah 0 See how you translated this man’s name in [Isaiah 22:15](../22/15.md).
36:11 nk7q Joah 0 See how you translated this man’s name in [Isaiah 36:3](./03.md)
36:11 k22v chief commander 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 36:2](./02.md).
36:11 t9lq Please speak to your servants 0 Eliakim, Shebnah, and Joah refer to themselves as the chief commander’s servants. This is a polite way to speak to someone who has greater authority.
36:11 ts48 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names the Aramean language, Aramaic 0 “Aramean” is the name of a people group. “Aramaic” is the name of their language.
36:11 src6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom in the ears of the people who are on the wall 0 The idiom “to speak in someone’s ear” means to speak where they can hear you. Alternate translation: “where the people who are on the wall may hear us”
36:11 ka86 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit who are on the wall 0 This means that they are standing on the wall. The top of the wall was wide and a place where people could sit or stand. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “who are standing on the wall”
36:12 sj4i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Has my master sent me to your master and to you to speak these words? 0 The chief commander uses this question to emphasize that his message is for all the people of Judah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Certainly, my master has sent me to speak this message to you and to all who can hear.”
36:12 e31l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Has he not sent me to the men who sit on the wall, who will have to … you? 0 The chief commander uses this question to emphasize his insult. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “My master has sent me to everyone who hears this, who will have to … you.”
36:12 q31n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit will have to eat their own dung and drink their own urine with you 0 This is a very offensive statement. He is implying that they will need to eat these things because they will have nothing else to eat because their city will be under attack. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “will soon need to eat their own dung and drink their own urine, just as you will, because you will have nothing else to eat”
36:15 m9dz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will not give Jerusalem into the hand of the king of Assyria”
36:15 q7vd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the hand of the king 0 The king’s “hand” refers to his “control.” Alternate translation: “the control of the king”
36:16 jhn1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom Make peace with me 0 This idiom means to agree officially to act peacefully towards one another. Alternate translation: “Let us agree to have peace”
36:16 pq46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom come out to me 0 This idiom means to surrender. Alternate translation: “surrender to me”
36:17 pl47 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy until I come and take 0 Here the king of Assyria is referring to his army as himself. Alternate translation: “until my army comes and takes”
36:17 p9x3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism a land of grain and new wine, a land of bread and vineyards 0 These two phrase have the same meaning and are used together to emphasize how prosperous the land will be.
36:17 dnb3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession a land of grain … a land of bread 0 This means that they land is full of natural resources, such as grain. Alternate translation: “a land where there is plenty of grain … a land where there is plenty of bread”
36:18 u8gl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Has any of the gods of the peoples rescued them from … Assyria? 0 The chief commander uses this question to ridicule the people of Judah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “None of the gods of the peoples rescued them from … Assyria.”
36:18 gl11 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the hand of the king 0 The king’s control is referred to as his “hand.” Alternate translation: “the control of the king”
36:19 zj8l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they rescued Samaria from my power? 0 The chief commander uses these questions to ridicule the people of Judah. These questions may be combined and written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The gods of Hamath, Arpad, Sepharvaim, and Samaria did not rescue their people from my power.”
36:19 r9ju rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Hamath … Arpad 0 Translate the names of these cities the same as you did in [Isaiah 10:9](../10/09.md).
36:19 g5q3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sepharvaim 0 This is the name of a city.
36:20 tl7p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion is there any god who has rescued … as if Yahweh could save Jerusalem from my power? 0 The chief commander uses this question to ridicule the people of Judah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “there is no god who has rescued … and Yahweh will not save you in Jerusalem from my power.”
36:20 r234 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his land 0 This refers to the people who live in the land. Alternate translation: “his people”
36:22 zjw1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Eliakim … Hilkiah … Shebna … Joah … Asaph 0 Translate the names of these men the same as you did in [Isaiah 36:3](../36/03.md).
36:22 yqy8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom over the household 0 This idiom means that he was in charge of the affairs of the palace household. Alternate translation: “in charge of the palace”
36:22 kdc7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction with their clothes torn 0 Hezekiah’s officials tore their clothes as a sign of mourning and distress. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “with their clothes torn because they were extremely distressed”
37:intro vy96 0 # Isaiah 37 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 37:22–38.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Tearing clothes and putting on sackcloth\n\nThis was a sign of great distress. While it is often accompanies repentance, in this chapter it is intended to show the king’s anger at the blasphemy of the Assyrians when they spoke against Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sign]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/blasphemy]])\n\n### Prayer\n\nHezekiah was different from the other kings because when he was threatened by Assyria, he went to Yahweh in prayer. He did not trust in his army or make an alliance with Egypt. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])
37:1 u52c rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent It came about that 0 This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
37:1 qkd2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction he tore his clothes, covered himself with sackcloth 0 This is a sign of mourning and distress. Alternate translation: “he tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth because he was very distressed”
37:2 he14 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Eliakim … Shebna 0 Translate the names of these men the same as you did in [Isaiah 36:3](../36/03.md).
37:2 u8m9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom over the household 0 This is an idiom that means that he was in charge of the affairs of the palace household. Alternate translation: “in charge of the palace”
37:2 vd87 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction all covered with sackcloth 0 This is a sign of mourning and distress.
37:3 nm3p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like when a child is ready to be born, but the mother has no strength to give birth to her child 0 This comparison is made to emphasizes that they are in a time of extreme difficulty. Alternate translation: “It is as terrible as the day when a child is ready to be born, but the mother has no strength to give birth to her child”
37:4 k27f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit It may be Yahweh your God will hear the words 0 Hezekiah is indirectly suggesting that if the people pray Yahweh may listen and act upon what the chief commander had said. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Maybe if you pray to Yahweh your God will hear the message”
37:4 yi1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit will rebuke the words which Yahweh your God has heard 0 Here the phrase “the words which Yahweh your God has heard” refers to what the king of Assyria had said. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Yahweh your God will rebuke the king of Assyria for what he has said”
37:4 t6nz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lift up your prayer 0 Praying to Yahweh is described this way to emphasize that Yahweh is in heaven. A prayer is spoken of as if they were objects that could be lifted high into the sky. Alternate translation: “pray”
37:4 jr8n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy for the remnant that is still here 0 This refers to the people who are left in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “for the few of us that are still here”
37:7 wiv3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I will put a spirit in him, and he will hear a certain report and go back to his own land 0 The phrase “put a spirit in him” means that God will influence him to make a specific decision. The word “spirit” here means a strong attitude or feeling. Alternate translation: “I will influence him so that when he hears a certain report, he will go back to his own land”
37:7 ggs5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land 0 The phrase “fall by the sword” is an idiom that means that his enemy will kill him with a sword. Alternate translation: “And there in his own land, I will cause his enemies to kill him with their swords”
37:8 q58i rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Lachish 0 See how you translated the name of this city in [Isaiah 36:2](../36/02.md).
37:8 j5mn rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Libnah 0 This is a city in southern Judah.
37:9 d4uz rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sennacherib 0 See how you translated this man’s name in [Isaiah 36:1](../36/01.md).
37:9 kcx5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Tirhakah king of Cush and Egypt had mobilized to fight against him 0 “Tirhakah” is the name of a man. He had mobilized his army so that they were ready to fight. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Tirhakah king of Cush and Egypt had mobilized his army” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
37:9 wd2v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to fight against him 0 The word “him” represents Sennacherib. Here Sennacherib represents his army. Alternate translation: “to fight against the army of Sennacherib”
37:10 vz6u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The word “hand” refers to the king’s military power. Alternate translation: “The king of Assyria and his army will not conquer you in Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
37:11 vik5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion So will you be rescued? 0 The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. Alternate translation: “So you too will not be saved.” or “So of course no one will rescue you either!”
37:12 rk3v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Have the gods of the nations rescued them … Tel Assar? 0 The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. Alternate translation: “The nations’ god did not rescue the nations that my fathers destroyed … Tel Assar!”
37:12 iz21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche that my fathers destroyed 0 These men destroyed the cities listed by conquering them with their armies. Here the word “fathers” refers to his father and his other ancestors who were kings. Alternate translation: “that my fathers destroyed with their armies”
37:12 k8xm rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Gozan … Haran … Rezeph … Eden … Tel Assar 0 These are places that the Assyrians had conquered.
37:13 aku4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Hena … Ivvah 0 These are places that the Assyrians had conquered.
37:13 ib9s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where is the king … Ivvah? 0 The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. Alternate translation: “We also conquered the king … Ivvah!”
37:13 t5zc rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Hamath … Arpad … Sepharvaim 0 Translate the names of these cities the same as you did in [Isaiah 36:19](../36/19.md).
37:14 ex2e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche from hand of the messengers 0 Here the messengers are referred to by their “hand” to emphasize that they personally gave it to the king. Alternate translation: “that the messengers gave him”
37:14 a1u4 he went up to the house of Yahweh 0 The house of Yahweh was at the highest place in Jerusalem, so it is spoken of as “up.”
37:14 c2pf spread it before him 0 “spread out the letter in front of Yahweh.” Being in the house of Yahweh is considered the same as being in Yahweh’s presence. The letter was a scroll that could be unrolled and spread out.
37:16 m4vb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit you who sit above the cherubim 0 You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahweh’s footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. Alternate translation: “you who sit on your throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant”
37:16 z5zj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom over all the kingdoms 0 This idiom means to have authority and to rule over all the kingdoms. Alternate translation: “have authority over all the kingdoms”
37:16 bl43 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism You made the heavens and the earth 0 This means that he created everything. Alternate translation: “You made everything”
37:17 q72i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit which he has sent 0 Hezekiah is referring to the letter from Sennacherib. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “in the message he has sent”
37:17 rq3a rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sennacherib 0 See how you translated this man’s name in [Isaiah 36:1](../36/01.md).
37:18 vwq4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole all the nations and their lands 0 This is a generalization. The kings had destroyed many of the nearby lands, but not necessarily all lands. Alternate translation: “many of the nations and their lands”
37:19 xdh5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche for they were not gods but the work of men’s hands, just wood and stone 0 This emphasizes that humans made these idols with their own hands and are therefore worthless. Alternate translation: “because they were false gods that men made out of wood and stone”
37:20 d95t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy all the kingdoms 0 This refers to the people in the kingdoms. Alternate translation: “all the people in the kingdoms”
37:21 rbj3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy sent a message 0 This means that he sent a messenger to give a message to the king. Alternate translation: “sent someone to give a message”
37:22 d2ht rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction shakes her head 0 This is a gesture of scorn.
37:22 f4jf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom The virgin daughter of Zion … the daughter of Jerusalem 0 These are idioms. Both of these phrases have the same meaning. The “daughter” of a city means the people who live in the city. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 1:8](../01/08.md). Alternate translation: “The people of Zion … the people of Jerusalem”
37:23 xes7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Whom have you defied and insulted? & Against the Holy One of Israel. 0 Yahweh uses these rhetorical questions to ridicule the king of Assyria. These can be written as statements. Alternate translation: “You have defied and insulted Yahweh, you have shouted at and acted pridefully against the Holy One of Israel!”
37:23 m83m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor have you exalted your voice 0 This refers to speaking loudly as if the person’s voice were an object that they lifted high. Alternate translation: “have you shouted”
37:23 xz28 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom lifted up your eyes in pride 0 This is an idiom that means to look at something pridefully, considering yourself more important that you should. Alternate translation: “looked at pridefully” or “acted pridefully”
37:24 dt18 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit By your servants 0 This refers to the servants that he had sent to Hezekiah with a message. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “In the messages you sent with your servants”
37:24 k4e1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche I have gone … I will cut … I will enter 0 Here Sennacherib speaks of himself conquering many things. He is actually conquering them with the armies and chariots that he commands. Alternate translation: “We have gone … We will cut … we will enter”
37:24 vey3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis its most fruitful forest 0 Here the word “fruitful” refers to the forest being dense and full of healthy trees. The understood information may be supplied. Alternate translation: “and into its most fruitful forest”
37:25 gwm7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche I have dug … I dried … my feet 0 Here Sennacherib speaks of himself conquering many things. He is actually conquering them with the armies and chariots that he commands. Alternate translation: “We have dug … we dried … our feet”
37:25 u9gt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole I dried up all the rivers of Egypt under the soles of my feet 0 Here Sennachrib is exaggerating his conquest and travels across the rivers of Egypt by claiming to have dried up the rivers when he marched his army through them. Alternate translation: “I have marched through all the rivers of Egypt as if they were dry under my feet”
37:26 k4vl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Have you not heard how … times? 0 Yahweh uses this rhetorical question to remind Sennacherib of information that he should already be aware of. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Certainly you have heard how … times.”
37:26 vpm5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit You are here to reduce impregnable cities into heaps of ruins 0 Yahweh had planned for Sennacherib’s army to destroy the cities that they had destroyed. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I planned that your army would destroy cities and cause them to become piles of rubble”
37:26 lbt8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I am bringing it to pass 0 The idiom “to bring something to pass” means to cause a specific thing to happen. Alternate translation: “I am causing it to happen” or “I am causing these things to take place”
37:27 z86i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor shattered 0 broken into small pieces. This is a metaphor for being greatly discouraged.
37:27 lp95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They are plants in the field, green grass, the grass on the roof or in the field, before the east wind 0 This speaks of how weak and vulnerable the cities are before the Assryian army by comparing the cities to grass. Alternate translation: “The cities are as weak as the grass in the fields before your armies. They are as weak as the grass that grows on the roofs of houses and is scorched by the hot east wind”
37:28 uw6e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism But I know your sitting down, your going out, your coming in 0 This refers to all activities of life. Alternate translation: “I know everything you do”
37:28 zm2q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns and your raging against me 0 The word “raging” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “how you rage against me”
37:29 f79t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your arrogance 0 Here the king’s “arrogance” refers to his arrogant speech. Alternate translation: “your arrogant speech”
37:29 tv21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your arrogance has reached my ears 0 This speaks of Yahweh hearing the king’s speech as if the king’s speech were something that traveled to his ear. Alternate translation: “I have heard you speaking arrogantly”
37:29 r8sq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will put my hook in your nose, and my bit in your mouth 0 A person uses a hook and bit to lead an animal around. This speaks of Yahweh controlling the king as if the king were an animal Yahweh controlled with a bit and hook. Alternate translation: “I will control you like a man controls his animal by place a hook in its nose and a bit in its mouth”
37:29 wye1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I will turn you back the way you came 0 This refers to causing the king to return to his own home country. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “I will force you to return to your own country”
37:30 hyd8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you sign for you 0 “sign for you, Hezekiah.” Here “you” is singular and refers to Hezekiah.
37:30 c1n3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you you will eat … you must plant 0 Here “you” is plural and refers to the people of Judah.
37:30 hw94 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis in the second year what grows 0 This describes what the people will eat. The words “you will eat” are understood from the previous phrase Alternate translation: “in the second year you will eat what grows” or “next year you will eat what grows” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])
37:30 ipd7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal in the third year 0 This refers to the year after the second year. Alternate translation: “the year after that” or “in the following year”
37:31 ngd5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the house of Judah 0 Here Judah’s “house” refers to his descendants. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Judah”
37:31 jez8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will again take root and bear fruit 0 This speaks of the people of Judah becoming prosperous as if they were plants that would root and bear fruit. Alternate translation: “will prosper like a plant that takes root and produces fruit”
37:32 sc29 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For from Jerusalem a remnant will come out; from Mount Zion survivors will come 0 These two phrases have the same meaning and are used together to emphasize the remnant of people who will survive.
37:32 vre3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The zeal of Yahweh of hosts will do this 0 This speaks of Yahweh doing something because of his zeal as if his “zeal” were actually doing the action. Alternate translation: “Because of his zeal, Yahweh of hosts will do this” or “Yahweh of hosts will do this because of his zeal”
37:33 i11q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche He will not come … He will not come 0 Here the Assyrian king refers to both him and his army. Alternate translation: “His army will not come … They will not come”
37:34 yz62 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche he came … he will not enter 0 Here the Assyrian king refers to both him and his army. Alternate translation: “they came … they will not enter”
37:34 zq4h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
37:37 x3e4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Sennacherib king of Assyria left Israel and went home and stayed in Nineveh 0 Here Sennacherib refers to both him and his army. They all left Israel and returned home to Assryia. Sennacherib returned to the city Nineveh. Alternate translation: “Sennacherib and his army left Israel and went home, and Sennacherib stayed in Nineveh”
37:37 ft9a rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sennacherib 0 See how you translated this man’s name in [Isaiah 36:1](../36/01.md).
38:intro s3fq 0 # Isaiah 38 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 38:10–20.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Poetry\n\nThis chapter is written as a narrative, but the section including Hezekiah’s prayer is written as poetry. The tone of this prayer shifts from sorrow to praise.
38:1 g1p4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Set your house in order 0 This means to prepare your family and those in charge of your affairs so that they know what to do after you die. This can be written clearly. Alternate translation: “You should tell the people in your palace what you want them to do after you die”
38:3 c5ru rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom call to mind 0 This idiom means to remember. Alternate translation: “remember”
38:3 rvv5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom faithfully walked before you 0 This is an idiom. Here “walk” means to “live.” The phrase means to live in a way the pleases Yahweh. Alternate translation: “faithfully lived before you” or “faithfully served you”
38:3 j97c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy with my whole heart 0 Here the “heart” refers to the inner-being which represents a person’s complete devotion. Alternate translation: “with all my inner being” or “with my complete devotion”
38:3 hd6d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor what was good in your sight 0 The sight of Yahweh represents Yahweh’s judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “what pleases you” or “what you consider to be good”
38:4 zb4v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom the word of Yahweh came 0 This is an idiom that is used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. Alternate translation: “Yahweh spoke this message” or “Yahweh spoke these words”
38:5 pg75 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers fifteen years 0 “15 years”
38:6 vqy2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the hand of the king of Assyria 0 Here the king’s “hand” refers to his power. Alternate translation: “the power of the king of Assyria”
38:8 j1py rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit stairs of Ahaz 0 These stairs are referred to this way because they were built while Ahaz was king. You can make this information clear.
38:10 vkw8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will go through the gates of Sheol 0 This speaks of dying as if Sheol were a kingdom that has gates that one enters. Alternate translation: “I will die and go to Sheol”
38:10 y2v3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive I am sent there for the rest of my years 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “before I have lived all of my years I will go to the grave”
38:11 bn4a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj in the land of the living 0 “The living” refers to people who are alive. Alternate translation: “in the land where people are alive” or “in this world where people are alive”
38:12 rh4l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile My life is removed and carried away from me like a shepherd’s tent 0 This speaks of how Yahweh is ending Hezekiah’s life quickly by comparing it to how a shepherd removes his tent from the ground. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has taken my life away from me quickly like a shepherd packs up his tent and carries it away”
38:12 f8qq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive My life is removed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has taken my life”
38:12 eh2s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile I have rolled up my life like a weaver; you are cutting me off from the loom 0 This speaks of Yahweh quickly ending Hezekiah’s life by comparing it to how a weaver cuts his cloth from the loom and rolls it up. Alternate translation: “you are ending my life quickly, like a weaver cuts his cloth from the loom when it is finished”
38:12 nyl3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you you are cutting 0 Here “you” is singular and refers to God.
38:13 x3bh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a lion he breaks all my bones 0 Hezekiah speaks of how he is in extreme pain by comparing it to having his body torn apart by lions. Alternate translation: “my pain was as though I were being torn apart by lions”
38:14 b2w9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Like a swallow I chirp; I coo like a dove 0 Both of these clauses mean the same thing and they emphasize how sad and pitiful Hezekiah’s cries were. A swallow and a dove are types of birds. Alternate translation: “My cries are pitiful--they sound like the chirp of a swallow and the coo of a dove” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
38:14 qgn5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche my eyes 0 Here Hezekiah refers to himself my his “eyes” to emphasize that he is looking for something. Alternate translation: “I”
38:14 bhl4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit with looking upward 0 This refers to Hezekiah looking to heaven for God to help him. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “of waiting for help to come from heaven” or “of waiting for you to help me”
38:14 l1ah rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive I am oppressed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My sickness oppresses me”
38:15 f5ku rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What shall I say? 0 Hezekiah uses a question to emphasize he has nothing left to say. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I have nothing left to say.”
38:15 hd6w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I will walk slowly 0 This is an idiom. Here “walking” refers to living. Alternate translation: “I will like humbly”
38:15 ph65 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit all my years 0 This refers to the rest of his life. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “the rest of my life”
38:16 wak7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive may my life be given back to me 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “may you give my life back to me”
38:17 wz18 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit from the pit of destruction 0 Hezekiah did not die but he was close to dying. This refers Yahweh saving him from dying. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “from dying and going to the pit of destruction” or “so that I did not die”
38:17 f8fu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for you have thrown all my sins behind your back 0 Hezekiah speaks of Yahweh forgiving his sins as if they were objects that Yahweh threw behind himself and forgot about. Alternate translation: “for you have forgiven all my sins and no longer think about them”
38:18 n9p4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy For Sheol does not thank you; death does not praise you 0 Here “Sheol” and “death” refer to “dead people.” Alternate translation: “For those in Sheol do not thank you; dead people do not praise you”
38:18 nf2c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you do not hope in your trustworthiness 0 “do not have hope in your faithfulness.” Here “your” is singular and refers to Yahweh.
38:19 ye1q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism The living person, the living person 0 Hezekiah repeats this phrase to emphasize that only a living person, not a dead person, can give thanks to Yahweh.
38:20 j3ts rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit save me 0 This refers to him being saved from dying. It can be made more explicit. Alternate translation: “save me from dying”
38:20 k672 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive we will celebrate 0 Here “we” refers to Hezekiah and the people of Judah.
38:21 b3bq rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background Now 0 This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. This gives background information about Isaiah and Hezekiah.
38:21 drf6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit a lump of figs 0 This was used as an ointment. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “use an ointment of mashed figs”
38:21 t3l6 boil 0 a painful area on the skin that is infected
39:intro lz5x 0 # Isaiah 39 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Pride\n\nAlthough it is not said why it was sinful for Hezekiah to show the king of Babylon his riches, the sin was probably because of his pride. It can be viewed as bragging to another king about how rich and powerful he was without giving proper credit to Yahweh. Because of this sin, Yahweh punished him. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n### Babylon\n\nAt this time, Babylon was not very powerful, but was little more than a city. In a short time, however, Babylon became a very powerful nation and conquered Assyria.
39:1 z1d1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Marduk-Baladan … Baladan 0 These are names of men.
39:2 x7xe rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Hezekiah was pleased by these things 0 This can be made more explicit. Alternate translation: “When the king’s messengers arrived, Hezekiah was pleased with what they brought to him”
39:2 bg44 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive all that was found in his storehouses 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “everything that was in his storehouses”
39:2 k5u7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives There was nothing in his house, nor in all his kingdom, that Hezekiah did not show them 0 This is a slight exaggeration as Hezekiah showed them many things, but not everything. Also, this can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah showed them almost everything in his house and in his kingdom” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
39:4 lp83 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism They have seen everything in my house. There is nothing among my valuable things that I have not shown them 0 These two sentences mean the same thing and are used together to emphasize how much Hezekiah showed the men.
39:4 u3hm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole everything in my house 0 This is a generalization, as Hezekiah showed them many things, but not necessarily everything in the palace. Alternate translation: “almost everything in my house”
39:4 k738 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives There is nothing among my valuable things that I have not shown them 0 This can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “I showed them all the valuable things in my palace”
39:6 y5e5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive when everything in your palace … will be carried to Babylon 0 This can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “when the enemy army will take everything in your palace … back to Babylon”
39:7 mls8 The sons born from you 0 Alternate translation: “Your sons”
39:7 tb9y they will take them 0 Alternate translation: “the Babylonians will take them”
40:intro xc5h 0 # Isaiah 40 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Rhetorical Questions\n\nYahweh uses many rhetorical questions in this chapter. These rhetorical questions help to prove the point he is making and convince the reader. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “She has received double from Yahweh’s hand for all her sins”\nIt is common in many languages to use the feminine “she” to refer to a nation, rather than the word “it,” which is neither masculine or feminine. The translator should use the pronoun that aligns with the common usage in the target language. Therefore, it is acceptable to use “he,” “she,” or “it” in reference to a nation.\n\nThe phrase “received double” indicates that Jerusalem was punished more severely than the other nations. This is because they had the privilege of a special relationship to Yahweh and had more knowledge than the other nations.\n\n### Reign of Yahweh\n\nThis chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the Messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. It does not appear that this prophecy was fulfilled in the days of Isaiah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
40:1 uzv6 Comfort, comfort 0 The word “comfort” is repeated for emphasis.
40:1 wa9a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you says your God 0 Here “your” is plural and refers to those whom the prophet tells to comfort God’s people.
40:2 f6th rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Speak tenderly to Jerusalem 0 The prophet speaks of Jerusalem as if it were a woman whom Yahweh has forgiven. As such, Jerusalem represents the people who live in that city. Alternate translation: Speak tenderly to the people of Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
40:2 v29s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person proclaim to her … her warfare … her iniquity … she has received … her sins 0 These pronouns refer to Jerusalem but may be changed if “the people of Jerusalem” is adopted as a translation. Alternate translation: “proclaim to them … their warfare … their iniquity … they have received … their sins”
40:2 ux5w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive her iniquity is pardoned 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has pardoned her iniquity”
40:2 xkm6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche from Yahweh’s hand 0 Here the word “hand” represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “from Yahweh”
40:3 s925 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche A voice cries out 0 The word “voice” represents the person who cries out. Alternate translation: “Someone cries out”
40:3 kwv5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism In the wilderness prepare the way of Yahweh; make straight in the Arabah a highway for our God 0 These two lines are parallel and mean basically the same thing. The people preparing themselves for Yahweh’s help is spoken of as if they were to prepare roads for Yahweh to travel upon. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
40:4 uee3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Every valley will be lifted up, and every mountain and hill will be leveled 0 These phrases explain how the people are to prepare a highway for Yahweh. They can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Lift up every valley, and level every mountain and hill”
40:4 xdc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Every valley will be lifted up 0 Making the valleys level with the rest of the ground is spoken of as if it were lifting up the valleys. Alternate translation: “Every valley will be filled in”
40:4 m9td rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive and the rugged land will be made level, and the rough places a plain 0 These phrases explain how the people are to prepare a highway for Yahweh. They can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “make the rugged land level, and make the rough places into a plain” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
40:5 ys59 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the glory of Yahweh will be revealed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will reveal his glory”
40:5 sf3k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken it 0 The word “mouth” represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh has spoken it”
40:6 slv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor All flesh is grass 0 The word “flesh” refers to people. The speaker speaks of humans as if they are grass, because they both die quickly. Alternate translation: “All people are like grass”
40:6 tzv2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile all their covenant faithfulness is like the flower of the field 0 The speaker compares the covenant faithfulness of people to flowers that bloom and then die quickly. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in [Isaiah 16:5](../16/05.md). Alternate translation: “they quickly stop being faithful to the covenant, just like a flower of the field dies quickly” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
40:6 h3q7 covenant faithfulness 0 This could mean: (1) covenant faithfulness or (2) beauty.
40:7 m65h when the breath of Yahweh blows on it 0 This could mean: (1) “when Yahweh blows his breath on it” or (2) “when Yahweh sends a wind to blow on it.”
40:7 p8bp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor humanity is grass 0 The speaker speaks of humans as if they are grass, because they both die quickly. Alternate translation: “people die as quickly as grass”
40:8 ilr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the word of our God will stand forever 0 The speaker speaks of what God says lasting forever as if his word stands forever. Alternate translation: “the things that our God says will last forever”
40:9 da3x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Go up on a high mountain, Zion, bearer of good news 0 The writer speaks of Zion as if it were a messenger who declares good news from a mountain top.
40:9 w2hr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Go up on a high mountain 0 Messengers would often stand on elevated land, such as mountains, so that many people could hear what they proclaimed.
40:9 v9yl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Zion 0 This refers to the people who live in Zion. Alternate translation: “you people of Zion”
40:9 i6vj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Jerusalem. You who bring good news 0 The writer speaks of Jerusalem as if it were a messenger who declares good news.
40:10 gme1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his strong arm rules for him 0 Here the word “arm” represents God’s power. Alternate translation: “he rules with great power”
40:10 j4yu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism his reward is with him … those he has rescued go before him 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The ones he rescued are his “reward.” Alternate translation: “he is bringing those he rescued with him as his reward”
40:11 m6wg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He will feed his flock like a shepherd 0 The writer speaks of Yahweh’s people as if they were sheep and of Yahweh as if he were their shepherd. Alternate translation: “He will care for his people like a shepherd feeds his flock”
40:12 qkx7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has measured … or the hills in a balance? 0 These rhetorical questions anticipate a negative answer and emphasize that only Yahweh is able to do these things. Alternate translation: “No one but Yahweh has measured … and the hills in a balance.”
40:12 n98i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor measured the waters in the hollow of his hand 0 Yahweh knowing how much water is in the oceans is spoken of as if Yahweh held the water in his hand.
40:12 r9wq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor measured the sky with the span of his hand 0 A “span” is the measure of length between the thumb and little finger when the hand is outstretched. Yahweh knowing the length of the sky is spoken of as if he measured it with his hand.
40:12 hal4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor held the dust of the earth in a basket 0 Yahweh knowing how much dust there is on the earth is spoken of as if he carried it in a basket.
40:12 q4eb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor weighed the mountains in scales, or the hills in a balance? 0 Yahweh knowing how heavy the mountains are is spoken of as if he weighed them in scales and balances.
40:13 j8t8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has comprehended the mind of Yahweh, or instructed him as his counselor? 0 This rhetorical question anticipates a negative answer and emphasizes that no one is able to do these things. Alternate translation: “No one has comprehended the mind of Yahweh, and no one has instructed him as his counselor.”
40:14 e7e8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion From whom did he ever receive instruction? 0 This rhetorical question anticipates a negative answer and emphasizes that no one has ever done this. Alternate translation: “He has never received instruction from anyone.”
40:14 h7pz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who taught him the correct way to do things, and taught him knowledge, or showed to him the way of understanding? 0 This rhetorical question anticipates a negative answer and emphasizes that no one has ever done these things. Alternate translation: “No one taught him the correct way to do things. No one taught him knowledge. No one showed to him the way of understanding.”
40:15 m437 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile the nations are like a drop in a bucket, and are regarded like the dust on the scales 0 The prophet compares the nations to a drop of water and to dust in order to emphasize how small and insignificant they are to Yahweh.
40:15 c6k1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive are regarded like the dust on the scales 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh regards them as dust on the scales”
40:17 bap7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive they are regarded by him as nothing 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he regards them as nothing”
40:18 pv1a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To whom then will you compare God? To what idol will you liken him? 0 Isaiah uses two similar questions to emphasize that there is no idol that can compare with God. Alternate translation: “There is no one to whom you can compare God. There is no idol to which you can liken him.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
40:18 q6aj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you you 0 This is plural and refers to all of God’s people.
40:19 t66l A craftsman casts it: The goldsmith overlays it with gold and forges silver chains for it 0 Alternate translation: “A skilled worker forms it, another covers it with gold and makes a silver chain for it”
40:21 nm2t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? 0 Isaiah uses these questions to emphasize that the people should know Yahweh’s greatness as the creator. Alternate translation: “You certainly know and have heard! It has been told to you from the beginning; you have understood from the foundations of the earth!” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
40:21 p4gz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Has it not been told you from the beginning? 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Have people not told you from the beginning?”
40:21 w7gd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor from the foundations of the earth 0 The prophet speaks of Yahweh creating the earth as if the earth were a building for which Yahweh laid the foundation. Alternate translation: “from the time that Yahweh created the earth”
40:22 vwb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He is the one who sits above the horizon of the earth 0 The prophet speaks of Yahweh ruling the earth as if Yahweh were seated on a throne above the earth.
40:22 r4cn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile the inhabitants are like grasshoppers before him 0 The prophet compares the way Yahweh considers humans to the way humans would consider grasshoppers. Just as grasshoppers are small to humans, humans are small and weak before God.
40:22 jtu6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism He stretches out the heavens like a curtain and spreads them out as a tent to live in 0 These two lines share similar meanings. The prophet speaks of Yahweh creating the heavens as if he had erected a tent in which to live. Alternate translation: “He spreads out the heavens as easily as a person would stretch out a curtain or erect a tent in which to live” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
40:24 d2lf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They are barely planted … and they wither 0 The prophet speaks of rulers being helpless before Yahweh as if they were new plants that wither away when a hot wind blows on them.
40:24 n61k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism They are barely planted, barely sown 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to the point at which the plants or seeds are placed into the ground. They can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As soon as someone plants them … as soon as someone sows them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
40:24 pcb5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he blows upon them 0 The prophet speaks of Yahweh removing the rulers from power as if Yahweh were a scorching wind that blows upon the plants and causes them to wither.
40:24 d8bi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile the wind carries them away like straw 0 This simile extends the metaphor of the rulers as plants and Yahweh as the wind that causes them to wither. The wind of Yahweh’s judgement will remove the withered plants as easily as wind blows away straw.
40:25 pts1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To whom then will you compare me, whom do I resemble? 0 Yahweh uses two similar rhetorical questions to emphasize that there is no one like him. Alternate translation: “There is no one to whom you can compare me. There is no one whom I resemble.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
40:26 t53r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has created all these stars? 0 This is a leading question that anticipates the answer, Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has created all these stars!”
40:26 aiw3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He leads out their formations 0 Here the word “formations” refers to military formations. The prophet speaks of the stars as if they were soldiers whom Yahweh commands to appear.
40:26 y52j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet By the greatness of his might and by the strength of his power 0 The phrases “the greatness of his might” and “the strength of his power” form a doublet that emphasizes Yahweh’s power. Alternate translation: “By his great might and powerful strength”
40:26 w46r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes not one is missing 0 This negative statement emphasizes the positive. Alternate translation: “every one is present”
40:27 p5my rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why do you say, Jacob, and declare, Israel … vindication”? 0 The question emphasizes that they should not say what they say. Alternate translation: “‘You should not say, O people of Israel … vindication’.”
40:27 s7bb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Why do you say, Jacob, and declare, Israel 0 These two phrases both refer to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “Why do you say, O people of Israel”
40:27 tsn1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My way is hidden from Yahweh 0 Yahweh not knowing what happens to them is spoken of as if Yahweh could not see the road upon which they travel. Alternate translation: “Yahweh does not know what happens to me”
40:27 r58k my God is not concerned about my vindication 0 This could mean: (1) “my God is not concerned about others treating me unjustly” or (2) “my God is not concerned about treating me justly.”
40:28 v4f1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Have you not known? Have you not heard? 0 Isaiah uses these questions to emphasize that the people should know Yahweh’s greatness. See how you translated these in [Isaiah 40:21](../40/21.md). Alternate translation: “You certainly know and have heard!”
40:28 d991 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. AT “the farthest places of the earth” or “the entire earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
40:29 gt6k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism He gives strength to the tired; and to the weak he gives renewed energy 0 These two lines share similar meanings and emphasize that Yahweh strengthens those who have no strength.
40:31 gu6x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they will soar with wings like eagles 0 People receiving strength from Yahweh is spoken of as if the people were able to fly like eagles fly. An eagle is a bird often used as a symbol for strength and power.
40:31 vgd6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism they will run and not be weary; they will walk and not faint 0 These two lines share similar meanings. People receiving strength from Yahweh is spoken of as if they were able to run and walk without tiring. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
41:intro mwf4 0 # Isaiah 41 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Mocking\n\nYahweh tells the people to present their best arguments in favor of honoring their idols. In this Yahweh challenges the people. Yahweh mocks or insults these false gods because they are not real and have no power. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])
41:1 ihs8 Listen before me in silence 0 Here “me” refers to God.
41:1 gik7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy you coastlands 0 This refers to the people who live on the islands and in the lands bordering or beyond the Mediterranean Sea. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
41:1 kfx1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism let them come near and speak; let us come near together to argue a dispute 0 These two phrases share similar meanings. The second explains the reason for the first. Alternate translation: “then let them come near so they may speak and reason with me”
41:2 ji73 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has stirred up one from the east, calling him in righteousness to his service? 0 Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the one who caused this ruler from the east to be victorious. Alternate translation: “I am the one who called this powerful ruler from the east and put him in my good service.”
41:2 ckc3 He hands nations over to him 0 Alternate translation: “I give the nations over to him” or “The one who does these things hands nations over to him”
41:2 n5yz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He turns them to dust with his sword, like windblown stubble with his bow 0 Turning them to dust and stubble is a metaphor or exaggeration for completely destroying everything the people of these nations have made. The armies of one from the east will conquer these nations and scatter the people easily. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
41:3 iyl6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor by a swift path that his feet scarcely touch 0 This could mean: (1) this is a metaphor in which he and his army moving very quickly is spoken of as if his feet barely touch the ground. Alternate translation: “by a path on which he moves with great speed” or (2) “feet” represents the whole person and the phrase indicates that this is a path that they have not traveled before. Alternate translation: “by a path that he has never traveled before” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
41:4 xap2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has performed and accomplished these deeds? 0 Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the one who has done these things. Alternate translation: “I have performed and accomplished these deeds.”
41:4 lw9z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has summoned the generations from the beginning? 0 Here the word “generations” represents all of human history, which Yahweh created and directed throughout history. The rhetorical question anticipates the answer, Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I have summoned the generations of humanity from the beginning.”
41:4 z51k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet performed and accomplished 0 These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh is the one who has done these things.
41:4 rvp7 the first, and with the last ones 0 This could mean: (1) that Yahweh existed before creation and will exist at the end of creation or (2) that Yahweh was before the first generation of humanity and will be at the last generation of humanity.
41:5 n6gc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The isles … the ends of the earth 0 These phrases represent the people who live in those places. Alternate translation: “People who live on the isles … people who live at the ends of the earth”
41:5 yg5y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. AT “the farthest places of the earth”
41:5 rd3y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet they approach and come 0 This doublet means that the people gather together. Alternate translation: “they come together”
41:7 t2rw anvil 0 an iron block on which a person shapes metal with a hammer
41:7 ny9f saying of the welding 0 Here the word “welding” refers to the process of fastening the gold to the wood as the workers finish making the idol.
41:7 qdp9 They fasten it with nails so it will not topple over. 0 Here “it” refers to the idol that they have made.
41:9 ng2r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism you whom I am bringing back from the ends of the earth, and whom I called from the far away places 0 These two lines mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh is bringing the people of Israel back to their land from distant countries.
41:9 unb2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 41:5](../41/05.md). AT “the farthest places of the earth”
41:9 ah78 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I have chosen you and not rejected you 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second states in negative terms what the first states in positive terms. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
41:10 y2hx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will uphold you with my righteous right hand 0 Yahweh strengthening his people is spoken of as if he were holding them with his hand.
41:10 m5ra rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my righteous right hand 0 Here “right hand” represents Yahweh’s power. This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s right hand is righteous in that he will always do the right thing. Alternate translation: “my righteous power” or (2) Yahweh’s right hand is victorious in that he will always succeed in what he does. Alternate translation: “my victorious power”
41:11 i38z they will be ashamed and disgraced, all who have been angry with you 0 Alternate translation: “all who have been angry with you will be ashamed and disgraced”
41:11 acy9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ashamed and disgraced 0 These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize the greatness of their shame.
41:11 bm8s they will be as nothing and will perish, those who oppose you 0 Alternate translation: “those who oppose you will be as nothing and will perish”
41:13 mcq1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I … will hold your right hand 0 Yahweh helping the people of Israel is spoken of as if he were holding their right hand.
41:14 d1xa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Jacob you worm, and you men of Israel 0 Here “Jacob” and “men of Israel” mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “you people of Israel who are like worms”
41:14 x6h1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Jacob you worm 0 This could mean: (1) that this refers to the opinions of other nations regarding the people of Israel or (2) that this refers to Israel’s own opinion of themselves. Yahweh speaks of their insignificance as if they were a worm.
41:14 vga7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
41:15 dv6j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I am making you like a sharp threshing sledge … you will make the hills like chaff 0 Yahweh speaks of enabling Israel to defeat their enemies as if he were making the nation a threshing sledge that will level mountains.
41:15 v5bt a sharp threshing sledge 0 A threshing sledge was a board with sharp spikes that someone would drag over the wheat to separate the grain from the chaff.
41:15 s3j3 two-edged 0 This refers to the edges of the spikes that were attached to the threshing sledge. That they are “two-edged” means that they are very sharp.
41:15 im62 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you will thresh the mountains and crush them 0 This is a double metaphor. The mountains are a metaphor for grain, and threshing grain is a metaphor for the Israelites defeating the powerful enemy nations near them. Alternate translation: “you will thresh your enemies and crush them as if they were grain, even though they appear to be as strong as mountains” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
41:15 ulv1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you will make the hills like chaff 0 The hills are a metaphor for the powerful enemy nations near Israel. People having the wind blow the chaff away after they have threshed the grain is a metaphor for them allowing Yahweh to destroy their enemies. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
41:16 ii6a Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh continues to use the metaphor of separating grain from chaff to describe how Israel will defeat their enemies.
41:16 z22h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You will winnow them … the wind will scatter them 0 Here the word “them” refers to the mountains and hill in [Isaiah 41:15](../41/15.md). This represents the next step in the process of threshing grain, in which the grain is winnowed to get rid of the chaff. Israel’s enemies will disappear like chaff blown away by the wind.
41:16 mzr8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the wind will carry them away; the wind will scatter them 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “the wind will blow them away”
41:17 f1vc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 # General Information:\n\nYahweh speaks of people who are in extreme need as if they are extremely thirsty, and of his provision for them as if he caused water to appear in places where it normally would not appear.
41:19 g4uv rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown the myrtle … the pines and the cypress box trees 0 These are types of trees.
41:20 b7ez rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the hand of Yahweh has done this 0 Here the word “hand” represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has done this”
41:21 bhd2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony 0 # General Information:\n\nIn these verses, Yahweh is mocking the people and their idols. He is challenging the idols to tell what will happen in the future, but he knows they cannot.
41:23 icg9 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nYahweh continues to mock the idols and the people who worship them ([Isaiah 41:21–22](./21.md)).
41:23 qee7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism do something good or evil 0 The words “good” and “evil” form a merism and represent anything. Alternate translation: “do anything at all”
41:24 yv5h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you the one who chooses you 0 Here “you” is plural and refers to the idols. Alternate translation: “the person who chooses you idols”
41:25 rd8b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I have raised up one 0 Yahweh speaks of appointing a person as if he raised that person up. Alternate translation: “I have appointed one”
41:25 s97v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom from the sun’s rising 0 This refers to the east, the direction from which the sun rises. Alternate translation: “from the east”
41:25 bb4s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will trample the rulers 0 Conquering the rulers of other nations is spoken of as if it were trampling them under foot. Alternate translation: “he will conquer the rulers”
41:25 q8p3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a potter who is treading on the clay 0 Yahweh compares the way in which this person will trample the other rulers with the way that a potter tramples on clay to mix it with water.
41:26 u3i7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who announced this from the beginning, that we might know? Before this time, that we may say, “He is right”? 0 Yahweh uses these rhetorical questions to mock the idols that the people worship. The implied answers are: (1) that the idols have not done these things and (2) that Yahweh is the one who has done these things. Alternate translation: “None of the idols announced this from the beginning, that we might know. And none of them announced this before time, that we may say, ‘He is right.’” (See also: and[[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
41:26 xn3y Indeed none of them decreed it, yes, none heard you say anything 0 Alternate translation: “Indeed, none of the idols decreed it. Indeed, no one heard you idols say anything”
41:28 k8tv not one among them 0 Alternate translation: “not one idol”
41:29 i3rp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor their cast metal figures are wind and emptiness 0 Yahweh speaks of the worthlessness of the idols as if the idols are wind and nothing at all. Alternate translation: “their idols are all worthless”
42:intro q7al 0 # Isaiah 42 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nMany scholars believe that there are four songs or poems which Isaiah records about the Messiah. Isaiah 42:1–4 is the first of these songs. They are often called the “servant songs” because they focus on the Messiah being a servant. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Servant\n\nIsrael is called Yahweh’s servant. The Messiah is also called the servant of Yahweh. It is likely that the two different usages of the word “servant” are intended to contrast with one another.
42:3 w4sn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor A crushed reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench 0 Yahweh speaks of weak and helpless people as if they were crushed reeds and dimly burning wicks.
42:3 blf9 crushed reed 0 A reed is the long, thin stem of a plant like tall grass. If it is crushed, it cannot carry any weight. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 36:6](../36/06.md).
42:3 z56i he will not break 0 Alternate translation: “My servant will not break”
42:4 dhd4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the coastlands 0 This refers to the people who live on the islands and in the lands bordering or beyond the Mediterranean Sea. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 41:1](../41/01.md). Alternate translation: “the people who live on the coastlands”
42:5 kf3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the one who created the heavens and stretched them out, the one who made the earth 0 The prophet speaks of Yahweh creating the heavens and the earth as if the heavens and earth were fabric which Yahweh stretched out.
42:5 jxn4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism gives breath to the people on it and life to those who live on it 0 These phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh gives life to every person. The word “breath” is a metonym for life. Alternate translation: “gives life to the people who live on the earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
42:6 hg7t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you have called you 0 Here “you” is singular and refers to Yahweh’s servant.
42:6 l1kx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will … set you as a covenant for the people 0 Here the word “covenant” is a metonym for the one who establishes or mediates a covenant. Alternate translation: “I will … make you be the mediator of a covenant with the people”
42:6 t6si rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a light for the Gentiles 0 Yahweh speaks of making his servant the one who delivers the nations from bondage as if he were making him a light that shines in dark places for the Gentiles.
42:7 tip7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to open the eyes of the blind 0 Causing blind people to see is spoken of as if it were opening their eyes. Also, Yahweh speaks of his servant delivering those who have been wrongly imprisoned as if his servant were restoring sight to blind people. Alternate translation: “to enable the blind to see”
42:7 i2h2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism to release the prisoners from the dungeon, and from the house of confinement those who sit in darkness 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The verb may be supplied in the second phrase. Alternate translation: “to release the prisoners from the dungeon, and to release those who sit in darkness from the house in which they are confined” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
42:8 cbp4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis nor my praise with carved idols 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “nor will I share my praise with carved idols”
42:10 qf1v the sea, and all that is in it, the coastlands, and those who live there 0 Alternate translation: “and all the creatures that live in the sea, and all those who live on the coastlands”
42:11 liq4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Let the desert and the cities cry out 0 This refers to the people who live in the desert and the cities.
42:13 bf3l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Yahweh will go out as a warrior; as a man of war 0 Yahweh is compared with a warrior who is ready to defeat his people’s enemies. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
42:13 ys39 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will stir up his zeal 0 Here “zeal” refers to the passion that a warrior experiences when he is about to fight a battle. Yahweh stimulating his zeal is spoken of as if he stirred it up like the wind stirs up waves of water.
42:14 ej6j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I have kept quiet for a long time; I have been still and restrained myself 0 These two lines share similar meanings. Yahweh’s inactivity is described as quietness and stillness.
42:14 x3e1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet I have been still and restrained myself 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and indicate that Yahweh has kept himself from acting. Alternate translation: “I have kept myself from doing anything”
42:14 sj5x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile I will cry out like a woman in labor; I will gasp and pant 0 Yahweh’s activity as a shouting warrior is compared with a pregnant woman who cries from labor pains. This emphasizes sudden unavoidable action after a period of inactivity.
42:15 c5ek rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will lay waste mountains … will dry up the marshes 0 Yahweh uses this metaphorical language to describe his great power to conquer his enemies.
42:16 d8u8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I will bring the blind by a way that they do not know; in paths that they do not know I will lead them 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “I will lead the blind in paths that they do not know”
42:16 e56x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the blind 0 Yahweh speaks of his people being helpless as if they could not see because they were blind.
42:16 jc1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will turn the darkness into light before them 0 Yahweh speaks of his people being helpless as if they could not see because they walked in darkness, and of his helping them as if he caused light to shine in the darkness.
42:17 ayv4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will be turned back, they will be completely put to shame 0 Rejecting those who worship idols is spoken of as if it is forcing them to turn back and move the opposite direction. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will reject them and put them to shame” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
42:18 q3rs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you you deaf … you blind 0 Here “you” is plural and refers to the people of Israel. Yahweh speaks of their failure to listen to him and obey him as if they are deaf and blind. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
42:19 lx6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is blind but my servant? Or deaf like my messenger I send? 0 Yahweh asks these rhetorical questions to scold his people and to emphasize that no one is as blind or deaf as they are. Alternate translation: “No one is as blind as my servant. No one is as deaf as my messenger whom I send.”
42:19 y1c1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is as blind as my covenant partner, or blind as Yahweh’s servant? 0 Yahweh asks these rhetorical questions to scold his people and to emphasize that no one is as blind or deaf as they are. Alternate translation: “No one is as blind as my covenant partner. No one is as blind as Yahweh’s servant.”
42:20 usp5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ears are open, but no one hears 0 The ability to hear is spoken of as if the ears were open. Here the word “hears” refers to understanding what one hears. Alternate translation: “people hear, but no one understands what they hear”
42:21 e9j8 It pleased Yahweh to praise his justice and to make his law glorious 0 “Yahweh was pleased to honor his justice by making his law glorious.” The second part of the phrase explains how Yahweh accomplished the first part.
42:22 p3ne rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive But this is a people robbed and plundered 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But the enemy has robbed and plundered this people”
42:22 eu68 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet robbed and plundered 0 These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how badly the enemy had plundered them.
42:22 xx18 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism they are all trapped in pits, held captive in prisons 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the enemy has trapped them all in pits and held them captive in prisons” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
42:23 gp1t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you Who among you 0 Here “you” is plural and refers to the people of Israel.
42:24 p2dz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who gave Jacob over to the robber, and Israel to the looters? 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. Isaiah uses this as a leading question in order to emphasize the answer that he will give in the next phrase. Alternate translation: “I will tell you who gave the people of Israel over to robbers and looters.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
42:24 q9du rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Was it not Yahweh … refused to obey? 0 Isaiah uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that Yahweh alone was responsible for Israel’s situation, and to explain the reason that Yahweh did it. Alternate translation: “It was certainly Yahweh … refused to obey.”
42:24 e8z2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive against whom we have sinned 0 Here the word “we” refers to the people of Israel and to Isaiah.
42:24 dla2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism in whose ways they refused to walk, and whose law they refused to obey 0 The word “they” also refers to the people of Israel and to Isaiah. The two phrases mean the same thing. In the first, obeying Yahweh’s laws is spoken of as if it were walking in the paths in which Yahweh commanded them to walk. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
42:25 uby1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he poured out on them his fierce anger 0 Isaiah speaks of Yahweh’s anger as if it were a liquid that could be poured out. Alternate translation: “he showed them just how angry he was”
42:25 x8pk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns and the violence of war 0 The word “devastation” can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “by devastating them with war”
42:25 ym86 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Its flames encircled them … it consumed them 0 Isaiah speaks of Yahweh’s fierce anger as if it were a fire that burned the people.
42:25 q8m2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they did not take it to heart 0 Paying attention to something and learning from it is spoken of as if it were placing that thing on one’s heart. Alternate translation: “they did not pay attention” or “they did not learn from it”
43:intro bc7l 0 # Isaiah 43 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Exodus\n\nThis chapter pictures Judah’s eventual return from exile in Babylon as a kind of second exodus. It was reminiscent of their exodus from Egypt.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Exile\n\nThis chapter prophesies about the Jews return from Babylon, but the exile has yet to happen and is still more than a hundred years in the future. These events will show that Yahweh alone is God. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
43:1 ce9y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism he who created you, Jacob, and he who formed you, Israel 0 Both clauses mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “the one who created you, O people of Israel”
43:2 q1vm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor When you pass through the waters … the flames will not destroy you 0 Yahweh speaks of suffering and difficult experiences as if they are deep waters and fires through which the people walk. The words “waters” and “flames” form a merism and emphasize any difficult circumstance. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
43:2 j81j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you 0 These two statements mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the people will experience no harm because Yahweh is with them.
43:2 wdj7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will not be burned 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it will not burn you”
43:3 eyx6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I have given Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you 0 These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that Yahweh will allow Israel’s enemy to conquer these nations instead of Israel.
43:3 jq3n rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Seba 0 This is the name of a nation.
43:4 z7p1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Since you are precious and special in my sight 0 The words “precious” and “special” mean basically the same thing and emphasize how much Yahweh values his people. Alternate translation: “Because you are very precious to me”
43:4 gpe4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism therefore I will give people in exchange for you, and other peoples in exchange for your life 0 Both phrases mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “therefore I will let the enemy conquer other peoples instead of you”
43:5 lxw5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism I will bring your offspring from the east, and gather you from the west 0 The directions “east” and “west” form a merism and represent from every direction. Alternate translation: “I will bring you and your offspring from every direction”
43:6 l7c3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification say to the north … to the south 0 Yahweh speaks to “the north” and “the south” as if commanding the nations in those locations. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
43:6 l9k3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor my sons … my daughters 0 Yahweh speaks of the people who belong to him as if they were his children.
43:7 yc6h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy everyone who is called by my name 0 Here to be called by someone’s name represents belonging to that person. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “everyone whom I have called by my name” or “everyone who belongs to me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
43:7 l8wb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet whom I have formed, yes, whom I have made 0 Both of these mean the same thing and emphasize that it is God who made the people of Israel.
43:8 r5rz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the people who are blind … the deaf 0 Yahweh speaks of those who do not listen to him or obey him as if they were blind and deaf.
43:9 j9gd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Who among them could have declared this and announced to us earlier events? 0 This rhetorical question applies to the gods whom the people of the nations worship. The implied answer is that none of them could do this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “None of their gods could have declared this or announced to us earlier events.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
43:9 wm6d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit announced to us earlier events 0 This phrase refers to their ability to tell about events that happened in the past before they happened. Alternate translation: “announced to us earlier events before they happened”
43:9 n7pl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony Let them bring their witnesses to prove themselves right, let them listen and affirm, ‘It is true.’ 0 Yahweh challenges the gods whom the nations worship to provide witnesses who will testify that they have been able to do these things, although he knows that they cannot do so. Alternate translation: “These gods have no witnesses who will prove them right, witnesses who will listen and affirm, ‘It is true’”
43:10 zvu7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you You … my servant 0 Here “you” is plural and refers to the people of Israel. The phrase “my servant” refers to the nation, as a whole.
43:10 ja9r Before me … after me 0 In speaking this way, Yahweh is not saying that there was a time before which he did not exist or a time after which he will not exist. He is asserting that he is eternal and that the gods whom the people of other nations worship are not.
43:10 x2gj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Before me there was no god formed 0 Here the word “formed” indicates that Yahweh is speaking of idols that people have made. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “None of the gods whom people have formed existed before me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
43:11 f73s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet I, I am Yahweh 0 The word “I” is repeated to emphasize the focus on Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I alone am Yahweh” or “I myself am Yahweh”
43:11 m7ei there is no savior but me 0 This can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “I am the only savior” or “I am the only one who can save you”
43:13 w2y7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy no one can rescue anyone from my hand 0 Here the word “hand” represents Yahweh’s power. Alternate translation: “no one can rescue anyone from my power”
43:13 y176 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion who can turn it back? 0 Yahweh uses this question to say that no one can turn back his hand. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Turning back his hand represents stopping him from doing something. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 14:27](../14/27.md). Alternate translation: “no one can turn it back.” or “no one can stop me.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
43:14 ly8f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I send to Babylon and lead them all down 0 The object of the verb “send” may be supplied in translation. Alternate translation: “I send an army to Babylon”
43:16 qd5j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit who opened a way … mighty waters 0 Isaiah speaks of the events following the exodus from Egypt, when Yahweh divided the sea to let the Israelites walk through on dry ground but then drowned the Egyptian army. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear.
43:17 a8pu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit who led out … a burning wick 0 Isaiah speaks of the events following the exodus from Egypt, when Yahweh divided the sea to let the Israelites walk through on dry ground but then drowned the Egyptian army. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear.
43:17 u8ru rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They fell down together; they will never rise again 0 Dying is spoken of as if it were falling down to the ground. Alternate translation: “They all died together; they will never live again” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
43:17 v5sn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they are extinguished, quenched like a burning wick 0 The people dying is spoken of as if they were burning candle wicks that someone has extinguished. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “their lives have ended, like a person extinguishes the flame of a burning candle” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
43:18 s5e7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Do not think about these former things, nor consider the things of long ago. 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that they are not to worry about what happened in the past.
43:19 j15h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion do you not perceive it? 0 Yahweh uses a question to teach the people of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “surely you have noticed it.”
43:20 fmk2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification wild animals of the field will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches 0 Here animals honor Yahweh as if they were people.
43:20 s4u1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the jackals and the ostriches 0 These are examples of the kinds of animals that will honor Yahweh. See how you translated the names of these animals in [Isaiah 13:21–22](../13/21.md). The understood information can be supplied to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “the jackals and the ostriches will honor me”
43:24 l4vk sweet-smelling cane 0 This is a plant with a pleasant smell used to make anointing oil. It did not grow in the land of Israel so the people had to buy it from other nations.
43:24 up12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism burdened me with your sins, you have wearied me with your evil deeds 0 These both mean the same thing and emphasize the complaint Yahweh has with his people.
43:25 r2jt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet I, yes, I 0 The word “I” is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: “I alone”
43:25 j91x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who blots out your offenses 0 Forgiving sins is spoken of as either: (1) blotting them out or wiping them away or (2) erasing a written record of the sins. Alternate translation: “who forgives your offenses like someone wiping something away” or “who forgives your offenses like someone who erases a record of sins”
43:26 w2ud rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony present your cause, that you may be proved innocent 0 Yahweh challenges the people to offer proof that they are innocent of the charges that he has brought against them, although he knows that they cannot do so. Alternate translation: “present your case, but you cannot prove yourselves to be innocent”
43:26 xn62 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that you may be proved innocent 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that you may prove yourselves innocent”
43:28 c8g9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I will hand Jacob over to complete destruction 0 Here to “hand over” represents putting someone under the power of another. The noun “destruction” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “I will cause the enemy to completely destroy Jacob” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
43:28 rtm7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Israel to abusive humiliation 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase, with which this phrase is parallel. The noun “humiliation” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “I will allow the enemy to abuse and humiliate Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
44:intro lx1i 0 # Isaiah 44 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Yahweh’s power\nThere is a prophecy in this chapter that gives the name of the king who will end the exile of the Jews from Babylon and rebuild the temple, even though the exile has not yet even occurred. This emphasizes that Yahweh knows the future, so the translator should translate the name of Cyrus given here. There are many other aspects of this chapter that show Yahweh’s power as well. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])
44:1 j7v9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jacob my servant 0 This refers to Jacob’s descendants. Alternate translation: “descendants of Jacob, my servants”
44:2 a1el rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he who made you and formed you in the womb 0 Yahweh speaks of creating the nation of Israel as if it were forming the nation as a baby in its mother’s womb. Alternate translation: “he who made you, as I form a baby in the womb”
44:2 aj5d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen, do not fear”
44:2 m3ac rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Jeshurun 0 This also refers to the people of Israel.
44:3 r9ge rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will pour water on the thirsty ground, and flowing streams on the dry ground 0 Yahweh speaks of giving his Spirit to the people of Israel as if he were causing rain to fall and streams to flow on dry ground.
44:3 cdy4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the thirsty ground 0 Dry ground is spoken of as if it were a thirsty person. Alternate translation: “the dry ground” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
44:3 sw8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will pour my Spirit on your offspring 0 Yahweh speaks of giving his Spirit to the people as if his Spirit were liquid that he pours out on them. Alternate translation: “I will give my Spirit to your offspring”
44:3 na48 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis my blessing on your children 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “I will pour out my blessing on your children” or “I will give my blessing to your children”
44:4 j6m5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will spring up among the grass, like willows by the streams of water 0 The people of Israel being prosperous and multiplying is spoken of as if they were plants that grow because they have plenty of water.
44:6 j95i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism I am the first, and I am the last 0 This phrase emphasizes Yahweh’s eternal nature. This could mean: (1) “I am the one who began all things, and I am the one who ends all things” or (2) “I am the one who has always lived, and I am the one who always will live.”
44:7 r8gi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is like me? Let him announce 0 Yahweh uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no one like him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “If anyone thinks he is like me, let him announce”
44:8 jc9b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Do not fear or be afraid 0 Yahweh uses two similar expressions in order to strengthen his encouragement. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid”
44:8 fb3i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Have I not declared to you long ago, and announced it? 0 Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the one who predicted the events that have now happened. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. The word “announced” means basically the same thing as “declared.” Alternate translation: “I declared these things to you long ago.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
44:8 lr9q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is there any God besides me? 0 Yahweh uses a question again to emphasize that there is no other God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no God besides me.”
44:8 z7iv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor There is no other Rock 0 Yahweh speaks of himself as if he were a large rock under which people can find shelter. This means he has the power to protect his people.
44:9 ht3n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor their witnesses cannot see or know anything 0 This phrase refers to those who worship these idols and who claim to be witnesses of the idols’ power. Yahweh speaks of their inability to understand the truth as if they were blind. Alternate translation: “those who serve as witnesses for these idols are like blind people who know nothing”
44:9 fps8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive they will be put to shame 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they will be ashamed” or “their idols will put them to shame”
44:10 rn93 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who would form a god or cast an idol that is worthless? 0 Yahweh is using this question to rebuke those who make idols. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Only fools would form a god or cast an idol that is worthless.”
44:10 tu2g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish cast an idol that is worthless 0 The word “worthless” does not distinguish worthless idols from idols that have worth, because all idols are worthless. Alternate translation: “cast worthless idols”
44:11 xq1i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit all his associates 0 This could mean: (1) this refers to the associates of the craftsman who makes the idol. Alternate translation: “all of the craftsman’s associates” or (2) this refers to those who associate themselves with the idol by worshiping it. Alternate translation: “all those who worship the idol”
44:11 ka7l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive be put to shame 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will be ashamed”
44:15 pw7t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism he makes an idol and bows down to it 0 This part of the sentence says basically the same as the first to emphasize it.
44:18 pm8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for their eyes are blind and cannot see 0 Yahweh speaks of those who cannot understand the foolishness of worshiping idols as if they were blind.
44:18 w7kp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche for their eyes are blind 0 Here “their eyes” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “for they are blind”
44:18 eri6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche their hearts cannot perceive 0 Here the people are represented by their “hearts.” Alternate translation: “they cannot understand”
44:19 zz51 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Now should I make … something disgusting to worship? Should I bow down to a block of wood? 0 Yahweh says that these people should be asking themselves these rhetorical questions. The questions anticipate negative answers and emphasize how foolish it would be for a person to do these things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea behind these questions as statements. Alternate translation: “I should not now make … something disgusting to worship. I should not bow down to a block of wood.”
44:20 w2em rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor It is as if he were eating ashes 0 Yahweh speaks of a person worshiping an idol as if that person were eating the burned ashes of the wood from which he made the idol. Just as eating ashes does not benefit a person, neither does worshiping an idol.
44:20 lnq9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his deceived heart misleads him 0 The heart represents the inner person. Alternate translation: “he misleads himself because he is deceived”
44:21 t81a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Jacob, and Israel 0 This refers to people descended from Jacob, Israel. Alternate translation: “you descendants of Israel” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
44:21 bng6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will not be forgotten by me 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will not forget you”
44:22 ey1y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your rebellious deeds, and like a cloud, your sins 0 Both of these statements mean the same thing. God has removed their sins as quickly and easily as a wind can blow away a cloud. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
44:22 n1fa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis like a cloud, your sins 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “like a cloud, I have blotted out your sins”
44:23 p5tq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Sing, you heavens … glory in Israel 0 Here Isaiah speaks various parts of creation as if they were people and commands them to praise Yawheh. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
44:23 pm5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism you depths of the earth 0 “you lowest parts of the earth.” This could mean: (1) that this refers to very deep places on the earth such as caves or canyons and forms a merism with “heavens” in the previous phrase or (2) that this refers to the place of the dead.
44:24 ye1e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he who formed you from the womb 0 Yahweh speaks of creating the nation of Israel as if it were forming the nation as a baby in its mother’s womb. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 44:2](../44/02.md). Alternate translation: “he who made you, as I form a baby in the womb”
44:24 qcw6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who alone stretched out the heavens 0 Yahweh speaks of creating the heavens as if they were fabric which he stretched out. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 42:5](../42/05.md).
44:26 rga7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism who confirmed the words of his servant and brings to pass the predictions of his messengers 0 Yahweh is saying the same thing twice to emphasize that it is only he, Yahweh, who causes the prophesies to be fulfilled.
44:26 fe6v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns the words of his servant … the predictions of his messengers 0 The abstract nouns “words” and “predictions” can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “what his servant declares … what his messengers announce”
44:26 eu48 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive She will be inhabited 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will live there again”
44:26 ply1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive They will be built again 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will rebuild them”
44:26 e9rr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will raise up their ruins 0 The phrase “ruins” refers to places that have been destroyed. Yahweh speaks of rebuilding them as if he were raising them up. Alternate translation: “I will rebuild what others have destroyed”
44:28 nrh6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He is my shepherd 0 Yahweh speaks of Cyrus ruling and protecting the people of Israel as if Cyrus is their shepherd.
44:28 q7mc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive She will be rebuilt 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Let the people rebuild the city”
44:28 j6ev rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Let its foundations be laid 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Let the people lay its foundations”
45:intro gu9r 0 # Isaiah 45 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Potter and clay\n\nThe potter and the clay are important images used in Scripture. They emphasize the power and control of God. This chapter connects this to the truth that Yahweh is the creator of all, which it repeatedly emphasizes. He is even able to “anoint” or chose a future, pagan king. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/anoint]])
45:1 a5da rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor whose right hand I hold 0 Yahweh helping Cyrus and causing him to be successful is spoken of as if he were holding his right hand.
45:2 kyy4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor level the mountains 0 Yahweh speaks of removing obstacles that would hinder Cyrus’s success as if it were leveling mountains before him.
45:2 jjq8 the mountains 0 The Hebrew word used in the text is rare and is of an uncertain meaning. Some modern versions have “rough places” or “crooked places.”
45:2 i615 their iron bars 0 This refers to the iron bars on the bronze gates.
45:3 j4lq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns the treasures of darkness 0 Here “darkness” refers to places that are secret. Alternate translation: “treasures in dark places” or “the treasures in secret places”
45:4 x9uf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Jacob … Israel 0 These both refer to the descendants of Israel. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
45:6 rj47 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism from the rising of the sun, and from the west 0 Since the sun rises in the east, this phrase forms a merism and means everywhere on earth. Alternate translation: “from every place on earth”
45:7 fa4k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism I form the light and create darkness; I bring peace and create disaster 0 Both of these expressions form merisms that emphasize that Yahweh is sovereign creator of everything.
45:8 bb15 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You heavens, rain down from above … righteousness spring up together with it 0 Yahweh speaks of his righteousness as if it were rain that falls on the earth, and of his righteousness and salvation as plants that grow on the earth.
45:8 lxn8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe You heavens 0 Yahweh momentarily turns his attention from his people and begins to speak to the heavens.
45:9 f6zy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor any other earthen pot among all the earthen pots in the ground 0 Yahweh speaks of himself as if he were a potter, and of the one who would argue with him as if that person and the rest of humanity were all clay pots. Alternate translation: “like one piece of pottery among many other pieces of pottery scattered on the ground”
45:9 tc19 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Does the clay say to the potter … on it’? 0 Yahweh asks this question to rebuke those who argue with him about what he does. Alternate translation: “The clay should not say to the potter … on it!’”
45:10 m3zm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Woe to him who says to a father, & ‘What are you giving birth to?’ 0 Yahweh speaks of those who would argue him as if they were unborn children who argue with their own parents.
45:10 d6vv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What are you fathering? & What are you giving birth to? 0 The unborn child asks these rhetorical questions to scold his parents for giving birth to him. These can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “You should not be my father … You should give birth to me.” or “You are not fathering me correctly … You are not giving birth to me correctly.”
45:11 riq3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why do you ask questions about what I will do for my children? Do you tell me what to do concerning the work of my hands? 0 Yahweh uses questions to scold those who argue with him about what he does. Alternate translation: “Do not question me about what I do for my children. Do not tell me … my hands.”
45:11 kv1c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the work of my hands 0 Here the word “hands” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the things that I have made”
45:12 ki21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche It was my hands that 0 Here the word “hands” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “It was I who”
45:12 ati8 stretched out the heavens 0 Yahweh speaks of creating the heavens as if they were fabric that he stretched out. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 42:5](../42/05.md).
45:13 wzd7 I stirred Cyrus up in righteousness 0 Here the word “righteousness” refers to right action. This could mean: (1) that Yahweh has stirred up Cyrus to do the right thing or (2) that Yahweh was right to stir up Cyrus.
45:13 ikq9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I stirred Cyrus 0 Yahweh speaks of causing Cyrus to act as if it were stirring him from slumber.
45:13 rv5p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will smooth out all his paths 0 Yahweh speaks of removing obstacles and causing Cyrus to be successful as if he were making the paths smooth on which Cyrus walks.
45:13 ye47 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet not for price nor bribe 0 Here the words “price” and “bribe” share similar meanings. Cyrus will not do these things for financial gain. Alternate translation: “he will not do these things for money”
45:14 s5el rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The earnings of Egypt and the merchandise of Cush with the Sabeans, men of tall stature, will be brought to you 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The people of Egypt, Cush, and the tall people of Seba, will bring to you their earnings and their merchandise”
45:14 iqy3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sabeans 0 These are people from the nation of Seba.
45:14 abe9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you to you 0 Here “you” refers to the people of Jerusalem.
45:16 xv24 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism They will all be ashamed and disgraced together; those who carve idols will walk in humiliation 0 These two lines share similar meanings, with the second clarifying the subject of the first.
45:16 vu1f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet They will all be ashamed and disgraced together 0 The words “ashamed” and “disgraced” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of shame. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Their idols will leave them all completely ashamed” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
45:16 bs61 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor will walk in humiliation 0 Living in continual humiliation is spoken of as if it were walking in humiliation. Alternate translation: “will be continually humiliated”
45:17 tdh9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Israel will be saved by Yahweh 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will save the people of Israel”
45:17 dq2m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will never again be ashamed or humiliated 0 Here “you” refers to the people of Israel. The words “ashamed” and “humiliated” mean basically the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one will ever humiliate you again” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
45:18 su8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive but designed it to be inhabited 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but he designed it so people could live on it”
45:21 jum4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has shown this from long ago? Who announced it? Was it not I, Yahweh? 0 Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that he was the one who told them these things would happen. Alternate translation: “I will tell you who has shown this from long ago. I will tell you who announced it. It was I, Yahweh.”
45:22 mrw2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Turn to me and be saved 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Turn to me and I will save you”
45:22 zpc4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor all the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. AT “all the farthest places of the earth” or “the entire earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
45:22 ee2e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy all the ends of the earth 0 Here this phrase represents the people who live at “the ends of the earth.” Alternate translation: “you who live at the farthest places of the earth” or “all of you who live on the earth”
45:23 yq9q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche To me every knee will bend, every tongue will swear 0 The words “knee” and “tongue” represent the people. Alternate translation: “Every person will kneel before me, and everyone will swear”
45:25 kxm4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive In Yahweh all the descendants of Israel will be justified 0 Here the word “justified” does not refer to Yahweh forgiving their sins, but to proving to the nations that Israel was right to worship him. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will justify all the descendants of Israel” or “Yahweh will vindicate all the descendants of Israel”
46:intro c5i1 0 # Isaiah 46 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n### Yahweh and the false gods\n\nThis chapter is intended to compare Yahweh with various false Gods whom the Israelites worship. There really is no comparison at all because Yahweh alone is God. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])
46:1 dtc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Bel bows down, Nebo stoops; their idols … for weary animals 0 Isaiah speaks of people placing the idols of Bel and Nebo into a cart for animals to transport as if these gods were made to “bow down” and “stoop.” These are both postures of humiliation.
46:1 yx1v rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Bel … Nebo 0 These were the two primary gods whom the Babylonians worshiped.
46:2 wq5y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they themselves have gone off into captivity 0 Isaiah speaks of people carrying off these idols as if the false gods whom they represent are being carried off to captivity.
46:3 pyi8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who have been carried by me from before your birth, carried from the womb 0 Yahweh speaks of the nation of Israel as if it were a person, and of the nation’s beginning as if it were its birth.
46:3 zb74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who have been carried by me 0 Yahweh speaks of helping and rescuing the people of Israel as if he were carrying them. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom I have carried” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
46:4 qb31 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Even to your old age I am he, and until your hair is gray I will carry you 0 Yahweh speaks of the nation of Israel becoming very old as if it were an old man with gray hair.
46:5 x46n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To whom will you compare me? Who do you think I resemble, so that we may be compared? 0 Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that there is no one like him. Alternate translation: “There is no one to whom you can compare me. I resemble no one, so that we might be compared.”
46:5 v242 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive so that we may be compared 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that you may compare us”
46:10 ew3c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I announce the end from the beginning, and beforehand what has not yet happened 0 This basically repeats the same idea for emphasis. The verb from the first phrase may be supplied for the second. Alternate translation: “I announce the end from the beginning, and I announce beforehand what has not yet happened” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
46:11 f49l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I call a bird of prey from the east 0 Yahweh speaks of Cyrus as if he were “a bird of prey.” As a bird swiftly captures its prey, so Cyrus will swiftly accomplish Yahweh’s purpose to conquer the nations.
46:11 yfg8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I have spoken; I will also accomplish it; I have purposed, I will also do it. 0 This repeats the same idea for emphasis.
46:12 cq6x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who are far from doing what is right 0 Yahweh speaks of the people stubbornly doing wrong as if they were physically far away from doing the right thing.
46:13 ykp7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification my salvation does not wait 0 Yahweh speaks of saving his people soon as if his salvation were a person who does not wait to act. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **salvation**, you can express the same idea with a verb. Alternate translation: “I will not wait to save you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
47:intro ss9a 0 # Isaiah 47 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Babylon\n\nThis chapter prophesied the destruction of Babylon. At the time that the prophesy was written, Assyria was still in power and Babylon had not yet become a world power. The Chaldeans were not yet a powerful nation either. The people of Judah would become servants or slaves of Babylon and be forced to work very hard. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
47:1 h2n7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 # General Information:\n\nIn this chapter, Yahweh speaks to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:1 qpl4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism sit in the dust, virgin daughter of Babylon; sit on the ground … daughter of the Chaldeans. 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Sitting in the dust was a sign of humiliation. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
47:1 u5gc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor virgin daughter of Babylon … daughter of the Chaldeans 0 Both of these phrases refer to the city, Babylon, which is spoken of as if it were a daughter. That the city is a “daughter” indicates how people think fondly of her.
47:1 iz8h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy without a throne 0 Here “throne” refers to the power to rule. Alternate translation: “without the power to rule”
47:1 v7zc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive You will no longer be called dainty and delicate 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will no longer call you dainty and delicate”
47:1 gl3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet dainty and delicate 0 These two words share similar meanings. They describe one who is beautiful and lives in luxury. Alternate translation: “very beautiful” or “very luxurious”
47:3 nic9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:3 jf7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Your nakedness will be uncovered 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You will be naked”
47:3 g35e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism your shame will be seen 0 Here the word “shame” is a euphemism for one’s private parts. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will see your shame” or “people will see your private parts” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
47:4 w7a9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive Our Redeemer 0 “Our” refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel. See how you translated “Redeemer” in [Isaiah 41:14](../41/14.md).
47:4 l2cn Yahweh of hosts 0 See how you translated this phrase in [Isaiah 1:24](../01/24.md).
47:4 eul3 Holy One of Israel 0 See how you translated this phrase in [Isaiah 5:16](../05/16.md).
47:5 m7ax daughter of the Chaldeans 0 This phrase refers to the city, Babylon, which is spoken of as if it were a daughter. That the city is a “daughter” indicates how the Chaldeans think fondly of her. See how you translated this phrase in [Isaiah 47:1](../47/01.md).
47:5 h2qf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive for you will no longer be called 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for people will no longer call you”
47:5 zc1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor queen of kingdoms 0 Yahweh speaks of Babylon being the capital city of the Babylonian empire as if it were a queen who ruled many kingdoms.
47:6 x3uv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:6 nxq8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I defiled my heritage 0 Yahweh speaks of the people of Israel being his special possession as if they were his heritage or inheritance. Alternate translation: “I defiled my people, who are my special possession”
47:6 f2rz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy gave them over into your hand 0 Here the word “hand” represents Babylon’s power or control. Alternate translation: “I put them under your power”
47:6 b84q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you placed a very heavy yoke on the old people 0 Yahweh speaks of the Babylonians oppressing the old people as if they had treated the old people like cattle and put heavy yokes on their necks.
47:7 d71w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will rule forever as sovereign queen 0 Babylon speaks of permanently ruling over many nations as if she were a queen who would rule forever.
47:7 ia5g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You did not take these things to heart 0 Yahweh speaks of thinking carefully about something as if it were placing that thing on one’s heart. Alternate translation: “You did not consider these things”
47:8 tb6u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:8 k74f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom sit securely 0 This refers to Babylon’s false sense of security in thinking that she will never lose her position of wealth and honor. Alternate translation: “who think you are safe”
47:8 u9jp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will never sit as a widow … loss of children 0 Babylon believing that other nations will never be able to conquer her is spoken of as if she will never become a widow or never have children die.
47:10 eql9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:10 f9kb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy you say in your heart 0 Here the word “heart” refers to the inner person. Alternate translation: “you say to yourself”
47:11 k9al rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Disaster will overcome you 0 Yahweh speaks of disaster as if it were a person who captures Babylon. Alternate translation: “You will experience disaster”
47:11 j3z5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Destruction will fall on you 0 Yahweh speaks Babylon being destroyed as if destruction were an object that falls upon the city. Alternate translation: “You will experience destruction” or “Others will destroy you”
47:11 qe57 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Calamity will strike you 0 Yahweh speaks of Babylon experiencing calamity as if calamity were a person who strikes Babylon. Alternate translation: “You will experience calamity”
47:12 r46s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:12 zg4g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony Persist in casting your spells … perhaps you will scare away disaster 0 Yahweh mocks Babylon by telling her to continue to practice her sorcery to keep bad things away, but he knows that it will not help her.
47:14 cm8n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
47:14 v2fe rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile they will become like stubble. The fire will burn them up 0 Yahweh compares the magicians and sorcerers to straw that burns quickly in a fire. This means that Yahweh will destroy them as easily as fire burns stubble, and so they are powerless to save Babylon.
47:14 ktj7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the hand of the flame 0 Here the word “hand” represents strength. Alternate translation: “the power of the flame”
47:14 z4mb There are no coals to warm them and no fire for them to sit by 0 Yahweh emphasizes that this is a destructive fire by stating that it is not one that people will use to warm themselves.
48:intro db3q 0 # Isaiah 48 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n### Yahweh and the false gods\n\nThis chapter is set up to compare Yahweh with various false Gods whom the Israelites worship. There really is no comparison between the two because Yahweh alone is God. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Exile\n\nYahweh explains purpose behind the Jews exile in Babylon, even though it is still in the future. This emphasizes that Yahweh is much more powerful than the false gods.
48:1 kwr6 Hear this 0 “Listen to my message.” Yahweh is speaking.
48:1 ur9w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy house of Jacob 0 Here “house” refers to the descendants of Jacob. Alternate translation: “descendants of Jacob”
48:1 y5hd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive who are called by the name Israel 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom everyone calls the people of Israel”
48:1 b8ht rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor have come from the sperm of Judah 0 This phrase emphasizes that they are the direct, physical descendants of Judah. Alternate translation: “are the descendants of Judah”
48:2 lqn2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person they call themselves 0 This refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “you call yourselves”
48:3 bj46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche they came out from my mouth 0 “Mouth” refers to someone speaking. Alternate translation: “I spoke these things”
48:4 kh64 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile your neck muscles tight as iron, and your forehead like bronze 0 Yahweh compares the tightness of their neck muscles and the hardness of their foreheads to the hardness of iron and bronze. Here, to have a tight neck or a hard forehead is a metaphor that means the people are stubborn. Alternate translation: “it is as if your necks were iron and your heads were bronze” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
48:5 l31k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I declared these things to you beforehand; before they happened I informed you 0 This is saying the same thing twice for emphasis.
48:6 vf8u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion will you not admit what I said is true? 0 Yahweh uses a question to scold the people of Israel for not admitting what they should know is true. Alternate translation: “you are stubborn and will not admit what I said is true.”
48:8 e9nm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor these things were not unfolded to your ears beforehand 0 Yahweh speaks of explaining something as if it were unfolding it. The word “ears” represents the people who are listening. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I did not explain these things to you beforehand” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
48:8 i9uv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor from birth 0 Yahweh speaks of the nation’s beginning as if it were its birth.
48:9 r5sr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy For the sake of my name I will defer my anger 0 Here the word “name” refers to Yahweh’s reputation. Alternate translation: “For the sake of my reputation I will delay my anger”
48:9 l496 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism for my honor I will hold back from destroying you 0 This part of the sentence means basically the same thing as the first part.
48:10 rn48 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Look, I refined you, but not as silver; I have purified you in the furnace of affliction 0 Yahweh speaks of using affliction to purify his people as if they were precious metals and affliction were a furnace in which he refines them.
48:11 sf4g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion for how can I allow my name to be profaned? 0 Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that he can never allow his own name to be dishonored. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for I cannot allow anyone to profane my name.”
48:12 q7py rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Jacob, and Israel 0 Both of these refer to the people of Israel. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
48:12 f7ei rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism I am the first, I also am the last 0 This phrase emphasizes Yahweh’s eternal nature. This could mean: (1) “I am the one who began all things, and I am the one who ends all things” or (2) “I am the one who has always lived, and I am the one who always will live.” See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 44:6](../44/06.md).
48:13 x9pc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche my hand laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand spread out the heavens 0 Here “hand” refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I laid the foundation of the earth, and I spread out the heavens”
48:13 a1fq the foundation of the earth 0 The word “foundation” normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 24:18](../24/18.md).
48:13 u4il rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor spread out the heavens 0 Yahweh speaks of creating the heavens as if they were fabric which Yahweh stretched out. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 42:5](../42/05.md).
48:13 rx2t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor when I call to them, they stand up together 0 Standing up when Yahweh calls is a metaphor for being ready to obey him. Yahweh speaks of the earth and the heavens as if they were able to hear him and obey him. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
48:14 ery6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who among you has announced these things? 0 Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that the idols have not told them these things. Alternate translation: “None of your idols has told this to you.”
48:14 fb8g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Yahweh’s ally will accomplish his purpose against Babylon. He will carry out Yahweh’s will against the Chaldeans 0 Here “ally” refers to Cyrus. Both of these sentences mean the same thing and are used for emphasis.
48:15 u3l4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet I, I 0 The word “I” is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: “I myself”
48:16 q1tx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives I have not spoken in secret 0 This can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “I have spoken plainly and clearly”
48:17 zn3h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who leads you by the way that you should go 0 Yahweh teaching the people how they should live is spoken of as if he were leading them to walk on the correct paths.
48:18 jb34 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo If only you had obeyed my commandments 0 Yahweh describes something that could have happened but did not.
48:18 ge2j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Then your peace and prosperity would have flowed like a river, and your salvation like the waves of the sea 0 These two phrases share similar meanings. In both, Yahweh speaks of Israel’s experiencing abundant blessings as if those blessings flowed like water. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
48:18 abl9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis your salvation like the waves of the sea 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “your salvation would have flowed like the waves of the sea”
48:19 ysr5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Your descendants would have been as numerous as the sand, and the children from your womb as numerous as the grains of sand 0 These both mean that the people would have had more descendants than they could count.
48:19 tp31 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the children from your womb 0 Yahweh speaks of the descendants of the people of Israel as if they were children to which the nation gives birth.
48:19 yjm7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy their name would not have been cut off nor blotted out 0 The people of Israel being destroyed is spoken of as if their name had been cut off, as one would cut a piece of cloth or cut a branch from a tree, or blotted out. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I would not have cut off nor blotted out their name” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
48:19 icj1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy their name 0 Here the word “name” refers to the descendants who would carry on the name of Israel. Alternate translation: “they”
48:19 w43e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet cut off nor blotted out 0 These two expressions in this context refer to destroying the people. Alternate translation: “destroyed”
48:20 lf27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. Alternate translation: “to all the farthest places of the earth” or “to the entire earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
48:20 kr2r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his servant Jacob 0 This refers to the descendants of Jacob. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel, his servants”
48:21 pw4g They did not thirst … the waters gushed out 0 This refers to an event in the history of the people of Israel when Yahweh took care of them while they lived in the desert after escaping Egypt.
49:intro j3n4 0 # Isaiah 49 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nMany scholars believe that there are four songs or poems which Isaiah records about the Messiah. Isaiah 49:1–6 is the second of these songs. They are often called the “servant songs” because they focus on the Messiah being a servant. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### A day of salvation\n\nIt is unclear if this is a reference to the gospel proclaimed by the Messiah or to the day of restoration of all things. The translator should not try to explain its reference to the reader. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])
49:1 wr47 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy you coastlands 0 This refers to the people who live on the coastlands. Alternate translation: “you who live on the coastlands”
49:2 wz7q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy He has made my mouth like a sharp sword 0 Here the word “mouth” represents the words that he speaks. His words are compared to a sharp sword to emphasize that they will be effective. Alternate translation: “He has made my words as effective as a sharp sword” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
49:2 cz3k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he hid me in the shadow of his hand 0 Yahweh protecting his servant and keeping his purpose secret is spoken of as if Yahweh’s hand cast a shadow over him.
49:2 uz4m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he has made me into a polished arrow; in his quiver he has hidden me 0 Yahweh’s servant being able to carry out Yahweh’s purposes effectively is spoken of as if the servant were a sharp, new arrow.
49:2 py5e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor in his quiver he has hidden me 0 Yahweh protecting his servant and keeping his purpose secret is spoken of as if Yahweh kept him hidden in a quiver.
49:5 ic46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that Israel would be gathered to him 0 This part of the sentence means the same as the part before it. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to bring the people of Israel back to himself” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
49:5 p83j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I am honored in the eyes of Yahweh 0 The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has honored me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
49:6 n48v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will make you a light to the Gentiles 0 The servant bringing Yahweh’s message to the Gentiles and helping them to understand it is spoken of as if Yahweh made the servant a light that shines among the Gentiles. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 42:6](../42/06.md).
49:6 v7h2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. AT “to all the farthest places of the earth” or “to the entire earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
49:7 qz3u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive to the one whose life is despised, hated by the nations, and a slave of rulers 0 Here the word “life” represents the person. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to the one whom people despised, whom the nations hated and held as slaves”
49:8 j5i7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism At a time I decide to show my favor I will answer you, and in a day of salvation I will help you 0 These two clauses mean basically the same thing.
49:8 x79w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns in a day of salvation 0 The word “salvation” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “when the time comes for me to save you”
49:8 l69w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy give you as a covenant for the people 0 Here the word “covenant” is a metonym for the one who establishes or mediates a covenant. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 42:6](../42/06.md). Alternate translation: “make you be the mediator of a covenant with the people”
49:8 p7as rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to rebuild the land 0 Here the word “land” represents the cities in the land that had been destroyed. Alternate translation: “to rebuild the ruined places in the land”
49:8 d3pr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to reassign the desolate inheritance 0 Yahweh speaks of the land as if it were an inheritance that the people of Israel received as a permanent possession. It is implied that the servant is to reassign the land to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “to reassign the desolate land to the people of Israel as their inheritance” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
49:9 zkr5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will graze along the roads, and on all the bare slopes will be their pasture 0 Yahweh speaks of the people living freely and prosperously as if they were sheep that had plenty of pasture in which to graze.
49:10 pc41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys nor will the heat or sun beat on them 0 Here the word “heat” describes the word “sun.” The people suffering from the sun’s heat is spoken of as if the heat struck them. Alternate translation: “nor will they suffer from the sun’s heat” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49:10 j8sr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person for he who has mercy on them … he will guide them 0 Yahweh speaks of himself in the third person. He speaks of protecting the people and caring for them as if he were their shepherd. Alternate translation: “I, the one who has mercy on them … I will guide them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49:11 y1fv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will make all my mountains into a road, and make my highways level 0 Yahweh speaks of guiding his people safely and removing obstacles from their path as if he turned mountains into roads and level highways.
49:12 xd2x rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names the land of Sinim 0 The location of this place is uncertain, but it may refer to a region in the southern part of Egypt.
49:13 y77d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Sing, heavens, and be joyful, earth; break into singing, you mountains! 0 Isaiah turns his attention from the people of Israel and speaks to the heavens, earth, and mountains as if they were people. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
49:14 hil4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification But Zion said 0 The word “Zion” is another name for Jerusalem. Isaiah speaks of the city as if it were a woman who complains that Yahweh has forgotten her.
49:15 sx95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Can a woman forget her baby, nursing at her breast, so she does not have compassion on the son she has borne? 0 Yahweh uses a question to help his people understand that he will never forget about them or stop caring for them. Alternate translation: “A woman would not forget her nursing baby or stop caring for the son she bore.”
49:16 z9g7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I have inscribed your name on my palms 0 Yahweh speaks of his unwavering devotion to Zion as if he had written her name on the palms of his hands.
49:16 fmu4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your walls are continually before me 0 Yahweh speaks of always thinking about Zion as if her walls were always before him. The word “walls” is a metonym for the city. Alternate translation: “I am continually thinking about your walls” or “I am always thinking about you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
49:17 i85i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your children are hurrying back 0 Yahweh speaks of the people who are returning to live in Jerusalem as if they were the city’s children. Alternate translation: “Your inhabitants are hurrying back”
49:18 r9kr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you will surely wear them like jewelry, and you will put them on like a bride 0 Yahweh speaks of the inhabitants of Zion as if they were jewelry that the city wears to show her beauty and joy.
49:18 ha7m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis you will put them on like a bride 0 The last part of the phrase can be clarified from the previous line. Alternate translation: “you will put them on, like a bride wears jewelry”
49:19 y3yt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet Though you were a waste and desolate 0 The words “a waste” and “desolate” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the enemy has destroyed Zion and left it empty. Alternate translation: “Though you were completely desolate”
49:19 ppl1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor those who devoured you 0 The enemy destroying Zion is spoken of as if they had devoured it. Alternate translation: “those who destroyed you”
49:20 th6g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The children born during the time of your bereavement 0 Yahweh speaks of the time when the people of Jerusalem were in exile as if the city was bereaved of her children. Those who were born while the people were in exile are spoken of as the city’s children. Alternate translation: “Those who will inhabit you, who were born while the people were in exile”
49:21 pik2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Who has borne these children for me? 0 Zion speaks of the people who are returning to inhabit the city as if those people were her children. Zion’s question expresses her surprise that so many children now belong to her. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
49:21 ppt4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I was bereaved and barren, exiled and divorced 0 Zion describes herself as a woman incapable of having more children. She indicates the reasons for her great surprise.
49:21 h2kt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has raised these children? Look, I was left all alone; where did these come from? 0 Again, Zion uses questions to expresses her surprise. Alternate translation: “Look, I was left all alone; now all of these children that I did not raise have come to me.”
49:22 wx99 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I will raise my hand to the nations; I will raise my signal flag to the peoples 0 These two clauses mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “I will raise my hand and signal with a flag for the people of the nations to come”
49:22 ps5y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They will bring your sons in their arms and carry your daughters on their shoulders 0 Yahweh speaks of the people who will inhabit Jerusalem as if they were the city’s children. He also speaks of the people of other nations helping the Israelites to return to Jerusalem as if they were carrying the Israelites.
49:23 q6dc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Kings will be your foster fathers, and their queens your nursemaids 0 Yahweh speaks of the people who will inhabit Zion as if they were the city’s children. The terms “foster fathers” and “nursemaids” refer to men and women who become responsible for the care of children. Alternate translation: “The kings and queens of other nations will provide for your inhabitants”
49:23 w8ev they will bow down to you with their faces to the earth and lick the dust of your feet 0 These phrases describe gestures that people used to express complete submission to a superior.
49:23 fx8v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom lick the dust of your feet 0 This could mean: (1) that this is a literal expression of submission where the person licks the dust off of a superior’s foot or from the ground at the superior’s foot or (2) that this is an idiom that describes a person prostrating himself before a superior.
49:23 j5gn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will not be put to shame 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will not be ashamed” or “will not be disappointed”
49:24 w2vc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Can the spoils be taken from the warrior, or captives be rescued from the fierce? 0 Isaiah uses a question to express the difficulty of taking anything from a mighty soldier or a very strong warrior. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “A person cannot take the spoils from a warrior or rescue captives from fierce soldiers.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
49:25 kqr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the captives will be taken away from the warrior, and spoils will be rescued 0 Yahweh says that he will do what is usually impossible for people to do. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will take the captives from the warrior, and I will rescue the spoils”
49:25 zzu8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will … save your children 0 Yahweh speaks of the people who will inhabit Zion as if they were the city’s children.
49:26 qp7y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will feed your oppressors with their own flesh 0 This could mean: (1) the oppressors will be so hungry that they will eat the flesh of their friends who have died. Alternate translation: “I will cause your oppressors to eat their own flesh” or (2) Yahweh speaks of the oppressors fighting against and destroying themselves as if they were eating themselves. Alternate translation: “I will cause your oppressors to destroy themselves, as if they were eating their own flesh”
49:26 l5ym rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they will get drunk on their own blood, as if it were wine 0 This could mean: (1) the oppressors will be so thirsty that they drink the blood of their friends who have died. Alternate translation: “they will drink their friends’ blood and be like weak people who are drunk on wine” or (2) Yahweh speaks of the oppressors fighting against and destroying themselves as if they were drinking their own blood. Alternate translation: “they will shed so much of their friends’ blood that it will be as though they were getting drunk with wine”
50:intro w2ie 0 # Isaiah 50 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nMany scholars believe that there are four songs or poems which Isaiah records about the Messiah. Isaiah 50:4–9 is the third of these songs. They are often called the “servant songs” because they focus on the Messiah being a servant. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Rhetorical Questions\n\nThere are many rhetorical questions in this chapter. These questions prove Yahweh’s point and are intended to convince the readers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
50:1 ca66 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Where is the certificate of divorce with which I divorced your mother? 0 Yahweh speaks of Zion as if the city were the mother of the people who lived there and of sending the people into exile as if he were divorcing their mother.
50:1 dz6i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where is the certificate of divorce with which I divorced your mother? 0 Yahweh asks this rhetorical question so that the people would produce “the certificate of divorce,” which would provide the reason Yahweh sent them into exile. Alternate translation: “Show me the certificate of divorce with which I divorced your mother.”
50:1 wz9n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor To which of my creditors did I sell you? 0 Yahweh speaks of sending the people into exile as if he were selling them.
50:1 krc1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion To which of my creditors did I sell you? 0 Yahweh asks this question to emphasize that he did not sell them because he owed a debt to a creditor. It is implied that this is what the people had thought. Alternate translation: “I did not sell you because I owed a debt to someone.”
50:1 k7at rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you were sold because of your sins, and because of your rebellion, your mother was sent away 0 Yahweh gives the reason for sending the people into exile, which he speaks of as if he had sold them and divorced their mother. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I sold you because of your sins, and I divorced your mother because of your rebellion” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
50:2 ie1n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Why did I come but there was no one there? Why did I call but no one answered? 0 These two sentences mean basically the same thing. Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that the people are in exile because they did not respond to him, not because he was unwilling to save them. Alternate translation: “When I came to you, you should have been there, but you were not. When I called you, you should have answered, but you did not.” or “When I came to speak to you, you did not respond to me.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
50:2 s2sd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Was my hand too short to ransom you? Was there no power in me to rescue you? 0 Yahweh uses two similar questions to rebuke the people for believing that he was not strong enough to rescue them. Alternate translation: “My hand was certainly not too short for me to ransom you, and I had the power to rescue you!” or “I certainly have the power to rescue you from your enemies.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
50:2 cv6g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Was my hand too short 0 Here the word “hand” represents Yahweh’s power. Yahweh not being strong enough is spoken of as if his hand were short. Alternate translation: “Was I not strong enough” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50:2 cl62 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I make the rivers a desert 0 Yahweh speaks of drying up the rivers as if he were turning them into a desert. Alternate translation: “I make the rivers as dry as a desert”
50:3 y7n5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I clothe the sky with darkness; I cover it with sackcloth 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Yahweh speaks of causing the sky to become dark as if he were clothing it with sackcloth. Alternate translation: “I make the sky dark, as if it were wearing dark sackcloth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
50:4 ahs2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The Lord Yahweh has given me a tongue as one of those who are taught 0 The word “tongue” represents what he says. This could mean: (1) Yahweh has enabled him to speak as one who has learned to speak skillfully. Alternate translation: “The Lord Yahweh has enabled me to be a skillful speaker” or (2) Yahweh has taught him what to say. Alternate translation: “The Lord Yahweh has enabled me to speak what he has taught me”
50:4 zzf8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche he awakens my ear to hear 0 Here “my ear” refers to Yahweh’s servant. Yahweh enabling him to hear and understand what Yahweh teaches him is spoken of as if Yahweh awakened his ear from sleep. Alternate translation: “he has enabled me to understand what he says” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50:4 v3ta rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like those who are taught 0 The servant compares himself with a student who learns from his teacher. This could mean: (1) “like one who learns from his teacher” or (2) “like one whom he has taught” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
50:5 z5m7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The Lord Yahweh has opened my ear 0 Yahweh enabling his servant to hear and understand is spoken of as if Yahweh opened his ear. Alternate translation: “The Lord Yahweh has enabled me to hear and understand him”
50:5 hk16 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I was not rebellious, nor did I turn away backward 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Disobeying what Yahweh said is spoken of as if it were turning one’s back toward him. This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “I obeyed what he said” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50:6 f2mw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I gave my back to those who beat me, and my cheeks to those who plucked out my beard 0 Allowing people to beat him and pluck out his beard is spoken of as if it were giving his back and cheeks to them. Alternate translation: “I allowed people to beat me on my back and to pluck out my beard from my cheeks”
50:6 s9l3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche I did not hide my face from acts of shame and spitting 0 Hiding one’s face means to protect oneself. Alternate translation: “I did not defend myself when they mocked me and spat on me”
50:7 e3bh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive therefore I am not disgraced 0 Even though the servant has been mistreated, he will not be ashamed because he has obeyed Yahweh. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “therefore I will not be ashamed”
50:7 y168 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche so I have made my face like flint 0 Here “my face” refers to the servant. The servant being steadfastly determined to obey Yahweh is spoken of as if his face were as hard as flint. Alternate translation: “so I am absolutely determined” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50:7 di16 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive for I know that I will not be put to shame 0 The servant looks to the future with confidence, secure in Yahweh’s calling. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for I know that my enemies will not be able to make me feel shame”
50:8 fkm8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who will oppose me? Let us stand … Who is my accuser? Let him come 0 The servant uses these questions to emphasize that there is no one who can legitimately accuse him of wrong. Alternate translation: “If anyone would oppose me, let us stand … If anyone would accuse me, let him come”
50:9 ti2t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who will declare me guilty? 0 The servant uses this question to assert that no one can declare him guilty. Alternate translation: “There is no one who can declare me guilty.”
50:9 yj3u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they will all wear out like a garment; the moth will eat them up 0 There being no one left to accuse the servant of being guilty is spoken of as if the accusers were garments that wear thin and are eaten by moths.
50:10 mki5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who among you fears Yahweh? Who obeys the voice of his servant? Who walks in deep darkness without light? He should … his God. 0 The servant uses these questions to identify those to whom he is speaking. Alternate translation: “If someone among you fears Yahweh and obeys the voice of his servant, but he walks in deep darkness without light, then he should … his God.”
50:10 k89u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy obeys the voice of his servant 0 Here the word “voice” represents what the servant says. Alternate translation: “obeys his servant”
50:10 v35n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor walks in deep darkness without light 0 The servant speaks of people who are suffering and feel helpless as if they were walking in a very dark place. Alternate translation: “is suffering and feels helpless”
50:10 kt5t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism trust in the name of Yahweh and lean on his God 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Here the word “name” represents Yahweh himself. Trusting in God is spoken of as if it were leaning on him. Alternate translation: “trust in Yahweh, his God” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50:11 w57f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor all you who light fires … flames that you have ignited 0 This continues the metaphor from the previous verse of people who walk in darkness. Here people who try to live according to their own wisdom instead of trusting in Yahweh are spoken of as if they lit their own fires and carried about torches in order to see in the dark.
50:11 ftd9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism You will lie down in a place of pain 0 Here to “lie down” refers to dying. Dying painfully is spoken of as if it were lying down in a place where they will experience pain. Alternate translation: “You will die with great suffering” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
51:intro lu7c 0 # Isaiah 51 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Rhetorical Questions\n\nThere are many rhetorical questions in this chapter. These questions prove Yahweh’s point and are intended to convince the readers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])\n\n### Awake\n\nIn this chapter the author uses sleeping as a metaphor for sin. The people are told to “awake,” meaning they are to repent and return to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
51:1 amf7 Listen to me 0 Here the word “me” refers to Yahweh.
51:1 uux8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor look at the rock … and to the quarry 0 Looking at something represents thinking about it. Alternate translation: “think about the rock … and the quarry”
51:1 xs1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the rock from which you were chiseled and to the quarry from which you were cut 0 God speaks of the nation of Israel as if it were a building made of stones and as if their ancestors were a rock or quarry from which God cut them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “your ancestors, who are like a rock from which you were chiseled and a quarry from which you were cut”
51:1 c1ct rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the rock from which you were chiseled 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the rock from which I chiseled you”
51:1 hik7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the quarry from which you were cut 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the quarry from which I cut you”
51:2 g6rc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Abraham, your father 0 God speaks of their ancestor as if he were their father. Alternate translation: “Abraham, your forefather” or “Abraham, your ancestor”
51:2 tb8v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Sarah, who bore you 0 God speaks of Abraham’s wife as if she were their mother and had given birth to them. Alternate translation: “Abraham’s wife, Sarah, of whom you are all descendants”
51:2 sx5w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit when he was a lone individual 0 This means when he did not have any children yet. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “when he had no children”
51:2 n1fl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy made him many 0 God speaks of Abraham’s descendants being many as if Abraham were many. Alternate translation: “made his descendants many” or “made him have many descendants”
51:3 s9mz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh will comfort Zion 0 The city of Zion, which is also called Jerusalem, here represents the people of Zion. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will comfort the people of Zion”
51:3 cg58 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he will comfort all her waste places 0 Here “waste places” represents the people who live in those desolate areas. Alternate translation: “he will comfort the people who live in all her waste places”
51:3 puy1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification her waste places … her wilderness … her desert plains 0 The word “her” refers to Zion. Cities are often spoken of as if they were women.
51:3 s4bj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism her wilderness he made like Eden, and her desert plains … like the garden of Yahweh 0 These phrases mean that God will make the empty places in Israel beautiful. In prophecy, events that will happen in the future are often described as being in the past. This emphasizes that they will certainly happen. Alternate translation: “he will make her wilderness like Eden and her desert plains … like the garden of Yahweh (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
51:3 mwq3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet joy and gladness will be found in her 0 Joy and gladness mean the same thing. Being found there represents being there. Alternate translation: “there will be joy and gladness in Zion again” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
51:4 r699 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Be attentive to me … listen to me 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. Together they strengthen the command to listen.
51:4 lwr6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will make my justice to be a light for the nations 0 Here God’s justice represents his law, and a light represents knowledge of what is right. This means the people of the nations will understand and obey God’s law. Alternate translation: “my law will teach the nations what is right” or “the nations will know my law”
51:5 tw5t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My righteousness is near 0 The idea of “near” represents “soon.” God’s righteousness being near represents him soon showing his righteousness. He will do this by fulfilling his promises and saving people. Alternate translation: “I will soon show my righteousness”
51:5 g33w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor my salvation will go out 0 God speaks of saving people as if his salvation were a thing that could go out to them. Alternate translation: “I will save people”
51:5 m98k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my arm will judge the nations 0 Here God’s arm represents his power, and judging represents ruling. Alternate translation: “I will rule the nations with my power”
51:5 lfq1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the coastlands 0 This refers to the people who live on the coasts of distant lands across the sea. Alternate translation: “the people who live on the coastlands” or “the people who live in the lands across the sea”
51:5 nf7a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy for my arm they will eagerly wait 0 Here God’s arm represents what he will do. Here it refers to him saving people. Alternate translation: “they will eagerly wait for me to do something” or “they will eagerly wait for me to save them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
51:6 qs6h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Lift up your eyes to the sky 0 Lifting the eyes represents looking at something above. Alternate translation: “Look up at the sky”
51:6 d7zs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like smoke … like a garment … like flies 0 All of these refer to things that quickly and easily disappear or become useless.
51:6 qh98 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my salvation will continue forever 0 God’s “salvation” here represents the result of his salvation, which is freedom. Alternate translation: “I will save you, you will be free forever”
51:6 s7yc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my righteousness will never stop working 0 God’s “righteousness” here represents him ruling righteously. Alternate translation: “my righteous rule will never end” or “I will rule righteously forever”
51:7 xj59 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who have my law in your heart 0 Having God’s law in the heart represents knowing God’s law and wanting to obey it. Alternate translation: “who know and honor my law”
51:7 bh59 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive nor be disheartened by their abuse 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and do not lose your courage when they hurt you”
51:8 n35v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For the moth will eat them up like a garment, and the worm will eat them like wool 0 God speaks of people who abuse those who are righteous as if they were wool garments, and of their being destroyed as if insects ate them.
51:8 zf7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my righteousness will be forever 0 God’s “righteousness” here represents him ruling righteously. Alternate translation: “my righteous rule will be forever” or “I will rule righteously forever”
51:8 s8ph rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy and my salvation to all generations 0 God’s “salvation” here represents the result of his salvation, which is freedom. Being “to all generations” represents lasting forever. Alternate translation: “I will save you, and you will be free forever”
51:9 jyd6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Awake, awake, clothe yourself with strength, arm of Yahweh 0 People urgently ask Yahweh’s arm to help them as if his arm were a person. If it would be odd to speak to the arm, this can be addressed directly to Yahweh instead. Alternate translation: “Awake, awake, Yahweh, and clothe your arm with strength”
51:9 hn8n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Awake, awake … arm of Yahweh 0 People speak as if Yahweh’s arm were asleep because it has not been helping them. Here the “arm of Yahweh” represents Yahweh, specifically him helping people. The word “Awake” is repeated to show that they need God’s help urgently. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
51:9 ms86 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor clothe yourself with strength 0 Strength is spoken of as if it were some kind of clothing that people would wear to strengthen themselves in battle. Alternate translation: “make yourself strong”
51:9 ff4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is it not you who crushed Rahab, you who pierced the monster? 0 The speaker uses a question to emphasize Yahweh’s power to do mighty things. Alternate translation: “It is you who crushed Rahab, you who pierced the monster.”
51:9 rg6x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Rahab … the monster 0 Rahab was the name of this mythological serpent in the sea. Rahab can symbolize either the nation of Egypt or evil and chaos.
51:10 auk6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Did you not dry up the sea … for the redeemed to pass through? 0 Again, the speaker uses questions to emphasize Yahweh’s power to do mighty things. This refers to Yahweh opening the Red Sea for the Israelites to cross and escape the army of Egypt. Alternate translation: “You dried up the sea … for the redeemed to pass through.”
51:11 f427 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj The ransomed of Yahweh 0 To “ransom” means to “rescue.” This refers to people whom Yahweh has rescued. Alternate translation: “Those whom Yahweh has rescued”
51:11 r918 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche with gladness forever on their heads 0 This uses a person’s head to mean the person as a whole. Alternate translation: “they will be glad forever”
51:11 ew9a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet gladness and joy … sorrow and mourning 0 The words “gladness” and “joy” mean basically the same thing, as do “sorrow” and “mourning.” Together they emphasize the intensity of these emotions.
51:11 r6hp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification gladness and joy will overtake them 0 This speaks of the people being overwhelmed by gladness and joy by giving these emotions the human quality of being able to overtake someone. Alternate translation: “they will be overwhelmed by joy and gladness” or “they will be extremely glad and joyful”
51:11 b5dr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification sorrow and mourning will flee away 0 This speaks of the people no longer being sorrowful and mourning by speaking of these emotions as if they could run away. Alternate translation: “they will no longer be sorrowful and mourning”
51:12 x91f I, I, am he 0 The word “I” is repeated for emphasis. If this is unnatural in your language, the repetition does not need to be used. Alternate translation: “I am he”
51:12 rzu7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why are you afraid of men … like grass? 0 This rhetorical question emphasizes that people who have the Lord’s protection should not be afraid of human beings. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid of men … like grass.”
51:12 rjp1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile who are made like grass 0 This phrase compares men to grass to emphasize that their lives are short and that they die quickly. Alternate translation: “who live and die quickly like grass” or “who will wither and disappear like grass”
51:12 q2ck rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive who are made like 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “who are like”
51:13 ht5l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why have you forgotten Yahweh … earth? 0 Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that they should not forget Yahweh. Alternate translation: “You should not have forgotten Yahweh … earth.”
51:13 ysh5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who stretched out the heavens 0 “who spread out the sky.” This speaks of Yahweh having created the heavens as if he had stretched them out in the same way one would stretch out a large garment. Alternate translation: “who stretched out the heavens like a garment”
51:13 nx9y the foundations of the earth 0 The word “foundation” normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. See how you translated this phrase in [Isaiah 24:18](../24/18.md).
51:13 e7k3 the hot fury of the oppressor when he decides to destroy 0 Alternate translation: “the oppressor’s hot fury when he decides to cause destruction”
51:13 mu4c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom hot fury 0 Here the word “hot” means “strong” or “great.” Alternate translation: “great fury”
51:13 f7jc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where is the fury of the oppressor? 0 Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that the people should not fear those who want to oppress them. Their oppressors are no longer a threat to them. Alternate translation: “The fury of the oppressor is not a threat!”
51:14 wg9n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The one who is bent down 0 This refers to the people of Israel who are slaves of the Babylonians. This phrase describes how they work. Alternate translation: “The slave”
51:14 kmy1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the pit 0 This refers to Sheol. Alternate translation: “the pit of Sheol” or “the grave”
51:14 y1k4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche nor will he lack bread 0 Here “bread” represents food in general. This can be written in positive form. Alternate translation: “nor will he be without food”
51:15 i14u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who churns up the sea 0 This speaks of Yahweh causing the sea to move and the waves to rise and fall as if he were stirring the sea as one stirs the contents of a bowl with a large spoon. Alternate translation: “who causes the sea to churn” or “who makes the sea move up and down”
51:16 m5qe rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I have placed my words in your mouth 0 This speaks of Yahweh telling Isaiah what to say as if his words were a physical object Yahweh had placed in Isaiah’s mouth. Alternate translation: “I have told you what to say”
51:16 s6rx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I have covered you in the shadow of my hand 0 Yahweh’s “hand” refers to his power. This speaks of Yahweh protecting Isaiah as if his hand were covering him to protect him. Alternate translation: “my power has kept you safe” or “I have protected you and kept you safe” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
51:16 vnh9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor that I may plant the heavens 0 The word “plant” means to establish something in the ground. Here Yahweh firmly establishing the heavens is spoken of as if the heavens were a tent that he would spread out and firmly set it in place with tent pegs. Alternate translation: “that I may establish the heavens”
51:16 fa33 lay the foundations of the earth 0 The word “foundation” normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 24:18](../24/18.md).
51:17 x64l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Awake, awake, stand up, Jerusalem 0 Here “Jerusalem” represents the people who live there. Yahweh speaks to the people of Jerusalem as if they were there listening to him. Alternate translation: “Awake, awake, stand up, you people of Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
51:17 pj9b Awake, awake, stand up 0 “Be alert and arise.” The repetition of the word “awake” emphasizes the urgency of the call to arouse the people of Israel. It is not used to wake them from literal sleep.
51:17 efp6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you who have drunk out of the hand of Yahweh … from the cup of staggering 0 Yahweh speaks of having punished his people as if he had forced them to drink from a bowl that was filled with his anger. And when they drank from the bowl of his anger, they staggered as if they had drank a lot of wine.
51:17 r4ck down to the dregs 0 The word “dregs” means the solid pieces at the very bottom of a container that has a liquid in it. Alternate translation: “down to the very bottom”
51:17 k9wd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche out of the hand of Yahweh 0 Here Yahweh is referred to by his hand to emphasize that he is the one who gave the bowl to his people. Alternate translation: “that he gave to you”
51:18 qz3k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism There is no one … to guide her; there is no one … to take her by the hand 0 These two clauses have the same meaning and can be combined. This speaks of Jerusalem being helpless as if the city were a drunk woman without a son to help her walk safely. Alternate translation: “You have no one to help you! You are like a drunk old woman without a son to take her by the hand and guide her” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
51:19 h1j1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion who will grieve with you? & Who will comfort you? 0 Isaiah uses questions to emphasize that now there is no one to weep with them or comfort them. These questions may be written as statements. Alternate translation: “but there is no one to grieve with you … There is no one to comfort you.”
51:19 mi81 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet desolation and destruction 0 These words have similar meanings and emphasize the destruction of the land caused by the opposing army. Alternate translation: “your enemies have left your city empty and ruined”
51:19 b3y4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the famine and the sword 0 The words “famine” and “sword” describe the trouble that will come upon the people. The “sword” refers to “war.” Alternate translation: “many of you have died from hunger and war”
51:20 sgk9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole they lie at every street corner 0 This is generalization. Many children will lie in the street, but not necessarily on every street corner. Alternate translation: “they lie on the street”
51:20 jt6u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like an antelope in a net 0 This speaks of the children being exhausted and helpless as if they were an antelope caught in a trap. Alternate translation: “they are helpless, like an antelope caught in a net” or “as helpless as a trapped antelope”
51:20 ead6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown antelope 0 This is an animal, similar to a deer, that has horns and runs very fast. Alternate translation: “deer”
51:20 le4u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they are filled with the anger of Yahweh, the rebuke of your God 0 The “anger of Yahweh” refers to Yahweh punishing his people because of his anger against them. This speaks of the people having been severely punished as if they had become full of Yahweh’s anger. Also, the word “rebuke” can be written as a verb. Alternate translation: “they have been severely punished by Yahweh because he was angry with them and rebuked them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
51:21 icr5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche you oppressed one and drunken one 0 Yahweh uses the word “one” here to refer to all of the oppressed people. Alternate translation: “you oppressed people and drunken people”
51:21 j17a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor drunken one, but not drunk with wine 0 This speaks of the people acting drunk because they are suffering as if they have become drunk from being forced to drink the bowl of Yahweh’s anger. Alternate translation: “you who are drunk from drinking the wine of the bowl of Yahweh’s anger” or “you who act drunk, because you have suffered greatly” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
51:22 rfp2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor See, I have taken the cup of staggering from your hand—the bowl, which is the cup of my anger—so that 0 This speaks of Yahweh no longer being angry with his people as if his anger were the contents of a cup that he was taking away from them. Alternate translation: “I will no longer be angry with you. See, it is like I have taken away from you the cup that made you stagger, that is, the cup that was full of my anger, so that”
51:22 hi9q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the cup of staggering 0 The word “cup” refers to what is in the cup. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 51:17](../51/17.md). Alternate translation: “the cup of the wine that makes people stagger”
51:22 t4db rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the bowl, which is the cup of my anger 0 Yahweh speaks of having punished people as if he had forced them to drink from a bowl that was filled with his anger. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 51:17](../51/17.md). Alternate translation: “the bowl which is filled with my anger” or “the cup which is filled with my anger”
51:23 qgu7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will put it into the hand of your tormentors 0 This speaks of Yahweh punishing their enemies as if he were going to force them to drink from the cup filled with his anger.
51:23 wu8d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit I will put it into the hand of your tormentors 0 It is implied that by putting the cup of his anger in their hand Yahweh will be forcing them to drink what is in the cup. Alternate translation: “I will force your tormentors to drink from the wine of the bowl of my anger”
51:23 t6ks your tormentors 0 The word “tormentors” may be expressed with a verb. Alternate translation: “those who have tormented you” or “those who have caused you to suffer”
51:23 xv84 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile you made your back like the ground and like the street for them to walk on 0 This compares the way their enemies walked on their back to the way people walk on the street. Alternate translation: “you lay in the streets so your enemies could walk on your backs”
52:intro ac65 0 # Isaiah 52 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThe prophecies of this chapter occur after the exile in Babylon and are not in reference to the people contemporary to Isaiah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])\n\nThere is an important teaching or prophecy about the Messiah beginning in this chapter and continues through the next chapter. This prophesy begins in 52:13 and scholars usually note that it portrays the Messiah as a “suffering servant.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])
52:1 rzb3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Awake, awake 0 This word is repeated for emphasis and shows urgency. Isaiah trying to arouse the people is spoken of as if he were trying to wake them up from sleep.
52:1 vfg8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor put on your strength 0 Being strong again is spoken of as if strength were clothing that a person puts on. Alternate translation: “be strong”
52:1 p8u4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Zion … Jerusalem 0 Both of these refer to the people who live in Jerusalem. Isaiah is speaking to the people as if they were there listening to him. Alternate translation: “people of Zion … people of Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
52:1 w8h9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj the uncircumcised or the unclean 0 These nominal adjectives can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: “Those who are uncircumcised or those who are unclean”
52:1 z2jx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the unclean 0 This refers to unclean people. A person who God considers spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. Alternate translation: “those who are not acceptable to God”
52:1 wn2c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy enter you 0 Here “you” refers to Jerusalem which represents the people who live there. It is understood that the uncircumcised and unclean people would enter the city to attack the people. Alternate translation: “enter your city to attack you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
52:2 r7rx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Shake yourself off from the dust; arise and sit, Jerusalem 0 Here “Jerusalem” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “People of Jerusalem, sit up and shake the dirt off of yourself”
52:2 wey6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy take off the chain from your neck, captive 0 It is implied that the people of Jerusalem were wearing chains because they were slaves while exiled in Babylon. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
52:2 vg9w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom daughter of Zion 0 This is an idiom. The “daughter” of a city means the people of the city. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:8](../01/08.md). Alternate translation: “people of Zion” or “people who live in Zion”
52:3 f28v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You were sold for nothing, and you will be redeemed without money 0 This speaks about Yahweh as if he were the owner of the people of Israel. Since he is the rightful owner he can give them away or take them back whenever he wants. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I sold you for nothing, and I will redeem you without money” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
52:4 jx27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Assyria has oppressed them 0 Assyria refers to the people of Assyria. Alternate translation: “the people of Assyria have treated them badly”
52:5 v517 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Now what do I have here … seeing that my people are taken away for nothing? 0 Yahweh uses a question to make the people pay attention to what he is about to say. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Now look at what is happening … my people are again taken away for nothing.”
52:5 h4tq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
52:5 b5in rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive seeing that my people are taken away for nothing 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I see the enemy taking my people away for nothing”
52:5 pw1c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for nothing 0 This could mean: (1) “for nothing” means the Babylonians took the people unjustly and without cause or (2) this continues the metaphor from [Isaiah 52:3](../52/03.md) where Yahweh is spoken of as if he owned the people of Israel and could give them away for nothing.
52:5 zer1 Those who rule over them mock 0 This refers to the Babylonians who have conquered the people. However, some versions have, “Those who rule over them wail.” For these versions, this passage refers to the leaders of the Israelites in captivity.
52:5 fb49 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my name is blasphemed continually all day long 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh’s reputation. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those who watch the enemy take away my people are continually saying evil things about me” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
52:6 b17m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Therefore my people will know my name 0 Here “name” represents Yahweh’s reputation. Alternate translation: “Therefore my people will truly know who I am”
52:7 gt18 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news 0 Here “feet” represents a messenger who is walking. Alternate translation: “It is beautiful to see a messenger coming over the mountains to announce good news”
52:7 r7l9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to Zion 0 Here “Zion” represents the people of Zion. Alternate translation: “to the people of Zion”
52:8 w7al rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom raise their voices 0 This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “shout loudly”
52:8 pq5s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche every eye of theirs 0 Here “eye” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “every one of them”
52:9 d43j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification you ruins of Jerusalem 0 Isaiah speaks of the ruins of Jerusalem as if they were a person that could rejoice. This represents the people of Jerusalem who were defeated. Alternate translation: “you people who live among the ruins of Jerusalem”
52:9 r2fs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he has redeemed Jerusalem 0 Here “Jerusalem” represents the people. Alternate translation: “he has redeemed the people of Jerusalem”
52:10 j5iq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy bared his holy arm 0 Here “arm” represents Yahweh’s power. Yahweh showing all the people of the nations that he is holy and powerful is spoken of as if Yahweh were a warrior who removed his cloak, baring his arms for battle. Alternate translation: “showed his holiness and mighty power” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
52:10 w6qd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy all the nations; all the earth 0 Here “nations” and “earth” represent the people of all the nations all over the earth.
52:11 dd7u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit go out from there 0 It is assumed knowledge that the people of Israel were slaves in Babylon. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “go out from the land where you are slaves”
52:11 bel2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor touch nothing unclean 0 Something that Yahweh has stated is unfit to touch or eat is spoken of as if it were physically unclean. Alternate translation: “touch nothing that is unacceptable to Yahweh”
52:12 vxi2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rearguard 0 Yahweh protecting his people from their enemies is spoken of as if he were the warriors who go ahead of the people and the warriors who stay behind the people to protect them.
52:13 iaj3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive he will be high and lifted up, and he will be exalted 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. These two phrases “high and lifted up” and “will be exalted” have basically the same meaning and emphasize that Yahweh will honor his servant. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 33:10](../33/10.md). Alternate translation: “I will give my servant the greatest honor” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
52:14 xyv2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man 0 It is implied that the servant is disfigured because enemies beat him very badly. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “his enemies beat his body so badly that he did not even look like a human anymore”
52:15 qs33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor my servant will sprinkle many nations 0 The servant causing the people of the nations to be acceptable to Yahweh is spoken of as if the servant were a priest who sprinkles the blood of a sacrifice to make someone or something acceptable to Yahweh.
52:15 g9pf will sprinkle 0 The Hebrew word translated “sprinkle” here can also be translated as “surprise” or “startle,” which some versions of the Bible do.
52:15 vtr9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy many nations 0 Here “nations” represents the people of the nations.
52:15 ccn8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom kings will shut their mouths 0 The phrase “shut their mouths” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “kings will stop talking” or “kings will be silent”
52:15 r1l5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that which they had not been told 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that which no one had told them” or “something no one had told them”
53:intro znn5 0 # Isaiah 53 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nIn this chapter there is an important teaching or prophecy about the Messiah and his life and ministry. It begins in 52:13 and scholars usually note that it portrays the Messiah as a “suffering servant.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Atonement\n\nThis chapter prophesies about the death of Christ for sin. Most scholars believe it teaches that Christ was a righteous man who died for the sins of mankind. This is usually referred to as the atonement. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/atonement]])
53:1 yul6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive Who has believed what they heard from us 0 What Isaiah just found out is so amazing that he wonders if the exiles will believe it. The “we” includes him and those in exile. Alternate translation: “It is hard for anyone to believe what we have heard” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
53:1 vlz4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to whom has the arm of Yahweh been revealed? 0 Arm refers to God’s power. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has revealed his power to people.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
53:2 v5vm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile For he grew up before Yahweh like a sapling 0 Here “he” refers to God’s servant whom Isaiah compares to a very young tree. This emphasizes that he will appear weak.
53:2 a2he rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor out of parched earth 0 “parched earth” is hard and dry ground that will not allow plants to grow and represents where the servant of Yahweh will come. Alternate translation: “out of an impossible situation”
53:3 xp3g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive He was despised and rejected by people 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People considered him as nothing and rejected him”
53:3 j3j9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy from whom men hide their faces 0 “Face” represents a person’s attention or fellowship. Hiding one’s face means to turn away from someone. Alternate translation: “from whom people turn away”
53:3 tj7i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive he was despised 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they considered him to be worthless”
53:4 ypj5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he has borne our sicknesses and carried our sorrows 0 To “bear” or carry an abstraction like sickness and sorrow represents taking it up. Alternate translation: “he has taken our sicknesses and sorrows upon himself”
53:4 xe8d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive yet we thought he was being punished by God, struck by God, and afflicted 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “yet we thought God was punishing and afflicting him” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
53:5 wc4p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism But he was pierced because of our rebellious deeds; he was crushed because of our sins 0 These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that the servant suffered because of the people’s sins. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God allowed the enemy to stab him and kill him because of our sins” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
53:5 u45c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit The punishment for our peace was on him 0 This refers to peace with God. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “He accepted this punishment so we could live in harmony”
53:5 t2bv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive with his wounds we are healed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he healed us by his suffering of the wounds”
53:6 gyq2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile We all like sheep have gone astray 0 Sheep often leave the path on which the shepherd leads them. Isaiah means that we do what we want instead of what God commands.
53:6 yd6v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the iniquity of us all 0 Our “iniquity” here represents the guilt for our sin. Alternate translation: “the guilt for the sin of every one of us”
53:7 qk3r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive He was oppressed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They treated him harshly”
53:7 h2l8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he did not open his mouth 0 “Mouth” represents what a person says. Opening one’s mouth means to speak. Alternate translation: “he did not protest”
53:7 ref7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and as a sheep that before its shearers is silent 0 Isaiah compares the servant to a lamb and a sheep to emphasize that he will remain silent as people harm and humiliate him.
53:7 j5bv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a lamb that is led to the slaughter 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “just as a lamb is silent as a person slaughters it” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
53:8 nfv9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive By coercion and judgment he was condemned 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They treated him harshly, judged him, and condemned him”
53:8 yy4i coercion 0 The Hebrew word translated here as “coercion” is interpreted by some versions as “arrest.” For these versions, the thought is that the Servant will be arrested and then judged and condemned.
53:8 nqw6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion who from that generation thought anymore about him? 0 This question emphasizes that no one thinks about him. Alternate translation: “no one from his generation cared what happened to him.” or “no one among his contemporaries cared what happened to him.”
53:8 e9ga who from that generation thought anymore about him? 0 Many versions interpret this passage in Hebrew differently: “Who can say anything about his descendants?” or “Who can say anything about his fate?”
53:8 d1b3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive But he was cut off from the land of the living 0 “Cut off” here refers to death. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But he died” or “But death took him away” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
53:9 y3uz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy nor had there been any deceit in his mouth 0 “Mouth” represents what a person says. Alternate translation: “nor did he deceive anyone when he spoke”
53:10 db99 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will see his offspring 0 Here, “offspring” means those people that Yahweh has forgiven because of the servant’s sacrifice.
53:10 zq6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom he will prolong his days 0 This speaks of making him live for more time. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will make his servant live again”
53:10 q44m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Yahweh’s purpose will be accomplished through him 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will accomplish his purpose through his servant”
53:11 y6hr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy After the suffering of his life 0 Here “his life” refers to the servant. Alternate translation: “After the servant has suffered”
53:11 z63d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will see light 0 Many versions understand “light” here to stand for life. That is, the servant will become alive again.
53:11 q1ts rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he will bear their iniquities 0 The word “bear” means carry. This could mean: (1) “their iniquities” is a metonym representing the punishment for their sins. Alternate translation: “he will take their punishment” or “he will be punished for their sins” * or (2) “their iniquities” is a metonym representing their guilt. Alternate translation: “he will take their guilt upon himself” or “he will be guilty for their sins”
53:12 p84g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Therefore will I give him his portion among the multitudes, and he will divide the spoils with the many 0 These two clauses mean basically the same thing. “Portion” and “spoils” refer to a king after a victorious battle sharing the plunder or rewards with his army. This means God will greatly honor his servant because of his sacrifice. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
53:12 tiu1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy because he exposed himself to death 0 “Exposed” means to be vulnerable or unprotected. The servant of Yahweh put himself in a situation where he would die. Alternate translation: “he willingly accepted the possibility of death”
53:12 ih2g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive was numbered with the transgressors 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “allowed people to treat him as a criminal”
54:intro yq8q 0 # Isaiah 54 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Yahweh’s covenant faithfulness\nThis chapter focuses on Yahweh’s faithfulness to fulfill his covenants. It references several different covenant promises in this chapter. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenantfaith]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]])
54:1 z782 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you barren woman … children of the married woman 0 Yahweh telling the people of Jerusalem to rejoice because there will be many people living in Jerusalem again is spoken of as if Yahweh were telling a barren women she is going to have many children.
54:1 qza5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism break into joyful singing and cry aloud, you who have never been in birth labor 0 This statement means the same thing as the first part of the sentence.
54:1 zw4s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture For the children of the desolate one are more 0 An event that will happen in the future is spoken of as if it happened in the past. This emphasizes that the event will certainly happen. Alternate translation: “For the children of the desolate woman will be more”
54:2 u8qg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Make your tent larger … strengthen your stakes 0 This continues the metaphor that began in [Isaiah 54:1](../54/01.md). Yahweh telling the people of Jerusalem to prepare because Yahweh will greatly increase their people is spoken of as if he is telling a woman to make her tent bigger to make room for many children.
54:3 a221 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you For you will spread out 0 Here “you” is singular and refers to the barren woman. She represents herself and all of her descendants. Alternate translation: “For you and your descendants will spread out” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
54:3 b8xu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy will conquer nations 0 Here “nations” represents the people. Alternate translation: “will conquer the people of other nations”
54:4 zk1l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor you will forget the shame of your youth and the disgrace of your abandonment 0 Yahweh telling the people that in the future they will not even think about the shame they experienced when their enemies defeated them is spoken of as if Yahweh were telling a woman that she will no longer think about the shame she experienced from being unable to have children and having her husband abandon her.
54:5 r46e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For your Maker is your husband 0 Yahweh loving and taking care of his people is spoken of as if he were their husband.
54:5 zf3w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive he is called the God of the whole earth 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he is the God of the whole earth”
54:6 mj4h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Yahweh has called you back as a wife … like a woman married young and rejected 0 Yahweh sending his people away into exile then bringing them back is spoken of as if Yahweh were a husband who had rejected his wife but now accepts her. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
54:6 c9rt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy grieved in spirit 0 Here “spirit” represents a person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “grieved” or “made sad”
54:8 w36x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor In a flood of anger 0 Yahweh being very angry is spoken of as if his anger were a flood that overwhelms people. Alternate translation: “When I was very angry”
54:8 lz5y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I hid my face from you 0 Here “hid my face” is an idiom that means God abandoned his people and let them suffer. Alternate translation: “I abandoned you”
54:8 ued4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns but with everlasting covenant faithfulness 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in [Isaiah 16:5](../16/05.md). Alternate translation: “but because I always am faithful to my covenant with you” or “but because I am always faithful to do what I promise to do”
54:8 r671 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person says Yahweh, the one who rescues you 0 Here Yahweh speaks about himself in the third person. It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “that is what I, Yahweh, your rescuer, say to you”
54:9 xuf9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit the waters of Noah 0 This refers to the flood that Yahweh caused during the time of Noah.
54:10 z7di rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo Though the mountains may fall and the hills be shaken, yet my steadfast love 0 Yahweh describes a hypothetical condition to explain what would happen even if those conditions were met. Alternate translation: “Even if the mountains fell and the hills shook, my steadfast love”
54:10 n2al rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the hills be shaken 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the hills may shake”
54:10 g8ib rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor my steadfast love will not turn away from you 0 Yahweh continuing to love his people is spoken of as if his love would not turn away from the people. Alternate translation: “I will not stop loving you”
54:10 e3aj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor nor will my covenant of peace be shaken 0 Yahweh not canceling his covenant with the people is spoken of as if his covenant were an object that would not be shaken. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and I will not cancel my covenant of peace” or “and I will surely give you peace as I promised in my covenant” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
54:10 h5qq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person says Yahweh, who has mercy on you 0 Here Yahweh speaks about himself in the third person. It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “that is what I, Yahweh, who acts mercifully, say”
54:11 dx8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Afflicted one 0 Here Yahweh speaks to the city of Jerusalem as if it were listening to him. Here Jerusalem represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “You afflicted people of Jerusalem” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
54:11 n2mb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor storm-driven 0 Yahweh speaks of the people as if they were blown around and damaged by the winds and storms. This means the people were hurt and without stability.
54:11 r3g9 I will set your pavement in turquoise … lay your foundations with sapphires 0 Yahweh describes in ideal terms how he will restore Jerusalem and cause it to be beautiful again. Although the language may be exaggerated, you should translate this just as Yahweh described it.
54:11 ih34 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown turquoise … sapphires 0 These are precious gemstones. Turquoise is light blue-to-green, sapphires are typically dark blue.
54:12 v6lh I will make … beautiful stones 0 Yahweh describes in ideal terms how he will restore Jerusalem and cause it to be beautiful again. Although the language may be exaggerated, you should translate this just as Yahweh described it.
54:12 d32a rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown rubies 0 These precious gemstones are red to pink.
54:13 zt6p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Then all your children will be taught by Yahweh 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh will teach all your children”
54:13 e6ul rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person by Yahweh 0 Yahweh speaks of himself in the third person. It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “by me, Yahweh”
54:14 e2ru rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns In righteousness you will be established 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **righteousness**, you can express the same idea with an adjective such as “right.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will cause you to be strong again because you will do what is right” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
54:15 hxz5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom stirs up trouble 0 This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “causes trouble” or “troubles you”
54:15 ii4x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom will fall in defeat 0 This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “you will defeat them in battle”
54:17 thu4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy No weapon that is formed against you will succeed 0 Enemies not succeeding against Yahweh’s people is spoken of as if their weapons would not succeed against Yahweh’s people. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Enemies may form weapons to attack you but they will not defeat you” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
54:17 f69n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor This is the heritage of the servants of Yahweh 0 The reward that Yahweh will give to those who serve him is spoken of as if the reward were something they would inherit.
54:17 b727 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
55:intro c34c 0 # Isaiah 55 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Gentiles\n\nMany scholars believe this chapter prophesies that Gentiles will be able to come to a saving faith in Yahweh. At this time, the Israelites believed that only an Israelite could be saved. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])
55:1 vge8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor 0 # General Information:\n\nYahweh speaks of blessing the people freely as if he were selling food and drink to needy people for free.
55:1 wtd4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony buy wine and milk without money and without cost 0 There is a sense of irony in this statement since a person usually has to use money to buy something. This emphasizes Yahweh’s amazing grace in giving these things freely.
55:2 ha8z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why do you weigh out … bread, and why do you labor … satisfy? 0 Yahweh asks these questions to rebuke the people. He speaks of the people seeking happiness apart from Yahweh as if they were purchasing things to eat that were not food and working for things that could not satisfy them. Alternate translation: “You should not weigh out silver … bread, and you should not labor … satisfy” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
55:2 wil6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit weigh out silver 0 This refers to counting silver coins in order to pay someone for something. Alternate translation: “pay money”
55:2 ua4a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche for what is not bread 0 Here the word “bread” represents food in general. It is implied that the people were buying things to eat that were not really food. Alternate translation: “for things to eat that are not really food” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
55:2 l8h1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor eat what is good, and delight yourselves in fatness 0 The people trusting Yahweh for blessing and happiness is spoken of as if they are eating good food that is making them happy.
55:2 b221 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom in fatness 0 The word “fatness” refers to meat that has plenty of fat on it and is an idiom for fine food. Alternate translation: “with the best foods”
55:3 npj6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Turn your ears 0 Listening to or paying attention to someone is spoken of as if it were turning one’s ears to someone. Alternate translation: “Pay attention”
55:4 lar1 I have placed him 0 This could mean: (1) this refers to what Yahweh did for King David in the past or (2) it refers to what God will do through one of David’s descendants.
55:5 pxt4 the Holy One of Israel 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:4](../01/04.md).
55:6 qi9x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Seek Yahweh while he may be found 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Seek Yahweh while you can still find him”
55:7 c3wy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj Let the wicked leave his path 0 The word “wicked” refers to wicked people. Yahweh speaks of wicked people no longer sinning as if they were to stop walking along a path that they had been traveling. Alternate translation: “Let wicked people change the way they live” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
55:7 y63b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the man of sin his thoughts 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “let the sinful man leave his thoughts”
55:7 mq71 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis to our God 0 The verb may be supplied from the first phrase in this sentence. Alternate translation: “let him return to our God”
55:9 gd6x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts 0 Yahweh speaks of the things that he does and how he thinks as being far superior to or higher than what people do and think, just like the sky is much higher than the earth.
55:11 xj89 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification so also my word … it will achieve the purpose for which I sent it 0 Yahweh speaks of his word as if it were a person whom he sends out as his messenger to accomplish a task. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
55:11 mi1p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche my word will be that goes from my mouth 0 Here the word “mouth” represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “the word that I speak”
55:11 q6s2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit it will not return to me empty 0 Here the description of the word returning to Yahweh means that it has completed the task that Yahweh had sent it to complete. That it will not return “empty” means that it will not fail to accomplish its task. Alternate translation: “it will not fail to complete its task”
55:12 eni2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive be led along peacefully 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will lead you along peacefully”
55:12 w3uy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification the mountains and the hills will break out in joyful shouts before you, and all the trees of the fields will clap their hands 0 Yahweh speaks of the mountains, hills, and trees as if they were people with voices and hands, celebrating as Yahweh rescues his people.
55:13 a7v2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown Instead of the thornbushes, the cypress will grow; and instead of the brier, the myrtle tree will grow 0 The words “thornbushes” and “brier” refer to species of plants that have sharp thorns growing on them. The words “cypress” and “myrtle” refer to species of evergreen trees. The thorny plants symbolize desolation, while the evergreens symbolize life and prosperity.
55:13 l82f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy for his name 0 Here the word “name” represents Yahweh’s fame. Alternate translation: “for his fame” or “for his honor”
55:13 pj5z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor that will not be cut off 0 Something ceasing to exist is spoken of as if it were cut off, as a branch is cut off of a tree or a piece of fabric is cut off of clothing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that will never end” or “that will last forever” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
56:intro y2w8 0 # Isaiah 56 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Gentiles\n\nMany scholars believe this chapter prophesies that Gentiles will be able to come to a saving faith in Yahweh. At this time, the Israelites believed that only an Israelite could be saved. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Beasts\n\nThe Israelites are compared to beasts and dogs in this chapter. This would have been very offensive to them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
56:1 f7bp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive for my salvation is near, and my righteousness is about to be revealed. 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will soon save you and show you that I am righteous”
56:2 v4ay rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom who holds it tightly 0 Here “holds it tightly” is an idiom that means to continue to observe something. Alternate translation: “who is careful to always do this”
56:2 cv9i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche keeps his hand from doing any evil 0 Here the “hand” represents the whole person and emphasizes the person’s actions or behaviors. Alternate translation: “does not do evil things”
56:3 f7kq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor See, I am a dry tree 0 This means eunuchs may have thought they could not be a part of God’s people because they were deformed by castration (and for this reason could not have children). Israelites did not practice castration; foreigners did, sometimes for punishment. Eunuchs who had accepted the Hebrew faith knew that normally they were not allowed to worship in the temple (Deut. 23:1). The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
56:5 l1fz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet in my house and within my walls 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “inside the walls of my temple”
56:5 hk5n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that will never be cut off 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that will never end” or “that will never be forgotten”
56:6 avp4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy who love the name of Yahweh 0 Yahweh’s “name” represents himself. Alternate translation: “who love Yahweh”
56:7 i34j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be accepted on my altar 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will accept on my altar”
56:7 w7t2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive my house will be called a house of prayer 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “my house will be a house of prayer”
56:9 v1f8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor All you wild beasts of the field, come and devour, all you beasts in the forest 0 God is calling armies of other nations by comparing them to animals to come and attack the people of Israel.
56:10 tz9w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They are all silent dogs 0 The leaders are supposed to open their mouths and warn the people, but they do not. Comparing someone to a dog in this society is a great insult.
56:10 r63i They dream, and lying down they love to sleep 0 This means the leaders are not bringing God’s word of warning to Israel but prefer their own comfort.
57:intro miv3 0 # Isaiah 57 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Child sacrifice\n\nThis chapter references the killing of children. Some religions in the ancient Near East practiced the sacrificing of their children. This was considered evil by Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Mocking\n\nThe people abandoned the worship of Yahweh in favor of other gods. When they needed help, he tells them to ask these false gods. This is mocking the power of the false gods and shows the people the uselessness of their worship of these gods. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])
57:1 r38x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns the people of covenant faithfulness 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in [Isaiah 16:5](../16/05.md). Alternate translation: “the people who are faithful to the covenant” or “the people who are faithful”
57:1 mfl3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism are gathered away … is gathered away 0 “die and go away … dies and goes away”
57:1 u6v1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that the righteous is gathered away from the evil 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that the righteous people die, and Yahweh takes them away from all that is evil”
57:2 h6t8 those who walk in their uprightness 0 Alternate translation: “those who have done what is right”
57:3 xix7 But come here 0 God is calling all of the unfaithful people to come before him so he can judge them in a strong contrast to the promises for the righteous that came before.
57:3 r3tv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor sons of the sorceress 0 This is a strong insult against the people who practice sorcery because sorcery and magic includes idolatry.
57:3 z4xi children of the adulterer and the woman who has prostituted herself 0 This refers to actual and spiritual adultery. They have abandoned the worship of God and now worship other gods and idols along with actual prostitution in pagan Canaanite ceremonies.
57:4 wik1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Whom are you merrily mocking? Against whom are you opening the mouth and sticking out the tongue? 0 Yahweh uses questions to scold the people who are mocking him through false worship. Alternate translation: “You are mocking me and making fun of me by opening your mouth wide and sticking out the tongue!”
57:4 mbu5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Are you not children of rebellion, children of deceit? 0 Yahweh uses another question to scold the people. This does not refer to their birth but to their spiritual state. Alternate translation: “You are children of rebellion, children of deceit!”
57:5 zeb6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit You heat yourselves … under the rocky overhangs 0 All of these actions are associated with worshiping idols. The oaks were sacred trees to the Canaanites. People thought such activity would increase fertility for people and the land.
57:6 yy1r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that have been assigned to you 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The exact meaning in Hebrew is unclear. Alternate translation: “that is your lot” or “that is your inheritance”
57:6 r76w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion In these things should I take pleasure? 0 Yahweh uses a question to scold the people. Alternate translation: “Certainly, these things do not please me.”
57:7 h9pb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism You prepared your bed 0 This refers to sleeping with prostitutes as a part of worshiping false gods.
57:7 er5k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit on a high mountain 0 People often went on top of hills and mountains to worship false gods. They thought those were the best places for worship. This might even refer to Jerusalem, too.
57:9 ek3t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole you went down to Sheol 0 The people did not literally go to Sheol, the world of the dead. Instead, Yahweh is indicating by exaggeration that the people were willing to go anywhere to find new gods to worship.
57:10 yn3i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You found life in your hand 0 After trying so hard, the idolators found they still had strength to keep going. Here “hand” equals “strength” or “capacity.”
57:11 r1q1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Whom are you worried about? Whom do you fear so much that has caused you to act so deceitfully … about me? 0 Yahweh uses these questions to scold the people. Alternate translation: “You must really fear these idols for you to act so deceitfully … about me!”
57:11 wq9h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet so much that you would not remember me or think about me 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that, although the people should have remembered Yahweh, they did not.
57:12 cld8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony I will proclaim all your righteous acts and tell all that you have done 0 Yahweh is being sarcastic, calling their evil deeds so-called righteousness.
57:13 c5vg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony let your collection of idols rescue you 0 Yahweh is mocking the people and their idols. He tells the idols to save the people though he knows they cannot.
57:13 vdx1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the wind will carry them all away, a breath will carry them all away 0 This is saying the same thing in two ways to emphasize that idols are helpless and worthless. Alternate translation: “the wind, or even a breath, will blow them away”
57:14 d8ms rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Build, build! Clear a way! Remove all the stumbling blocks from the path of my people 0 Yahweh is emphatic and urgent that a clear and level road be available for the people to return to him and free of obstacles to worshiping Yahweh. This echoes [Isaiah 40:3](../40/03.md).
57:15 nf35 For this is what the high and elevated One says 0 The words “high” and “elevated” have basically the same meaning here and emphasize Yahweh being exalted. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 6:1](../06/01.md) and [Isaiah 33:10](../33/10.md). See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 52:13](../52/13.md).
57:15 y31b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism to revive the spirit of the humble ones, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh will strengthen and encourage those who humble themselves before him.
57:15 z6yj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy spirit … heart 0 Here these refer to a person’s thoughts and emotions, not the spirit and heart literally.
57:17 kl3t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I hid my face 0 This means God gave up on his people and no longer helped or blessed them.
57:17 n312 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy he went backward in the way of his heart 0 This means the Israelites kept rejecting the true God for false ones. Here “backward” and “way” are location words representing motivations and feelings.
57:18 utk3 his ways 0 “their ways.” Here “his” refers to the people of Israel.
57:18 kfr6 comfort and console those who mourn for him 0 Alternate translation: “I will soothe and calm those who feel sad for the people’s suffering because of their sinful behavior”
57:19 u422 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I create the fruit of the lips 0 Here “fruit of the lips” refers to what a person says. Alternate translation: “I cause them to praise and thank me”
57:20 w5a6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile But the wicked are like the tossing sea … mire and mud 0 This compares the wicked to rough water on the shore that makes the water dirty.
58:intro wkw6 0 # Isaiah 58 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Fasting\n\nThe practice of fasting became more common after the exile. This was intended to bring people into a right relationship with God by creating a designated time to concentrate on him. It may have been believed that Yahweh heard people better when they fasted. The significance of fasting is derived from the faster’s attitude of repentance and faith in Yahweh and not the practice itself. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “Yet they seek me daily”\nThe people did not truly seek Yahweh every day. They practiced the outward aspects of the Jewish religion, but their hearts were far from Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
58:1 akw2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Lift up your voice like a trumpet 0 This means shout loudly. Here “your” refers to Isaiah. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
58:1 dw8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Confront my people with their rebellion, and the house of Jacob with their sins 0 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Together they strengthen the urgency to confront Yahweh’s people.
58:3 c1tq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘but you do not see it? Why have we humbled ourselves, but you do not notice?’ 0 The people of Israel use questions to complain to God because they feel he is ignoring them.
58:4 i2t9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy fist of wickedness 0 “wicked fist.” This shows that they fight viciously. “Fist” represents anger that is physically violent.
58:5 wb5r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is this really the kind of fast that I would want … under himself? 0 Yahweh uses a question to scold the people. They act like they are humble before God, but they are hurting other people. Alternate translation: “This is not the kind of fast I want … under himself.”
58:5 acf6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile A day for anybody to humble himself, for him to bow down his head like a reed 0 This means the person is bowing down, but he is not truly humble. “A reed” represents a weak plant that bends easily.
58:5 bg7s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Do you really call this a fast, a day that pleases Yahweh? 0 Yahweh uses a question to scold the people. Alternate translation: “Surely you do not think this kind of fast pleases me!”
58:6 ba3r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is not this the fast that I choose … break every yoke? 0 Yahweh uses a question to teach the people about the kind of fast that pleases him. Alternate translation: “This is the fast that I choose … break every yoke.”
58:6 d4hx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy To release wicked bonds, to undo the ropes of the yoke, to set the crushed ones free, and to break every yoke 0 All of these phrases mean they should help those people whom the wicked are hurting and oppressing. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
58:7 mv38 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Is it not to … your house? 0 Yahweh uses another question to teach the people. Alternate translation: “It is to … your house.”
58:7 g6ne rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom break your bread 0 This phrase represents starting the meal by the host tearing the loaf of bread apart.
58:8 pk9d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom Then your light would be broken open like the sunrise 0 “Break open” here is an idiom that means when a light begins to shine brightly. This means that if they help people in need, their deeds will be like lights others will see, as when the sun comes up after a dark night. Or the light may refer to the light of the Lord, shining on them and blessing them. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
58:8 n7u7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your healing would quickly sprout up 0 This means God will bless and restore them quickly, as a wound heals quickly.
58:8 jj59 your righteousness would go before you, and the glory of Yahweh would be your rearguard 0 This refers to the time when God protected the people of Israel as they escaped from Egypt. This means God will again protect them from their enemies if they will do what is right.
58:8 qu5x your righteousness 0 This expression in Hebrew can also be interpreted as the one who gives righteousness or even victory. In this context, this expression would refer to God. A few modern versions have this interpretation.
58:10 c9f8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor then your light will rise in the darkness, and your darkness will be like the noonday 0 “Your light” represents the acts of kindness that will be examples to everyone, and the “darkness,” the bad deeds, will be overcome by their good deeds.
58:11 n3uj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor satisfy you in regions where there is no water 0 “Water” represents all they need for an abundant life even when their surroundings do not have enough.
58:11 spd1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile You will be like a watered garden 0 “A watered garden” represents abundance and plenty so they will have all they need.
58:11 e2u3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a spring of water, whose waters never fail 0 “A spring of water” represents a source of abundance in a land where water is precious.
58:12 a2lt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will be called 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will call you”
58:13 dvf4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche you turn back your feet from traveling on the Sabbath day, and from doing your own pleasure on my holy day 0 Here the people are represented by their “feet.” God did not allow long travels or work on the day of rest. Alternate translation: “you stop traveling and doing what you want to do on the Sabbath, my holy day”
58:14 gl7b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will make you ride on the heights of the earth 0 This refers to God exalting the nation in reputation and power in response to living righteously.
58:14 g7g6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken 0 The word “mouth” symbolizes what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh has spoken it”
59:intro ag3n 0 # Isaiah 59 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Yahweh’s deliverance\nWhen Israel was conquered, they were being punished for their sin. Yahweh is strong enough to deliver them, but he did not because he desired to refine them through the experience of the exile. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/deliverer]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
59:1 pss8 Look 0 “Behold!” or “You should know!” Yahweh tells the people to pay attention.
59:1 q7gn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Yahweh’s hand is not so short 0 “Hand” represents power and ability. A “short” hand does not have power and ability. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is fully able” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59:2 d3ku rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you your … you 0 These plural pronouns refer to the people of Israel as a single group.
59:2 b6lq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification your sins have made him hide his face from you 0 “Face” represents being present and looking upon. Alternate translation: “your sins have made him turn away from you”
59:3 brc4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy For your hands are stained with blood and your fingers with sin 0 Here “hands” and “fingers” refers to their actions. This means they are guilty of doing violent and sinful things. “Your” is plural. Alternate translation: “For you have committed violent sins” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
59:3 h19x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Your lips speak lies and your tongue speaks maliciously 0 The parts of the body that make speech represent what people say. Alternate translation: “You speak lies and malicious things”
59:4 a81n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor they conceive trouble and give birth to sin 0 “Conceiving” and “giving birth” emphasize how carefully they plan to do sinful things. Here “they” still refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “they work hard to do sinful things”
59:5 a5v3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They hatch eggs of a poisonous snake 0 Eggs of a poisonous snake hatch into more dangerous snakes. “Poisonous snakes” represents evil the people do that harms more and more. Alternate translation: “They make evil that spreads out to make more evil”
59:5 np5s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor weave a spider’s web 0 This represents the deeds of the people that are useless. Alternate translation: “produce things and activities that are useless”
59:5 ntp8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Whoever eats of their eggs dies, and if an egg is crushed, it hatches into a poisonous snake 0 Eating a poisonous egg will kill the one that eats it and represents self-destruction. Breaking the egg allows the young poisonous snake to hatch and represents spreading destruction. Alternate translation: “The activities they do will destroy them and will spread destruction to others”
59:5 zj3v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive if an egg is crushed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if someone crushes an egg”
59:6 njm8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Their webs cannot be used for garments, nor can they cover themselves with their works 0 This means their sinful deeds cannot be covered and hidden, just as a web cannot serve as clothing and cover someone. Alternate translation: “Their evil deeds will be exposed as useless”
59:6 r1fj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Their webs cannot be used for garments 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They cannot clothe themselves with their webs”
59:6 q53u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy deeds of violence are in their hands 0 “Hands” represents the ability and power to do these things and therefore their responsibility. Alternate translation: “they are fully responsible for the violence they do”
59:7 l2vv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Their feet run to evil 0 Here people are represented by their “feet.” This speaks of them doing something quickly as their feet running to it. Alternate translation: “They are quick to do evil things” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59:7 k2ys rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor are their roads 0 “roads” represents their way of life. Alternate translation: “are all they do”
59:8 i53h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor there is no justice in their paths 0 “paths” represents their way of life. Alternate translation: “they never do what is just” or “everything they do is unjust”
59:8 lc94 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor They have made crooked paths 0 “Crooked paths” represents the way of life that is corrupt. Alternate translation: “They say and do dishonest things. They are devious”
59:9 ps1q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive justice is far from us 0 Here “us” refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel. “Far” represents that justice is gone and difficult to get. Alternate translation: “justice is gone and very difficult to get” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59:9 ir1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism We wait for light, but see darkness; we look for brightness, but we walk in darkness 0 Each of these phrases means that the people are waiting for God’s goodness, but it seems like he has abandoned them. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59:10 bg1w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile We grope for the wall like the blind … like dead men 0 This means that because God is not coming to them, they feel helpless, not finding the right path and despairing of the future, with no hope for a vibrant life.
59:11 jgk8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile We growl like bears and moan like doves 0 These refer to the sounds the people made because they were distressed and mourning.
59:12 c6ut rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive our many transgressions 0 Here “our” refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel.
59:12 dxj1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you before you 0 Here “you” refers to Yahweh.
59:12 ujp4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification our sins testify against us 0 Isaiah describes the sins as a person who goes before God to declare that the people are guilty.
59:12 w614 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for our transgressions are with us 0 “With us” represents being aware of them. Alternate translation: “for we are aware of our transgressions”
59:14 wi7i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Justice is driven back 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The people drive justice back”
59:14 e1d8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Justice … righteousness … truth … right 0 These are ideas that Isaiah describes as acting like persons. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
59:15 g3ak rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Trustworthiness 0 Isaiah describes this idea as acting like a person. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
59:16 qym5 He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no one to intervene. 0 Alternate translation: “Yahweh was appalled that no one came to help those who were suffering.” or “Yahweh was astonished that no one came to help those who were suffering.”
59:16 ngp8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Therefore his own arm brought salvation for him 0 Yahweh’s “arm” represents his ability and power. Alternate translation: “Yahweh used his own power to save the people”
59:16 cty4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification his righteousness sustained him 0 “Righteousness” here is a quality that acts like a person. The word can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: “he did right as he always would do” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
59:17 c6gq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor He put on righteousness as a breastplate and a helmet of salvation upon his head. He clothed himself with garments of vengeance and wore zeal as a mantle 0 “breastplate,” “helmet,” “garments,” and “mantle” are clothing for war and fighting. Isaiah describes Yahweh as putting these on to punish his people. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
59:19 j5p8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy fear the name of Yahweh 0 Here “name” refers to Yahweh’s reputation and character. Alternate translation: “fear Yahweh”
59:19 a6vs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism from the west … from the sun’s rising 0 Isaiah combines these words to mean people in all places of the world.
59:19 s4n5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile for he will come as a rushing stream 0 Narrow valleys in Judah were dry most of the year until a sudden, heavy rain turned them into fast-moving water. When that happened there was a lot of noise and wind.
59:19 v9b2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive driven by the breath of Yahweh 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which the breath of Yahweh drives”
59:20 sbk2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
59:21 yj33 my words which I have put in your mouth 0 Alternate translation: “the message I have given you to speak”
60:intro w59w 0 # Isaiah 60 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Israel’s restoration\nThis chapter pictures a time when Israel will be fully restored to Yahweh. They will be everything Yahweh intended them to be. All the nations will look to Israel and acknowledge her special relationship to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])
60:1 dli2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of Yahweh has risen on you 0 This refers to the glorious things Yahweh has done for the inhabitants of Jerusalem. They are now to show that glory through what they do and say and have hope in the future.
60:2 ty2x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Though darkness will cover the earth, and thick darkness the nations 0 Both of these phrases mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. They refer to “spiritual darkness.” This means all the other people of the world will not know Yahweh or how to please him. This is a metaphor for divine judgment. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
60:2 kp9c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor yet Yahweh will arise upon you 0 This means the light of God’s presence will appear for the people of Israel, and it will show the way they should go.
60:2 s5ca rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive his glory will be seen on you 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the people of the nations will see his glory on you”
60:4 b3v9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive your daughters will be carried in their arms 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they will carry your daughters in their arms” or “they will carry your daughters on their hips”
60:5 ku6b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Then you will look and be radiant, and your heart shall rejoice and overflow 0 These phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that they will be very happy because of what will happen in Jerusalem.
60:5 rnt2 the abundance of the sea 0 This refers to the riches and goods that will come to Jerusalem by way of shipping, perhaps from along the Mediterranean Sea.
60:6 vu2u rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ephah 0 an area in Arabia
60:7 g7av rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Kedar … Nebaioth 0 These are the names of areas in Arabia.
60:7 vl7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive All the flocks of Kedar will be gathered together to you 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The people of Kedar will gather their flocks for you”
60:8 af2u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who are these who fly along like a cloud, and like the doves to their shelters? 0 Yahweh uses questions and poetic images to draw attention here. He compares the sails of the ships to clouds and doves. This is also a picture of the Israelites returning to the country where they belong. Alternate translation: “Look, I see something like clouds moving quickly and like doves returning to their shelters.” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
60:9 vl72 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy The coastlands 0 This refers to the people who live on the coastlands and describes the area of coastlands as if it was people looking out. Alternate translation: “The people from the coastlands” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
60:11 eas5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive they will not be shut day or night 0 Here “day” and “night” together mean “all the time.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one will ever shut them” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
60:11 c5un rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive so that the wealth of the nations may be brought, with their kings being led 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the people of the nations may bring their wealth, along with their kings”
60:12 hdc5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive those nations will be completely destroyed 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will completely destroy the people of those nations”
60:13 v72j The glory of Lebanon 0 This refers to Lebanon being famous for its beautiful trees, especially cypress and cedar. The exact identification of all the trees is not known.
60:16 njt8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You will also drink the milk of the nations, and will nurse at the breast of kings 0 This refers to the wealth and plenty that will be drained from foreign nations. Both clauses repeat the same idea for emphasis. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
60:17 uwa8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis instead of wood, bronze, and instead of stones, iron 0 Yahweh will give more valuable building materials to them now. Alternate translation: “instead of wood, I will bring bronze, and instead of stones, I will bring iron”
60:17 nbx6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification I will appoint peace as your governors, and justice your rulers 0 Yahweh describes “peace” and “justice” as human rulers. This means there will be complete peace and justice in the land of Israel.
60:18 f499 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Violence will no longer be heard in your land 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “There will no longer be reports of violence in your land”
60:18 ik17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy but you will call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise 0 The physical objects have the names of spiritual qualities. The city of Jerusalem will be a safe place, and the people there will praise Yahweh.
60:20 l1pb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism for Yahweh will be your everlasting light 0 Both verses repeat this same idea for emphasis.
60:20 d6du rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your sun will no longer set, nor will your moon withdraw and disappear 0 The moon will not literally disappear. This exaggeration is saying that the light of the sun and the moon will be much less bright than the light of Yahweh. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
60:21 h3th rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the branch of my planting, the work of my hands 0 These phrases mean approximately the same and are repeated for emphasis.
60:21 eqv7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the branch of my planting 0 Yahweh is comparing the people to young shoots coming up that he planted as if he was a gardener. Yahweh has placed his people in the land of Israel. This gives hope to the people.
60:21 w3n1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the work of my hands 0 Yahweh compares the people of Israel to something made by the skill of his handicraft.
60:21 sit8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that I may be glorified 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that all people may glorify me”
60:22 zuc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers a thousand 0 “1,000”
61:intro vsb3 0 # Isaiah 61 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThe first part of this chapter is probably a prophecy about the coming Messiah and not Isaiah because this was different than the message Isaiah delivered. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Restoration\n\nThis chapter prophesies concerning a future time of peace and restoration. It is unlikely to have been fulfilled in Isaiah’s day. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
61:1 s7f8 The Spirit of the Lord Yahweh is on me 0 “Spirit” here is the Holy Spirit of Yahweh who compels or motivates the person. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 11:2](../11/02.md) or in [Isaiah 42:1](../42/01.md).
61:1 xr6t the afflicted 0 This refers to poor people, those in great sorrow, or oppressed people who have problems they cannot overcome by themselves.
61:1 n6cg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison for those who are bound 0 These two phrases mean the same thing. They state that God will certainly give freedom to captives.
61:2 pj2e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the year of Yahweh’s favor, the day of vengeance 0 Both of these phrases refer to the same span of time. “Year” and “day” are both specific examples that represent the greater whole. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
61:3 qss6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy oil of joy … a mantle of praise 0 People put oil on themselves and dressed in beautiful, long robes during times of celebration and joy.
61:3 s3uu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor oaks of righteousness, the planting of Yahweh 0 This means Yahweh has caused the people to be strong and sturdy.
61:3 d2mz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive that he may be glorified 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the people’s lives may glorify him”
61:6 r8ff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive You will be called 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will call you”
61:7 wxd5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person they will rejoice over their share … they will … their land … will be theirs 0 This still refers to the people of Israel. This can be stated in second person. Alternate translation: “you will rejoice over your share … you will … your land … will be yours”
61:9 p3mg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Their descendants will be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples 0 These two clauses mean the same thing. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People from other nations will know their descendants” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
61:9 kx41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis their offspring among the peoples 0 This clause assumes the same verb as the previous one. Alternate translation: “their offspring will be known among the peoples”
61:10 u9w7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has clothed me with the robe of righteousness 0 The people of God speaking as one person now have salvation and righteousness as their distinct appearance visible to all. “Garments” and “robe” are clothing that everyone can see.
61:10 k3wx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a bridegroom adorns himself with a turban, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels 0 This comparison emphasizes that the speaker is extremely happy, joyful, celebrating.
61:11 q4ad rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For as the earth produces its sprouting plants, and as the garden makes its planting grow 0 This is saying the same thing in two ways. The fact that whatever God says he will do is certainly going to happen is compared to the fact that seeds sprout after planting. Alternate translation: “Just as seeds sown in a garden sprout from the soil and grow” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
61:11 zgl9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor righteousness and praise to sprout up 0 This expression describes these virtues as growing from seed like plants do.
62:intro q3u6 0 # Isaiah 62 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Restoration\n\nThis chapter prophesies concerning a future time of peace and restoration. It is unlikely to have been fulfilled in Isaiah’s day. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]])
62:1 dja1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism For Zion’s sake I will not be silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be quiet 0 Both of these statements mean the same thing. Here “Zion” and “Jerusalem” both represent the people who live in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “For the sake of the people of Jerusalem I will not be silent” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
62:1 q71s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile until her righteousness proceeds brightly, and her salvation as a burning torch 0 Both clauses reassure the people that God will eventually come and save the people of Israel and that it will be as apparent as light is. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
62:3 qm2v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism You will also be a crown of beauty in the hand of Yahweh, and a turban of kingship in the hand of your God 0 These mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. They say that Jerusalem will become a royal city under the power and authority of God. Yahweh’s hand is a metonym for his power and authority. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
62:4 dd4g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism It will no more … will it be said, “Desolate.” 0 These mean the same thing are combined for emphasis.
62:4 uk2d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive It will no more be said of you 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will no longer say about you”
62:4 rz8n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive nor of your land any longer will it be said 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “nor will people any longer say about your land”
62:4 s67z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your land will be married 0 This means Yahweh will love the people of Israel and will always be with them as is a husband.
62:5 fh9p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a young man marries a young woman, so your sons will marry you 0 Here “sons” refers to the people of Israel and “you” refers to Judah, the land of Israel. This means the people will take possession of the land as a man takes possession of his young wife.
62:5 pn1w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, your God will rejoice over you 0 This emphasizes God’s happiness about his relationship with his people.
62:6 yi1t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor watchmen on your walls 0 This refers to prophets, officials, or possibly angels, who are constantly praying for the people of Jerusalem like watchmen who constantly guard the city. See how you translated “watchmen” in [Isaiah 52:8](../52/08.md) and [Isaiah 56:10](../56/10.md).
62:6 v43n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes they are not silent day or night 0 This means they are continually pleading to Yahweh or calling to each other. Alternate translation: “they are earnestly praying to Yahweh throughout the entire day” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
62:8 bnu9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy by his right hand and by the arm of his strength 0 The right hand and arm represent power and authority. Alternate translation: “by his power and authority”
62:8 tb4w Surely I will no longer give your grain as food for your enemies 0 This means Yahweh will not let enemies conquer the people of Israel and take their grain anymore. Perhaps enemies took the grain in the past as a tax or to feed their own armies.
62:8 jw3p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism I will no longer give your grain as food for your enemies … Foreigners will not drink your new wine 0 These statements are set together for emphasis and completion.
62:9 lt1b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism those who harvest the grain … those who pick the grapes 0 These statements are set together for emphasis and completion.
62:10 m5im rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Build it, build the highway 0 The word “build” is repeated to emphasize that Yahweh urgently wants the road prepared. The “highway” represents the way the people can return. This is similar to [Isaiah 40:3](../40/03.md) and [Isaiah 57:14](../57/14.md).
62:10 dxb2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche Gather out the stones 0 “Take the stones out of the road to make it smooth.” Stones represent all the obstacles to quick travel.
62:10 cv7h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy Raise up a signal flag for the nations 0 A signal flag represents something to draw the attention of others. This means Yahweh is calling the people of the other nations to take notice of the land of Israel and to see what Yahweh has accomplished as he said he would.
62:11 e6rw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the ends of the earth 0 The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. See how you translated this in [Isaiah 40:28](../40/28.md). AT “the farthest places of the earth” or “the entire earth” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
62:11 sa9m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom the daughter of Zion 0 “Daughter” represents the people of Jerusalem (Zion). See how you translated this in [Isaiah 1:8](../01/08.md).
62:11 n3g6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism See, his reward is with him, and his recompense is going before him 0 These clauses represent the same idea for emphasis. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Isaiah 40:10](../40/10.md).
62:12 q31l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive you will be called 0 This can be stated actively, “they will call you”
63:intro g5yz 0 # Isaiah 63 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Imagery\n\nThe imagery of judgment in this chapter is intended to be rather vivid. The translator should avoid euphemisms, if possible. Overall, this chapter prophesies a day of great judgment and God’s wrath. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/wrath]])
63:1 qz61 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is this who comes from Edom … Bozrah 0 Isaiah speaks as a watchman using the question and answer format to present this information about Yahweh’s judgment on Edom, an enemy of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am coming from Edom, clothed in red from Bozrah”
63:1 vv2a rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Bozrah 0 This is the capital city of Edom.
63:2 tzm5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why are your clothes red, and why … winepress? 0 If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “The red on your clothing looks makes you look like you have been treading on grapes in a winepress.”
63:2 nmf4 winepress 0 A winepress is a low place carved out of rock in the ground where workers step on the grapes to crush them with their feet, in order to remove the grape juice.
63:3 ky69 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I have trodden grapes 0 Here “I” refers to Yahweh. This imagery refers to Yahweh destroying his enemies.
63:4 p1bl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the year for my redemption 0 Here “year” refers to a specific time appointed by Yahweh for restoring Israel. Alternate translation: “the time for my redemption”
63:5 f8a2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy but my own arm 0 Here “arm” represents power.
63:6 xdg5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor made them drunk in my wrath 0 This means Yahweh made them stunned and senseless by his full wrath and punishment.
63:6 v3ih rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I poured out their blood 0 Here “blood” represents the life of Yahweh’s enemies that was gushing out so they would die.
63:7 e55q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns I will tell of the acts of Yahweh’s covenant faithfulness 0 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in [Isaiah 16:5](../16/05.md). Alternate translation: “I will tell about how God has acted faithfully to his covenant” or “I will tell about all the faithful things God has done for his people”
63:9 gd1d Through all their suffering 0 “Through all our suffering.” Here “their” refers to the people of Israel. Isaiah included himself as a member of the people.
63:9 xq2j he suffered too 0 Here “he” refers to Yahweh.
63:9 zj13 the angel from his presence 0 This is a representative who is sent from God’s presence.
63:9 cf9k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he lifted them up and carried them 0 This refers to when God protected and saved the people of Israel from the Egyptians many years earlier. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
63:11 xc8g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit who brought them up out of the sea 0 The story of Yahweh miraculously splitting the waters of the Sea of Reeds so that the Israelites could cross and escape the Egyptians is assumed knowledge.
63:11 gjt5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the shepherds of his flock 0 Leaders are sometimes referred to as “shepherds.” Alternate translation: “the leaders of his people”
63:12 zbm6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy who made his glorious power go with the right hand of Moses 0 Here “right hand” represents the power of Yahweh through Moses. This means it was God’s power that enabled Moses to divide the water of the Reed Sea.
63:13 ymx4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Like a horse running on flat land, they did not stumble 0 This means that the people of Israel were sure-footed as horses in open country on their travels toward Israel from Egypt.
63:14 vw1c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As the cattle that go down into the valley … rest 0 This image pictures cattle going into a valley where there is green grass and water and emphasizes that God led the people of Israel and took care of them.
63:14 mt35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy to make yourself a name of praise 0 Here “name of praise” refers to honor and one’s reputation. Alternate translation: “to make sure you have an honored reputation for yourself”
63:15 z3pw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where are your zeal and your mighty acts? 0 The writer uses a question to express deep emotion and concern because it seems God is not helping them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We do not see your zeal and your mighty acts!”
63:15 ul1l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Your pity and your compassionate actions are kept from us 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You keep your pity and compassion from us”
63:16 sb9w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche though Abraham does not know us, and Israel does not recognize us 0 These ancestors of the nation of Israel would not able to identify their descendants because they changed so much. “Abraham” and “Israel” represent the people from the distant past.
63:17 w2gk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Yahweh, why do you make us wander from your ways and harden our hearts, so we do not obey you? 0 Here the writer uses a question to express a complaint of the people to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, you have made us wander from your ways and become stubborn so that we do not obey you.”
63:17 dfb6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor why do you make us wander from your ways 0 To not do what Yahweh commands is spoken of as if a person wanders off of the correct path. Alternate translation: “why do you make do what is wrong”
63:17 pqt9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor harden our hearts 0 This means to become resistant to Yahweh’s teaching by refusing to listen and obey. Here “heart” represents their motives, feelings and desires.
63:19 j3dn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive who were never called by your name 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The word “name” refers to a family relationship. Alternate translation: “who never belonged to your family” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
63:19 kcq5 We have become … called by your name 0 Some modern versions interpret this passage differently: “We are like the people over whom you have not ruled, like those who have not been called by your name.”
64:intro pn57 0 # Isaiah 64 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Repentance\n\nThis chapter records the repentance of the righteous remnant of Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/remnant]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
64:1 vzg6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo Oh, if you had 0 Isaiah introduces this desire for Yahweh’s presence in their past history with a strong exclamation.
64:1 ea39 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor if you had split open the heavens 0 If Yahweh had shown himself very dramatically by tearing open the sky. The words “split open” refer to ripping a piece of cloth apart.
64:1 gnw8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo mountains would have shaken 0 The mountains would have trembled as in an earthquake.
64:2 re9g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as when fire kindles the brushwood, or the fire makes water boil 0 This possibly emphasizes how easily God’s presence would have caused the mountains and the people to tremble. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
64:4 ien9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche nor eye seen 0 Here the “eye” refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “nor has anyone seen”
64:6 r68s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile all our righteous deeds are like a menstrual rag 0 A “menstrual rag” is a cloth that a woman uses during the time of month when she bleeds from her womb. This means all their attempts to please God fail. This sentence was meant to be shocking.
64:6 pe9q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile We have all withered like leaves 0 Isaiah compares the people of Israel to leaves that dry up when dead.
64:6 zx8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile our iniquities, like the wind, carry us away 0 This means their sins, as a community, are the reason for their failure. Isaiah compares the iniquities to the wind as the force for their suffering Yahweh’s punishment.
64:7 j4vi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom you have hidden your face from us 0 This means God gave up on his people and let them suffer.
64:7 bhp2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy in the hand of our iniquities 0 Here the word “hand” is a metonym for the power of those who are punishing the people for their iniquities. Alternate translation: “as you punish us for our iniquities”
64:8 j691 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor we are the clay. You are our potter; and we all are the work of your hand 0 This means God created the people of Israel.
64:9 jl2l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom call to mind 0 This refers to remembering the past.
64:9 i877 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification look at us all 0 Isaiah asks Yahweh to pay attention to their situation.
64:11 ev92 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Our holy and beautiful temple, where our fathers praised you, has been destroyed by fire 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The enemy has destroyed our holy and beautiful temple, where our fathers praised you, by fire”
64:12 x5p8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion How can you still hold back, Yahweh? How can you remain silent and continue to humiliate us? 0 They use questions to express their frustration because God has not yet come to help them. Alternate translation: “Please do not hold back, Yahweh! Please do not remain silent and continue to humiliate us!”
65:intro mm3j 0 # Isaiah 65 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in this chapter.\n\nThis chapter is Yahweh’s response to the repentance of the people. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Judgment and hope\n\nThis chapter records that Yahweh’s judgment on the people must come. Despite this, there is hope that in the end, Yahweh will make all things new and restore them to himself. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/hope]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])
65:1 fu52 I was ready 0 Here “I” refers to Yahweh.
65:2 k5z1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom I have spread out my hands all day to a stubborn people 0 “Spreading out my hands” here is a person’s gesture to show imploring or a strong request. Alternate translation: “I have continually begged a stubborn people to receive my help”
65:3 y6w2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit in gardens … on brick tiles 0 These refer to Canaanite places for worshiping idols. Their sacred altars were made of bricks, which Yahweh forbid for his altars. Yahweh’s altars were made of stone.
65:4 ga3p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit sit among the graves and keep watch all night 0 This is a reference to consulting the dead, a practice that Yahweh prohibited.
65:4 u4tg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit eat pork 0 Yahweh did not allow the people of Israel to eat meat from pigs.
65:5 yf97 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor These things are smoke in my nose 0 Yahweh compares these people who are continually annoying him to smoke that irritates a person’s breathing.
65:5 kfu5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a fire that burns all day long 0 Yahweh compares the people of Israel to a slow-burning fire that sends out smoke without stopping as it irritates.
65:6 ju68 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom into their laps 0 This means God will punish them to the fullest extent. This expression compares Yahweh punishing the people to dumping on their legs as they are sitting. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
65:8 u28s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor As when juice is found in a cluster of grapes 0 Yahweh compares the people of Israel to a cluster of grapes that still has some good juice in it.
65:8 p137 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive when juice is found in a cluster 0 This can be stated in an active way. Alternate translation: “when you find juice in a cluster”
65:8 y5df rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes I will not ruin them all 0 This can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “I will spare some of them who are righteous” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
65:10 pzz2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Sharon 0 This was a fertile grazing area.
65:10 gc1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Valley of Achor 0 This is the name of a valley that possibly ran from Jerusalem to south of Jericho. This was also a fertile grazing area.
65:11 h947 who prepare a table … and fill wine glasses of mixed wine 0 People would bring food and drink and place it in front of the idol as part of their worship.
65:12 kk9r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche appoint you for the sword 0 “The sword” represents various weapons of war that Yahweh will use to punish those who do not respond to Yahweh’s call.
65:12 ah6h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism when I called, you did not answer; when I spoke, you did not listen 0 Both clauses mean the same and are repeated for emphasis.
65:13 hu21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism Look, my servants 0 “Take notice and pay attention” Yahweh repeats this for emphasis.
65:14 l9nc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism but you will cry because of the pain of the heart, and will wail because of the crushing of the spirit 0 These clauses mean the same and the repetition is for emphasis.
65:14 l647 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor crushing of the spirit 0 This expression compares the feeling of terrible disappointment and sorrow to something becoming deformed due to high pressure.
65:16 x8rm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be blessed by me, the God of truth 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I, the God who always speaks the truth, will bless him”
65:16 b3zy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the former troubles will be forgotten … will be hidden 0 These clauses can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they will forget the former troubles, for these troubles will be out of my memory”
65:16 xcx8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom they will be hidden from my eyes 0 “hidden from my eyes” represents the attention and memory of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I will not even think about them again” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
65:17 dn4a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism new heavens and a new earth 0 Both are extremes that also represent everything between.
65:17 v792 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the former things will not be remembered or be brought to mind 0 Both of these clauses mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you will not even think about what happened in the past” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
65:18 cdz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you But you will be glad 0 Here “you” refers to all of God’s servants.
65:19 wla8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive weeping and cries of distress will no longer be heard in her 0 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will hear weeping and cries of distress any longer in her”
65:20 ars5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers one hundred years 0 “100 years”
65:20 qsz1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be considered a young person 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will consider him a young person”
65:20 fte4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive will be considered cursed 0 This can be stated this in active form. Alternate translation: “people will consider this person as cursed”
65:23 ea83 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive they are the children of those blessed by Yahweh 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they are the children of those whom Yahweh blessed”
66:intro d1a4 0 # Isaiah 66 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 66:1–17, 21–24.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### In the end\n\nIn the end, Yahweh will enact his perfect justice. This is the true hope of this world. The new heaven and the new earth are an important part of this. In the end, this will be the perfect creation of Yahweh and will last forever. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/hope]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])
66:1 ym2c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool 0 Yahweh compares heaven to a throne and the earth to a footstool to emphasize how great he is.
66:1 fgf8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Where then is the house you will build for me? Where is the place where I may rest? 0 Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that humans cannot build a place for him to dwell.
66:2 z6n3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche My hand has made all these things 0 Yahweh is represented by his hand which emphasizes his power and authority. Alternate translation: “I have made all these things”
66:2 js74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
66:3 r9v8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism He who slaughters … also blesses wickedness 0 These four clauses all describe different ways evil people act and come to the same meaning for emphasis.
66:4 l9qg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor what was evil in my sight 0 Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “what I consider to be evil” or “what is evil in my judgement”
66:5 ssi3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive May Yahweh be glorified 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Glorify Yahweh” or “May Yahweh glorify himself”
66:5 x6r8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive but they will be put to shame 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but I will put them to shame”
66:6 ym61 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy A sound of battle tumult 0 The sound represents the real fighting that is going on in the temple as Yahweh is carrying out the punishment.
66:7 iy8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Before she goes into labor, she gives birth; before pain is upon her, she gave birth to a son 0 Yahweh speaks about Zion as if it were a woman who is about to give birth. Although Zion was destroyed and the people no longer lived there, Yahweh promises that without delay and with little effort an entire nation will come from her.
66:8 mnx2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who has heard of such a thing? Who has seen such things? Will a land be born in one day? Can a nation be established in one moment? 0 Yahweh uses questions to emphasize how unique this event will be. The series of questions builds tension until Zion is finally mentioned.
66:9 ykq2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Do I bring a baby to the birth opening … born? 0 Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that he will not fail to fulfill his promises to the people of Jerusalem. (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
66:11 m27u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor For you will nurse and be satisfied; with her breasts you will be comforted 0 This means Jerusalem will be a place of safety and comfort for God’s people. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “For she will satisfy you with her milk; she will comfort you with her breasts” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
66:12 j2n7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a river … like an overflowing stream 0 This means God will cause the people of the nations to bring a very large amount of riches, which will be permanent like a river and abundant.
66:12 l5d2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You will nurse at her side, be carried in her arms, and be dandled on her knees 0 This means Jerusalem will be a place of safety and comfort for God’s people.
66:12 u5js rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive be carried in her arms, and be dandled on her knees 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “she will carry you in her arms and bounce you on her knees with delight”
66:13 w86z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive so I will comfort you, and you will be comforted in Jerusalem 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so I will comfort you in Jerusalem”
66:14 fy26 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche your bones will sprout 0 “Bones” refers to the whole body.
66:14 pe4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile will sprout like the tender grass 0 “Tender grass” grows fast and strong and compares to the health and vigor of God’s faithful people.
66:14 gt3n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive The hand of Yahweh will be made known to his servants 0 Here “hand” refers to his power. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will reveal his power to his servants” (See also: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
66:15 cfq3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor coming with fire 0 Yahweh’s appearances in the Old Testament are often accompanied by fire that represents Yahweh’s anger and judgment.
66:15 b53l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like the windstorm 0 Storms represent Yahweh’s powerful actions to make his judgment effective.
66:16 dhc5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche with his sword 0 “Sword” is one weapon that represents all of warfare and killing.
66:16 bx7h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive Those killed by Yahweh will be many 0 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will kill many people”
66:17 bs95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person this is Yahweh’s declaration 0 Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in [Isaiah 30:1](../30/01.md). Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared”
66:20 m4dq They will bring 0 Here “they” refers to the foreigners who survived and witnessed to the nations. They will return to Jerusalem with exiled Israelites.
66:20 lip4 holy mountain 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 11:9](../11/09.md).
66:22 g5ni the new heavens and the new earth 0 See how you translated this in [Isaiah 65:17](../65/17.md).
66:24 a8i9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism the worms … and the fire 0 Both clauses describe the same idea to emphasize Yahweh’s punishment.
66:24 le39 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the worms that eat them 0 The worms represent the horror of decay and rot that are Yahweh’s punishment on the wicked.
66:24 md8u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the fire that consumes 0 Fire also represents Yahweh’s judgment.
66:24 t9vq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes will not be quenched 0 This can be expressed positively. Alternate translation: “will burn forever”
66:24 e7xk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy all flesh 0 This expression represents all created living beings that shrink from the dead.
See in Reader
