en_tn/2co/12/04.md

1.2 KiB

was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words

This continues Paul's account of what happened to "this man" (verse 3). It can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) that God took the man into paradise. Alternate translation: "was a man whom God took into paradise and who heard things" or 2) an angel took him into paradise. Alternate translation: "was a man whom an angel took into paradise and who heard inexpressible words." If possible, it would be best not to name the one who took the man. Alternate translation: "was a man who entered into paradise and heard inexpressible words" or "was a man who suddenly appeared in paradise and heard inexpressible words." (See: rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-activepassive)

caught up

suddenly and forcefully held and taken

paradise

Possible meanings are 1) heaven or 2) the third heaven or 3) a special place in heaven.

inexpressible words

Possible meanings of "inexpressible" are that 1) Paul means something other than "it is unlawful for people to speak" these words, and so people are unable to communicate the ideas expressed in the words or 2) Paul means the same thing as "it is unlawful for people to speak" these words, emphasizing that God does not permit people to speak the words.