1TI front intro wy83 0 # Introduction to 1 Timothy<br><br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 1 Timothy<br><br>In this letter, Paul alternates between personal commands to Timothy that empower him to act as his representative and with his authority, and instructions for how followers of Jesus should live in community.<br><br>1. Greetings (1:1-2)<br>2. Paul commands Timothy to tell people not to teach false doctrines (1:3-20)<br>3. Paul gives instructions about how to re-establish order and decency in the church (2:1-15)<br>4. Paul gives instructions about how to ensure that elders and deacons are properly qualified (3:1-13)<br>5. Paul commands Timothy regarding his own personal conduct (3:14-5:2)<br>6. Paul gives instructions to ensure church support for worthy widows (5:3-16) and elders (5:17-20)<br>7. Paul commands Timothy that he must be impartial (5:21-25)<br>8. Paul gives instructions to ensure order in master-servant relationships (6:1-2a)<br>9. Paul commands Timothy regarding how he should teach and conduct himself (6:2b-16)<br>10. Paul gives instructions for how people who are rich should live (6:17-19)<br>11. Paul commands Timothy to guard what has been entrusted to his care (6:20-21a)<br>12. Closing blessing to the whole church (6:21b)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of 1 Timothy?<br><br>A man named Paul wrote 1 Timothy. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul may have written other letters to Timothy, but this is the earliest one that we still have. That is why it is known as 1 Timothy or First Timothy. Timothy was Paul’s disciple and close friend. Paul probably wrote this letter near the end of his life.<br><br>### What is the Book of 1 Timothy about?<br><br>Paul had left Timothy in the city of Ephesus to help the believers there. Paul wrote this letter to instruct Timothy about various matters. The topics he addressed included church worship, qualifications for church leaders, and warnings against false teachers. This letter shows how Paul was training Timothy to be a leader among the churches while Timothy himself trained other leaders.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its customary title, “1 Timothy” or “First Timothy.” Or they may choose a different title, such as “Paul’s First Letter to Timothy.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What is discipleship?<br><br>Discipleship is the process of making people to be disciples of Christ. The goal of discipleship is to encourage other Christians to be more like Christ. This letter gives many instructions about how a leader should train a less mature Christian. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ”?<br><br>Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.<br><br>### What are the major textual issues in the text of the book of 1 Timothy?<br><br>In [6:5](../06/05.md), the oldest Greek manuscripts differ from later Greek manuscripts. Modern translations may also differ depending on the Greek manuscript that they translate from. The ULT text translates the Greek from the oldest manuscripts and puts the differences from later manuscripts in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider following the decision in that translation. If not, translators are advised to follow the oldest Greek manuscripts as reflected in the ULT text. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TI 1 intro a4v2 0 # 1 Timothy 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul formally introduces this letter in verses 1-2. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Spiritual children<br><br>In this chapter, Paul calls Timothy a “son” and his “child.” Paul discipled Timothy as a Christian and a church leader. Paul may also have led him to believe in Christ. Therefore, Paul called Timothy his “son in the faith.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>In this chapter Paul speaks figuratively of people who are not fulfilling the purpose of their faith as if they had “missed the mark” that they were aiming at, as if they had “turned away” down a wrong path, and as if they had been “shipwrecked.” He speaks figuratively of following Jesus faithfully as “fighting the good fight.”
1TI 1 1 i3zz Παῦλος 1 Paul In the culture of this time, letter writers would give their own names first. Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you could use it here. Immediately after introducing the writer, you might also want to indicate to whom the letter was written. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, am the one writing this letter to you, Timothy”
1TI 1 1 sw77 figs-metonymy Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ τῆς ἐλπίδος ἡμῶν 1 the Lord Jesus Christ our hope Here, **our hope** refers figuratively to the person in whom we have hope. Alternate translations: “Christ Jesus, the one in whom we have confidence” or “Christ Jesus, whom we trust” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 1 2 pyi6 figs-metaphor γνησίῳ τέκνῳ 1 a true son Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though they were father and son. This shows Paul’s sincere love and approval of Timothy. It is also likely that Paul personally led Timothy to trust in Christ. That would be another reason why Paul considered him to be like his own child, since Timothy entered his new life as a follower of Jesus because of Paul. Alternate translation: “who is truly like a son to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 2 rd5v χάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη 1 Grace, mercy, peace In this culture, letter writers would offer a good wish for the recipient before introducing the main business of the letter. Alternate translation: “I hope you are experiencing God’s kindness, mercy, and peace”
1TI 1 2 p4lz guidelines-sonofgodprinciples Θεοῦ Πατρὸς 1 God the Father Here, **Father** is an important title for God. Alternate translation: “God, who is our Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1TI 1 3 k35a figs-yousingular σε 1 you In this letter, with one exception, the words **you**, **your**, and **yourself** refer to Timothy and so are singular. A note will discuss the one exception in [6:21](../06/21.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1TI 1 3 v4g2 figs-explicit ἑτεροδιδασκαλεῖν 1 teach differently The implication is that these people were not teaching in a different way, but teaching different things than what Paul and Timothy taught. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “a different doctrine from what we teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 4 pw2h μύθοις 1 fables These were fanciful stories of some kind, perhaps about the supposed exploits of various spiritual beings. But since we no longer know exactly what these stories were about, it would probably be best to use a general term for them. Alternate translation: “made-up stories”
1TI 1 4 qpv9 figs-hyperbole γενεαλογίαις ἀπεράντοις 1 endless genealogies Paul uses the term **endless** as an exaggeration to emphasize that these are very long. Alternate translation: “lists of names that seem as if they will never end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TI 1 4 ft33 γενεαλογίαις 1 genealogies Usually, this term refers to a record of a person’s ancestors. However, in this case it could also mean a record of the supposed ancestors of spiritual beings. Alternate translation: “lists of names”
1TI 1 4 qb9l αἵτινες ἐκζητήσεις παρέχουσι 1 which promote arguments The people were debating about these stories and lists of names, but no one could know for certain whether they were true. Alternate translation: “these make people disagree angrily”
1TI 1 4 eu9f figs-abstractnouns οἰκονομίαν Θεοῦ 1 the stewardship of God If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **stewardship** with a concrete noun such as “plan” or “work.” Alternate translations: “helping us to understand God’s plan to save us” or “helping us to do God’s work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 4 p2sr figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἐν πίστει 1 which is by faith If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **faith** with a verb such as “trust” or “believe.” Alternate translations: “which we learn by believing in God” or “which we do by trusting in God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 5 myi5 δὲ 1 Now Paul uses this word to introduce background information that will help Timothy understand the purpose of what he is commanding him. You can translate it with a word or phrase in your language that introduces background information.
1TI 1 5 iwnk grammar-connect-logic-goal τὸ δὲ τέλος τῆς παραγγελίας ἐστὶν 1 Now the goal of this command is Here Paul is expressing to Timothy the **goal** or the outcome that he desires from the commands that Paul gave him. Alternate translation: “I am commanding these things in order to get this result” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TI 1 5 i9rs figs-explicit ἐστὶν ἀγάπη 1 is love That God’s people would show **love** is the goal of the command. If it is necessary to include the object of “love,” you can say “each other” or “others.” This may also include love for God. Alternate translation: “is that God’s people would love others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 5 t123 figs-metaphor ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 from a pure heart Here the **heart** figuratively represents a person’s thoughts and inclinations. Alternate translation: “from a desire for only what is good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 5 mbe6 figs-metonymy ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 from a pure heart Here, **pure** figuratively indicates that the person wants only good things and does not have mixed motives that also include some bad ones. Alternate translation: “from a desire for only what is good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 1 5 ar8t συνειδήσεως ἀγαθῆς 1 a good conscience Your translation should make it clear that love is the one goal of the command and is followed by three things that lead to this love. This is the second thing, after “a pure heart.” Alternate translation: “and from a conscience that leads a person to choose right instead of wrong”
1TI 1 5 m53g πίστεως ἀνυποκρίτου 1 a sincere faith This is the third thing that leads to love, which is the one goal of the command. It is not a third goal of the command. Alternate translations: “and from faith that is genuine” or “and from faith that is without hypocrisy”
1TI 1 5 zziu figs-abstractnouns πίστεως ἀνυποκρίτου 1 a sincere faith If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **faith** with a verb such as “trust” or “believe.” Here, **faith** could mean: (1) This refers to trust in God. (2) This refers to belief in true teaching about God. Alternate translations: “firmly trusting in God” or “sincerely believing the true message about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 6 j4z3 figs-metaphor τινες ἀστοχήσαντες 1 some, having missed the mark Paul speaks figuratively of faith in Christ as if it were a target that people should aim at. Paul means that some people are not fulfilling the purpose of their faith, which is to love, as he has just explained. Alternate translation: “some people, who are not fulfilling the purpose of faith in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 6 se38 figs-metaphor ἐξετράπησαν εἰς 1 have turned away to Here, **turned away** figuratively means these people have stopped doing what God has commanded. Alternate translation: “are no longer doing what God commands. Instead of that, they just engage in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 7 v28u figs-explicit νομοδιδάσκαλοι 1 teachers of the law Here, **law** refers specifically to the law of Moses. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 7 kz8x grammar-connect-logic-contrast μὴ νοοῦντες 1 not understanding If the contrast is not clear in your language between what these people want to be (teachers of the law) and their ability to do it, you may want to mark the contrast. Alternate translations: “but not understanding” or “and yet they do not understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TI 1 7 t131 figs-doublenegatives μὴ…μήτε…μήτε 1 not … either … or Paul uses a triple negative in Greek for emphasis here, “not … neither … nor.” None of these negatives cancel each other to create a positive meaning. Instead, the negative meaning is retained throughout. If your language uses double negatives for emphasis that do not cancel one another, it would be appropriate to use that construction here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TI 1 7 t132 figs-parallelism ἃ λέγουσιν, μήτε περὶ τίνων διαβεβαιοῦνται 1 what they are saying or about which they make confident affirmations These two phrases mean similar things. Paul uses the repetition for emphasis. You do not need to put both phrases in your translation if that might be confusing for your readers. Alternate translation: “the things that they say so confidently are true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TI 1 8 d6dz οἴδαμεν δὲ ὅτι καλὸς ὁ νόμος 1 we know that the law is good Alternate translations: “we understand that the law is useful” or “we understand that the law is beneficial”
1TI 1 8 t134 figs-exclusive οἴδαμεν 1 we know In this letter, Paul uses the words **we**, **us,** and **our** to refer either to Timothy and himself, or else to all believers, which would also include the two of them. So generally, these words include the addressee. A note will discuss the one possible exception in [4:10](../04/10.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TI 1 8 r86g ἐάν τις αὐτῷ νομίμως χρῆται 1 if one uses it lawfully Alternate translations: “if a person uses it correctly” or “if a person uses it in the way that God intended”
1TI 1 9 xs94 εἰδὼς τοῦτο 1 knowing this Alternate translation: “we also know this”
1TI 1 9 fq4i figs-activepassive δικαίῳ νόμος οὐ κεῖται 1 the law is not made for the righteous If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “God did not make the law for people who are righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 1 9 dl5l figs-nominaladj δικαίῳ 1 the righteous Paul is using this adjective as a noun, to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “for people who are righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 1 9 t139 figs-nominaladj ἀνόμοις δὲ καὶ ἀνυποτάκτοις, ἀσεβέσι καὶ ἁμαρτωλοῖς, ἀνοσίοις καὶ βεβήλοις 1 the lawless and the rebellious, the ungodly and the sinful, the godless and the profane Paul is also using these adjectives as nouns to refer to the classes of people that they describe. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate each of these adjectives with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who break the law, people who defy authority, people who do not honor God, people who commit sins, people who live as if God did not matter, people who live as if nothing was sacred” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 1 9 t141 πατρολῴαις καὶ μητρολῴαις, ἀνδροφόνοις 1 father-killers and mother-killers, man-slayers In this list Paul uses several compound words to express his meaning concisely and vividly. In each case the first term in the compound, a noun, is the object of the second term in the compound, a verb. Three of these compound words are in this verse, and two more are in the next verse. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate them either with single terms or with phrases. Alternate translations: “patricides and matricides, murders” or “people who kill other people, even their own fathers and mothers”
1TI 1 9 t142 figs-gendernotations ἀνδροφόνοις 1 man-slayers Paul uses the term **man** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “murderers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 1 10 y5dx figs-nominaladj πόρνοις 1 the immoral Paul is using this adjective as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who have sexual relations outside of marriage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 1 10 v1gh figs-idiom ἀρσενοκοίταις 1 male-liers This is the fourth compound word on the list. The term “lie” figuratively means to have sexual relations. Alternate translation: “men who have sexual relations with other males” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 1 10 bzw4 figs-gendernotations ἀνδραποδισταῖς 1 man-stealers This is the fifth and last compound word on the list. Paul uses the term **man** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people who kidnap other people to sell them as slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 1 10 gg42 καὶ εἴ τι ἕτερον τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ διδασκαλίᾳ ἀντίκειται 1 and if anything else is contrary to healthy teaching Here Paul leaves out some of the words that, in many languages, a sentence would need to be complete. He means that if anything else is contrary to healthy teaching, then the law is made for people who do that, too. Alternate translation: “and for people who do anything else that is against wholesome teaching”
1TI 1 10 t147 figs-metonymy τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 healthy teaching This is a figurative way to say that the teaching is good and reliable in every way and has no defect or corruption. A person with a healthy mind would recognize this teaching as correct. Alternate translation: “correct teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 1 11 mg4t τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τῆς δόξης τοῦ μακαρίου Θεοῦ 1 to the gospel of glory of the blessed God This could mean one of two things. Alternate translations: “the gospel about the glory that belongs to the blessed God” or “the glorious gospel about the blessed God”
1TI 1 11 a58d figs-activepassive ὃ ἐπιστεύθην ἐγώ 1 with which I have been entrusted If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “for which God made me responsible” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 1 12 ff1n figs-metaphor θέμενος εἰς διακονίαν 1 placing me into service Paul speaks of the task of serving God as if it were a location that one could be placed in. Alternate translations: “he assigned me to serve him” or “he appointed me as his servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 13 q75p figs-explicit ὄντα βλάσφημον 1 being a blasphemer Paul is referring to his character before he believed in Jesus. He is probably referring to how he used to say that Jesus was not the Messiah and that people should not believe in him. Alternate translation: “I was a person who said wrong things about Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 13 gbd4 figs-explicit διώκτην 1 a persecutor Paul is referring to his character before he believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “a person who persecuted those who believed in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 13 k85c figs-explicit ὑβριστήν 1 an aggressor Paul is referring to his character before he believed in Jesus. Alternate translations: “a violent person” or “a person who used violence against those who believed in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 13 rq2m grammar-connect-logic-result ἠλεήθην, ὅτι ἀγνοῶν, ἐποίησα ἐν ἀπιστίᾳ 1 I was shown mercy because not knowing, I acted in unfaithfulness If it would be clearer in your language, you could change the order of these phrases since the second phrase, “not knowing,” gives the reason for the action that the first phrase, “I was shown mercy,” describes. Alternate translation: “I did not act the way God would have trusted me to act, but that was because I did not know what I was doing, and so Jesus had mercy on me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 1 13 nv6k figs-activepassive ἠλεήθην 1 I was shown mercy If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “Jesus had mercy on me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 1 14 t158 δὲ 1 Indeed Paul uses this word to introduce an expanded description of the way Jesus treated him mercifully even though he persecuted the followers of Jesus. This description will help Timothy and the other believers in Ephesus to understand how great the mercy of Jesus is. Alternate translation: “in fact”
1TI 1 14 c1lg figs-metaphor ὑπερεπλεόνασεν…ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 the grace of our Lord overflowed Paul speaks of the grace of Jesus as if it were a liquid that fills a container until it flows over the top. Alternate translation: “Jesus showed me unlimited grace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 14 z5lv figs-idiom μετὰ πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus This could mean one of two things: (1) Paul could be referring to faith and love that he received from Jesus when he became **in** him, which would mean figuratively “in relationship with” him. Alternate translation: “and enabled me to trust him and love him” (2) Paul could be referring to the faith and love that Jesus himself possesses and could be saying that these were the basis of the mercy that Jesus showed him. Alternate translation: “because he believed in me and loved me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 1 15 z48s πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 This word is trustworthy In this context, the term **word** refers to an entire statement. Alternate translation: “this statement is dependable”
1TI 1 15 rh2r καὶ πάσης ἀποδοχῆς ἄξιος 1 and worthy of all acceptance If it would be clearer in your language, you could say who does this action. Alternate translations: “and we should believe it without any doubt” or “and we should have full confidence in it”
1TI 1 15 t163 figs-quotemarks Χριστὸς Ἰησοῦς ἦλθεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον ἁμαρτωλοὺς σῶσαι 1 Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners Paul uses this phrase as a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by setting off the words that follow, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners,” with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language may use to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])
1TI 1 15 t164 ὧν πρῶτός εἰμι ἐγώ 1 of whom I am the first Here the term **first** has the sense of the superlative example of a class, in this case a negative class. Alternate translation: “and I am the worst one of all”
1TI 1 16 z5kg figs-activepassive ἠλεήθην 1 I was shown mercy If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “Jesus had mercy on me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 1 16 epe2 ἵνα ἐν ἐμοὶ πρώτῳ 1 so that in me, the first Alternate translation: “so that through me, the worst sinner of all”
1TI 1 17 k9sc δὲ 1 Now Paul uses this word to introduce a change in what he is writing. As a result of what he has been teaching Timothy, he now writes a blessing to and about God. Use a word to indicate this change in your language, such as “so” or “now.”
1TI 1 17 ts5z figs-abstractnouns τιμὴ καὶ δόξα 1 be honor and glory If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **honor** and **glory** with verbs. Alternate translation: “may people honor and glorify” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 18 ijn8 figs-metaphor ταύτην τὴν παραγγελίαν παρατίθεμαί σοι 1 This command I am placing before you Paul speaks of his instructions as if he could physically put them in front of Timothy. Alternate translations: “I am entrusting you with this command” or “this is what I am commanding you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 18 b6uq figs-metaphor τέκνον 1 child Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though they were father and son. This shows Paul’s sincere love and approval of Timothy. It is also likely that Paul personally led Timothy to trust in Christ, and that would be another reason why Paul considered him to be like his own child. Alternate translation: “you who are like my very own child” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 18 y6jg κατὰ τὰς προαγούσας ἐπὶ σὲ προφητείας 1 in accordance with the earlier prophecies about you If it would be clearer in your language, you could say who did this action. Alternate translation: “in agreement with what other believers prophesied about you”
1TI 1 18 w2ex figs-metaphor στρατεύῃ…τὴν καλὴν στρατείαν 1 fight the good fight Paul speaks figuratively about Timothy doing his best for the Lord as if he were a soldier fighting a battle. Alternate translation: “continue to do your best on behalf of the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 19 jj6k figs-abstractnouns ἔχων πίστιν 1 holding faith If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **faith** with a phrase that uses a verb such as “trust” or “believe.” Here, **faith** could mean: (1) It refers to a relationship with Jesus. Alternate translation: “continue trusting in Jesus” (2) It refers to a belief in the message about Jesus. Alternate translation: “keep believing the true teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 19 ly6q figs-abstractnouns ἀγαθὴν συνείδησιν 1 a good conscience See how you translated this in [1:5](../01/05.md). Alternate translation: “continuing to choose to do what is right instead of what is wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 19 h2wk figs-metaphor τινες…περὶ τὴν πίστιν ἐναυάγησαν 1 have shipwrecked regarding the faith Paul speaks figuratively of these people as if they were a ship that had sunk. He means that these people no longer believe in Jesus and no longer live as his followers. You could use this same figure, or a similar one from your culture, if your readers would understand this meaning. Otherwise, you could say as an alternative translation, “no longer belong to Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 19 dyr6 figs-abstractnouns περὶ τὴν πίστιν 1 regarding the faith If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **faith**. Here, **faith** could mean: (1) This refers to a relationship with Jesus (or God). Alternate translation: “their relationship with Jesus” (2) This refers to the teachings about Jesus. Alternate translation: “the message about Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 1 20 pv7f translate-names Ὑμέναιος…Ἀλέξανδρος 1 Hymenaeus … Alexander These are names of two men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1TI 1 20 ty7n figs-metaphor οὓς παρέδωκα τῷ Σατανᾷ 1 whom I have given over to Satan Paul speaks figuratively as if he physically took hold of these men and handed them to Satan. If this does not make sense in your language, you can state it plainly. Alternate translation: “I have allowed Satan to command them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 1 20 az10 figs-explicit οὓς παρέδωκα τῷ Σατανᾷ 1 This probably means that Paul expelled them from the community of believers. Since they are no longer a part of the community, Satan has access to them and can harm them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you may want to include this information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “I have allowed Satan to make them suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 1 20 s76c figs-activepassive ἵνα παιδευθῶσι 1 so that they may be taught If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “so that God may teach them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 intro c6rf 0 # 1 Timothy 2 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Peace<br><br>Paul encourages Christians to pray for everyone. They should pray for rulers so that Christians can live peacefully, in a godly and dignified way.<br><br>### Women in the church<br><br>Scholars are divided over how to understand this passage in its historical and cultural context. Some scholars believe that God created men and women to serve in distinctly different roles in marriage and the church. Other scholars believe that God wants women to use the gifts He gives them on an equal basis with men. Translators should be careful not to let how they understand this issue affect how they translate this passage.
1TI 2 1 yk2z figs-idiom πρῶτον πάντων 1 first of all As in [1:15](../01/15.md), the term **first** figuratively means the superlative example of a class. Alternate translation: “most importantly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 2 1 ql7a figs-activepassive ποιεῖσθαι δεήσεις, προσευχάς, ἐντεύξεις, εὐχαριστίας 1 for requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings to be made If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action and who would receive the action. Alternate translation: “I urge all believers to make requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 1 t183 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 2 2 g4va figs-doublet ἤρεμον καὶ ἡσύχιον βίον 1 a peaceful and quiet life The terms **peaceful** and **quiet** mean the same thing. Paul uses them together for emphasis. He wants all believers to be able to live their lives without having trouble with the authorities. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these terms. Alternate translation: “an undisturbed life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 2 2 pb58 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πάσῃ εὐσεβείᾳ καὶ σεμνότητι 1 in all godliness and dignity If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns **godliness** and **dignity** with phrases that use verbs such as “honor” and “respect.” Alternate translation: “that honors God and that other people will respect” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 2 3 t186 figs-doublet καλὸν καὶ ἀπόδεκτον ἐνώπιον…Θεοῦ 1 good and acceptable before God The terms **good** and **acceptable** mean similar things. Paul may be using them together for emphasis. If you think that having both terms in your translation might be confusing for your readers, you could combine them. Alternate translation: “very pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 2 4 i3ze figs-activepassive ὃς πάντας ἀνθρώπους θέλει σωθῆναι 1 who desires all men to be saved If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “who wants to save everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 4 t188 figs-gendernotations πάντας ἀνθρώπους 1 all men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 2 4 n26m figs-metaphor εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας ἐλθεῖν 1 to come to the knowledge of the truth Paul speaks of learning the truth about God as if it were a place where people could come. Alternate translation: “to know and accept what is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 2 5 t666 translate-unknown εἷς καὶ μεσίτης Θεοῦ καὶ ἀνθρώπων 1 and one mediator of God and of men A **mediator** is a person who helps negotiate a peaceful settlement between two parties who disagree with each other. Alternate translation: “and one person who is able to reconcile God and people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 2 5 t191 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 of men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 2 5 t192 figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπος Χριστὸς Ἰησοῦς 1 the man Christ Jesus Paul is likely using the term **man** in a generic sense to refer to the humanity of Jesus. Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus, who is also human” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 2 6 fm1c figs-explicit τὸ μαρτύριον 1 the testimony If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make it explicit that this demonstrated specifically that God wants to save all people. Alternate translation: “as the proof that God wants to save all people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 2 6 fq7r figs-idiom καιροῖς ἰδίοις 1 in its own times This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “at the time that God had chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 2 7 qxv9 εἰς ὃ 1 for which This refers back to the testimony about God in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “of this testimony”
1TI 2 7 iz4y figs-activepassive ἐτέθην ἐγὼ κῆρυξ καὶ ἀπόστολος 1 I was made a herald and an apostle If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “Jesus has made me, Paul, a preacher and a representative for him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 7 cbn6 translate-unknown κῆρυξ 1 a herald A **herald** is someone who is sent out to announce a message. If your language does not have a similar term and your readers would not know what a herald is, you could use a general expression for this. Alternate translations: “an announcer” or “a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 2 7 qa8d figs-metaphor κῆρυξ 1 a herald Paul compares himself to a **herald** because God has sent him out to announce the gospel message. Alternate translation: “a preacher” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 2 7 yllf ἀλήθειαν λέγω ἐν Χριστῷ, οὐ ψεύδομαι 1 I am speaking the truth in Christ, I am not lying In order to emphasize what he is saying, Paul says the same thing twice, first positively and then negatively. If this is confusing in your language, you can say this once. Alternate translation: “I am telling you the truth as a follower of Christ”
1TI 2 7 h18q διδάσκαλος ἐθνῶν ἐν πίστει καὶ ἀληθείᾳ 1 a teacher of the nations in faith and truth This could mean either of two things: (1) **faith and truth** could be describing the content of what Paul teaches. Alternate translation: “I teach the Gentiles the message of faith and truth” (2) **faith and truth** could also be describing Paul’s character as a teacher. Alternate translation: “a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles”
1TI 2 7 t201 figs-hendiadys διδάσκαλος ἐθνῶν ἐν πίστει καὶ ἀληθείᾳ 1 a teacher of the nations in faith and truth If this phrase has the second meaning that the previous note discusses, Paul may be using the two terms **faith** and **truth** together to express one idea. Alternate translation: “I teach the Gentiles about the true faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TI 2 7 t202 ἐθνῶν 1 the nations This term refers to members of other people groups who are not Jewish. Alternate translations: “the Gentiles” or “non-Jewish people groups”
1TI 2 8 a841 figs-gendernotations τοὺς ἄνδρας ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ 1 the men in every place Here the word **men** refers specifically to males. The term is not generic, since Paul addresses women next. Alternate translations: “the males in all places” or “men everywhere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 2 8 unw6 translate-symaction ἐπαίροντας ὁσίους χεῖρας 1 to pray, lifting up holy hands It was the customary posture in this culture for people to raise their hands while praying. You could translate this in a way that would make that clear. Alternate translation: “reverently lifting up their hands in the customary way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1TI 2 8 yzg3 figs-synecdoche προσεύχεσθαι…ἐπαίροντας ὁσίους χεῖρας 1 to pray, lifting up holy hands Paul describes one part of the person, the **hands**, as holy to indicate that the entire person is to be holy. Alternate translation: “lifting up their hands to pray in holiness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TI 2 8 t206 figs-hendiadys χωρὶς ὀργῆς καὶ διαλογισμοῦ 1 without anger and argument Here Paul expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and.** The word **anger** tells what kind of **argument** the men should avoid. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “without angry arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TI 2 9 t207 figs-ellipsis ὡσαύτως 1 likewise Here Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would ordinarily need in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “in the same way, I also want” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 2 9 sw21 translate-unknown μὴ ἐν πλέγμασιν 1 not in braided hair During this time, many Roman women braided their hair lavishly to try to make themselves attractive. If your readers would not be familiar with the practice of braiding hair, you could express this idea in a more general way. Alternate translations: “they should not have fancy hairstyles” or “they should not have elaborate hairstyles that attract attention” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 2 9 t210 figs-synecdoche μὴ ἐν πλέγμασιν 1 not in braids Paul mentions **braids** and gold as ways a woman could give undue attention to her hair. At the time, women would make elaborate braided hairstyles, often weaving in chains of gold. Alternate translations: “not with fancy hairstyles” or “not by means of elaborate hairstyles that attract attention” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TI 2 9 rf5v translate-unknown μαργαρίταις 1 pearls These are beautiful and valuable mineral balls that people use as jewelry. They are formed inside the shell of a small animal that lives in the ocean. If your readers would not be familiar with pearls, you could express this idea in a more general way. Alternate translation: “decorations made from valuable materials” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 2 10 g35m ἐπαγγελλομέναις θεοσέβειαν, δι’ ἔργων ἀγαθῶν 1 professing godliness through good works Alternate translation: “who want to honor God by the good things that they do”
1TI 2 11 gb7a figs-idiom ἐν ἡσυχίᾳ 1 in quietness Paul may be saying that he wants the women to listen rather than to speak. Alternate translation: “by listening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 2 12 t216 εἶναι ἐν ἡσυχίᾳ 1 to be in quietness As in [2:11](../02/11.md), Paul may be saying that he wants the women to listen rather than to speak. Alternate translation: “she should listen quietly”
1TI 2 13 iv31 figs-activepassive Ἀδὰμ…πρῶτος ἐπλάσθη 1 Adam was formed first If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “God created Adam first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 13 v7v6 figs-ellipsis εἶτα Εὕα 1 then Eve Here Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would ordinarily need in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “and then God created Eve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 2 14 wq5k figs-activepassive Ἀδὰμ οὐκ ἠπατήθη 1 Adam was not deceived If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “Adam was not the one whom the serpent deceived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 14 n6td figs-activepassive ἡ δὲ γυνὴ ἐξαπατηθεῖσα, ἐν παραβάσει γέγονεν 1 but the woman, having been deceived, came into transgression If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “but it was the woman who disobeyed God when the serpent deceived her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 14 t221 figs-abstractnouns ἐν παραβάσει γέγονεν 1 came into transgression If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract noun **transgression** with a verbal phrase. Alternate translations: “began to sin” or “began to disobey God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 2 15 krx4 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Use a natural way in your language to indicate that this sentence provides a contrast to the previous sentence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TI 2 15 t222 σωθήσεται 1 she will be saved Here, **she** likely refers to Eve, mentioned in the preceding verse, and whom Paul describes as “the woman.” “They,” later in the sentence, refers to women in general. To show how Paul shifts the topic from Eve, a representative woman, to all women, the word **she** could be translated here as “women.”
1TI 2 15 u8iv σωθήσεται…διὰ τῆς τεκνογονίας 1 she will be saved through childbearing This could mean one of three things: (1) It may be that people thought that women would be condemned because of Eve’s sin and punished even more than with the pain of childbearing (see Genesis 3:16), or they may have thought that a woman who believed in Jesus was no longer under the punishment that God gave in Genesis 3:16. Since the Greek word translated **through** can also mean “with” or “while,” Paul may be saying here that women continue to have the punishment of pain in childbirth but will be saved from additional punishment as long as they have faith in Jesus. (2) It may be that the women of the church in Ephesus were being led away from faith in Jesus by the false teachers (see 2 Timothy 3:6), so Paul is recommending that they focus on raising their families rather than listening to (or participating in) the “foolish talk” (1:6). (3) **Childbearing** could also be a reference to the birth of Jesus as a human child to be the Savior. Alternate translations: (1) “God will save women, although they do have to endure childbirth” (2) “God will save women as they attend to their families” or (3) “God will save women through Jesus, who was born as a child”
1TI 2 15 i0ap figs-synecdoche διὰ τῆς τεκνογονίας 1 If option number 2 from the previous note is correct, then Paul is figuratively referring to all of the aspects of motherhood by mentioning the beginning part of it: childbearing. Alternate translation: “as they attend to their families” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TI 2 15 n818 figs-activepassive σωθήσεται 1 she will be saved If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “God will save women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 2 15 gh3c ἐὰν μείνωσιν 1 if they remain Here, **they** refers to women. Paul switches from the singular to the plural as he switches from talking about Eve as the representative of women to women in general. Alternate translation: “if women continue living”
1TI 2 15 sl57 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πίστει, καὶ ἀγάπῃ, καὶ ἁγιασμῷ 1 in faith and love and holiness If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **faith**, **love**, and **holiness** with verbs. Alternate translation: “trusting Jesus, loving others, and living in a holy way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 2 15 dcf3 figs-idiom μετὰ σωφροσύνης 1 with self-control Possible meanings of this expression here are: (1) “with good judgment,” (2) “with modesty,” or (3) “with clear thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 3 intro d9db 0 # 1 Timothy 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>[3:16](../03/16.md) was probably a song, poem, or creed the early church used to express what it understood to be the meaning of who Jesus was and what he did.<br><br>### Overseers and deacons<br><br>The church has used different titles for church leaders. Some titles include elder, pastor, and bishop. The word “overseer” reflects the Greek term in verses 1-2, which means literally an “over-seer.” The word “bishop” is derived directly from the letters of this Greek term. Paul writes about another kind of church leader, a “deacon,” in verses 8 and 12.<br><br>### Character qualities<br><br>This chapter lists several qualities that an overseer or deacon in the church must have. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 3 1 t227 πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 This word is trustworthy As in [1:15](../01/15.md), in this context the term **word** has a meaning more like “statement” or “message.” Alternate translation: “this statement is dependable”
1TI 3 1 t228 figs-quotemarks πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 This word is trustworthy Paul uses this phrase to introduce a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by setting off the words that follow in the rest of the verse with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language may use to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])
1TI 3 1 t229 translate-unknown ἐπισκοπῆς 1 overseer This term describes a leader of the early Christian church whose work was to take care of the spiritual needs of believers and make sure that they received accurate biblical teaching. Alternate translation: “spiritual leader” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 3 1 f133 καλοῦ ἔργου 1 a good work Alternate translations: “an honorable task” or “an honorable role”
1TI 3 2 dff6 μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα 1 a husband of one wife This means that he has only one wife, that is, he does not have any other wives or concubines. This also means that he does not commit adultery and may also mean that he has not divorced a previous wife. Alternate translations: “a man who has only one woman” or “a man who is faithful to his wife”
1TI 3 2 qnq9 δεῖ…εἶναι…νηφάλιον, σώφρονα, κόσμιον, φιλόξενον 1 must be … sober, self-controlled, orderly, hospitable Alternate translation: “He must … not do anything to excess, he must be reasonable and behave well, and he must be welcoming to strangers”
1TI 3 3 c2c7 μὴ πάροινον, μὴ πλήκτην, ἀλλὰ ἐπιεικῆ, ἄμαχον 1 not a drunkard, not a brawler, but gentle, peaceful Alternate translation: “he must not drink alcohol to excess, and he must not fight and argue, but instead, he must be gentle and peaceful”
1TI 3 3 pc2g figs-metaphor ἀφιλάργυρον 1 not money-loving If the expression **loving** money would not convey the idea of something inappropriate in your language, it might be helpful to use a term that expresses the idea of “greed.” Alternate translation: “not greedy for money” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 4 a8gu προϊστάμενον 1 managing Alternate translations: “he should lead” or “he should take care of”
1TI 3 4 w3un ἐν ὑποταγῇ, μετὰ πάσης σεμνότητος 1 in obedience with all honor This could mean one of several things: (1) The overseer’s children should obey their father and show respect to him. Alternate translation: “who obey him completely respectfully” (2) The overseer’s children should show respect to everyone. Alternate translation: “who obey him and show respect to everyone” or (3) The overseer should show respect to those in his household as he leads them. Alternate translation: “who obey him as he treats them with respect”
1TI 3 5 n5lt figs-rquestion εἰ δέ τις τοῦ ἰδίου οἴκου προστῆναι οὐκ οἶδεν, πῶς ἐκκλησίας Θεοῦ ἐπιμελήσεται? 1 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God? Paul is making a statement, not actually asking a question. He does not expect Timothy to explain how a man who could not manage his own household could take care of God’s church. Instead, Paul is using the question form to emphasize how important it is for an overseer to demonstrate faithfulness in his personal life before assuming a leadership role in the church. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could translate these words as a statement. Alternate translation: “I say this because a man who is not able to manage his own household will certainly not be able to take care of the church of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1TI 3 5 c814 figs-metonymy ἐκκλησίας Θεοῦ 1 the church of God Here the term **church** refers to a local group of God’s people, not to a building. Alternate translations: “a group of God’s people” or “a local gathering of believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 3 6 q7hu μὴ νεόφυτον 1 not a new convert Alternate translations: “he should not be still just learning the faith” or “he must be mature from a long, steady growth in the faith”
1TI 3 6 t240 figs-explicit τυφωθεὶς 1 puffed up Paul is warning that a new convert might become excessively proud if he were given an important leadership position right away. Alternate translation: “becoming proud of himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 3 6 t241 figs-metaphor τυφωθεὶς 1 puffed up Paul describes being proud figuratively as if it made a person swell in size. Alternate translation: “thinking that he is better than others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 6 v6f5 figs-metaphor ἵνα μὴ…εἰς κρίμα ἐμπέσῃ τοῦ διαβόλου 1 so that he may not fall … into the judgment of the devil Paul describes the experience of being condemned for having done wrong as like falling into a hole. Alternate translation: “and have God condemn him … as he condemned the devil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 7 si1d figs-metaphor τῶν ἔξωθεν 1 those outside Paul speaks of the church figuratively as though it were a place and unbelievers were physically outside of it. Alternate translation: “those who are not believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 7 qsa6 figs-metaphor μὴ εἰς ὀνειδισμὸν ἐμπέσῃ 1 so that he may not fall into disgrace Paul speaks of disgrace figuratively as if it were a hole that a person could fall into. Alternate translation: “so that he does not do anything that would make him ashamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 7 t245 figs-metaphor παγίδα τοῦ διαβόλου 1 the trap of the devil Paul speaks of the devil tempting someone to sin as if it were a trap that could catch a person. Alternate translation: “so that the devil is not able to tempt him to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 8 sxq4 figs-metaphor μὴ διλόγους 1 not double-talkers Paul speaks figuratively about some people as if they could say two things at once. Alternate translation: “they should not say one thing but mean something else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 8 g5qi figs-doublenegatives μὴ διλόγους 1 If it is clearer in your language, you can state this positively. Alternate translation: “be honest in what they say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TI 3 9 c44a figs-metaphor ἔχοντας 1 holding Paul speaks of true teaching about God as if it were an object that a person could hold. Alternate translation: “they must continue to believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 9 jda1 figs-abstractnouns τὸ μυστήριον 1 the mystery Paul uses the abstract noun **mystery** to refer to a truth that had existed for some time but that God was revealing at that moment. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind this term with a verb such as “reveal.” Alternate translation: “what God has now revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 3 9 rfv7 figs-abstractnouns τὸ μυστήριον τῆς πίστεως 1 the mystery of the faith Here, **faith** refers to the content of the **mystery**, that is, the specific things that God has revealed and that followers of Jesus must believe. Alternate translation: “the teachings that God has revealed to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 3 9 y91f figs-metaphor ἐν καθαρᾷ συνειδήσει 1 with a clean conscience Paul speaks figuratively of a person’s sense of right and wrong being **clean**, which means that it assures that person that he has done nothing wrong. Alternate translation: “knowing that they are not doing anything wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 10 hl1p figs-activepassive καὶ οὗτοι…δοκιμαζέσθωσαν πρῶτον 1 let them also be tested first If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would the action. Alternate translations: “the leaders should observe and approve of them first” or “they should first prove themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 11 xyc9 γυναῖκας 1 the women This could mean one of two things: (1) Alternate translation: “deacons’ wives” (2) Alternate translation: “female deacons”
1TI 3 11 q5qx σεμνάς 1 dignified Alternate translations: “people who act properly” or “people who are worthy of respect”
1TI 3 11 a12k μὴ διαβόλους 1 not slanderers Alternate translation: “they must not say malicious things about other people”
1TI 3 12 wji2 μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρες 1 husbands of one wife See how you translated this in [3:2](../03/02.md). Review the note there if that would be helpful. Alternate translations: (1) “not married to more than one woman” (2) “faithful to their wives”
1TI 3 12 dv31 τέκνων καλῶς προϊστάμενοι καὶ τῶν ἰδίων οἴκων 1 managing their own children and households well Alternate translation: “taking proper care of their children and their personal affairs”
1TI 3 13 rfq2 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For Paul uses this word to introduce what the results will be if people with the qualifications he has just described are chosen as church leaders. Alternate translation: “After all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 3 13 t259 οἱ…καλῶς διακονήσαντες 1 those having served well This could refer either to deacons, whom Paul has just discussed, or to overseers as well, as a conclusion to Paul’s entire discussion of church leaders. Alternate translations: “deacons who serve well” or “church leaders who serve well”
1TI 3 13 cv34 βαθμὸν…καλὸν 1 a good standing This could mean one of two things. Alternate translations: (1) “an honorable position” (2) “a good reputation”
1TI 3 13 m684 καὶ πολλὴν παρρησίαν ἐν πίστει τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 much confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus This could mean one of two things. Alternate translations: (1) “and they will speak more confidently to other people about believing in Jesus” (2) “and they will trust in Jesus with even more confidence”
1TI 3 14 zzzu figs-go ἐλθεῖν 1 to come In some languages it is more natural to say “go” here, rather than **come**. Alternate translation: “to go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
1TI 3 15 z9z8 ἐὰν δὲ βραδύνω 1 but if I delay This does not imply that Paul might choose to take his time rather than hurrying. Alternate translations: “but in case I cannot get there soon” or “but if something prevents me from getting there soon”
1TI 3 15 p9u4 ἵνα εἰδῇς πῶς δεῖ ἐν οἴκῳ Θεοῦ ἀναστρέφεσθαι 1 so that you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God Paul speaks of the group of believers as a family because God adopts each believer as a son or daughter through Christ. Possible meanings here are: (1) Paul is referring to the believers in general. Alternate translation: “so that you all may know how to conduct yourselves as members of God’s family” (2) Paul is referring specifically to Timothy’s behavior in the church. Alternate translation: “so that you may know how to conduct yourself as a member of God’s family”
1TI 3 15 wzk3 figs-distinguish οἴκῳ Θεοῦ…ἥτις ἐστὶν ἐκκλησία Θεοῦ ζῶντος 1 the household of God, which is the church of the living God This phrase gives us further information about **the household of God**. It is not making a distinction between a household of God that is the church and one that is not the church. Alternate translation: “household of God, by which I mean the community of people who believe in the living God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TI 3 15 cd5r figs-metaphor στῦλος καὶ ἑδραίωμα τῆς ἀληθείας 1 a pillar and support of the truth Paul speaks of the truth as if it were a building and of the community of believers as if they were helping to hold up that building. Alternate translation: “which helps to proclaim God’s truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 3 15 t267 figs-doublet στῦλος καὶ ἑδραίωμα 1 a pillar and support The terms **pillar** and **support** mean basically the same thing. They are architectural features that hold up parts of buildings. Paul uses the terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them into an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “which helps promote” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 3 15 sg64 figs-idiom Θεοῦ ζῶντος 1 the living God Alternate translations: “the God who is genuinely alive” or “the true God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 3 16 w473 μέγα ἐστὶν τὸ τῆς εὐσεβείας μυστήριον 1 great is the mystery of godliness While in most of this letter Paul uses the term **godliness** to describe godly living, in this instance the term instead seems to describe the reverence for God that would lead a person to live a right life. Alternate translation: “the truth that God has revealed, that leads us to worship him, is great”
1TI 3 16 t271 figs-explicit μέγα ἐστὶν τὸ τῆς εὐσεβείας μυστήριον 1 great is the mystery of godliness Since Paul follows this statement by quoting a hymn or poem about the life of Jesus, the implication is that he sees Jesus as having made it possible for people to worship God in the most genuine way. Alternate translation: “the truth that God has revealed about why we worship Jesus is great” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 3 16 y8sp writing-poetry ὃς ἐφανερώθη ἐν σαρκί, ἐδικαιώθη ἐν Πνεύματι, ὤφθη ἀγγέλοις, ἐκηρύχθη ἐν ἔθνεσιν, ἐπιστεύθη ἐν κόσμῳ, ἀνελήμφθη ἐν δόξῃ 1 Who was revealed in flesh, was justified in the Spirit, was seen by angels, was proclaimed among the nations, was believed in the world, was taken up in glory. This is most likely a song or poem that Paul is quoting. If your language has a way of indicating that this is poetry, such as through line-by-line formatting, you could use that here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])
1TI 3 16 m4xi figs-activepassive ὃς ἐφανερώθη ἐν σαρκί 1 Who was revealed in flesh If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. (Be sure not to suggest in your translation that Jesus only seemed or appeared to be human.) Alternate translations: “he revealed himself as a human being” or “he came to earth as a human being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 16 rqp6 figs-metonymy ἐν σαρκί 1 in flesh Paul uses the term **flesh** figuratively here to mean “in a human body.” He is describing the human body by reference to something associated with it, the flesh that envelops it. Alternate translation: “as a true human being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 3 16 gm36 figs-activepassive ἐδικαιώθη ἐν Πνεύματι 1 was justified in the Spirit If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit confirmed that he was who he said he was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 16 fn1k figs-activepassive ὤφθη ἀγγέλοις 1 was seen by angels If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “the angels saw him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 16 c3wx figs-activepassive ἐκηρύχθη ἐν ἔθνεσιν 1 was proclaimed among the nations If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “people in many nations told others about him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 16 h9mb figs-activepassive ἐπιστεύθη ἐν κόσμῳ 1 was believed in the world If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “people throughout the world believed in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 16 jz11 figs-activepassive ἀνελήμφθη ἐν δόξῃ 1 was taken up in glory If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “God the Father took him up to heaven in glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 3 16 mr3a figs-abstractnouns ἀνελήμφθη ἐν δόξῃ 1 was taken up in glory The abstract noun **glory** refers to the way Jesus received power from God the Father and is worthy of honor. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind this term with an adjective such as “powerful” and a verb such as “admire.” Alternate translation: “God the Father took him up to heaven, making him powerful and making everyone admire him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 4 intro b39h 0 # 1 Timothy 4 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>Paul speaks in [4:14](../04/14.md) of prophecy. A “prophecy” is a message that God communicates to people through someone to whom He has given a special gift of hearing and conveying these messages. The specific prophecy that Paul describes revealed how Timothy would become a gifted leader of the church. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Cultural practices<br><br>In verse 14 Paul speaks of church leaders placing their hands on Timothy. That was one way of indicating publicly that a person was being placed in a leadership position in the church.<br><br>### Variation in names<br><br>In this chapter Paul speaks of church leaders called “elders.” They seem to be the same kind of leaders that he calls “overseers” in chapter 3.
1TI 4 1 jzr9 δὲ 1 Now Paul uses this word to introduce background information that will help Timothy and the believers in Ephesus understand the next part of his letter. The false teachings that Timothy must oppose are something that the Spirit has already predicted. You can translate the term with the word or phrase in your language that is most similar in meaning and significance.
1TI 4 1 b739 figs-idiom ἐν ὑστέροις καιροῖς 1 in later times This expression refers to the time period when God’s purposes in history are approaching their culmination and so the evil opposition to them increases. Paul is probably referring to the time period between Jesus’ resurrection and his second coming. Alternate translation: “in these days as God’s purposes advance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 4 1 b931 figs-metaphor ἀποστήσονταί τινες τῆς πίστεως 1 some will leave the faith Paul speaks of people ceasing to trust in Christ as if they were physically leaving a place. Alternate translation: “some people will stop trusting in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 1 hw98 figs-abstractnouns ἀποστήσονταί τινες τῆς πίστεως 1 some will leave the faith Here, **faith** could mean: (1) This refers to the teachings about Jesus. Alternate translation: (1) “some people will stop believing the teachings about Jesus” (2) This refers to trust in Jesus. Alternate translation: “some people will stop trusting in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 4 1 ae5w figs-doublet πνεύμασι πλάνοις καὶ διδασκαλίαις δαιμονίων 1 deceiving spirits and teachings of demons These two phrases mean similar things. Paul may be using them together for emphasis. If you think having both phrases in your translation might be confusing for your readers, you could combine them into a single expression. Alternate translation: “the things that evil spirits say to trick people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 4 2 pw29 ἐν ὑποκρίσει ψευδολόγων 1 in false-speaking hypocrisy If it would be clearer in your language, you could start a separate sentence here. Alternate translation: “The people who teach these things are hypocrites, and they tell lies”
1TI 4 2 u2f4 figs-metaphor κεκαυστηριασμένων τὴν ἰδίαν συνείδησιν 1 their own consciences having been seared Paul is speaking figuratively of these people as if their sense of right and wrong had been ruined like skin that someone had burned with a hot iron. Alternate translation: “they will not have any sense of right and wrong any more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 2 t288 figs-activepassive κεκαυστηριασμένων τὴν ἰδίαν συνείδησιν 1 their own consciences having been seared If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “they will be people who have destroyed their sense of right and wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 4 3 t289 κωλυόντων γαμεῖν 1 forbidding to marry If it would be helpful to your readers, you could begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “these people teach that it is wrong to marry”
1TI 4 3 wd2l figs-explicit κωλυόντων γαμεῖν 1 forbidding to marry The implication is that these false teachers will forbid believers to marry. Alternate translation: “these people will forbid believers to marry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 3 t291 figs-ellipsis ἀπέχεσθαι βρωμάτων 1 to abstain from foods Here Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would ordinarily need in order to be complete. He does not mean that these false teachers will forbid believers to abstain from certain foods, but that the false teachers will require them to abstain from certain foods. In other words, the meaning of **forbidding** does not carry forward from the previous clause; rather, the meaning of “requiring” should be supplied. Alternate translation: “they will require believers to abstain from certain foods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 4 3 m1d6 figs-explicit ἀπέχεσθαι βρωμάτων 1 to abstain from foods The implication is that these false teachers will forbid only certain foods and that they will impose this restriction on believers. Alternate translation: “they will forbid believers to eat certain foods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 3 t293 figs-doublet τοῖς πιστοῖς καὶ ἐπεγνωκόσι τὴν ἀλήθειαν 1 the faithful and the ones knowing the truth These two expressions mean the same thing. Paul uses them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these terms. Alternate translation: “by the genuine believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 4 3 t294 figs-nominaladj τοῖς πιστοῖς 1 the faithful Paul is using this adjective as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “by people who believe in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 4 3 t295 figs-nominaladj ἐπεγνωκόσι τὴν ἀλήθειαν 1 the ones knowing the truth Paul is using this participle, which functions as an adjective, as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who understand the truth about Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 4 4 pppf grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 For This word communicates that what follows is the reason for what Paul just said. Use a natural way in your language to give a reason. Alternate translation: “that is true because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 4 4 dv4s figs-distinguish πᾶν κτίσμα Θεοῦ καλόν 1 every creature of God is good If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the expression **creation of God** with a relative clause. Alternate translation: “everything that God created is good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TI 4 4 a15j figs-activepassive οὐδὲν ἀπόβλητον μετὰ εὐχαριστίας λαμβανόμενον 1 nothing being received with thanksgiving is vile If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “we are free to eat anything that we can thank God for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 4 5 gwcs grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 This word communicates that what follows is the reason for the last part of what Paul has just said. In other words, it is the reason why “nothing being received with thanksgiving is vile.” Use a natural way in your language to give a reason. Alternate translation: “because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 4 5 m5mb figs-activepassive ἁγιάζεται 1 it is sanctified If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translations: “it becomes holy” or “it is suitable to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 4 5 fhd6 figs-metonymy διὰ λόγου Θεοῦ 1 by the word of God In this context, the term **word** has a specific meaning. It refers to the pronouncement that God made in his word that everything that he created was good. Alternate translation: “because of what God said about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 4 5 t300 figs-explicit καὶ ἐντεύξεως 1 and prayer In context, the implication is that this refers to prayers of thanksgiving to God for food. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and because of the thanks that people offer to God for it in prayer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 6 ks5x figs-metaphor ταῦτα ὑποτιθέμενος τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς 1 Placing these things before the brothers Paul speaks of his instructions as if they were objects that could be physically placed in front of the other believers. Alternate translation: “if you help the believers remember these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 6 h6qr figs-gendernotations τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς 1 before the brothers Paul is using the term **brothers** in a generic sense that includes men and women. Alternate translation: “the brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 4 6 uyeb figs-metaphor τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς 1 the brothers This term figuratively means a fellow believer in Jesus. Alternative translation: “your fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 6 t304 figs-activepassive ἐντρεφόμενος τοῖς λόγοις τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τῆς καλῆς διδασκαλίας ᾗ παρηκολούθηκας 1 being nourished by the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say what is doing the action. Alternate translation: “the statements of what we believe, expessed in proper teaching, are causing you to trust more strongly in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 4 6 f8vs figs-metaphor ἐντρεφόμενος τοῖς λόγοις τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τῆς καλῆς διδασκαλίας ᾗ παρηκολούθηκας 1 being nourished by the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed Paul speaks of these statements and teachings as if they could physically feed Timothy and make him strong. Alternate translation: “the statements of what we believe, expressed in proper teaching, are causing you to trust more strongly in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 6 ny78 figs-metonymy τοῖς λόγοις τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τῆς καλῆς διδασκαλίας 1 by the words of the faith and of the good teaching Paul uses the term **words** figuratively to describe the statements of belief and the teachings that explain them, both expressed in words. Alternate translation: “the statements of what we believe, expressed in proper teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 4 7 th4i τοὺς…βεβήλους καὶ γραώδεις μύθους 1 the profane and old-womanish myths See how you translated **myths** in [1:4](../01/04.md) and **profane** in [1:9](../01/09.md). Alternate translation: “foolish, made-up stories in which nothing is sacred”
1TI 4 7 elk7 figs-idiom γραώδεις μύθους 1 old-womanish myths The term **old-womanish** is an idiom that means “silly” or “foolish.” Paul tells Timothy in [5:2](../05/02.md) that he should respect older women as mothers, so Paul’s expression here should be recognized as idiomatic rather than disrespectful. Your language may have a similar expression. Alternate translation: “old wives’ tales” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 4 7 sea5 figs-metaphor γύμναζε…σεαυτὸν πρὸς εὐσέβειαν 1 train yourself for godliness Paul tells Timothy figuratively to work to develop godly character as if he were an athlete improving his physical conditioning. Alternate translation: “diligently practice acting in ways that please God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 8 t311 figs-quotemarks γὰρ 1 for What follows after this word is a direct quotation of a saying that Paul uses for teaching. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by setting off the words that follow in the rest of the verse with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language may use to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])
1TI 4 8 t313 πρὸς ὀλίγον ἐστὶν ὠφέλιμος 1 is valuable for a little This could mean one of three things. Alternate translations: (1) “has some small value” (2) “has value for a little while” or (3) “does not have very much value”
1TI 4 9 t315 πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 That word is trustworthy As in [1:15](../01/15.md) and [3:1](../03/01.md), in this context, the term **word** means “statement” or “saying.” (Paul is referring to the entire saying that he quoted in the previous verse.) Alternate translation: “this statement is dependable”
1TI 4 9 hc1t καὶ πάσης ἀποδοχῆς ἄξιος 1 and worthy of all acceptance See how you translated this in [1:15](../01/15.md). Alternate translations: “and we should believe it without any doubt” or “and we should have full confidence in it”
1TI 4 10 l2yl grammar-connect-logic-result εἰς τοῦτο γὰρ 1 for unto this The term **this** refers to “godliness,” which Paul mentions in the previous two verses. Paul is giving a reason why Timothy should believe the saying about the value of godliness. He and his other fellow workers are striving very hard to become godly, so it must be valuable. Alternate translation: “after all, it is for godliness that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 4 10 c9db figs-doublet κοπιῶμεν καὶ ἀγωνιζόμεθα 1 we toil and struggle The terms **toil** and **struggle** mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them together to emphasize the intensity with which he and his fellow workers are serving God. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these terms. Alternate translation: “we work so hard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 4 10 t320 figs-exclusive κοπιῶμεν καὶ ἀγωνιζόμεθα 1 we toil and struggle This could be the one place where **we** does not include the addressee. Paul has just told Timothy to make godliness his priority rather than physical exercise, and he may be offering himself and his other fellow workers as an example of that for Timothy to follow. So if your language makes that distinction, you may wish to use the exclusive form in this phrase. However, **we** in the next phrase would include Timothy, since Paul is encouraging Timothy to join him and his fellow workers in making godliness his priority as someone who, like them, has hoped in the living God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TI 4 10 qmj6 figs-idiom Θεῷ ζῶντι 1 the living God See how you translated this in [3:15](../03/15.md). Alternate translations: “the God who is genuinely alive” or “the true God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 4 10 t322 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 4 12 qi8l μηδείς σου τῆς νεότητος καταφρονείτω 1 Let no one despise your youth The term **despise** here does not mean “hate,” but “think little of” or “scorn.” Alternate translation: “Do not let anyone disrespect you just because you are young”
1TI 4 13 t326 figs-explicit πρόσεχε τῇ ἀναγνώσει, τῇ παρακλήσει, τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 to the reading, to the exhortation, to the teaching If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say explicitly what Timothy is to read and to whom, and whom he is to exhort and teach. Alternate translation: “continue reading the Scriptures to the people in the church there, exhorting them, and teaching them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 13 kky7 figs-abstractnouns πρόσεχε τῇ ἀναγνώσει, τῇ παρακλήσει, τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 attend to the reading, to the exhortation, to the teaching If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate the abstract nouns **reading**, **exhortation**, and **teaching** with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “continue reading the Scriptures to the people in your meeting there, exhorting them, and teaching them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 4 14 i1ka figs-doublenegatives μὴ ἀμέλει 1 You can state this in a positive way if that is more natural for your language. Alternate translations: “continue to use” or “make sure you develop” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TI 4 14 t22x figs-metaphor μὴ ἀμέλει τοῦ ἐν σοὶ χαρίσματος 1 Do not neglect the gift in you Paul speaks of Timothy as if he were a container that could hold God’s gift. Alternate translation: “do not neglect the ability that God has given you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 14 hdd9 figs-explicit μὴ ἀμέλει τοῦ ἐν σοὶ χαρίσματος 1 Do not neglect the gift in you The implication is that this **gift** is the ability that God has given Timothy for ministry. Alternate translation: “do not neglect the ability that God has given you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 14 xp1k figs-activepassive ὃ ἐδόθη σοι διὰ προφητείας 1 which was given to you through prophecy If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “which you received when leaders of the church prophesied about you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 4 14 rr8f translate-symaction ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν τοῦ πρεσβυτερίου 1 with the imposition of the hands of the elders Paul is speaking of a ceremony during which the church leaders put their hands on Timothy and prayed that God would enable him to do the work he had commanded him to do. Alternate translation: “when the elders all laid their hands on you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1TI 4 15 sbcg figs-explicit ταῦτα 1 these things If it is helpful in your language, you may want to make explicit what **these things** are. Alternate translation: “these things that I am telling you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 15 m65m figs-metaphor ἐν τούτοις ἴσθι 1 Study these things, be in them Paul is speaking figuratively as if Timothy could physically be inside the instructions he has just given him. Alternate translation: “and follow them consistently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 4 15 merc figs-explicit σου ἡ προκοπὴ 1 your progress If it is helpful in your language, you may want to make explicit in what way Timothy is to make **progress**. Alternate translation: “your increasing ability to live the way that Jesus wants you to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 4 16 uq6c ἔπεχε σεαυτῷ καὶ τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 Pay attention to yourself and to the teaching Alternate translation: “Pay attention to how you live and to what you teach”
1TI 4 16 u7ez καὶ σεαυτὸν σώσεις καὶ τοὺς ἀκούοντάς σου 1 you will save both yourself and your listeners Possible meanings are: (1) Timothy will save himself and those who hear him from God’s judgment (2) Timothy will protect himself and those who hear him from the influence of false teachers. Perhaps Paul means both things since, if Timothy can persuade the people of the church in Ephesus not to listen to the false teachers, then he will also spare them from God’s judgment for the wrong things they would have done if they had listened to those teachers. Alternate translation: “you will keep both yourself and your listeners from believing and doing the wrong things”
1TI 5 intro jx4e 0 # 1 Timothy 5 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Honor and respect<br><br>Paul encourages younger Christians to honor and respect older Christians. Cultures honor and respect older people in different ways.<br><br>### Widows<br><br>In the ancient Near East, it was important to care for widows because they could not provide for themselves.<br><br>### Variation in names<br><br>In this chapter, as in chapter 4, Paul speaks of church leaders called “elders.” Here, as well, they seem to be the same kind of leaders that he calls “overseers” in chapter 3.
1TI 5 1 wt5y figs-you 0 General Information: Paul was giving these commands to one person, Timothy. Languages that have different forms of “you” or different forms for commands would use the singular form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1TI 5 1 enp9 figs-simile ὡς πατέρα, νεωτέρους ὡς ἀδελφούς 1 as a father, younger men as brothers Paul uses these similes to tell Timothy that he should treat fellow believers with the same sincere love and respect that he would show to family members. Alternate translation: “as if he were your own father, and encourage younger men as if they were your own brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TI 5 2 t1pv figs-simile ὡς μητέρας, νεωτέρας ὡς ἀδελφὰς 1 as mothers, younger women as sisters Paul uses these similes to tell Timothy that he should treat fellow believers with sincere love and respect, just as he would treat family members. Alternate translation: “encourage each of them as if they were your own mother, and encourage younger women as if they were your own sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TI 5 2 ivl7 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πάσῃ ἁγνίᾳ 1 in all purity If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate the idea behind the abstract noun **purity** with an adjective such as “pure.” Alternate translation: “making sure that your thoughts and actions are pure” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 5 4 vv64 τέκνα ἢ ἔκγονα 1 children or grandchildren Here these **children** and **grandchildren** are adults who are able to care for others, not young children.
1TI 5 4 w38h πρῶτον 1 first This could mean one of two things, or possibly both: (1) It could mean that, of all of their religious duties, taking care of their family is the most important one and the one that they should learn to do before anything else. Alternate translation: “as the most basic part of belonging to God’s people” (2) It could mean that these children and grandchildren should be the first ones to take care of their family members, before the rest of the congregation. Alternate translation: “before the church offers any support”
1TI 5 4 fnab μανθανέτωσαν…εὐσεβεῖν 1 let them learn to honor Here, **learn** means to practice, that is, to learn by doing. Alternate translation: “let them become proficient in honoring”
1TI 5 4 t344 figs-parallelism μανθανέτωσαν…τὸν ἴδιον οἶκον εὐσεβεῖν, καὶ ἀμοιβὰς ἀποδιδόναι τοῖς προγόνοις 1 let them learn to honor their own household and to make repayment to their forebears There are two possible meanings here: (1) These two phrases may mean similar things and you could combine them if that would be clearer in your language. If **honor** is an idiom for “provide” here, as in the previous verse, then Paul may be using repetition for emphasis. Alternate translation: “let them provide the support that their widowed mother or grandmother needs and deserves” (2) However, there may be a slight difference in meaning, and you could also choose to bring that out in your translation. Paul may actually be giving two reasons why people should support their widowed mothers or grandmothers. Alternate translation: “this is a respectful thing to do for widowed family members, and it will repay them for supporting their children and grandchildren as they were growing up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TI 5 4 g5mu figs-metonymy τὸν ἴδιον οἶκον 1 their own household Paul uses this phrase figuratively to refer to family members, by association to the way they live in the same house. Alternate translations: “their own family members” or “those living in their homes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 5 4 q5c8 ἀμοιβὰς ἀποδιδόναι τοῖς προγόνοις 1 make repayment to their forebears Alternate translation: “let them do good to their mother or grandmother in return for the good things their parents and grandparents gave them”
1TI 5 4 t347 grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 for Paul uses this term to introduce an additional reason why family members should support their widowed mothers or grandmothers. Alternate translation: “also” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 5 4 t348 figs-metaphor τοῦτο…ἐστιν ἀπόδεκτον ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 this is pleasing before God Paul uses the expression **before God**, which means “in front of God,” to mean “where God can see.” Alternate translations: “this is pleasing in God’s view” or “this pleases God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 5 xp1u figs-hendiadys ἡ…ὄντως χήρα καὶ μεμονωμένη 1 the genuine and left-alone widow The two words **genuine** and **left-alone** work together to describe one condition, and they may be combined if that is clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “a widow who is genuinely alone” Or it may be that **left-alone** further defines **genuine**. Alternate translation: “a real widow, that is, one who has no family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TI 5 5 ggk0 ἡ…χήρα 1 the … widow Here, **the … widow** does not refer to any specific widow, but to all widows who meet this description. Alternate translations: “any … widow” or “all … widows”
1TI 5 5 u1lj figs-ellipsis προσμένει ταῖς δεήσεσιν καὶ ταῖς προσευχαῖς 1 continues in requests and prayers Paul leaves a verb unexpressed here that your language might need to express. Alternate translations: “continues in making requests and prayers” or “continues to make requests and to offer prayers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 5 5 rwp4 figs-hendiadys ταῖς δεήσεσιν καὶ ταῖς προσευχαῖς 1 in requests and prayers The phrase **requests and prayers** expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **requests** tells what kind of **prayers** Paul is talking about here. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the meaning with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translations: “making requests to God in prayer” or “praying to God for what she needs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]]).
1TI 5 5 rb9f figs-merism νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας 1 night and day The words **night** and **day** are used together to mean that she prays to God often, no matter what time it is. It does not mean that she prays all night and all day without ever stopping. Alternate translation: “at all times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TI 5 6 t353 figs-nominaladj ἡ…σπαταλῶσα 1 the one cavorting Paul is using this participle, which functions as an adjective, as a noun to describe a certain kind of widow. It does not refer to a specific person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “any widow who lives wantonly and extravagantly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 5 6 qy5h figs-metaphor ζῶσα τέθνηκεν 1 living, has died Paul speaks figuratively about people who do not seek to please God as if they were dead. Alternate translation: “has died in her spirit, even though she is still alive physically” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 7 qw6m καὶ ταῦτα παράγγελλε, ἵνα ἀνεπίλημπτοι ὦσιν 1 Also command these things, so that they may be irreproachable This statement seems to refer back to [4:11](../04/11.md), “Command and teach these things,” which Paul tells Timothy after telling him in [4:6](../04/06.md) to “place these things before the brothers.” So **they** seems to refer to all the believers in this situation, including the widows, their families, and the local church that is supposed to organize the list of widows and make sure that the widows are cared for well. Alternate translation: “also give these instructions to the believers, so that no one will be able to accuse them of doing anything wrong”
1TI 5 8 p7h2 figs-idiom τις τῶν ἰδίων καὶ μάλιστα οἰκείων οὐ προνοεῖ 1 someone does not provide for his own, and especially for household members Here, **his own** is an idiom that means “his own relatives.” Alternate translation: “a person does not help with his relatives’ needs, and especially those of the family members living in his home” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 5 8 y645 figs-abstractnouns τὴν πίστιν ἤρνηται 1 he has denied the faith Here, **the faith** refers to believing in Jesus and obeying him. Paul explains that this action would be equivalent to denying all of this. Alternate translations: “by doing that, he denies that he belongs to Jesus” or “he has shown that he does not follow the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 5 8 evm7 figs-explicit ἔστιν ἀπίστου χείρων 1 is worse than an unbeliever The implication is that this person is worse than an unbeliever because even unbelievers take care of their own relatives. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “is worse than those who do not believe in Jesus, because they do take care of their relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 9 s8ql figs-activepassive χήρα καταλεγέσθω 1 Let a widow be enrolled If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “have the church put a widow on the register” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 5 9 khe1 figs-explicit χήρα καταλεγέσθω 1 There seems to have been a list of widows who had no family to help them. The church members met these women’s needs for food, clothing, and shelter, and these women then devoted their lives to serving the Christian community. If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “have the church put a woman on the list of widows who truly need help” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 9 i27x figs-litotes μὴ ἔλαττον ἐτῶν ἑξήκοντα γεγονυῖα 1 being not less than sixty years old Paul is using a figure of speech here that expresses a positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. Alternate translation: “if she is at least sixty years old” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TI 5 9 q9dj figs-idiom ἑνὸς ἀνδρὸς γυνή 1 a wife of one husband Like the similar expression in [3:2](../03/02.md), this means that she has only one husband, and may also means that she was only married once. (If it means the second possibility, it is not clear whether Paul means to exclude women who were married more than once and widowed each time, or more specifically women who divorced their husbands and married other men.) Alternate translations: (1) “she was always faithful to her husband” (2) “she had one husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 5 10 l8nm figs-activepassive ἐν ἔργοις καλοῖς μαρτυρουμένη 1 attested in good works If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “people must be able to attest to her good deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 5 10 ygl3 translate-symaction ἁγίων πόδας ἔνιψεν 1 has washed the feet of the saints In this culture, people walked barefoot or in sandals on roads that were dusty or muddy, so washing their feet once they entered a home was a way of helping them be comfortable and clean. If the people of your culture would not be familiar with this practice, you could use a general expression instead. Alternate translation: “has cared for believers who visited her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1TI 5 10 t366 figs-synecdoche ἁγίων πόδας ἔνιψεν 1 has washed the feet of the saints Paul may be using one type of humble service figuratively to represent humble service in general. Alternate translation: “has done humble things to help other believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TI 5 10 bw4h figs-idiom ἁγίων 1 the saints This expression refers to believers in Jesus as people who are “holy” or “set apart” for God. Alternate translations: “the believers” or “God’s holy people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 5 10 ey6i figs-nominaladj θλιβομένοις ἐπήρκεσεν 1 she has relieved the afflicted Paul is using the adjective **afflicted** as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “has helped people who were suffering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 5 10 h96j figs-hyperbole παντὶ ἔργῳ ἀγαθῷ ἐπηκολούθησεν 1 she has pursued every good work Paul uses the word **every** here as a generalization for emphasis. Alternate translation: “she has done many good deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TI 5 11 rv5h νεωτέρας δὲ χήρας παραιτοῦ 1 But refuse younger widows Alternate translation: “But do not add the names of widows who are younger than 60 years old to the list of widows”
1TI 5 11 vqq9 figs-explicit ὅταν…καταστρηνιάσωσιν τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 when they become wanton against Christ The implication is that when a widow accepted a place on the register, she promised to remain unmarried and devote herself to serving other believers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this explicitly. Alternate translation: “when they feel bodily desires that are contrary to their pledge of chastity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 12 nha7 τὴν πρώτην πίστιν ἠθέτησαν 1 they have broken their first pledge The term **pledge** here refers to a commitment that the widows made, as the last note to [5:11](../05/11.md) explains, that they would serve the Christian community for the rest of their lives and not remarry if the community would supply their needs. Alternate translations: “they have not kept their prior commitment” or “they have not done what they had previously promised to do”
1TI 5 13 t375 figs-nominaladj ἀργαὶ 1 lazy Paul is using the adjective **lazy** as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are lazy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 5 13 nll4 figs-doublet φλύαροι καὶ περίεργοι, λαλοῦσαι τὰ μὴ δέοντα 1 babblers and busybodies, saying what they should not These three phrases may be ways of speaking about the same activity. Paul may be using repetition to emphasize that these women should not be looking into the private lives of people and telling about them to others who would be no better off after hearing this gossip. If you think it would be helpful to your readers, you could combine these phrases into a single one. Alternate translation: “people who interfere openly in other people’s business” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) (A doublet can consist of more than two terms.)
1TI 5 14 u94k τῷ ἀντικειμένῳ 1 the one opposing This expression could refer by implication to: (1) This refers to Satan (that is the reading of UST). Alternate translation: “the devil” (2) This refers collectively to unbelievers who are opposing the followers of Jesus. Alternate translation: “unbelievers who are opposing you”
1TI 5 15 fy54 figs-metaphor ἐξετράπησαν ὀπίσω τοῦ Σατανᾶ 1 having … turned aside after Satan Paul speaks of living in faithfulness to Christ as if it were a path that one can either follow or turn aside from. He means that some younger widows have stopped obeying Jesus and have started to do what Satan would want them to do instead. Alternate translation: “have stopped living in obedience to Jesus and have decided to obey Satan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 16 g8k5 figs-nominaladj τις πιστὴ 1 any believing woman Paul is using this participle, which functions as an adjective, as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “any woman who believes in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 5 16 mf4s figs-explicit ἔχει χήρας 1 has widows The implication is that she has widows within her extended family. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “has relatives who are widows” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 16 y6hf figs-metaphor καὶ μὴ βαρείσθω ἡ ἐκκλησία 1 let the church not be weighed down Paul speaks figuratively of the community having to help more people than it is able to help as if it were carrying too much weight on its back. Alternate translations: “so that the church will not have more work than it can do” or “so that the Christian community will not have to support widows whose families could provide for them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 16 t384 figs-activepassive καὶ μὴ βαρείσθω ἡ ἐκκλησία 1 let the church not be weighed down If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translations: “so that the church will not have more work than it can do” or “so that the Christian community will not have to support widows whose families could provide for them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 5 16 d35m ὄντως χήραις 1 genuine widows Alternate translation: “widows who have no one else to provide for them”
1TI 5 17 u93q figs-activepassive οἱ καλῶς προεστῶτες πρεσβύτεροι…ἀξιούσθωσαν 1 The elders having ruled well, let them be considered worthy If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “All believers should consider elders who are good leaders to be deserving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 5 17 wp9d figs-abstractnouns διπλῆς τιμῆς 1 of double honor Here, **double honor** could mean: (1) The congregation should honor the elders in two ways. Alternate translation: “of both respect and payment for their work” (2) They should honor them twice as much as others. Since Paul quotes two Scriptures in the next verse that support the idea of church leaders being paid for their work, the first possibility is more likely. Alternate translation: “of more respect than others receive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 5 17 r8ew figs-nominaladj οἱ κοπιῶντες 1 the ones toiling Paul is using the participle **toiling**, which functions as an adjective, as a noun to refer to members of a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “elders who labor diligently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 5 17 t389 figs-hendiadys ἐν λόγῳ καὶ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 in the word and in teaching This phrase may be expressing a single idea by using two phrases (which are actually just two words in Greek) connected with **and**. The phrase **in the word** would be identifying the content of the **teaching**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the meaning with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “at teaching from the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TI 5 17 t390 figs-metonymy λόγῳ 1 the word Paul may be using the term **word** here figuratively to describe the Scriptures, which God inspired people to put into words. Alternate translation: “the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 5 18 kh55 figs-personification λέγει γὰρ ἡ Γραφή 1 For the Scripture says Paul figuratively describes Scripture as if it could speak for itself. Alternate translations: “for it is written in the Scriptures” or “for we read in the Scriptures that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TI 5 18 t392 figs-declarative βοῦν ἀλοῶντα οὐ φιμώσεις 1 You will not muzzle a threshing ox Here the Scriptures use a statement in order to give a command. Alternate translation: “you must not muzzle an ox while it is treading on grain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]])
1TI 5 18 vw3a figs-metaphor βοῦν ἀλοῶντα οὐ φιμώσεις 1 You will not muzzle a threshing ox Paul is quoting this passage figuratively. He is using it to indicate that, just as God wanted oxen to be able to eat some of the grain that they were working to separate from its husks, so church leaders deserve to receive payment from the Christian community that they are serving. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 18 g985 translate-unknown οὐ φιμώσεις 1 you will not muzzle A **muzzle** is a sleeve that goes over an animal’s snout to prevent it from opening its jaws and eating while it is doing work. If your readers would not be familiar with this object, you could use a more general expression instead. Alternate translations: “Do not keep an ox’s mouth shut” or “You must not prevent an ox from eating” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 5 18 t6kp translate-unknown βοῦν ἀλοῶντα 1 a threshing ox An ox in this culture would **thresh** grain by walking on it or pulling a heavy object over it to separate the grain from the husks. Alternate translation: “an ox that is separating grain from husks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1TI 5 18 kys1 ἄξιος ὁ ἐργάτης τοῦ μισθοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 The worthy is worthy of his wages Alternate translations: “a worker has a right to be paid” or “a worker should receive his wages”
1TI 5 19 af68 grammar-connect-exceptions κατηγορίαν μὴ παραδέχου, ἐκτὸς εἰ 1 do not receive an accusation, except if If, in your language, it would appear that Paul was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this statement to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “only believe that an accusation is true if” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1TI 5 19 t399 figs-ellipsis ἐπὶ δύο ἢ τριῶν μαρτύρων 1 on two or three witnesses Here, **on** stands for the concept of “relying on.” You may need to use a more complete phrase in your language. Alternate translations: “you are relying on the testimony of two or three people” or “at least two people give evidence for it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 5 20 m4uh figs-nominaladj τοὺς ἁμαρτάνοντας 1 the ones sinning Paul is using this participle, which functions as an adjective, as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. There are two possibilities here: (1) This could refer to any believers who are sinning. (2) Paul could still be talking about elders. Alternate translations: (1) “believers who are sinning” (2) “elders who are doing wrong things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 5 20 db63 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον…πάντων 1 before all Paul uses the expression **before** to mean “in front of.” Alternate translations: “where everyone can see” or “in public” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 20 ql4m figs-explicit ἵνα καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ φόβον ἔχωσιν 1 so that the rest also may have fear If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say what, by implication, people will be afraid of doing. Alternate translation: “so that other people will be afraid to sin themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 20 t404 figs-idiom φόβον ἔχωσιν 1 may have fear This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “will be afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 5 21 x0zp διαμαρτύρομαι ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ, καὶ τῶν ἐκλεκτῶν ἀγγέλων 1 I adjure you, before God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels By calling on **God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels** as witnesses to what Paul is saying, Paul is making Timothy responsible to God to do what he says. If this is not clear, then put this into the form that your language uses for an oath. Alternate translation: “as God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels are my witnesses, I put you under oath”
1TI 5 21 t405 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 before God and Christ Jesus Paul uses the expression **before**, meaning “in front of,” to indicate “where they can see.” Seeing, in turn, figuratively means attention and judgment. Alternate translation: “as God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels are watching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 21 t7jq figs-idiom τῶν ἐκλεκτῶν ἀγγέλων 1 the chosen angels This means the angels whom God has chosen to serve him in a special way. Alternate translation: “the angels who are God’s special servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 5 21 t409 ταῦτα 1 these things Grammatically, this could refer either to the instructions Paul has just given Timothy about elders or to the instructions he is about to give Timothy regarding his own personal conduct. But since Paul tells Timothy to follow these instructions without favoring one person over another, it is most likely that this refers to the instructions about elders. Alternate translation: “these things that I have just told you”
1TI 5 21 t408 figs-doublet χωρὶς προκρίματος, μηδὲν ποιῶν κατὰ πρόσκλισιν 1 without partiality, doing nothing out of favoritism The terms **partiality** and **favoritism** mean similar things. Paul may be using repetition to emphasize that Timothy must judge honestly and be fair to everyone. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these terms. Alternate translation: “being completely fair to everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 5 22 qb71 translate-symaction χεῖρας ταχέως μηδενὶ ἐπιτίθει 1 Place hands hastily on no one The **placing of hands** was a ceremony in which one or more church leaders would put their hands on people and pray that God would enable them to serve the church in a way that would please God. Timothy was to wait until a person had shown good character for a long time before officially and publicly setting that person apart in this way to serve the Christian community. Alternate translation: “wait until a person has consistently demonstrated good character before appointing that person to church leadership” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1TI 5 22 t411 figs-litotes χεῖρας ταχέως μηδενὶ ἐπιτίθει 1 Place hands hastily on no one Paul is using a figure of speech here that expresses a positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. Alternate translation: “wait until a person has consistently demonstrated good character before appointing that person to church leadership” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TI 5 22 pyl8 figs-explicit μηδὲ κοινώνει ἁμαρτίαις ἀλλοτρίαις 1 nor share in the sins of others The implication in context may be that if Timothy appoints a person to leadership before they are ready or without ensuring that their character is exemplary, then Timothy will bear some responsibility for that person’s ultimate failure as a leader, or he will appear to have approved of the person’s sins, once they are uncovered. Alternate translation: “so that you do not become responsible for the moral and leadership failures of others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 23 xl32 figs-explicit οἴνῳ ὀλίγῳ χρῶ 1 use a little wine Paul is telling Timothy to use wine specifically as medicine. The water in that area was impure and often caused sickness. Alternate translation: “in addition, you should drink some wine from time to time as medicine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 24 uk56 figs-gendernotations τινῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 of some men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “of some people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 5 24 ug1z figs-personification πρόδηλοί εἰσιν, προάγουσαι εἰς κρίσιν 1 are evident, going ahead into judgment Paul speaks of sins as if they could move on their own ahead of a person to the place where that person will be judged for committing them. Here, **judgment** could mean: (1) This refers to the judgment when the sinner stands before God on the last day. Alternate translation: “are so obvious that everyone knows they are guilty long before God declares them guilty” (2) This refers to judgment before the church. Alternate translation: “are clear to everyone, even before the church leaders confront them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TI 5 24 i1c6 figs-personification τισὶν δὲ καὶ ἐπακολουθοῦσιν 1 but they also follow after some Paul speaks once again of sins as if they could move on their own. As in the previous clause, this could mean: (1) This refers to judgment by God. Alternate translation: “but the sins of other people do not become evident until God judges them” (2) This refers to judgment by the church. Alternate translation: “but the sins of some people remain hidden for a long time” This latter alternative also allows the possibility that Paul is referring to judgment by God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TI 5 25 pd8v figs-explicit καὶ τὰ ἔργα τὰ καλὰ πρόδηλα 1 good works are also evident Implicitly, here Paul does not mean all good works, since in the rest of the sentence he speaks of some good works that are not evident. Alternate translation: “most good works are also obvious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 25 qlu5 figs-explicit τὰ ἔργα τὰ καλὰ 1 good works The implication is that these works are considered **good** because they are consistent with God’s character, purposes, and will. Alternate translation: “actions that God approves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 5 25 bl51 figs-metaphor καὶ τὰ ἄλλως ἔχοντα, κρυβῆναι οὐ δύναταί 1 and the ones having otherwise are not able to be hidden Paul speaks of good works as if they were objects that someone could hide. Alternate translation: “and people will find out later about even those good deeds that are not obvious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 5 25 t420 figs-activepassive καὶ τὰ ἄλλως ἔχοντα, κρυβῆναι οὐ δύναταί 1 and the ones having otherwise are not able to be hidden If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who will do the action. Alternate translation: “and people who secretly do good works will not be able to hide them forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 5 25 bb2t figs-doublenegatives κρυβῆναι οὐ δύναταί 1 If it is clearer in your language, you can say this in a positive way. Alternate translation: “people will learn about later” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TI 6 intro rks4 0 # 1 Timothy 6 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Slavery<br><br>In this chapter Paul teaches slaves about honoring, respecting, and diligently serving their masters. This does not mean that he is endorsing slavery as a good thing or as something that God approves of. Instead, Paul is encouraging believers to be godly and content in every situation that they are in. This does not mean that they cannot also work to change those situations.
1TI 6 1 nm4n figs-metaphor ὅσοι εἰσὶν ὑπὸ ζυγὸν δοῦλοι 1 As many slaves as are under the yoke Paul speaks of people who work as slaves as though they were oxen plowing or pulling with a yoke around their necks. Alternate translation: “concerning people who are working as slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 1 ep1l figs-explicit ὅσοι εἰσὶν 1 as many … as are The implication in context is that Paul is speaking about believers who are slaves. Alternate translation: “believers who are working as slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 1 he2n figs-activepassive ἵνα μὴ τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ ἡ διδασκαλία βλασφημῆται 1 so that the name of God and the teaching may not be blasphemed If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “so that unbelievers will not insult God’s character or what we believe and teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 1 e3ce ἵνα μὴ τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ ἡ διδασκαλία βλασφημῆται 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this in a positive way. Alternate translation: “so that unbelievers will always speak respectfully about God’s character and about the things that we teach”
1TI 6 1 xb92 figs-metonymy τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the name of God Here, **name** is a figurative way of referring to the fame or reputation of a person. Alternate translations: “God’s character” or “God’s reputation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 6 1 f5pc figs-explicit ἡ διδασκαλία 1 the teaching Implicitly Paul means the teaching about Jesus and about how his followers should live. Alternate translation: “our teaching about how believers should live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 2 fvv7 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί εἰσιν 1 they are brothers Here, **brothers** figuratively means fellow believers in Jesus, whether male or female. Alternate translation: “they are fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 6 2 nmh9 καὶ ἀγαπητοὶ 1 beloved This could mean: (1) God loves these people. Alternate translation: “whom God loves” (2) Other believers love these people, or both. Alternate translation: “and so their believing slaves should love them”
1TI 6 3 t430 figs-metonymy ὑγιαίνουσι λόγοις 1 to the healthy words See how you translated the term **healthy** in [1:10](../01/10.md). Here, as well, it is a figurative way to say that the teaching is good and reliable in every way and has no defect or corruption. A person with a healthy mind would recognize this teaching as correct. Alternate translations: “to the correct words” or “to the true expression of our faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 6 3 t431 figs-metonymy ὑγιαίνουσι λόγοις 1 to the healthy words Paul uses the term **words** figuratively to describe the verbal expression of what followers of Jesus genuinely believe. Alternate translation: “the true expression of our faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 6 3 sshf τοῖς τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 This could mean: (1) This refers to the message about the Lord Jesus. (2) This refers to words spoken by the Lord Jesus.
1TI 6 4 pn8n figs-metaphor τετύφωται 1 he is puffed up Paul speaks figuratively of a person who is excessively proud as if they were inflated with air. See how you translated this in [3:6](../03/06.md). Alternate translation: “that person is excessively proud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 4 t433 figs-activepassive τετύφωται 1 he is puffed up If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “that person is excessively proud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 4 t434 figs-gendernotations τετύφωται 1 he is puffed up Here, **he** refers to anyone in general who teaches what is not correct. Alternate translation: “that person is excessively proud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 6 4 z2rb figs-hyperbole μηδὲν ἐπιστάμενος 1 understanding nothing Paul uses the term **nothing** here as a generalization for emphasis. It is specifically God’s true message that the person does not understand. Alternate translation: “he understands nothing about God’s truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TI 6 4 qu86 figs-metaphor νοσῶν περὶ ζητήσεις 1 ailing about controversies and word-battles Paul speaks of people who feel compelled to engage in useless arguments as if they were ill. Such people greatly desire to argue, and they do not really want to find a way to agree. Alternate translation: “morbidly craves arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 4 i3lk figs-doublet ζητήσεις καὶ λογομαχίας 1 controversies and word-battles These two terms mean basically the same thing, although the second term refers more specifically to arguments about the meaning of words. Paul uses these terms together for emphasis. If these are not separate ideas in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: “arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 6 4 y3mx βλασφημίαι 1 blasphemies While this term often refers to untrue or disrespectful things that people say about God, in this context it refers to people falsely saying bad things about each other. Alternate translation: “insults”
1TI 6 5 x93f figs-metaphor διαπαρατριβαὶ 1 friction Here, **friction** is the last item in the list that began in the previous verse, a litany of bad things that result from “controversies and word-battles.” This is a metaphor. It compares two results: the heat and damage which occur when two objects rub together and the irritation and anger that can occur when people interact badly. Alternate translation: “and constant conflict” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 5 z2d8 figs-activepassive διεφθαρμένων ἀνθρώπων τὸν νοῦν καὶ ἀπεστερημένων τῆς ἀληθείας 1 men having been corrupted as to the mind and having been deprived of the truth If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “between people whose minds are corrupt and who no longer believe the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 5 tyf7 figs-parallelism διεφθαρμένων ἀνθρώπων τὸν νοῦν καὶ ἀπεστερημένων τῆς ἀληθείας 1 men having been corrupted as to the mind and having been deprived of the truth These two phrases mean basically the same thin; Paul uses the repetition for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “people who are no longer able to recognize the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TI 6 5 t443 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 between men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “between people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 6 6 q5sq grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 But Paul uses this term to introduce a contrast between what the false teachers believe about godliness and what is really true about godliness. Alternate translation: “instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TI 6 6 ya9z figs-abstractnouns ἡ εὐσέβεια μετὰ αὐταρκείας 1 godliness with contentment If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **godliness** and **contentment** with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “doing what is godly along with being content with what a person has” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 6 6 o6j4 figs-abstractnouns ἔστιν…πορισμὸς μέγας 1 is great gain If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **gain** with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “makes a person very well off” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 6 7 t446 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For Paul uses this word to introduce the reason for what he said in the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “after all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 6 7 j6qv figs-explicit οὐδὲν…εἰσηνέγκαμεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον 1 we brought nothing into the world The implication is that Paul is speaking about when a person is born. Alternate translation: “brought nothing into the world when we were born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 7 t448 figs-ellipsis ὅτι 1 that Here Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would ordinarily need in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “and so it is also clear that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 6 7 jlv8 figs-explicit οὐδὲ ἐξενεγκεῖν τι δυνάμεθα 1 neither are we able to take anything out The implication is that Paul is speaking about when a person dies. Alternate translation: “we can take nothing out of the world when we die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 8 lbk5 figs-declarative ἀρκεσθησόμεθα 1 we will be satisfied Here Paul uses a statement in order to express a moral imperative. Alternate translation: “that should be enough for us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative]])
1TI 6 8 t451 figs-activepassive ἀρκεσθησόμεθα 1 we will be satisfied If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “that should be enough for us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 9 ij4j grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Now Paul uses this term to indicate that he is returning to the topic of those who think being godly will make them wealthy. You can translate the term with the word or phrase in your language that is most similar in meaning and significance. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TI 6 9 t453 figs-nominaladj οἱ…βουλόμενοι 1 the ones wanting Paul is using this participle, which functions as adjective, as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who want” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 6 9 pl5d figs-metaphor ἐμπίπτουσιν εἰς πειρασμὸν, καὶ παγίδα 1 fall into temptation and a trap Paul speaks figuratively about those who let the temptation of money cause them to sin as if they were animals that fall into a hole that a hunter is using as a trap. Alternate translation: “will encounter more temptation than they can resist” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 9 gfy7 figs-metaphor καὶ ἐπιθυμίας πολλὰς ἀνοήτους καὶ βλαβεράς 1 and many foolish and harmful desires This phrase continues the figure of speech from the previous phrase. Paul speaks about these desires if they too were a hole that a hunter was using as a trap. Alternate translation: “and will experience destructive impulses than they cannot overcome” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 9 t456 figs-hendiadys ἐπιθυμίας…ἀνοήτους καὶ βλαβεράς 1 foolish and harmful desires Here Paul expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and.** The word **foolish** tells why these desires are **harmful**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “destructive impulses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TI 6 9 nc3i figs-metaphor αἵτινες βυθίζουσι τοὺς ἀνθρώπους εἰς ὄλεθρον καὶ ἀπώλειαν 1 whatever plunges men into ruin and destruction This phrase summarizes the character of the temptations and impulses that Paul has just described. He speaks of them figuratively as if they could make people drown in deep water. Alternate translation: “people cannot escape from such things and they destroy them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 9 t458 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπους 1 men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 6 9 t459 figs-doublet ὄλεθρον καὶ ἀπώλειαν 1 ruin and destruction These two words mean very similar things. Paul uses them both to emphasize that this is very bad. If it would be clearer in your language, you can use one term with a word that adds emphasis. Alternate translations: “complete destruction” or “total ruin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 6 10 t460 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For Paul uses this word to introduce the reasons for what the previous sentence stated. Alternate translation: “this is because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TI 6 10 xs9d figs-metaphor ῥίζα…πάντων τῶν κακῶν ἐστιν ἡ φιλαργυρία 1 a root of all evils is the love of money Paul speaks figuratively of evil as if it were a plant, and of the love of money as if it were the root from which that plant grew. Alternate translation: “loving money leads a person to do all kinds of wrong things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 10 t462 figs-hyperbole πάντων τῶν κακῶν 1 of all evils Paul uses the term **all** here as a generalization for emphasis. Alternate translation: “of many kinds of wrong things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TI 6 10 j5z9 ἧς τινες ὀρεγόμενοι 1 which, some desiring The reference here is to people desiring money, not evil. You could start a new sentence here if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “people who want to become rich”
1TI 6 10 b83v figs-metaphor ἀπεπλανήθησαν ἀπὸ τῆς πίστεως 1 have been led away from the faith Paul speaks figuratively of the desire for money as if it were an evil guide that intentionally leads people down the wrong path. Alternate translation: “have stopped believing in Jesus because of their desire for money” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 10 t465 figs-activepassive ἧς τινες ὀρεγόμενοι, ἀπεπλανήθησαν ἀπὸ τῆς πίστεως 1 have been led away from the faith If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translations: “which has led some people away from believing in Jesus” or “this love for money has led some people to stop following Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 10 a1fx figs-metaphor ἑαυτοὺς περιέπειραν ὀδύναις πολλαῖς 1 have pierced themselves with many sorrows Paul speaks about grief as if it were a sword that people use to stab themselves. Alternate translation: “have experienced great sorrows in their lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 11 h9c6 figs-metaphor ταῦτα φεῦγε 1 flee these things Paul speaks of these temptations and sins as if they were things a person could physically run away from. Alternate translation: “make sure that you do not do these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 11 a88g ταῦτα 1 these things This phrase could mean: (1) This refers to everything Paul has been talking about in this section of the letter (false teachings, pride, arguments, and the love of money). (2) This refers to what Paul has been talking about most recently (the love of money). If possible, it is best to leave it as a general reference.
1TI 6 11 zjl3 figs-metaphor δίωκε 1 pursue Paul speaks of righteousness and other good qualities as if they were things that a person could run after and catch. This metaphor is the opposite of “flee from.” It means to try your best to obtain something. Alternate translation: “seek to acquire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 12 w21p figs-metaphor ἀγωνίζου τὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα τῆς πίστεως 1 Fight the good fight of the faith Here, Paul speaks figuratively about a person persevering in following Jesus as if he were a warrior fighting at his best, or an athlete doing his best to win an event. Alternate translation: “do your best to obey Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 12 y6m8 figs-metaphor ἐπιλαβοῦ τῆς αἰωνίου ζωῆς 1 grasp eternal life Paul speaks figuratively about people wanting eternal life so much that they hold onto it firmly in their hands. He may be continuing the metaphor of an athlete who worked hard to win an event and now holds the trophy in his hands. Alternate translations: “eagerly desire to live with God forever” or “do whatever is necessary to pursue life with God forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 12 usd1 figs-activepassive εἰς ἣν ἐκλήθης 1 to which you were called If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “to which God called you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 12 qw96 ὡμολόγησας τὴν καλὴν ὁμολογίαν 1 you confessed the good confession Alternate translation: “you publicly stated your faith in Jesus”
1TI 6 12 vm6q figs-explicit ἐνώπιον πολλῶν μαρτύρων 1 before many witnesses The implication is that Timothy’s statement of his faith was binding because these witnesses were present and could testify that he had made it. In your translation, you can use the expression used in your culture for a public, legal commitment. Alternate translation: “while many people were watching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 13 t476 figs-explicit ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 before God The implication is that Paul is asking God to be his witness that he has given Timothy this command. Alternate translation: “with God as my witness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 13 t477 figs-explicit καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 and Christ Jesus The implication is that Paul is also asking Jesus to be his witness. Alternate translation: “and with Christ Jesus … as my witness as well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 13 amy1 figs-explicit τοῦ μαρτυρήσαντος ἐπὶ Ποντίου Πειλάτου τὴν καλὴν ὁμολογίαν 1 the one having testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate Paul is offering Jesus to Timothy as an example of someone who publicly affirmed his obedience to God even when others were hostile and threatening. Alternate translation: “who acknowledged God himself when Pontius Pilate put him on trial” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 14 p9n9 figs-doublet ἄσπιλον ἀνεπίλημπτον 1 spotless, irreproachable The terms **spotless** and **irreproachable** mean similar things. Paul may be using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these terms and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “completely blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TI 6 14 t480 figs-metaphor ἄσπιλον 1 spotless A **spot** figuratively means a moral fault. This could mean: (1) Timothy should live in such a way that Jesus will not find fault with him or blame him for doing wrong. (2) Timothy should live in such a way that other people will not find fault with him or blame him for doing wrong. Alternate translation: “blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 14 nk52 μέχρι τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ Alternate translation: “until our Lord Jesus Christ returns”
1TI 6 15 t482 figs-idiom καιροῖς ἰδίοις 1 in its own times See how you translated this expression in [2:6](../02/06.md). Alternate translation: “at the time that God will choose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 6 15 ac6y figs-explicit ὁ μακάριος καὶ μόνος Δυνάστης 1 the blessed and only Sovereign This expression refers implicitly to God. Alternate translation: “God, the One we praise, who alone rules over the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 16 l9i8 ὁ μόνος ἔχων ἀθανασίαν 1 the One having immortality alone Alternate translation: “the only one who has always existed”
1TI 6 16 t485 figs-nominaladj ὁ μόνος ἔχων ἀθανασίαν 1 the One having immortality alone Paul is using the participle **having**, which functions as adjective, as a noun, to refer to God as a member, though the only member, of a class that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the only One who has always existed and always will exist” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 6 16 t487 figs-gendernotations οὐδεὶς ἀνθρώπων 1 none of men Paul uses the term **men** here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “no human being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TI 6 17 te3z figs-nominaladj τοῖς πλουσίοις 1 the rich Paul is using this adjective as a noun to refer to a class of people that it describes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate it with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are rich” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TI 6 17 z4ec ἐν τῷ νῦν αἰῶνι 1 in the present age The **present age** is the time period in which we are living, before Jesus returns and establishes God’s rule over all people. Alternate translation: “at this time”
1TI 6 17 drj6 figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ πλούτου ἀδηλότητι 1 in the uncertainty of riches If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **uncertainty** with a verbal phrase. Alternate translations: “in riches, which are so uncertain” or “in wealth, which a person can lose so easily” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TI 6 17 iq61 figs-ellipsis πάντα πλουσίως εἰς ἀπόλαυσιν 1 all things richly unto enjoyment By **all**, Paul is referring to all of the things that anyone actually has, not to everything that it might be possible to have. If it is clearer in your language, you may want to include words to make that clear. Alternate translation: “all of the things that we have so that we can enjoy them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TI 6 18 cii3 figs-metaphor πλουτεῖν ἐν ἔργοις καλοῖς 1 to be rich in good works Paul speaks figuratively of doing things to help others as a way of becoming wealthy, but it is measured in something other than money. Alternate translation: “to serve and help others in many ways” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 19 zc9d figs-metaphor ἀποθησαυρίζοντας ἑαυτοῖς θεμέλιον καλὸν εἰς τὸ μέλλον 1 storing up for themselves a good foundation for what is coming Paul speaks figuratively about the blessings that God will give to those who have served him faithfully as if they were riches that a person was storing in a safe place. Alternate translation: “securing a good start now on their future life in God’s presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 19 t493 figs-metaphor ἀποθησαυρίζοντας ἑαυτοῖς θεμέλιον καλὸν εἰς τὸ μέλλον 1 storing up for themselves a good foundation for what is coming Paul also speaks figuratively about the blessings that God will give as if they were the foundation of a building. He means that they will give a person a good start on their new life in the presence of God forever. Alternate translation: “securing a good start now on their future life in God’s presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 19 t494 figs-idiom εἰς τὸ μέλλον 1 for what is coming In the New Testament, this expression can refer to different things, but in this case it seems to refer to the new life that believers will have in God’s presence after death and the end of history. It is equivalent to the expression “the coming life” in [4:8](../04/08.md). Alternate translation: “their future life in God’s presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TI 6 19 z5ru figs-metaphor ἵνα ἐπιλάβωνται τῆς ὄντως ζωῆς 1 so that they may grasp genuine life Paul is using the same image as in the phrase **grasp eternal life** in [6:12](../06/12.md). He is speaking figuratively about people wanting eternal life so much that they hold onto it firmly in their hands. Alternate translation: “so that they can indeed live with God forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 20 u9wd figs-activepassive τὴν παραθήκην 1 guard the entrustment If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who did the action. Alternate translation: “what Jesus has put in your care” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 20 dd1v figs-explicit τὴν παραθήκην φύλαξον 1 guard the entrustment The implication is that Jesus has entrusted Timothy with the message to proclaim about him. Alternate translation: “protect the message about Jesus that he has put in your care” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TI 6 20 vgr8 figs-metonymy ἐκτρεπόμενος τὰς βεβήλους κενοφωνίας 1 avoiding the profane chatter In order to avoid **profane chatter**, Timothy must avoid the people who do the chattering. Alternate translation: “do not pay attention to the talk of people for whom nothing is sacred” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TI 6 20 t498 καὶ ἀντιθέσεις 1 and contradictions This could mean: (1) The false teachers are saying things that are contrary to true Christian belief. (2) The false teachers are saying things that cannot all be true at the same time. Alternate translations: “and teachings that contradict us” or “and the opposing statements”
1TI 6 20 y2u7 figs-activepassive τῆς ψευδωνύμου γνώσεως 1 of miscalled knowledge If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who is doing the action. Alternate translation: “of what some people falsely call knowledge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TI 6 21 e6rb figs-metaphor περὶ τὴν πίστιν ἠστόχησαν 1 have missed the mark regarding the faith See how you translated this expression in [1:6](../01/06.md). Paul speaks of faith in Christ as if it were a target that people should aim at. Alternate translation: “have not fulfilled the purpose of faith in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TI 6 21 t501 ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 Grace be with you If it would be clearer in your language, you could say who Paul is thinking will make this happen. Alternate translation: “may God give grace to all of you”
1TI 6 21 hix2 figs-you ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 Grace be with you The word **you** is plural and refers to Timothy and all the believers at Ephesus. Alternate translation: “may God give grace to all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
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