Stephen's edits to Colossians (#2364)

Co-authored-by: stephenwunrow <stephenwunrow@noreply.door43.org>
Reviewed-on: https://git.door43.org/unfoldingWord/en_tn/pulls/2364
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Larry Sallee 2022-03-29 14:05:40 +00:00
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@ -3,26 +3,26 @@ COL front intro d9hy 0 # Introduction to Colossians<br><br>## Part 1: General
COL 1 intro gtm3 0 # Colossians 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and Formatting<br><br>1. Letter Opening (1:112)<br> * Greeting (1:12)<br> * Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:38)<br> * Prayer of Petition (1:912)<br>2. Teaching Section (1:132:23)<br> * Christ and His Work (1:1320)<br> * Christs Work Applied to the Colossians (1:2123)<br> * Pauls Ministry (1:242:5)<br><br>Paul begins this letter in [1:12](../01/01.md) by giving his and Timothys names, identifying the people to whom he is writing, and offering a greeting. This is the way people typically began letters at this time.<br><br>## Special Concepts in this Chapter<br><br>### Mystery<br><br>Paul refers to a “mystery” for the first time in this chapter ([1:2627](../01/26.md)). This does not refer to some secret truth that is hard to understand and that only a few privileged individuals can learn about. Instead, it refers to Gods plans that once were unknown but are now known to all his people. What is the content of this mystery? It is Christ himself, his work, and his union with believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])<br><br>### Fullness<br><br>Paul refers to “filling” or “fullness” four times in this chapter. First, Paul prays that the Colossians are “filled” with the knowledge of Gods will ([1:9](../01/09.md)). Second, Jesus has all the “fullness” of God ([1:19](../01/19.md)). Third, Paul “fills up” in his flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ ([1:24](../01/24.md)). Fourth, Paul makes the word of God “fully” known ([1:25](../01/25.md)). It is possible that Paul uses “filling” and “fullness” so often because it was something that the false teachers promised. Paul wishes to show instead how “fullness” comes through the work of Christ and through his own work on their behalf. Christ has Gods fullness, and Paul works for Christ by “filling” the Colossians, who then are “filled” with the knowledge of Gods will.<br><br>## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter<br><br>### Images for Christian living<br><br>Paul uses many different images to describe Christian living. In this chapter, he uses the images of “walking” and “bearing fruit” (1:10). These images show that Paul wants the Colossians to think about the Christian life as a life that is directed towards a goal (either a destination, if one is walking, or fruit, if one is growing). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])<br><br>### Light versus dark<br><br>Paul contrasts the “inheritance of the saints in the light” ([1:12](../01/12.md)) with the “authority of the darkness” ([1:12](../01/12.md)). The “light” describes what is good, desirable, and related to Gods favor. The “darkness” describes what is distant from God, opposed to him, and evil.<br><br>### Head and body<br><br>In this chapter, Paul introduces an image that he will develop more fully in chapter 2: that of Christ as the head of the body, which is his church. This image identifies Christ as the source of life and direction for his church, just like the head is the source of life and direction for the body.<br><br>## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter<br><br>### The lack of the afflictions of Christ<br><br>In [1:24](../01/24.md), Paul speaks of “the lack of the afflictions of Christ,” a lack that he fills up by his sufferings. This does not mean that Christ somehow failed in his mission and work, and Paul has to fill in the missing pieces. Instead, “lack” refers to something that Christ intentionally left for this followers to complete. He has called them to suffer, just as he himself did, to continue the mission of the church.<br><br>### The “Christ-Hymn”<br><br>Many scholars think that [1:1520](../01/15.md) is an early Christian hymn that Paul has quoted to remind the Colossians of what they believe in common with other Christians. If this is true, it does not mean that this section says something different than what Paul thinks. Instead, Paul chose to quote it because he fully affirmed it. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could format these verses in a way that shows that they are from a hymn or poem.
COL 1 1 nlf1 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Throughout this letter the words “we,” “us,” “our,” and “ours” include the Colossian believers unless noted otherwise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
COL 1 1 bqvt figs-yousingular 0 General Information: The words “you,” “your,” and “yours” refer to the Colossian believers, and so they are plural unless noted otherwise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
COL 1 1 xnhq figs-123person Παῦλος 1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the first person here. If your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul. I write this letter to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
COL 1 1 xnhq figs-123person Παῦλος 1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the first person here. If your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
COL 1 1 v9jr translate-names Παῦλος 1 Here and throughout the letter, **Paul** is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
COL 1 1 yzlo figs-explicit καὶ Τιμόθεος ὁ ἀδελφὸς 1 This phrase does not mean that Timothy helped Paul write this letter. Paul was the author of this letter, as he shows by using the first person singular throughout the letter. What this does mean is that Timothy is with Paul and that Timothy is in agreement with what Paul writes. If it sounds in your language like Timothy is writing the letter with Paul, you can make Timothys supporting role more clear. Alternate translation: “with the support of Timothy, our fellow believer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 1 f3ki translate-names Τιμόθεος 1 **Timothy** is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
COL 1 2 v9x7 figs-123person τοῖς ἐν Κολοσσαῖς ἁγίοις, καὶ πιστοῖς ἀδελφοῖς ἐν Χριστῷ 1 In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would name those to whom they sent the letter, referring to them in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the second person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the recipient of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “This letter is for you who live in the city of Colossae and who are Gods people and faithful fellow believers who are united to the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
COL 1 2 v9x7 figs-123person τοῖς ἐν Κολοσσαῖς ἁγίοις, καὶ πιστοῖς ἀδελφοῖς ἐν Χριστῷ 1 In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would name those to whom they sent the letter, referring to them in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you could use the second person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the recipient of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “to you who live in the city of Colossae and who are Gods people and faithful fellow believers who are united to the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
COL 1 2 s9x7 figs-doublet τοῖς…ἁγίοις, καὶ πιστοῖς ἀδελφοῖς ἐν Χριστῷ 1 The words **saints**, **faithful brothers**, and **in Christ** all describe people who are followers of Jesus. Paul is using all of these to describe one group of people. For example, he is not implying that **saints** and **faithful brothers in Christ** are two different groups. If using both **saints** and **faithful brothers** would be misunderstood in your language, you can join these together in a clearer way. Alternate translation: “to Gods faithful people, joined together as a family in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 1 2 cqfk translate-blessing χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 After stating his name and the name of the person to whom he is writing, Paul adds a blessing for the Colossians. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness and peace within you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah” or “I pray that grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah will always be with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
COL 1 2 jzhd figs-abstractnouns χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 The words **grace** and **peace** are abstract nouns. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs or description words. If so, you can use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “We pray that God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ will treat you kindly and give you peaceful relationships” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 2 egjk guidelines-sonofgodprinciples Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν 1 Here and throughout the chapter, **Father** is an important title for God. Alternate translation: “God, who is our Father,” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples)
COL 1 3 q1su figs-exclusive εὐχαριστοῦμεν…ἡμῶν 1 We give thanks … of our Lord The word **We** here does not include the Colossians, but the word **our** here does include the Colossians (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
COL 1 3 g0sn figs-hyperbole πάντοτε 1 Here, **always** is an exaggeration that the Colossians understood to mean that Paul and Timothy prayed for them often. If that would be misunderstood in your language, you can use a word that indicates frequency. Alternate translation: “consistently” or “frequently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
COL 1 4 z6eb figs-abstractnouns ἀκούσαντες τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν 1 your faith in Christ Jesus If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faith**, you could express the idea behind this abstract noun in another way. Alternate translation: “We give thanks to God because we hear that you are trusting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 4 z6eb figs-abstractnouns ἀκούσαντες τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν 1 your faith in Christ Jesus If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faith**, you could express the idea behind this abstract noun in another way. Alternate translation: “having heard that you are trusting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 4 gjwb figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἀγάπην ἣν ἔχετε εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἁγίους, 1 your faith in Christ Jesus If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **love**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “how much you love all the saints” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 5 n1qz figs-metonymy τὴν ἐλπίδα 1 because of the hope that is reserved for you in the heavens Here, **hope** refers not only to the attitude of hopefulness but also to what the believer hopes for, that is, what God has promised to give to all believers. If **hope** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “what you hope for” or “the things you confidently expect” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 5 bmpc figs-activepassive τὴν ἀποκειμένην 1 If it would be more natural in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you can say who did the action. Alternate translation: “that God is reserving for you” or “that God has prepared for you” or “that God has ready for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 5 n1qz figs-metonymy τὴν ἐλπίδα 1 because of the hope that is reserved for you in the heavens Here, **hope** refers not only to the attitude of hopefulness but also to what the believer hopes for, that is, what God has promised to give to all believers. If **hope** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “what you hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 5 bmpc figs-activepassive τὴν ἀποκειμένην 1 If it would be more natural in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you can say who did the action. Alternate translation: “that God is reserving for” or “that God has prepared for” or “that God has ready for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 5 xn8s figs-possession τῷ λόγῳ τῆς ἀληθείας 1 the word of truth, the gospel Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **word** that is characterized by **truth**. This could refer to: (1) a message that is truth. Alternate translation: “the message that is true” (2) a message concerning the truth. Alternate translation: “the message about the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 5 ir6k figs-metonymy τῷ λόγῳ 1 the word of truth, the gospel Here, **word** figuratively represents a message that is made up of words. If **word** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the announcement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 6 p5rv figs-personification τοῦ παρόντος εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 Here, the good news is spoken of figuratively as though it were a person who could be **present** with the Colossians. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “This good news, which was told to you in Colossae” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
COL 1 6 p5rv figs-personification τοῦ παρόντος εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 Here, the good news is spoken of figuratively as though it were a person who could be **present** with the Colossians. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “which was told to you in Colossae” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
COL 1 6 z3g5 figs-hyperbole ἐν παντὶ τῷ κόσμῳ 1 in all the world Here, **in all the world** is a generalization referring to the part of the **world** that Paul and the Colossians knew about. If **all the world** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **world** refers to the known world at that time. Alternate translation: “in every place that we know about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
COL 1 6 wk21 figs-metaphor ἐστὶν καρποφορούμενον καὶ αὐξανόμενον 1 is bearing fruit and is growing Here, Paul speaks of the Gospel as if it were a plant that could grow and produce fruit. He means that the Gospel reaches more people and that it changes how people think and behave. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express Pauls meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “is reaching more people so that they do what is pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 6 wk21 figs-metaphor ἐστὶν καρποφορούμενον καὶ αὐξανόμενον 1 is bearing fruit and is growing Here, Paul speaks of the gospel as if it were a plant that could grow and produce fruit. He means that the gospel reaches more people and that it changes how people think and behave. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express Pauls meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “is reaching more people so that they do what is pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 6 ev91 figs-ellipsis καθὼς καὶ ἐν ὑμῖν 1 Paul leaves out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If your language needs these words, you could supply them from the context. Alternate translation: “just as this good news has reached you so that you do what is pleasing to God” or “just as it has done among you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
COL 1 6 ait7 figs-abstractnouns ἐπέγνωτε τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν ἀληθείᾳ 1 the grace of God in truth Here, **in truth** could describe (1) the way in which the Colossians learned about the grace of God. Alternate translation: “accurately grasped how God acts kindly” (2) the way God is gracious to the Colossians. Alternate translation: “learned about the true grace of God” or “understood how God truly acts kindly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 7 pz3h translate-names Ἐπαφρᾶ 1 Epaphras **Epaphras** is the name of a man. He is the one who preached the good news to the people in Colossae. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
@ -33,27 +33,28 @@ COL 1 8 hzqq ἐν Πνεύματι 1 Alternate translation: “which is by th
COL 1 9 f2xd figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς…ἠκούσαμεν, οὐ παυόμεθα 1 we heard this we also have not stopped The word **we** here does not include the Colossians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
COL 1 9 u7zh ἀφ’ ἧς ἡμέρας ἠκούσαμεν 1 from the day we heard this Alternate translation: “from the day Epaphras told us these things”
COL 1 9 crnv figs-hyperbole οὐ παυόμεθα 1 Here, **have not stopped** is an exaggeration that the Colossians would have understood to mean that Paul and Timothy pray often for the Colossians. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you can use a word or phrase that indicates frequency. Alternate translation: “have been frequently” or “have made a habit of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
COL 1 9 qxnu figs-litotes οὐ παυόμεθα 1 Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “have kept” or “are continually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
COL 1 9 w2a7 figs-metaphor ἵνα πληρωθῆτε τὴν ἐπίγνωσιν τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ 1 that you might be filled with the knowledge of his will Here Paul speaks of the Colossian believers as though they were containers that could be filled up. By speaking this way, he emphasizes that the Colossians should know Gods **will** in every area of their lives. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “that God would enable you to understand fully what he wants you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 9 kmea figs-activepassive πληρωθῆτε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in an active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God would fill you with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 9 hson figs-abstractnouns πληρωθῆτε τὴν ἐπίγνωσιν τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind the words **knowledge** and **will**, you could express those ideas in another way, such as with verbs. Alternate translation: “you might fully know what he has planned for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 9 mzz8 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πάσῃ σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει πνευματικῇ 1 in all wisdom and spiritual understanding If your language does not use abstract nouns to express the ideas behind **wisdom** and **understanding**, you could express the ideas with adjectives or verbs. Alternate translation: “, which includes being spiritually very wise and intelligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 9 s903 figs-infostructure πληρωθῆτε τὴν ἐπίγνωσιν τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ ἐν πάσῃ σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει πνευματικῇ, 1 Here, **in all wisdom and spiritual understanding** identifies how the Colossians are **filled**. The phrase does not describe Gods **will**. If what **in all wisdom and spiritual understanding** describes would be misunderstood in your language, you could move the phrase so that it appears immediately after **filled**. Alternate translation: “you might be filled in all wisdom and spiritual understanding with the knowledge of his will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
COL 1 9 mzz8 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πάσῃ σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει πνευματικῇ 1 in all wisdom and spiritual understanding If your language does not use abstract nouns to express the ideas behind **wisdom** and **understanding**, you could express the ideas with adjectives or verbs. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “which includes being spiritually very wise and intelligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 9 k8x2 σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει πνευματικῇ 1 Here, **spiritual wisdom and understanding** could refer to: (1) wisdom and understanding that comes from the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “wisdom and understanding given by the Holy Spirit” (2) wisdom and understanding in spiritual matters. Alternate translation: “wisdom and understanding about spiritual things”
COL 1 9 w78g figs-doublet σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει 1 in all wisdom and spiritual understanding The words **wisdom** and **understanding** mean very similar things. The repetition is used to emphasize the breadth of spiritual wisdom. If your language does not use repetition in this way or has only one word for this concept, you can use just one word. Alternate translation: “comprehension” or “insight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 1 9 w78g figs-doublet σοφίᾳ καὶ συνέσει πνευματικῇ 1 in all wisdom and spiritual understanding The words **wisdom** and **understanding** mean very similar things. The repetition is used to emphasize the breadth of spiritual wisdom. If your language does not use repetition in this way or has only one word for this concept, you can use just one word. Alternate translation: “spiritual comprehension” or “spiritual insight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 1 10 m4hf figs-metaphor περιπατῆσαι ἀξίως τοῦ Κυρίου 1 to walk worthily of the Lord Here, the word **walk** is a figurative way to refer to behavior in life. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to behave in the way that the Lord expects you to behave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 10 vv4g figs-abstractnouns εἰς πᾶσαν ἀρεσκείαν 1 in every pleasing way If your language does not use abstract nouns, you could express the idea behind the phrase **pleasing way** with a verb. Alternate translation: “, doing everything that pleases him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 10 vv4g figs-abstractnouns εἰς πᾶσαν ἀρεσκείαν 1 in every pleasing way If your language does not use abstract nouns, you could express the idea behind the phrase **pleasing way** with a verb. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “doing everything that pleases him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 10 vfp3 figs-metaphor ἐν παντὶ ἔργῳ ἀγαθῷ καρποφοροῦντες 1 bearing fruit Paul is speaking figuratively of the Colossian believers as if they were trees or plants and of the things that they do as if it were their fruit. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a different figure or in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “performing many good deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 10 b9l1 figs-abstractnouns αὐξανόμενοι τῇ ἐπιγνώσει τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **knowledge**, you could express the idea with a verb. Alternate translation: “knowing God better and better” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 11 gxv6 figs-activepassive δυναμούμενοι 1 being strengthened If your language does not use this passive form, you can express the idea with an active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God strengthening you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 11 da4r figs-possession τὸ κράτος τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ 1 Paul uses the possessive form to describe **power** that is characterized by Gods **glory**. If your language does not use this form to express that idea, you could use an adjective such as “glorious” or “great” instead of the noun **glory**. Alternate translation: “his glorious power” or “his great power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 11 b2uq grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς πᾶσαν ὑπομονὴν καὶ μακροθυμίαν μετὰ χαρᾶς 1 This is a purpose phrase. Paul is stating the purpose for which the Colossians have been **strengthened with all power**. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. Alternate translation: “so that you have all endurance and patience with joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 1 11 b2uq grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς πᾶσαν ὑπομονὴν καὶ μακροθυμίαν μετὰ χαρᾶς 1 This is a purpose phrase. Paul is stating the purpose for which the Colossians have been **strengthened with all power**. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose phrases. Alternate translation: “so that you have all endurance and patience with joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 1 11 xqlu figs-hendiadys ὑπομονὴν καὶ μακροθυμίαν 1 This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **patience** tells what kind of **endurance** the Colossians can have. If your language does not use this form, you could express the meaning differently. Alternate translation: “patient endurance.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
COL 1 11 uqtt figs-abstractnouns πᾶσαν ὑπομονὴν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **endurance**, you could express the idea with a verb such as “endure.” Alternate translation: “endure always” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 11 bff9 figs-abstractnouns μακροθυμίαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **patience**, you could express the idea with an adjective such as “patient” or an adverb such as “patiently.” Alternate translation: “patient waiting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 11 uqtt figs-abstractnouns πᾶσαν ὑπομονὴν καὶ μακροθυμίαν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **endurance** and **patience**, you could express the ideas with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “endure always and wait patiently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 11 jzk9 πᾶσαν ὑπομονὴν καὶ μακροθυμίαν μετὰ χαρᾶς 1 Here, **with joy** could describe (1) the way that the Colossians are to have endurance and patience (2) the way that the Colossians are to give thanks in verse 12. Alternate translation: “all endurance and patience”
COL 1 12 zsdp εὐχαριστοῦντες 1 who has made you able to share Some Bible versions connect the phrase “with joy” at the end of verse 11 to the phrase at the beginning of verse 12, instead of connecting it to verse 11. Alternate translation: “with joy giving thanks”
COL 1 12 t5lw guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τῷ Πατρὶ 1 who has made you able to share \*\*Father\*\* is an important title that describes the relationship between God and Jesus, and it also describes the relationship between God and believers, who are adopted children. Alternate translation: “God the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
COL 1 12 lt2q ἱκανώσαντι ὑμᾶς 1 who has made you able Alternate translation: “who has qualified you”
COL 1 12 ss5g grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς τὴν μερίδα τοῦ κλήρου τῶν ἁγίων 1 This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God made the Colossians **able**. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “so that you would share the inheritance of the saints” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 1 12 ss5g grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς τὴν μερίδα τοῦ κλήρου τῶν ἁγίων 1 This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God made the Colossians **able**. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “so that you can share the inheritance of the saints” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 1 12 r2zw figs-possession τὴν μερίδα τοῦ κλήρου 1 the inheritance Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **share** that is characterized by **inheritance**. If your language does not use this form to express that meaning, you could use a verbal phrase like “receive your portion of” or “take part in.” Alternate translation: “to take part in the inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 12 hno0 figs-possession τοῦ κλήρου τῶν ἁγίων 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that the **inheritance** is for the **saints**. If your language does not use this form to express that meaning, you could use a descriptive phrase such as “that God is keeping for” or “that belongs to” instead. Alternate translation: “the inheritance that belongs to the saints” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 12 hkf5 figs-metaphor ἐν τῷ φωτί 1 in the light Here, **in the light** is the opposite of the “authority of the darkness” in the next verse ([1:13](../01/13.md)) and refers to belonging to God and being part of his kingdom. The metaphor of light representing God, goodness, and heaven is very common in the Bible, and it would be useful to retain it if it communicates well. But if it might be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “in the spiritual kingdom of God” or “in Gods glorious presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@ -67,8 +68,8 @@ COL 1 13 zav6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπ
COL 1 14 qe6x translate-textvariants τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν 1 in whom Some later manuscripts add “through his blood” after **redemption**. Most likely, “through his blood” was accidentally added because of how similar this verse is to [Ephesians 1:7](../eph/01/07.md), which does include “through his blood.” Most likely, you should not include “through his blood” in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
COL 1 14 wh6q figs-metonymy ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν 1 in whom Here, the word **redemption** does not refer to a payment or to the act of redeeming. Instead, it refers to the result of the act of redeeming. If **redemption** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word such as “freedom” to express this idea. Alternate translation: “we have freedom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 14 v5d8 figs-abstractnouns ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν, τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **redemption** and **forgiveness**, you can express the idea by using verbs. Alternate translation: “God has redeemed us; that is, he has forgiven our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 14 pbmh figs-possession τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that the **forgiveness** concerns **sins**. If your language does not use this form to express that idea, you could use a verb for **forgiveness** and make **sins** its object or complement. Alternate translation: “; that is, God has forgiven us for our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 15 j5u9 figs-metaphor ὅς ἐστιν εἰκὼν τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου 1 He is the image of the invisible God Here, **image** does not mean a representation of something that is visible, like a photo or a reflection. Instead, **image** refers to how the Son perfectly reveals the Father. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could replace **image** with an expression that emphasizes how the Son reveals the Father. Alternate translation: “The Son shows exactly what the God the Father, whom no one can see, is like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 14 pbmh figs-possession τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that the **forgiveness** concerns **sins**. If your language does not use this form to express that idea, you could use a verb for **forgiveness** and make **sins** its object or complement. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to replace the comma before it with a semicolon. Alternate translation: “that is, God has forgiven us for our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 15 j5u9 figs-metaphor ὅς ἐστιν εἰκὼν τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου 1 He is the image of the invisible God Here, **image** does not mean a representation of something that is visible, like a photo or a reflection. Instead, **image** refers to how the Son perfectly reveals the Father. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could replace **image** with an expression that emphasizes how the Son reveals the Father. Alternate translation: “What the invisible God is like can be seen in his Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 15 rgb7 translate-unknown τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου 1 The word **invisible** does not mean that God the Father could be seen by people but hides himself. Instead, it means that human sight is unable to perceive God the Father, since he is not part of the created world. If **invisible** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase to clarify the idea. Alternate translation: “of God, whom humans are unable to see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 1 15 h945 figs-metaphor πρωτότοκος πάσης κτίσεως 1 the firstborn of all creation The word **firstborn** does not refer to when Jesus was born. Instead, it refers to his position as the eternal Son of God the Father. In this sense, **firstborn** is a metaphor that means that he existed as God before God created anything and that he is most important. You could emphasize either or both of these ideas in your translation. Alternate translation: “Gods Son, the most important one over all creation” or “Gods Son, who existed as God before all creation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 15 af6b figs-abstractnouns πάσης κτίσεως 1 of all creation If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **creation**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “create.” Alternate translation: “of all that God created” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@ -86,12 +87,12 @@ COL 1 18 q8i3 figs-metaphor αὐτός ἐστιν ἡ κεφαλὴ τοῦ σ
COL 1 18 j6uq ἡ ἀρχή 1 the beginning The word **beginning** could refer to (1) the origin of something; here, the origin of the church. Alternate translation: “the origin of the church” or “the one who started the church” (2) a position of power or authority. Alternate translation: “the ruler” or “the one with authority”
COL 1 18 s12x figs-metaphor πρωτότοκος ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν 1 the firstborn from among the dead Paul describes Jesus resurrection **from among the dead** as if someone gave birth to him as her first child. This figure helps us to see that this new life was not like his old life, because he can never die again. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “the first one to come back to new life” or “the first person to permanently rise from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 18 ybqn figs-nominaladj τῶν νεκρῶν 1 Paul is using the adjective **dead** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the dead people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
COL 1 18 uqrv grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα γένηται ἐν πᾶσιν αὐτὸς πρωτεύων 1 With this clause, Paul provides (1) the result of Jesus starting the church and coming back from the dead. Alternate translation: “with the result that he is first among all things” (2) the purpose of Jesus starting the church and coming back from the dead. Alternate translation: “in order that he might be first among all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 1 18 uqrv grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα γένηται ἐν πᾶσιν αὐτὸς πρωτεύων 1 This clause could identify: (1) the result of Jesus starting the church and coming back from the dead. Alternate translation: “with the result that he is first among all things” (2) the purpose of Jesus starting the church and coming back from the dead. Alternate translation: “in order that he might be first among all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 1 18 jjgh figs-metaphor γένηται ἐν πᾶσιν αὐτὸς πρωτεύων 1 Paul here describes Jesus as if he were **first** to do or be something. This does not refer to time or sequence, but rather it refers to importance. If the meaning of **first** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable expression or in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “he himself might become the most important person in all creation” or “he himself might be greater than everything and anybody else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 19 npzz grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The word **for** provides a reason for previous statements. If **for** by itself would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify for which statements this verse gives a reason. These statements could be (1) everything in the previous verse, including the Sons headship over the church, his founding of the church, his resurrection, and his status as most important. Alternate translation: “He is all these things because” (2) why the Son is first among all things. Alternate translation: “He is first among all things because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 1 19 nyos figs-explicit ἐν αὐτῷ εὐδόκησεν πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα κατοικῆσαι 1 The verb **was pleased** implies a personal subject, which must be God the Father. By using the phrase **all the fullness**, Paul is speaking figuratively of everything that God the Father is, either by ellipsis or metonymy. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “God the Father was pleased to make all of his fullness dwell in the Son” or “all the fullness of God the Father was pleased to dwell in the Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 19 zu89 figs-metaphor ἐν αὐτῷ εὐδόκησεν πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα κατοικῆσαι 1 Here, Paul speaks figuratively of the Son as though he were a house in which Gods **fullness** could **dwell**. This does not mean that God lives inside of the Son or that the Son is part of God. This means that the Son has all the divinity of God. It means that the Son is fully God just as the Father is fully God. If the metaphor might be misunderstood in your language, you could state it more plainly. Alternate translation: “the Son is fully God in every way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 19 wmdw figs-metonymy πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα 1 In the context, **fullness** stands for the **fullness** of divinity, or everything that characterizes God. If your readers would misunderstand **fullness**, you could make it clear that this word refers to the **fullness** of God. Alternate translation: “full divinity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 19 wmdw figs-metonymy πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα 1 In the context, **fullness** stands for the **fullness** of divinity, or everything that characterizes God. If your readers would misunderstand **fullness**, you could make it clear that this word refers to the **fullness** of God. Alternate translation: “the full divinity of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 20 qweh ἀποκαταλλάξαι 1 through the blood of his cross This verse continues the sentence from the previous verse, so **to reconcile** continues the same verb from there, “was pleased,” along with its implied subject, God the Father. If your readers would misunderstand this, you can repeat that subject and verb here. Alternate translation: “God the Father was pleased to reconcile”
COL 1 20 cf2d τὰ πάντα 1 through the blood of his cross Here, **all things** includes everything that God created, including people. If **all things** would be misunderstood in your language, you can be more specific. Alternate translation: “all things and all people”
COL 1 20 c3qd figs-abstractnouns εἰρηνοποιήσας 1 through the blood of his cross If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **peace**, you could express this idea in another way. Alternate translation: “having made things right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@ -121,7 +122,7 @@ COL 1 23 prwf figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐλπίδος τοῦ εὐαγγελ
COL 1 23 d9kg figs-activepassive τοῦ κηρυχθέντος ἐν πάσῃ κτίσει τῇ ὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανόν 1 which was proclaimed If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. You could: (1) change **proclaimed** to “heard” and make **every creature** the subject. Alternate translation: “which every creature that is under heaven has heard” (2) specify that “fellow believers” is the subject of **proclaimed**. Alternate translation: “which fellow believers have proclaimed to every creature that is under heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 23 q21b figs-hyperbole ἐν πάσῃ κτίσει τῇ ὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανόν 1 to every creature that is under heaven Here Paul uses an exaggeration that the Colossians would have understood to emphasize how far the good news has spread. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or qualify the claim. Alternate translation: “to people in many different places” or “to people in every place we know about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
COL 1 23 lptz translate-unknown τῇ ὑπὸ τὸν οὐρανόν 1 In Pauls culture, **under heaven** refers to the visible part of creation that humans regularly interact with. It excludes spiritual beings, the stars, and anything else in **heaven**. If your readers would misunderstand **under heaven**, you could use a comparable expression. Alternate translation: “that is on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 1 23 g8iq figs-personification οὗ ἐγενόμην ἐγὼ Παῦλος διάκονος 1 of which I, Paul, became a servant Here Paul speaks as if the good news was a person of whom he could become **a servant**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could explain that Paul is **a servant** of God, but his task from God is to proclaim the good news. Alternate translation: “which I, Paul, proclaim as God has commanded me, his servant, to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
COL 1 23 g8iq figs-personification οὗ ἐγενόμην ἐγὼ Παῦλος διάκονος 1 of which I, Paul, became a servant Here Paul speaks as if the good news were a person of whom he could become **a servant**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could explain that Paul is **a servant** of God, but his task from God is to proclaim the good news. Alternate translation: “which I, Paul, proclaim as God has commanded me, his servant, to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
COL 1 24 z01x grammar-connect-words-phrases νῦν 1 The word **Now** indicates that Paul wishes to tell the Colossians how he is currently serving the gospel. It does not indicate a change of topic, as it sometimes does in English. If **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a longer phrase to express this idea. Alternate translation: “While I write this letter,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 1 24 gq1n ἐν τοῖς παθήμασιν ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 Alternate translation: “while I suffer for your sake”
COL 1 24 fm9y figs-metaphor ἀνταναπληρῶ τὰ ὑστερήματα τῶν θλίψεων τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου 1 I fill up in my flesh Paul speaks of his **flesh** as if it were a container that could **fill** up with **afflictions**. By this, he means that his bodily sufferings function to satisfy a specific purpose, which here is to finish what **Christ** started with his **afflictions**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “with my bodily suffering, I finish what the Messiah started when he suffered. I do this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@ -136,7 +137,7 @@ COL 1 25 t6ud figs-possession τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 to fulfill
COL 1 25 elpv figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 to fulfill the word of God Here, **word** figuratively represents a message that is made up of words. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the message from God” or “Gods message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 26 f3mt figs-activepassive τὸ μυστήριον τὸ ἀποκεκρυμμένον 1 the mystery that had been hidden If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “the mystery that God had hidden” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 26 ijtl translate-unknown τὸ μυστήριον 1 Here Paul calls “the word of God,” from [1:25](../01/25.md), a **mystery**. This does not mean that it is hard to understand, but rather, it had not yet been revealed. Now, however, Paul says that it “has been revealed.” If your language would not use **mystery** to refer to something that has been revealed, you could replace **mystery** with a short descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: “the concealed message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 1 26 emw6 figs-explicit τὸ ἀποκεκρυμμένον ἀπὸ τῶν αἰώνων καὶ ἀπὸ τῶν γενεῶν 1 This clause does not mean that the **ages** and the **generations** were unable to understand the “mystery.” Instead, **from the ages** and **from the generations** refer to the time during which the mystery was hidden. Those from whom the mystery was hidden are not expressed explicitly, but it is clear that they are those who were alive during those times. If your language would express those from whom the mystery was hidden, you could insert it into the sentence. Alternate translation: “that has been hidden from the people who lived during the ages and in the generations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 26 emw6 figs-explicit τὸ ἀποκεκρυμμένον ἀπὸ τῶν αἰώνων καὶ ἀπὸ τῶν γενεῶν 1 This clause does not mean that the **ages** and the **generations** were unable to understand the “mystery.” Instead, **from the ages** and **from the generations** refer to the time during which the mystery was hidden. Those from whom the mystery was hidden are not expressed explicitly, but it is clear that they are those who were alive during those times. If your language would express explicitly those from whom the mystery was hidden, you could insert it into the sentence. Alternate translation: “that has been hidden from the people who lived during the ages and in the generations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 26 z8gv translate-unknown ἀπὸ τῶν αἰώνων καὶ ἀπὸ τῶν γενεῶν 1 from the ages and from the generations These phrases speak about the passage of time. The word **ages** refers to periods of time that are marked off by specific boundaries (often major events), while the word **generations** refers to time periods marked off by human birth and death. The **mystery** has been **hidden** during all these time periods up until the present time. If these phrases would be misunderstood in your language, you could use equivalent expressions or short phrases. Alternate translation: “during all time periods, while people were born and died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 1 26 ipfn figs-explicit νῦν δὲ 1 The word **now** does not refer to the time during which Paul wrote this letter. Instead, it contrasts with the **ages** and **generations** and refers to the time or “age” after the work of Jesus. If **now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could further identify what time **now** refers to. Alternate translation: “but now that Jesus has come, it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 26 a9kw figs-activepassive ἐφανερώθη 1 now has been revealed If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has revealed it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
@ -231,7 +232,7 @@ COL 2 12 s2a0 figs-synecdoche συνταφέντες 1 Here Paul refers only to
COL 2 12 r8l8 figs-activepassive συνταφέντες αὐτῷ 1 having been buried with him in baptism If your language does not use this passive form, you could translate this phrase in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God burying you with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 2 12 g1rq figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ…συνηγέρθητε 1 in whom you were raised up Paul here explains that believers are not only united to Christ in his burial but also in his resurrection. It is by being united to him in his resurrection that believers receive new life. If believers being **raised up** now would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate this idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “in union with the Messiah in his resurrection you received new life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 12 yp7u figs-activepassive συνηγέρθητε 1 in whom you were raised up If your language does not use this passive form, you could translate the idea in its active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God raised you up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 2 12 rec6 figs-idiom συνηγέρθητε…τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 you were raised up Paul uses the words **raised up** and **raised him from the dead** to refer to someone who had died coming back to life. If your language does not use these words to describe coming back to life, use a comparable idiom or a short phrase. Alternate translation: “you were restored to life … who restored him to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 2 12 rec6 figs-idiom συνηγέρθητε…τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 you were raised up Paul uses the words **raised up** and **raised him from the dead** to refer to someone who had died and then came back to life. If your language does not use these words to describe coming back to life, use a comparable idiom or a short phrase. Alternate translation: “you were restored to life … who restored him to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 2 12 oo6l figs-abstractnouns διὰ τῆς πίστεως τῆς ἐνεργείας τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 you were raised up If your language does not use abstract nouns to express the ideas behind **faith** and **power**, you could express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “because you trusted in the powerful God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 2 12 j4uy figs-nominaladj νεκρῶν 1 Paul is using the adjective **dead** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “among the dead people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
COL 2 13 oxde writing-pronouns ὑμᾶς νεκροὺς ὄντας ἐν τοῖς παραπτώμασιν καὶ τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν, συνεζωοποίησεν ὑμᾶς 1 Here Paul begins the sentence with **you**, and then he restates **you** when he identifies what God has done for **you**. If your language would not restate **you** or use this structure, you could separate the two uses of **you** into separate sentences. Alternate translation: “you were dead in the trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh. Then, he made you alive together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
@ -303,7 +304,7 @@ COL 2 23 g9i8 translate-unknown ἀφειδίᾳ σώματος 1 The phrase **
COL 2 23 e7p5 figs-abstractnouns ἐστιν…οὐκ ἐν τιμῇ τινι 1 are not of any value against the indulgence of the flesh If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **value**, you could combine it with the verbal phrase **are not** to create a new phrase. Alternate translation: “do nothing” or “are ineffective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 2 23 blil figs-possession πλησμονὴν τῆς σαρκός 1 Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **indulgence** one gives to the **flesh**. If your language would not use the possessive form to express this idea, you could translate **indulgence** with a verb such as “indulging.” Alternate translation: “indulging the flesh.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 2 23 e70e translate-unknown πλησμονὴν τῆς σαρκός 1 If one “indulges” **the flesh**, this means that one has behaved in ways that match what ones weak and sinful parts wish. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word for “sin.” Alternate translation: “sin” or “giving in to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 23 k3x6 figs-abstractnouns πλησμονὴν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **indulgence**, you could use a verb, such as “indulge.” Alternate translation: “indulging the flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 2 23 k3x6 figs-abstractnouns πλησμονὴν τῆς σαρκός 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **indulgence**, you could use a verb, such as “indulge.” Alternate translation: “indulging the flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 intro qtl2 0 # Colossians 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and Formatting<br><br>[4:1](../04/01.md) belongs to the section that begins in [3:18](../03/18.md), even though it is in the next chapter.<br><br>3. Exhortation Section<br> * Seek the Things Above (3:14)<br> * Take off Vices, Put on Virtues (3:517)<br> * Commands for the Household (3:184:1)<br><br>## Special Concepts in this Chapter<br><br>### Old and new “man”<br><br>Paul refers to the old and new “man” in [3:910](../03/09.md). These terms refer to the person before (“old”) and after (“new”) dying and rising with Christ. With these key words, Paul makes a similar claim to what he argued in [2:1113](../02/11.md): believers are not who they used to be; rather, they have received new life in Christ and are new people. Your translation should reflect the idea that Paul tells the Colossians that they are new people in their union with Christ.<br><br>### The wrath of God<br><br>In [3:6](../03/06.md), Paul speaks of the “wrath of God,” which is “coming.” Gods “wrath” is not primarily an emotion, but rather, it is his act of judgment on those who do not believe and who disobey. It is “coming” because God will act in judgment soon. In your translation, emphasize Gods act over his emotion.<br><br>### No Greek and Jew …<br><br>In [3:11](../03/11.md), Paul refers to multiple different ways to categorize people in his world. See the notes on that verse for details. Paul says that none of these categories exist in the “new man.” By this, he means that these categories are not relevant for those who have died and risen with Christ. It is ones status as a “new” person that is relevant and important.<br><br>## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter<br><br>### Christ, your life<br><br>In [3:4](../03/04.md), Paul identifies Christ as the Colossians “life.” This metaphor comes from the previous verse, where Paul says that the Colossians life is “hidden with Christ.” Since their life is in Christ, Christ can be called their life. To say this a different way, the Colossians only have life in Christ, so their life and Christs life are bound together.<br><br>### Avoiding vices, pursuing virtues<br><br>In his exhortation to the Colossians to avoid vices and pursue virtues, Paul uses a number of metaphors. For avoiding vices, he uses the language of “putting to death” ([3:5](../03/05.md)), “laying aside” ([3:8](../03/08.md)), and “taking off” ([3:9](../03/09.md)). All these metaphors require separation from vices, whether that is pictured as putting to death parts of the body that pursue vices or as taking off evil desires as if they were clothing. For pursuing virtues, he opposes “taking off” with “putting on” ([3:10](../03/10.md); [3:12](../03/12.md)). Just as the Colossians should “take off” the desire to pursue vices, they should “put on” the desire to pursue virtues. These metaphors are all intended to help the Colossians pursue virtue instead of vice.<br><br>## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter<br><br>### Vice and virtue lists<br><br>In [3:5](../03/05.md) and [3:8](../03/08.md), Paul gives lists of vices. These lists are not meant to provide a complete catalog of immoral and evil behaviors. Instead, they provide some examples that are meant to show the Colossians the kinds of behaviors that Paul has in mind. In [3:12](../03/12.md), he provides a corresponding list of virtues. The same thinking applies here: this is not a complete catalog of correct or good behavior but instead gives examples of the kinds of things that Paul wants the Colossians to do. You could introduce these lists as examples if it would help your readers understand.<br><br>### The “household code”<br><br>In [3:18](../03/18.md)[4:1](../04/01.md), Paul uses a form that was well-known in his culture. It is often called a “household code,” and it consists of a list of instructions to different members of the household, including parents, children, slaves, and others. Paul uses this form and gives his own specific instructions to members of the household. Of course, he is not addressing a household but a church. He gives his instructions to whomever in the audience was a parent or a child or a slave.
COL 3 1 r5yh grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 If, therefore The word **therefore** introduces an exhortation based on what Paul has already said about being “raised with Christ” in [2:12](../02/12.md). Use a word or phrase that introduces an inference or concluding command based on what has already been said. Alternate translation: “then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 3 1 oav8 grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ…συνηγέρθητε τῷ Χριστῷ 1 Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since … you were raised with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
@ -320,7 +321,7 @@ COL 3 3 oa5x grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The word **for** introduces
COL 3 3 l9yk figs-metaphor ἀπεθάνετε 1 For you died Here Paul expresses in slightly different form the idea he already stated in [2:20](../02/20.md): the Colossians have been united to Christ in his death. As Christ actually died, so God counts the Colossian believers as having **died** with Christ. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate this idea as you did in [2:20](../02/20.md), or express it non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you died in union with the Messiah” or “you participated in the Messiahs death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 3 gkz6 figs-metaphor ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν κέκρυπται σὺν τῷ Χριστῷ ἐν τῷ Θεῷ 1 your life has been hidden with Christ in God Here Paul speaks as if the Colossians lives were objects that could be **hidden** where Christ is, and as if the place they were hidden was God. By using this metaphor, Paul wants the Colossians to know that they are safe (**with Christ in God**) but also that their new life is not yet fully revealed (**hidden**). If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “God is protecting your new life with Christ and will reveal it when the time comes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 3 xetc figs-activepassive ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν κέκρυπται σὺν τῷ Χριστῷ ἐν τῷ Θεῷ 1 your life has been hidden with Christ in God If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “God has hidden your life with Christ in himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 3 3 ihr6 figs-abstractnouns ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν κέκρυπται 1 your life has been hidden with Christ in God If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **life**, you could rephrase the sentence so that you can use a verb for “living.” Alternate translation: “you live because you are hidden” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 3 ihr6 figs-abstractnouns ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν κέκρυπται 1 your life has been hidden with Christ in God If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **life**, you could rephrase the sentence so that you can use a verb for “living.” Alternate translation: “you live in a hidden way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 4 ugge figs-activepassive ὁ Χριστὸς φανερωθῇ, ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could translate the idea in active form with: (1) Christ as the subject. Alternate translation: “Christ, your life, reveals himself” or “Christ, your life, appears” (2) God the Father as the subject. Alternate translation: “God the Father reveals Christ, your life,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 3 4 n4nj figs-metaphor ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν 1 your life Continuing the theme of the Colossians life being hidden with Christ, Paul now identifies Christ as the Colossians **life**. In other words, if the Colossians life is hidden with Christ, then Christ can be called their **life**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable metaphor, or express it non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “who holds your life” or “with whom you have life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 4 kpqf figs-abstractnouns ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν 1 your life If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **life**, you could express the idea with a verb for “living.” Alternate translation: “in whom you live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@ -350,7 +351,7 @@ COL 3 7 jsfs grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ὅτε 1 The word **when** intr
COL 3 7 s824 figs-metaphor ἐζῆτε ἐν τούτοις 1 when you were living in them The phrase **living in** something could mean (1) that the Colossians practiced these sins in addition to having lives characterized by them (“walking in them”). Alternate translation: “you were doing these things” (2) that the Colossians were living among people who did these things. Alternate translation: “you were living among people who did these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 7 pw57 figs-doublet ἐν οἷς καὶ ὑμεῖς περιεπατήσατέ ποτε ὅτε ἐζῆτε ἐν τούτοις. 1 If **which** and **them** both refer to the sins mentioned in [3:5](../03/05.md), then “walking” and **living** in them mean very similar things. Paul uses the repetition to emphasize how thoroughly the Colossians lives were characterized by sins. If your language does not use repetition in this way or has only one phrase for this concept, you can use just one of these phrases. Alternate translation: “in which you also formerly walked” or “in which you used to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 3 8 k2dx grammar-connect-logic-contrast νυνὶ δὲ 1 The phrase **but now** introduces a contrast with the previous verse, a contrast that focuses on time. The word translated **now** refers to the time after the Colossians believed. It introduces how they should behave **now** in contrast to how they behaved “formerly” ([3:7](../03/07.md)). If this contrast would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify what **now** refers to. Alternate translation: “But now that you believe in Jesus,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
COL 3 8 l019 figs-metaphor ἀπόθεσθε 1 Here Paul exhorts the Colossians to **lay aside** sins as if the sins were garments that they could take off or objects they could set down and stop using. By talking this way, Paul encourages the Colossians to no longer use or be associated with sins that are not part of who they are in their union with Christ, just as clothes and objects are not part of the person but can be removed. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “must … disassociate yourselves from” or “must … no longer do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 8 l019 figs-metaphor ἀπόθεσθε 1 Here Paul exhorts the Colossians to **lay aside** sins as if the sins were garments that they could take off or objects they could set down and stop using. By talking this way, Paul encourages the Colossians to no longer use or be associated with sins that are not part of who they are in their union with Christ, just as clothes and objects are not part of the person but can be removed. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “must … separate yourselves from” or “must … no longer do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 8 zltd figs-abstractnouns ὀργήν, θυμόν, κακίαν, βλασφημίαν, αἰσχρολογίαν ἐκ τοῦ στόματος ὑμῶν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind these words, you could express the ideas by using verbs or adjectives. Alternate translation: “wrathful, angry, and lustful behavior, and slanderous and obscene words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 8 ahhs figs-doublet ὀργήν, θυμόν 1 The words **wrath** and **anger** are almost synonymous, with **wrath** emphasizing angry actions and **anger** emphasizing angry emotions. If your language does not have two words for “anger” that work here, you could express the idea with one word. Alternate translation: “anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 3 8 d3wr translate-unknown κακίαν 1 evil desire The phrase **evil desire** is a broad term that means “vice,” the opposite of “virtue.” If your language has a general term for “vice,” you could use it here. Alternate translation: “vice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
@ -378,9 +379,9 @@ COL 3 11 mrpc figs-hyperbole οὐκ ἔνι 1 Here, Paul speaks as if none of
COL 3 11 t2w2 figs-genericnoun οὐκ ἔνι Ἕλλην καὶ Ἰουδαῖος, περιτομὴ καὶ ἀκροβυστία, βάρβαρος, Σκύθης, δοῦλος, ἐλεύθερος 1 there is no Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman All these terms are nouns that refer to groups of people that are characterized by the trait that the noun names. These words do not refer to just one person. If your language has a way to categorize people by characteristics, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “there are no Greek and Jewish people, circumcised and uncircumcised people, barbaric people, Scythian people, enslaved people, free people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
COL 3 11 vt4t translate-unknown βάρβαρος 1 barbarian The word **barbarian** was used by people who spoke Greek to describe anyone who did not speak Greek. If **barbarian** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a word such as “foreign.” Alternate translation: “alien” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 11 n7by translate-unknown Σκύθης 1 Scythian The word **Scythian** was used to describe a nomadic group of people who were fierce warriors. It was also used to describe those who behaved in similar ways, who were often considered rough or rude. If **Scythian** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add an adjective before **Scythian** to clarify its connotation, or you could use a comparable label. Alternate translation: “uncivilized Scythian” or “rough Scythian” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 11 i964 figs-metaphor πάντα καὶ…Χριστός 1 but Christ is all, and in all Here Paul speaks **Christ** as if he himself were **all** things. By this, he means that none of the categories he just listed matter because Christ is the only person who matters. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a verb such as “matters” or a noun such as “importance.” Alternate translation: “Christ is all that matters, and he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 11 i964 figs-metaphor πάντα καὶ…Χριστός 1 but Christ is all, and in all Here Paul speaks of **Christ** as being **all** things. By this, he means that none of the categories he just listed matter because Christ is the only person who matters. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a verb such as “matters” or a noun such as “importance.” Alternate translation: “Christ is all that matters, and he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 11 iqmw figs-metaphor ἐν πᾶσιν 1 Again, Paul speaks of those who have died and risen with Christ. Here, instead of speaking of the Colossians being “in Christ,” he reverses the form, just as he did in [1:27](../01/27.md): Christ is **in all** of those who believe in him. If possible, translate this expression the same way you translated “Christ in you” in [1:27](../01/27.md). Alternate translation: “is united to all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 12 hu90 grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 Here the word **Therefore** introduces an exhortation based on what has already been said. Paul bases his exhortation on what he has already told the Colossians about putting off the old man, putting on the new man, and the effects of this in [3:911](../03/09.md). Use a word or phrase in your language that introduces an exhortation based on what has already been said, and you could refer back to what Paul has already said. Alternate translation: “Because you have put off the old man and put on the new man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 3 12 hu90 grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 Here the word **Therefore** introduces an exhortation based on what Paul has already told the Colossians in [3:911](../03/09.md) about putting off the old man, putting on the new man, and the effects of this. Use a word or phrase in your language that introduces an exhortation based on what has already been said, and you could refer back to what Paul has already said. Alternate translation: “Because you have put off the old man and put on the new man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 3 12 yyfe figs-metaphor ἐνδύσασθε 1 The phrase **put on** uses the same words Paul used in [3:10](../03/10.md) for “having put on” the new man. Here, he uses the same clothing metaphor to show the Colossians that “putting on” the new man means that they also must **put on** the character traits he lists here. This means that they must consistently behave in ways that show **mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, {and} patience**. If possible, translate **put on** as you did in [3:10](../03/10.md). Alternate translation: “step into new virtues, including” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 12 vcc5 grammar-connect-logic-result ὡς 1 Paul uses the word **as** to introduce his description of who the Colossians are. He describes them in ways that will give them a reason to “put on” the virtues he lists. If **as** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using a word or phrase that gives a reason or basis for a command. Alternate translation: “because you are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 3 12 b5ti figs-possession ἐκλεκτοὶ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 as chosen ones of God, holy and beloved Paul here uses the possessive form to indicate that the Colossians are **chosen ones** because **God** chose them. If your language would not use the possessive form to express that idea, you could express the idea by translating **chosen** with a verb such as “chose,” with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “ones whom God has chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
@ -390,16 +391,16 @@ COL 3 12 d217 translate-unknown χρηστότητα 1 put on inward parts of me
COL 3 12 dzuj translate-unknown πραΰτητα 1 put on inward parts of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience The word **gentleness** describes the character trait of being considerate of and gentle with others. If **gentleness** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable word or express the idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “a considerate attitude” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 12 yn05 translate-unknown μακροθυμίαν 1 put on inward parts of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience In this context, the word **patience** refers to the ability to remain calm and even-tempered even when others do things that provoke one to anger. If **patience** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable word or express the idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “and forbearance” or “and the ability to remain calm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 13 m1d9 figs-infostructure ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων καὶ χαριζόμενοι ἑαυτοῖς, ἐάν τις πρός τινα ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 bearing with one another If your language would put the conditional statement first, you could move the **if** clause to the beginning, starting a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If someone may have a complaint against someone else, bear with one another and be gracious to each other” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
COL 3 13 r8iy figs-idiom ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων 1 bearing with one another In Pauls culture, the phrase **bearing with one another** refers to being patient with others, even when they do things that are annoying or strange. If **bearing with one another** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “putting up with one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 13 r8iy figs-idiom ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων 1 bearing with one another In Pauls culture, the phrase **bearing with one another** refers to being patient with others, even when they do things that are annoying or strange. If **bearing with one another** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “putting up with one another” or “being patient with one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 13 rts1 figs-hypo ἐάν 1 being gracious to each other Paul uses **if** to introduce a hypothetical situation that he thinks will happen among the Colossians at times. It is in this kind of situation that he wants them to “bear with one another and be gracious to each other.” If your language would not use **if** to express that idea, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that refers to any time something happens. Alternate translation: “whenever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
COL 3 13 f5f9 figs-idiom τις πρός τινα ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 being gracious to each other This phrase indicates a situation in which one person feels offended or hurt by another person. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or an expression that indicates that one party has been offended or hurt by another. Alternate translation: “a person has been offended by another person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 13 p474 figs-abstractnouns πρός…ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 may have a complaint against If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **complaint**, you could express the idea by combining **complaint** with the verb **have** into a verb such as “complain.” Alternate translation: “may complain against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 13 p474 figs-abstractnouns πρός…ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 may have a complaint against If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **complaint**, you could express the idea by translating the abstract noun as a verb. Alternate translation: “may complain against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 13 lp1o figs-infostructure καθὼς καὶ ὁ Κύριος ἐχαρίσατο ὑμῖν, οὕτως καὶ ὑμεῖς 1 may have a complaint against If your language would put the comparison after the command, you could switch them in your translation, including “forgive” in the new first clause. Alternate translation: “you should forgive others, just as the Lord forgave you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
COL 3 13 lkdl figs-simile καθὼς καὶ ὁ Κύριος ἐχαρίσατο ὑμῖν 1 may have a complaint against Here Paul draws a comparison between how he wants the Colossians to forgive and how Jesus has forgiven them. Use a word or phrase that would normally be used for comparing things that are similar. Alternate translation: “in the same way that the Lord forgave you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
COL 3 13 l0kr figs-ellipsis οὕτως καὶ ὑμεῖς 1 may have a complaint against Paul leaves out words that could be needed in some languages to make a complete statement. If your language needs these words, you could supply words such as “forgive one another.” Alternate translation: “so also you should forgive each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
COL 3 14 l1ik figs-metaphor ἐπὶ πᾶσιν δὲ τούτοις, τὴν ἀγάπην 1 love, which is the bond of perfection Here Paul speaks as if **love** is higher than, or **above**, all the things he has said. By this, he means that **love** is more important than **all these things**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively with a word such as “important” or “essential.” Alternate translation: “But what is most essential is love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 14 mlfc figs-ellipsis τὴν ἀγάπην 1 love, which is the bond of perfection Here Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a complete thought. If your language would include more words, you could insert the words that Paul implies, which can be found in [3:12](../03/12.md): “put on.” Alternate translation: “put on love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
COL 3 14 c5o7 figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἀγάπην 1 love, which is the bond of perfection If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **love**, you could express the idea by using a verb. If your language requires you to specify who the Colossians are supposed to “love,” you could clarify that Paul has other believers in mind first, but also God. Alternate translation: “love one another” or “love each other and God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 14 c5o7 figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἀγάπην 1 love, which is the bond of perfection If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **love**, you could express the idea by using a verb. If your language requires you to specify who the Colossians are supposed to “love,” you could clarify that Paul has other believers in mind first, but he is also thinking of God. Alternate translation: “love one another” or “love each other and God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 14 x5g8 figs-metaphor ὅ ἐστιν σύνδεσμος τῆς τελειότητος 1 love, which is the bond of perfection Here, **the bond of perfection** is a metaphor for something that brings people together in perfect unity. This could refer to (1) the perfect unity in community that Paul wishes for believers. Alternate translation: “which brings you together in perfect unity” (2) the perfect unity that love brings to all Christian virtues. Alternate translation: “which brings all these virtues together to perfection” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 14 bp1w figs-possession σύνδεσμος τῆς τελειότητος 1 love, which is the bond of perfection Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe: (1) **the bond** that leads to **perfection**. Alternate translation: “the bond that brings perfection” (2) **the bond** that has **perfection**. Alternate translation: “the perfect bond” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 3 14 welw figs-abstractnouns σύνδεσμος τῆς τελειότητος 1 love, which is the bond of perfection If your language does not use an abstract noun to express the idea behind **perfection**, you could express the idea by an adjective such as “perfect” or a verb such as “complete.” Alternate translation: “the perfect bond” or “the bond that completes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@ -461,7 +462,7 @@ COL 3 22 m27w figs-metonymy καρδίας 1 with sincerity of heart In Pauls
COL 3 22 tsn9 grammar-connect-logic-result φοβούμενοι τὸν Κύριον 1 with sincerity of heart The phrase **fearing the Lord** could describe: (1) the reason why the slaves should obey their masters. Alternate translation: “because you fear the Lord” (2) the way or manner in which the slaves should obey their masters. Alternate translation: “showing fear for the Lord” or “in a way that shows that you fear the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 3 23 olwu figs-idiom ὃ ἐὰν ποιῆτε 1 as to the Lord In Pauls culture, this is a natural way to refer to anything someone might do, including all possibilities. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a customary way of referring to all possible actions. Alternate translation: “In anything you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 23 itn9 figs-idiom ἐκ ψυχῆς 1 as to the Lord Working **from the soul** is comparable to the English idiom working “with all ones heart,” which refers to doing something with diligence, without holding anything back. If **from the soul** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable idiom or express it non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “with all your heart” or “with all your strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 23 arw4 figs-idiom ὡς τῷ Κυρίῳ καὶ οὐκ ἀνθρώποις 1 as to the Lord This contrast indicates that, even though they serve **men**, they should consider their work to be directed to or in service of **the Lord**. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a contrast phrase such as “even though.” Alternate translation: “to serve the Lord, even though you are serving men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 23 arw4 figs-idiom ὡς τῷ Κυρίῳ καὶ οὐκ ἀνθρώποις 1 as to the Lord This contrast indicates that, even though they serve **men**, they should consider their work to be directed to or in service of **the Lord**. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a contrast phrase such as “even as.” Alternate translation: “to serve the Lord, even as you are serving men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 23 ckiz figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώποις 1 as to the Lord The word **men** does not refer to only male people but to humans in general. If **men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that refers to people or humans in general. Alternate translation: “to humans” or “to people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
COL 3 24 p5qy grammar-connect-logic-result εἰδότες 1 the reward of the inheritance The word **knowing** introduces a reason why the slaves should obey as Paul commands them to in [3:2223](../03/22.md). If **knowing** would not introduce a reason in your language, you could clarify this by using a word such as “because.” Alternate translation: “since you know” or “for you know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 3 24 f3ed figs-possession τὴν ἀνταπόδοσιν τῆς κληρονομίας 1 the reward of the inheritance Here Paul uses the possessive form to identify the **reward** as **the inheritance**. If your language does not use the possessive form in this way, you could clarify that these two words name the same thing by using a phrase such as “that is.” Alternate translation: “the reward, that is, the inheritance” or “the reward, which is your inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
@ -474,10 +475,10 @@ COL 3 25 ak8j figs-metaphor κομιεῖται ὃ ἠδίκησεν 1 doing un
COL 3 25 c9fx figs-abstractnouns οὐκ ἔστιν προσωπολημψία 1 there is no favoritism If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **favoritism**, you could express the idea with a verb such as “favor” or with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “God does not favor anyone” or “God judges everyone by the same standard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 4 intro nm3y 0 # Colossians 4 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and Formatting<br><br>[4:1](../col/04/01.md) belongs to the section that begins in [3:18](../03/18.md), even though it is in this chapter.<br><br>3\. Exhortation Section<br><br>* Prayer Request and Behavior towards Outsiders (4:26)<br><br>4\. Letter Closing (4:718)<br><br>* The Messengers (4:79)<br>* Greetings from Friends (4:1014)<br>* Greetings and Instructions from Paul (4:1517)<br>* Greeting in Pauls Own Hand (4:18)<br><br>## Special Concepts in this Chapter<br><br>### Letter writing and sending<br><br>In this culture, someone who wanted to send a letter often spoke what they wanted to say, and a scribe would write it down for them. Then, they would send the letter with a messenger, who would read the letter to the person or people to whom it was addressed. In this chapter, Paul mentions the messengers with whom he is sending his letter: Tychicus and Onesimus ([4:79](../04/07.md)). They also are able to communicate more about Pauls situation than he says in the letter. Additionally, Paul mentions that he writes the final greeting “by my own hand” ([4:18](../04/18.md)). This is because the rest of the letter was written by a scribe, who wrote down what Paul dictated. Paul writes the last greeting as a personal touch and to prove that he was indeed the author.<br><br>### Greetings<br><br>In this culture, it was common for those who sent letters to include greetings to and from others in their letter. In this way, many people could greet each other but only send one letter. In [4:1015](../04/10.md) Paul includes greetings to and from many people whom he and the Colossians know.<br><br>## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter<br><br>### Pauls chains<br><br>Paul refers to his imprisonment in this chapter by using the language of “chains” and “binding.” He says that he has “been bound” in [4:3](../04/03.md), and he mentions his “chains” in [4:18](../04/18.md). The language of binding and chains emphasizes how Paul is restricted in his movements and activities by being imprisoned.<br><br>## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter<br><br>### A “master in heaven”<br><br>In [4:1](../04/01.md), Paul refers to a “master in heaven.” The word translated “master” and “masters” in this verse is the same word that is translated as “Lord” throughout Colossians. It is translated “master” in this verse to illustrate Pauls point: those who are “masters” on earth also have a “master,” their Lord in heaven. If possible, make this wordplay clear in your translation.
COL 4 1 b9nm οἱ κύριοι 1 what is right and fair Here Paul directly addresses the **Masters** in the audience. Use a form in your language that indicates that the speaker is singling out a specific group of people as the intended audience of the following words. Alternate translation: “You masters”
COL 4 1 orih figs-metaphor τὸ δίκαιον καὶ τὴν ἰσότητα τοῖς δούλοις παρέχεσθε 1 what is right and fair Here Paul speaks of how masters treat their slaves as if the master was “giving” how they treat their slaves. By this, he means that the thing given (**what is right and fair**) is what characterizes the masters dealing with the slave. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using adverbs such as “rightly” and “fairly” with a verb such as “treat.” Alternate translation: “act rightly and fairly towards your slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 1 orih figs-metaphor τὸ δίκαιον καὶ τὴν ἰσότητα τοῖς δούλοις παρέχεσθε 1 what is right and fair Here Paul speaks of how masters treat their slaves as if the master were “giving” the treatment of their slaves. By this, he means that the thing given (**what is right and fair**) is what characterizes the masters dealing with the slave. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using adverbs such as “rightly” and “fairly” with a verb such as “treat.” Alternate translation: “act rightly and fairly towards your slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 1 ae3y figs-doublet τὸ δίκαιον καὶ τὴν ἰσότητα 1 what is right and fair The word **right** describes someone or something that properly follows laws, principles, and expectations. The word translated **fair** describes someone or something that is impartial and does not pick sides. If you have words in your language that roughly represent these ideas, you could them here. If you do not have words that make these distinctions, you could express the idea with one word that indicates that something is fair, legal, and proper. Alternate translation: “what is just and impartial” or “what is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 4 1 pgqt grammar-connect-logic-result εἰδότες 1 what is right and fair Paul uses the word **knowing** to introduce a reason why the masters should treat their slaves as he commands them to. If **knowing** would not introduce a reason in your language, you could make this explicit with a word such as “because” or “since.” Alternate translation: “since you know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 4 1 t9wy figs-explicit Κύριον ἐν οὐρανῷ 1 you also have a master in heaven The word **master** here is usually translated **Lord** elsewhere, but it is here translated **master** because the same word is used for the “masters” at the beginning of the verse. Paul wishes the masters to treat their slaves justly because they also serve a Master, the Lord Jesus. If the person to whom **master** refers would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by identifying that the **master** is the Lord Jesus. Alternate translation: “a master in heaven, the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 4 1 t9wy figs-explicit Κύριον ἐν οὐρανῷ 1 you also have a master in heaven The words **Masters** and **master** are usually translated “lords” and “Lord” elsewhere. However, here they are translated **Masters** and **master** because the relationship between slaves and their masters, or “lords,” is in view. Paul wishes the **Masters** to treat their slaves justly because they also serve a Master, the Lord Jesus. If the person to whom **master** refers would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by identifying that the **master** is the Lord Jesus. Alternate translation: “a master in heaven, the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 4 2 pp1c τῇ προσευχῇ προσκαρτερεῖτε 1 Continue steadfastly in prayer Alternate translation: “Keep praying faithfully” or “Pray consistently”
COL 4 2 gmtv grammar-connect-time-simultaneous γρηγοροῦντες 1 Continue steadfastly in prayer The word **staying alert** expresses what Paul wants the Colossians to do as they pray. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a customary expression that indicates that **staying alert** happens at the same time as they “continue steadfastly in prayer.” Alternate translation: “and stay alert” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
COL 4 2 wv73 ἐν αὐτῇ 1 Continue steadfastly in prayer Alternate translation: “during your time of prayer”
@ -517,7 +518,7 @@ COL 4 7 m52y figs-explicit πιστὸς διάκονος 1 the things concernin
COL 4 7 p7c1 figs-explicit σύνδουλος 1 fellow slave If **fellow slave** would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit that Tychicus is a **slave** of Christ, along with Paul. Alternate translation: “fellow slave of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 4 7 h3mk figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 fellow slave Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in the Lord** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in the Lord**, or united to the Lord, identifies Paul and Tychicus as “slaves” of the Lord because of their union with him. Alternate translation: “in union with the Lord” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)
COL 4 8 wmmd figs-pastforfuture ἔπεμψα 1 the things concerning us Here Paul uses the past tense form **sent** to describe something he has not yet done when he is dictating this letter. He uses the past tense because, when the letter is read to the Colossians, his sending of Tychicus will be in the past. If your language would not use the past tense here, you could use whatever tense would customarily be used in this situation in your language. Alternate translation: “whom I send” or “whom I have sent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
COL 4 8 eei1 figs-doublet εἰς αὐτὸ τοῦτο, ἵνα 1 the things concerning us It may seem that the phrase **for this very reason** contains redundant information in your language, since Paul also includes **so that**. If both of these phrases would be redundant in your language, you could use a single purpose phrase, such as **so that**. Alternate translation: “so that” or “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 4 8 eei1 figs-doublet ὑμᾶς εἰς αὐτὸ τοῦτο, ἵνα 1 the things concerning us It may seem that the phrase **for this very reason** contains redundant information in your language, since Paul also includes **so that**. If both of these phrases would be redundant in your language, you could use a single purpose phrase, such as **so that**. Alternate translation: “you so that” or “you in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 4 8 iv0m translate-textvariants ἵνα γνῶτε τὰ περὶ ἡμῶν 1 he might encourage your hearts While many manuscripts have **so that you might know the things concerning us**, some say “so that he might know the things concerning you.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the phrase it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to follow the example of the ULT. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
COL 4 8 fr1z grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα…καὶ 1 he might encourage your hearts The words **so that** and **and that** introduce two of Pauls purposes in sending Tychicus to the Colossians. If **so that** and **and that** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a customary way to introduce a goal or purpose. Alternate translation: “in order that … and in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 4 8 cty1 figs-idiom τὰ περὶ ἡμῶν 1 the things concerning us Just like the phrase “all the things concerning me” in [4:7](../04/07.md), the phrase **the things concerning us** refers to details about life such as where people are living, their health, how their work is progressing, and other similar details. If your language has a customary way to refer to this kind of information, you could use it here, or you could express the idea with a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: “the news about us” or “the details about how we are doing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
@ -551,12 +552,12 @@ COL 4 12 rq61 figs-idiom ὁ ἐξ ὑμῶν 1 He is from among you The phrase
COL 4 12 ek51 figs-hyperbole πάντοτε 1 a servant of Christ Jesus Here, **always** is an exaggeration that the Colossians would have understood to mean that Epaphras prays for them very often. If **always** would be misunderstood in your language, you can use a word that indicates frequency. Alternate translation: “consistently” or “frequently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
COL 4 12 p8ff figs-metaphor ἀγωνιζόμενος ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐν ταῖς προσευχαῖς 1 always striving on behalf of you in prayers The word **striving** is usually used for attempting to win a contest, whether that is athletic, military, or legal. While Epaphras is not actually participating in an athletic or military contest, Paul uses the metaphor to explain how earnestly Epaphras prays for the Colossians. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “praying zealously for you” or “spending much effort on his prayers for you” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)
COL 4 12 sn23 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The phrase **so that** could introduce: (1) the content of Epaphras' prayers. Alternate translation: “asking that” (2) the purpose or goal of Epaphras prayers. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 4 12 nuh9 figs-metaphor σταθῆτε τέλειοι καὶ πεπληροφορημένοι ἐν παντὶ θελήματι τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 you may stand complete and fully assured Here Paul speaks as if the Colossians can **stand in all the will of God**. By this, he means that they should consistently do Gods will, just as if Gods will was something that they kept their feet on without moving. The words **complete and fully assured** explain the way in which they are supposed to **stand** or continue to obey. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you may be complete and fully assured as you consistently do all the will of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 12 nuh9 figs-metaphor σταθῆτε τέλειοι καὶ πεπληροφορημένοι ἐν παντὶ θελήματι τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 you may stand complete and fully assured Here Paul speaks as if the Colossians can **stand complete and fully assured in all the will of God**. By this, he means that they should consistently do Gods will, just as if Gods will served as a foundation underneath them. The words **complete and fully assured** explain the way in which they are supposed to **stand** or continue to obey. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you may be complete and fully assured as you consistently do all the will of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 12 t6o3 translate-unknown τέλειοι 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The word **complete** in this context means that a person is what he or she is supposed to be and is able to do what he or she is called to do. If **complete** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that has this meaning, such as “perfect” or “excellent,” or translate **complete** with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “fit for what God has called you to be” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown)
COL 4 12 ojtu translate-unknown πεπληροφορημένοι 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The phrase **fully assured** describes people who are confident or sure of what they believe and do. If **fully assured** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “convinced about what you know” or “without doubts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 4 12 s7e7 figs-abstractnouns ἐν παντὶ θελήματι τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 you may stand complete and fully assured If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **will**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “wants” or “desires.” Alternate translation: “in whatever God desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 4 13 sg4h grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you The word **For** introduces further support for Pauls statements about Epaphras in the previous verse. In [4:12](../04/12.md), Paul says that Epaphras is “always striving” for them, and he supports that claim here by giving his own testimony about how hard Epaphras has worked for the Colossians and for other believers who live near them. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces support for a previous statement, or you could refer back to what Paul is supporting. Alternate translation: “You can be sure that he does this, because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 4 13 k8vv figs-abstractnouns ἔχει πολὺν πόνον 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **labor**, you could express the idea by combining **labor** with **has** to create one verb such as “labor.” Alternate translation: “he labors diligently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 4 13 k8vv figs-abstractnouns ἔχει πολὺν πόνον 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **labor**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “labor.” Alternate translation: “he labors diligently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 4 13 zzc8 figs-ellipsis τῶν ἐν Λαοδικίᾳ, καὶ τῶν ἐν Ἱεραπόλει 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you Here Paul leaves out to whom the pronoun **those** refers, since in his language it was clear that **those** refers to people who live in the cities he mentions. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **those** refers to believers who live in these two towns. Alternate translation: “of believers who live in Laodicea, and of believers who live in Hierapolis” or “of believers who live in Laodicea and Hierapolis” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
COL 4 13 d0et figs-explicit Λαοδικίᾳ…Ἱεραπόλει 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you **Laodicea** and **Hierapolis** were towns near Colossae. In fact, they were all in the same valley. If it would be helpful to your readers to clarify that these are nearby towns, you could include this information. Alternate translation: “nearby Laodicea … nearby Hierapolis” or “Laodicea … Hierapolis, churches near you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 4 14 v0ho ἀσπάζεται 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you As was customary in this culture, Paul concludes the letter by extending greetings from people who are with him and who know the people to whom he is writing. Your language may have a particular way of sharing greetings in a letter. If so, you can use that form here. Alternate translation: “asks to be remembered to” or “says hello to”

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