GAL front intro i6u9 0 # Introduction to Galatians<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Galatians<br><br>1. Paul declares his authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ; he says that he is surprised by the false teachings that the Christians in Galatia have accepted from other people (1:1-10).<br>1. Paul says that people are saved by trusting in Christ alone, not by keeping the law (1:11-2:21).<br>1. God puts people right with himself only when they trust in Christ; the example of Abraham; the curse which the law brings (and not a means of salvation); slavery and freedom compared and illustrated by Hagar and Sarah (3:1-4:31).<br>1. When people are joined to Christ, they become free from having to keep the law of Moses. They are also free to live as the Holy Spirit guides them. They are free to refuse the demands of sin. They are free to bear each other’s burdens (5:1-6:10).<br>1. Paul warns the Christians not to trust in being circumcised and in keeping the law of Moses. Instead, they must trust in Christ (6:11-18).<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Galatians?<br><br>Paul from the city of Tarsus was the author. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he began to trust in Jesus Christ, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>It is uncertain when Paul wrote this letter and where he was when he wrote it. Some scholars think Paul was in the city of Ephesus and wrote this letter after the second time he traveled to tell people about Jesus. Other scholars think Paul was in the city of Antioch in Syria and wrote the letter soon after the first time he traveled.<br><br>### What is the Book of Galatians about?<br><br>Paul wrote this letter to both Jewish and non-Jewish Christians in the region of Galatia. He wanted to write against the false teachers who said that Christians need to follow the law of Moses. Paul defended the gospel by explaining that a person is saved by believing in Jesus Christ. People are saved as result of God being kind and not as a result of people doing good works. No person can perfectly obey the law. Any attempt to please God by obeying the law of Moses will only result in God condemning them. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Galatians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Galatia.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What does it mean to “live like Jews” (2:14)?<br><br>To “live like Jews” means to obey the law of Moses, even though one trusts in Christ. The people among the early Christians who taught that this was necessary were called “Judaizers.”<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How did Paul use the terms “law” and “grace” in the Book of Galatians?<br><br>These terms are used in a unique way in Galatians. There is an important teaching in Galatians about Christian living. Under the law of Moses, righteous or holy living required a person to obey a set of rules and regulations. As Christians, holy living is now motivated by grace. This means that Christians have freedom in Christ and are not required to obey a specific set of rules. Instead, Christians are to live a holy life because they are thankful that God has been so kind to them. This is called “the law of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])<br><br>### What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?<br><br>This kind of expression occurs in 1:22; 2:4, 17; 3:14, 26, 28; 5:6, 10. Paul meant to express the idea of a ve
GAL 1 intro f3n5 0 # Galatians 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul started this letter differently than his other letters. He adds that he was “not an apostle from men nor by human agency, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead ones.” Paul probably included these words because false teachers were opposing him and trying to undermine his authority.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Heresy<br>God eternally saves people only through the true, biblical gospel. God condemns any other version of the gospel. Paul asks God to curse those who teach a false gospel. They might not be saved. They should be treated as non-Christians. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/condemn]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/curse]])<br><br>### Paul’s qualifications<br><br>Some people in the early church were teaching that Gentiles needed to obey the law of Moses. To refute this teaching, in verses 13-16 Paul explains how he was formerly a zealous Jew. But God still needed to save him and show him the true gospel. As a Jew, and the apostle to Gentile people, Paul was uniquely qualified to address this issue. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “You are turning so quickly to a different gospel”<br>The Book of Galatians is one of Paul’s earliest letters in Scripture. It shows that heresies troubled even the early church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 1 1 m4ss figs-you 0 General Information: Paul, an apostle, writes this letter to the churches in the area of Galatia. Unless noted otherwise, all instances of “you” and “your” in this letter refer to the Galatians and are plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 1 2 d737 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
GAL 1 4 yk9g figs-metonymy περὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν 1 for our sins Here, **sins** is a metonym the punishment for sin. Alternate translation: “to take the punishment we deserved because of our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 1 4 f6d5 figs-metonymy ὅπως ἐξέληται ἡμᾶς ἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ 1 so that he might deliver us from this present evil age Here, ** this present evil age** represents the powers at work in the age. Alternate translation: “so that he might bring us to a place of safety from the evil powers at work in the world today” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 1 6 v438 figs-metaphor οὕτως ταχέως, μετατίθεσθε ἀπὸ τοῦ καλέσαντος…εἰς ἕτερον εὐαγγέλιον 1 you are turning away so quickly to a different gospel from the one who called Here, **turning away …from the one** is a metaphor for started to doubt or no longer trust God. Alternate translation: “you are so quickly believing a different gospel and starting to doubt the one who called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 1 6 n1rd figs-metaphor οὕτως ταχέως, μετατίθεσθε ἀπὸ…εἰς ἕτερον εὐαγγέλιον 1 you are turning away so quickly to a different gospel from Here, **turning to** is a metaphor that means to start to believe something. Alternate translation: “you are starting to believe a different gospel and leaving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 1 6 x7we τοῦ καλέσαντος ὑμᾶς 1 the one who called you “God, who called you”
GAL 1 6 fd7a τοῦ καλέσαντος 1 the one who called Here this means God has appointed or chosen people to be his children, to serve him, and to proclaim his message of salvation through Jesus.
GAL 1 8 i82d figs-hypo εὐαγγελίζηται ὑμῖν 1 might proclaim to you a gospel This is describing something that has not happened and should not happen. Alternate translation: “would proclaim a gospel to you” or “were to proclaim to you a gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 1 8 s5uq παρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα 1 other than the one we proclaimed “different from the gospel we proclaimed” or “different from the message taught”
GAL 1 8 xb2c ἀνάθεμα ἔστω 1 let him be cursed “God should punish that person forever.” If your language has a common way of calling a curse down on someone, you should use that.
GAL 1 10 b2vc figs-rquestion ἄρτι γὰρ ἀνθρώπους πείθω ἢ τὸν Θεόν? ἢ ζητῶ ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκειν? 1 For am I now persuading men or God? Am I seeking to please men? These rhetorical questions expect the answer “no.” Alternate translation: “I do not persuade men, but instead I seek the approval of God. I am not seeking to please men.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 1 10 fl3c εἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον, Χριστοῦ δοῦλος οὐκ ἂν ἤμην 1 If I am still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ Both the **If** phrase and the following phrase are contrary to fact. “I am not still trying to please men; I am a servant of Christ” or “If I were still trying to please men, then I would not be a servant of Christ”
GAL 1 11 k33s ὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 is not according to man By using this phrase, Paul was not trying to say that Jesus Christ is not himself human. Because Christ is both man and God, however, he is not a sinful human being. Paul is writing about where the gospel came from; that it did not come from other sinful human beings, but it came from Jesus Christ.
GAL 1 12 wed1 δι’ ἀποκαλύψεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 it was by revelation of Jesus Christ Possible meanings are (1) “Jesus Christ himself revealed the gospel to me” or (2) “God made me know the gospel when he showed me who Jesus Christ was.”
GAL 1 14 r44z προέκοπτον 1 I was advancing This metaphor pictures Paul as being ahead of other Jews his age in their goal to be perfect Jews.
GAL 1 14 s81t συνηλικιώτας 1 of my own age “of the Jewish people who are the same age as I am”
GAL 1 14 f1z8 τῶν πατρικῶν μου 1 of my fathers “of my ancestors”
GAL 1 15 wd26 καλέσας διὰ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ 1 called me through his grace Possible meanings are (1) “called me to serve him because he is gracious” or (2) “called me by means of his grace.”
GAL 1 16 l97h ἀποκαλύψαι τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ 1 to reveal his Son in me Possible meanings are (1) “to allow me to know his Son” or (2) “to show the world through me that Jesus is God’s Son.”
GAL 1 16 l5bb guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τὸν Υἱὸν 1 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
GAL 1 16 xx4c εὐαγγελίζωμαι αὐτὸν 1 I might preach him “I would proclaim that he is God’s Son” or “I might preach the good news about God’s Son”
GAL 1 16 qme5 figs-idiom προσανεθέμην σαρκὶ καὶ αἵματι 1 I did … consult with flesh and blood This is an expression that means talking with other people. Alternate translation: “I did … ask people to help me understand the message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
GAL 1 17 qh88 οὐδὲ ἀνῆλθον εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα 1 I did not go up to Jerusalem Jerusalem was in a region of high hills, making it necessary to climb many hills in order to get there, and so it was common to describe travel to Jerusalem as **go up to Jerusalem**.
GAL 1 19 av43 figs-doublenegatives ἕτερον…τῶν ἀποστόλων οὐκ εἶδον, εἰ μὴ Ἰάκωβον 1 I did not see another of the apostles except James This double negative emphasizes that James was the only apostle whom Paul saw. Alternate translation: “the only other apostle I saw was James” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
GAL 1 20 lh36 ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 before God Paul wants the Galatians to understand that Paul is completely serious and that he knows that God hears what he says and will judge him if he does not tell the truth.
GAL 1 20 h3cb figs-litotes ἃ δὲ γράφω ὑμῖν, ἰδοὺ, ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ ὅτι οὐ ψεύδομαι 1 But what I write to you, behold, before God, I am not lying Paul uses litotes to emphasize that he is telling the truth. Alternate translation: “But I am not lying to you in the messages I write to you” or “But in the things I write to you, I am telling you the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
GAL 1 21 m25a κλίματα τῆς Συρίας 1 regions of Syria “part of the world called Syria”
GAL 1 22 y6l4 ἤμην δὲ ἀγνοούμενος τῷ προσώπῳ ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Ἰουδαίας, ταῖς ἐν Χριστῷ 1 But I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea that are in Christ “None of the people in the churches of Judea that are in Christ had ever met me”
GAL 1 23 z8qt μόνον δὲ ἀκούοντες ἦσαν 1 But they were only hearing “But they only knew what they heard others saying about me”
GAL 2 intro xe28 0 # Galatians 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul continues to defend the true gospel. This began in [Galatians 1:11](../../gal/01/11.md).<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Freedom and slavery<br><br>Throughout this letter, Paul contrasts freedom and slavery. The Christian is free in Christ to do many different things. But the Christian who attempts to follow the law of Moses needs to follow the whole law. Paul describes trying to follow the law as a type of slavery. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “I do not negate the grace of God”<br><br>Paul teaches that, if a Christian attempts to follow the law of Moses, they do not understand the grace God has shown to them. This is a fundamental error. But Paul uses the words “I do not negate the grace of God” as a type of hypothetical situation. The purpose of this statement could be seen as, “If you could be saved by following the law, then it would negate the grace of God.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 2 1 zth5 ἀνέβην 1 I went up “I traveled.” Jerusalem is located in hilly country. The Jews also viewed Jerusalem as the place on earth that is closest to heaven, so Paul may have been speaking figuratively, or it may be that it was reflecting the difficult, uphill, journey to get to Jerusalem.
GAL 2 2 msv4 τοῖς δοκοῦσιν 1 to those who seemed to be important “to the most important leaders among the believers”
GAL 2 2 ejb8 figs-metaphor μή πως εἰς κενὸν τρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον 1 lest I might be running—or had run—in vain Paul uses running as a metaphor for work. Alternate translation: “unless perhaps I was doing, or had done, profitable work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 2 2 s6tw figs-doublenegatives μή πως εἰς κενὸν τρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον 1 lest I might be running—or had run—in vain Paul uses a double negative to emphasize that the work he had done was profitable. Alternate translation: “to be sure that I was doing, or had done, profitable work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
GAL 2 2 t6we εἰς κενὸν 1 in vain “for no benefit” or “for nothing”
GAL 2 3 xs8k figs-activepassive περιτμηθῆναι 1 to be circumcised This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to have someone circumcise him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 2 4 j5ka τοὺς παρεισάκτους ψευδαδέλφους 1 the false brothers who came in secretly “people who pretended to be Christians came into the church,” or “people who pretended to be Christians came among us”
GAL 2 4 x1mx κατασκοπῆσαι τὴν ἐλευθερίαν ἡμῶν 1 to spy on our freedom secretly watch us to see how we live in freedom
GAL 2 4 l7n7 figs-explicit ἵνα ἡμᾶς καταδουλώσουσιν 1 so that they would enslave us Paul is speaking about being forced to follow the Jewish rituals that the law commanded. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 2 4 rix6 figs-metaphor ἵνα ἡμᾶς καταδουλώσουσιν 1 so that they would enslave us “to make us slaves to the law.” Paul is speaking about following the Jewish law as if it were slavery. Alternate translation: “to force us to obey the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 2 5 bba7 οὐδὲ…εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ 1 we did not even yield in submission “we did not even submit” or “we did not even listen”
GAL 2 6 afy6 figs-metonymy ἐμοὶ…οὐδὲν προσανέθεντο 1 added nothing to me The word **me** here represents what Paul was teaching. Alternate translation: “added nothing to what I teach” or “did not tell me to add anything to what I teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 2 7 cps6 ἀλλὰ τοὐναντίον 1 But on the contrary “Instead” or “Rather”
GAL 2 7 spa9 figs-activepassive πεπίστευμαι 1 I have been entrusted with This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God trusted me with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 2 9 he6q figs-metaphor δοκοῦντες στῦλοι εἶναι 1 who were recognized to be pillars They were men who taught people about Jesus and convinced people to believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 2 9 ie72 figs-abstractnouns γνόντες τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι 1 when they had understood the grace that had been given to me The abstract noun **grace** can be translated as the verb “be kind.” Alternate translation: “when they had understood that God had been kind to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
GAL 2 9 kz2m figs-activepassive τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι 1 the grace that had been given to me This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the grace that God had given to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 2 9 e5rm translate-symaction δεξιὰς ἔδωκαν ἐμοὶ καὶ Βαρναβᾷ κοινωνίας 1 gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and me Grasping and shaking the right hand was a symbol of fellowship. Alternate translation: “welcomed Barnabas and me as fellow workers” or “welcomed Barnabas and me with honor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
GAL 2 10 kqq6 figs-explicit τῶν πτωχῶν…μνημονεύωμεν 1 we remember the poor You may need to make explicit what about the poor he was to remember. Alternate translation: “we remember to take care of the needs of the poor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 2 11 c9h4 figs-metonymy κατὰ πρόσωπον αὐτῷ ἀντέστην 1 I opposed him to his face The words **to his face** are a metonym for “where he could see and hear me.” Alternate translation: “I confronted him in person” or “I challenged his actions in person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 2 12 xym6 πρὸ 1 before This is in relation to time.
GAL 2 12 s18y ὑπέστελλεν 1 he withdrew “he stopped eating with them”
GAL 2 12 z1kg figs-explicit φοβούμενος τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς 1 being afraid of those from the circumcision The reason Cephas was afraid can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “being afraid that these men who required circumcision would judge that he was doing something wrong” or “being afraid that these men who required circumcision would blame him for doing something wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 2 12 fy79 τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς 1 those from the circumcision Jews who had become Christians, but who demanded that those who believe in Christ live according to Jewish customs
GAL 2 12 a6gv ἀφώριζεν ἑαυτόν 1 separated himself “stayed away from them” or “avoided them”
GAL 2 14 sg53 οὐκ ὀρθοποδοῦσιν πρὸς τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 they were not walking correctly according to the truth of the gospel “they were not living like people who believe the gospel” or “they were living as though they did not believe the gospel”
GAL 2 14 z4fp figs-rquestion πῶς τὰ ἔθνη ἀναγκάζεις Ἰουδαΐζειν 1 how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews? This rhetorical question is a rebuke and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “you are wrong to force the Gentiles to live like Jews.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 2 14 xhbp figs-you ἀναγκάζεις 1 can you force The word **you** is singular and refers to Peter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 2 14 y1zw ἀναγκάζεις 1 can you force Possible meanings are (1) force by using words or (2) persuade.
GAL 2 15 p3x8 0 Connecting Statement: Paul tells the believers that Jews who know the law, as well as Gentiles who do not know the law, are saved only by faith in Christ and not by keeping the law.
GAL 2 15 tz45 οὐκ ἐξ ἐθνῶν ἁμαρτωλοί 1 not Gentile sinners from the Gentiles “not those whom the Jews call Gentile sinners”
GAL 2 16 j7g5 figs-synecdoche οὐ…σάρξ 2 no flesh The word **flesh** is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “no person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
GAL 2 17 vnp6 ζητοῦντες δικαιωθῆναι ἐν Χριστῷ 1 while seeking to be justified in Christ The phrase **justified in Christ** means justified because we are united with Christ and justified by means of Christ.
GAL 2 17 sge2 figs-idiom εὑρέθημεν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἁμαρτωλοί 1 we ourselves, were also found to be sinners The words **were also found to be** are an idiom that emphasizes that “we are” certainly sinners. Alternate translation: “we see that we also certainly are sinners” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
GAL 2 17 yy9s figs-rquestion μὴ γένοιτο 1 May it never be! “Of course, that is not true!” This expression gives the strongest possible negative answer to the preceding rhetorical question “is Christ then a minister of sin?” You may have a similar expression in your language that you could use here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 2 20 bb2x guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 of the Son of God This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
GAL 2 21 tj6l figs-litotes οὐκ ἀθετῶ 1 I do not set aside Paul states a negative to emphasize the positive. Alternate translation: “I confirm the value of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
GAL 2 21 yl3c figs-hypo εἰ…διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη, ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν 1 if righteousness is through the law, then Christ died for nothing Paul is describing a situation that never existed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 2 21 k6bg εἰ…διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη 1 if righteousness is through the law “if people could become righteous by obeying the law”
GAL 3 intro xd92 0 # Galatians 03 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Equality in Christ<br>All Christians are equally united to Christ. Ancestry, gender, and status do not matter. All are equal with each other. All are equal in the eyes of God.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Questions<br>Paul uses many different rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to convince the Galatians of their sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Flesh<br>This is a complex issue. “Flesh” is possibly a metaphor for our sinful nature. Paul is not teaching that the physical part of man is sinful. “Flesh” is used in this chapter to contrast with that which is spiritual. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])<br><br>### “Those of faith are children of Abraham”<br>Scholars are divided on what this means. Some believe Christians inherit the promises that God gave to Abraham, so Christians replace the physical descendants of Israel. Others believe Christians spiritually follow Abraham, but they do not inherit the promises that God gave to Abraham. In light of Paul’s other teachings and the context here, Paul is probably writing about the Jewish and Gentile Christians sharing the same faith as Abraham did. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 1 x4gd 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the believers in Galatia that God gave them God’s Spirit when they believed the gospel by faith, not by their doing God’s law.
GAL 3 1 ryu7 figs-irony τίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν, οἷς κατ’ ὀφθαλμοὺς Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς προεγράφη ἐσταυρωμένος? 1 Who bewitched you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified? Paul is using irony. He does not really believe that someone has put a spell on the Galatians. Alternate translation: “Why are you behaving as if someone has put a spell on you, even though it was clearly described to you how Jesus Christ was crucified?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
GAL 3 1 vmr9 figs-rquestion τίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν, οἷς κατ’ ὀφθαλμοὺς Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς προεγράφη ἐσταυρωμένος 1 Who bewitched you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified Paul is using a rhetorical question to say that the Galatians are acting as though someone has put a spell on them. Alternate translation: “You behave as if someone has put a spell on you, even though it was clearly described to you how Jesus Christ was crucified!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 1 dc2j ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν 1 bewitched you “done magic on you” or “done witchcraft on you”
GAL 3 1 gwv2 figs-metaphor οἷς κατ’ ὀφθαλμοὺς Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς προεγράφη ἐσταυρωμένος 1 before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly displayed as crucified Paul speaks of his clear teaching of Jesus being crucified as if he had put on public display a picture of Jesus being crucified. And he speaks of the Galatians having heard his teaching as if they had seen the picture. Alternate translation: “for you yourselves heard the clear teaching about Jesus being crucified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 2 m1zd figs-irony τοῦτο μόνον θέλω μαθεῖν ἀφ’ ὑμῶν 1 I want to learn only this from you This continues the irony from verse 1. Paul knows the answers to the rhetorical questions he is about to ask. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
GAL 3 2 wq9g figs-rquestion ἐξ ἔργων νόμου τὸ Πνεῦμα ἐλάβετε, ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως 1 Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith? Translate this rhetorical question as a question if you can, because the reader will be expecting a question here. Also, be sure that the reader knows that the answer to the question is “by believing what you heard,” not “by doing what the law says.” Alternate translation: “You received the Spirit, not by doing what the law says, but by believing what you heard.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 3 f96u figs-rquestion οὕτως ἀνόητοί ἐστε 1 Are you so foolish? This rhetorical question shows that Paul is surprised and even angry that the Galatians are foolish. Alternate translation: “You are very foolish!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 3 xu4d figs-metonymy σαρκὶ 1 by the flesh The word **flesh** is a metonym for effort. Alternate translation: “by your own effort” or “by your own work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 3 4 iyj1 figs-rquestion τοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ— εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ? 1 Have you suffered so many things for nothing—if indeed it was really for nothing? Paul uses this question to remind the Galatians that when they were suffering, they believed that they would receive some benefit. Alternate translation: “Surely you did not think that you were suffering so many things for nothing—and indeed it was not in vain!” or “Surely you knew that there was some good purpose for suffering so many things, and that is was not for nothing!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 4 qn1a figs-explicit τοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ 1 Have you suffered so many things for nothing It can be stated clearly that they had suffered these things because of people who opposed them for their faith in Christ. Alternate translation: “Have you suffered so many things by those who opposed you for your faith in Christ for nothing” or “You believed in Christ, and you suffered many things by those who oppose Christ. Were your belief and suffering for nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 3 4 nq68 εἰκῇ 1 for nothing “uselessly” or “without the hope of receiving something good”
GAL 3 4 xl9l figs-rquestion εἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ? 1 if indeed it was really for nothing? Possible meanings are (1) Paul uses this rhetorical question to warn them not to let their experiences be for nothing. Alternate translation: “Do not let it be for nothing!” or “Do not stop believing in Jesus Christ and let your suffering be for nothing.” or (2) Paul uses this question to assure them that their suffering was not for nothing. Alternate translation: “It was certainly not for nothing!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 5 s3bc figs-rquestion ἐξ ἔργων νόμου ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως 1 is it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Paul asks another rhetorical question to remind the Galatians how people receive the Spirit. Alternate translation: “he does not do it by the works of the law; he does it by hearing with faith.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 5 j4vz ἐξ ἔργων νόμου 1 is it by the works of the law This represents people doing the works that the law requires. Alternate translation: “is it because you do what the law tells us to do”
GAL 3 5 e17q figs-explicit ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως 1 by the hearing of faith Your language may require that what the people heard and whom they trusted be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “because you heard the message and had faith in Jesus” or “because you listened to the message and trusted in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 3 6 f7sv ἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην 1 it was credited to him as righteousness God saw Abraham’s faith in God, so then God considered Abraham righteous.
GAL 3 7 i9x4 figs-abstractnouns οἱ ἐκ πίστεως 1 those by faith “those who have faith.” The meaning of the noun **faith** can be expressed with the verb “believe.” Alternate translation: “those who believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
GAL 3 7 kq1h figs-metaphor υἱοί…Ἀβραὰμ 1 sons of Abraham This represents people whom God views as he viewed Abraham. Alternate translation: “righteous in the same way as Abraham” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 8 vs1m figs-personification προϊδοῦσα 1 having forseen Because God made the promise to Abraham and they wrote it down before the promise came through Christ, the scripture is like someone who knows the future before it happens. Alternate translation: “having predicted” or “having seen before it happened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 3 8 k9tp figs-you ἐν σοὶ 1 In you “Because of what you have done” or “Because I have blessed you.” The word **you** refers to Abraham and is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 3 8 j83j πάντα τὰ ἔθνη 1 all the nations “all the people-groups in the world.” God was emphasizing that he was not favoring only the Jewish people, his chosen group. His plan of salvation was for both Jews and non-Jews.
GAL 3 10 jhr2 figs-metonymy ὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου εἰσὶν ὑπὸ κατάραν εἰσίν 1 For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse Being under a curse represents being cursed. Alternate translation: “Those who rely on doing what the law says are cursed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 3 10 pwff figs-metaphor ὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου εἰσὶν ὑπὸ κατάραν εἰσίν 1 For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse Being under a curse refers to being eternally punished. Alternate translation: “God will eternally punish those who rely on obeying the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 11 sn9h figs-explicit ὅτι δὲ ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ δῆλον 1 But, that no one is justified before God by the law is clear Why this is clear can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “But the scriptures are clear that no one is justified before God by the law” or “But the scriptures teach clearly that the law is not able to justify anyone before God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 3 11 k6k5 ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ 1 no one is justified before God by the law This can be stated with an active verb. Alternate translation: “God justifies no one by the law” or “God does not justify anyone by the law”
GAL 3 11 k1pq figs-explicit ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ 1 no one is justified before God by the law Paul is correcting their believe that if they obeyed the law, God would justify them. Alternate translation: “no one is justified before God by obeying the law” or “God does not justify anyone for their obedience to the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 3 11 i537 figs-nominaladj ὁ δίκαιος ἐκ πίστεως ζήσεται 1 The righteous will live by faith The nominal adjective **righteous** refers to righteous people. Alternate translation: “righteous people will live by faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
GAL 3 12 rep5 ζήσεται ἐν αὐτοῖς 1 will live in them Possible meanings are (1) “must obey them all” or (2) “will be judged by his ability to do what the law demands.”
GAL 3 13 x2lc 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds these believers again that keeping the law could not save a person and that the law did not add a new condition to the promise by faith given to Abraham.
GAL 3 13 ml63 ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου 1 from the curse of the law The noun **curse** can be expressed with the verb “curse.” Alternate translation: “from being cursed because of the law” or “from being cursed for not obeying the law”
GAL 3 13 mp4p figs-metonymy ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου, γενόμενος ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν κατάρα…ἐπικατάρατος πᾶς 1 from the curse of the law … becoming a curse for us … Cursed is everyone The word **curse** here is a metonym for God condemning the person whom he has cursed. Alternate translation: “from us having God condemn us because we broke the law … having God condemn him instead of us … God condemns everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 3 13 mt6z ὁ κρεμάμενος ἐπὶ ξύλου 1 who hangs on a tree Paul expected his audience to understand that he was referring to Jesus hanging on the cross.
GAL 3 14 brf7 ἵνα…ἡ εὐλογία τοῦ Ἀβραὰμ γένηται 1 so that the blessing of Abraham might come “because Christ became a curse for us, the blessing of Abraham will come”
GAL 3 14 fa98 ἵνα…λάβωμεν διὰ τῆς πίστεως 2 so that through faith we might receive “because Christ became a curse for us, by faith we will receive”
GAL 3 14 h46q figs-exclusive λάβωμεν 1 we might receive The word **we** includes the people who would read the letter and so is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
GAL 3 16 w3wl ὡς ἐπὶ πολλῶν 1 as to many “referring to many descendants”
GAL 3 16 t25e figs-you σπέρματί σου 1 to your seed The word **your** is singular and refers to a specific person, who is a particular descendant of Abraham (and that descendant is identified as “Christ”). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 3 17 h36m translate-numbers τετρακόσια καὶ τριάκοντα ἔτη 1 430 years “four hundred and thirty years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
GAL 3 18 ujg2 figs-hypo εἰ γὰρ ἐκ νόμου ἡ κληρονομία, οὐκέτι ἐξ ἐπαγγελίας 1 For if the inheritance is from the law, it is no longer from promise Paul is speaking of a situation that did not exist to emphasize that the inheritance came only by means of the promise. Alternate translation: “the inheritance comes to us by means of the promise, because we could not keep the demands of God’s law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 3 18 c8fu figs-metaphor ἡ κληρονομία 1 the inheritance Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were an **inheritance** of property and wealth from a family member, and eternal blessings and redemption. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 19 kx2e figs-rquestion τί οὖν ὁ νόμος 1 What, then, is the law? Paul uses a rhetorical question to introduce the next topic he wants to discuss. It can also be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I will tell you what the purpose of the law is.” or “Let me tell you why God gave the law.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 3 19 uk9m figs-activepassive προσετέθη 1 added This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God added it” or “God added the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 3 19 cf66 figs-activepassive διαταγεὶς δι’ ἀγγέλων ἐν χειρὶ μεσίτου 1 It was put into effect through angels by the hand of a mediator This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God issued the law with the help of angels, and a mediator put it into force” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 3 19 bgi6 figs-metonymy ἐν χειρὶ μεσίτου 1 by the hand of a mediator Here, **hand** represents the personal involvement of the mediator. Alternate translation: “through the actions of a representative” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 3 20 x9l1 ὁ δὲ μεσίτης ἑνὸς οὐκ ἔστιν, ὁ δὲ Θεὸς εἷς ἐστιν 1 Now a mediator is not for one, but God is one God gave his promise to Abraham without a mediator, but he gave the law to Moses with a mediator. As a result, Paul’s readers may have thought that the law somehow made the promise to no effect. Paul is stating what his readers might have thought here, and he will respond to them in the verses that follow.
GAL 3 21 wes3 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: The word **us** in this section refers to all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
GAL 3 21 b8xx figs-activepassive εἰ…ἐδόθη νόμος ὁ δυνάμενος ζῳοποιῆσαι 1 if a law had been given that was able to make alive This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if God had given a law that enabled those who kept it to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 3 21 iyg9 ἐν νόμου ἂν ἦν ἡ δικαιοσύνη 1 righteousness would have come by the law “we could have become righteous by obeying that law”
GAL 3 22 n5js συνέκλεισεν ἡ Γραφὴ τὰ πάντα ὑπὸ ἁμαρτίαν, ἵνα ἡ ἐπαγγελία ἐκ πίστεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ δοθῇ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν 1 the scripture imprisoned all things under sin so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe Other possible meanings are (1) “because we all sin, God put all things under the control of the law, like putting them in prison, so that what he has promised to those who have faith in Christ Jesus he might give to those who believe” or (2) “because we sin, God put all things under the control of the law, like putting them in prison. He did this because what he has promised to those who have faith in Christ Jesus he wants to give to those who believe.”
GAL 3 22 jbn7 figs-personification Γραφὴ 1 scripture Paul is treating scripture as though it were a person and is speaking of God, who wrote scripture. Alternate translation: “God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 3 23 rch2 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds those in Galatia that believers are free in God’s family, not slaves under the law.
GAL 3 23 su16 figs-activepassive ὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι 1 we were held captive under the law, imprisoned This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the law held us captive and we were in prison” or “the law held us captive in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 3 23 bs6i figs-metaphor ὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι 1 we were held captive under the law, imprisoned The way the law controlled us is spoken of as if the law were a prison guard holding us as captives. Alternate translation: “the law controlled us like a prison guard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 23 t32j figs-activepassive εἰς τὴν μέλλουσαν πίστιν ἀποκαλυφθῆναι 1 to the faith about to be revealed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “until God would reveal that he justifies those who have faith in Christ” or “until God would reveal that he justifies those who trust in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 3 24 ln1s παιδαγωγὸς 1 guardian More than simply “one who gives oversight to a child,” this was usually a slave who was responsible for enforcing rules and behaviors given by the parent and would report to the parent on the child’s actions.
GAL 3 24 s8g5 figs-activepassive ἵνα…δικαιωθῶμεν 1 so that we might be justified Before Christ came, God had planned to justify us. When Christ came, he carried out his plan to justify us. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that God would declare us to be righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 3 27 v6n1 ὅσοι γὰρ εἰς Χριστὸν ἐβαπτίσθητε 1 For as many as were baptized into Christ “For everyone who was baptized into Christ”
GAL 3 27 di9v figs-metaphor Χριστὸν ἐνεδύσασθε 1 have put on Christ Possible meanings are (1) this is a metaphor meaning that they have been united to Christ. Alternate translation: “have become united with Christ” or “belong to Christ” or (2) this is a metaphor meaning that they have become like Christ. Alternate translation: “have become like Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 3 28 tyb8 οὐκ ἔνι Ἰουδαῖος οὐδὲ Ἕλλην, οὐκ ἔνι δοῦλος οὐδὲ ἐλεύθερος, οὐκ ἔνι ἄρσεν καὶ θῆλυ 1 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female “God sees no difference between Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female”
GAL 3 29 qp4z figs-metaphor κληρονόμοι 1 heirs The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 intro h6gw 0 # Galatians 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with verse 27, which is quoted from the Old Testament.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Sonship<br>Sonship is a complex issue. Scholars have many views on Israel’s sonship. Paul uses sonship to teach how being under the law differs from being free in Christ. Not all of Abraham’s physical descendants inherited God’s promises to him. Only his descendants through Isaac and Jacob inherited the promises. And God only adopts into his family those who follow Abraham spiritually through faith. They are children of God with an inheritance. Paul calls them “children of promise.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/inherit]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/adoption]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Abba, Father<br>“Abba” is an Aramaic word. In ancient Israel, people used it to informally refer to their fathers. Paul “transliterates” its sounds by writing them with Greek letters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])
GAL 4 1 fr5u 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to remind the Galatian believers that Christ came to redeem those who were under the law, and that he made them no more slaves but sons.
GAL 4 3 d6v9 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: The word **we** here refers to all Christians, including Paul’s readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
GAL 4 3 n21q figs-metaphor ὅτε ἦμεν νήπιοι 1 when we were children Here, **children** is a metaphor for being spiritually immature. Alternate translation: “when we were like children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 3 cd2w figs-activepassive ἡμεῖς…ὑπὸ τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου ἤμεθα δεδουλωμένοι 1 we were enslaved to the elemental principles of the world This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the elemental principles of the world controlled us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 4 3 gl4w figs-metaphor ἡμεῖς…ὑπὸ τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου ἤμεθα δεδουλωμένοι 1 we were enslaved by the elemental principles of the world Here, **enslaved** is a metaphor being unable to stop one’s self from doing something. Alternate translation: “we had to obey the elemental principles of the world as if we were slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 3 u462 τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου 1 the elemental principles of the world Possible meanings are (1) this refers to the laws or moral principles of the world, or (2) this refers to spiritual powers, which some people thought control what happens on earth.
GAL 4 4 l5tf guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τὸν Υἱὸν 1 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
GAL 4 5 v5cb figs-metaphor ἐξαγοράσῃ 1 redeem Paul uses the metaphor of a person buying back lost property or buying the freedom of a slave as a picture of Jesus paying for his people’s sins by dying on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 6 a274 ἐστε υἱοί 1 you are sons Paul uses the word for male child here because the subject is inheritance. In his culture and that of his readers, inheritance passed most commonly, but not always, to male children. He was neither specifying nor excluding female children here.
GAL 4 6 eqx5 ἐξαπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν κρᾶζον, Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ 1 God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father.” By calling out “Abba, Father” the Spirit assures us that we are God’s children and he loves us.
GAL 4 6 nei3 figs-metonymy ἐξαπέστειλεν…τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν 1 has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts Here, **hearts** is metonym for the part of a person that thinks and feels. Alternate translation: “sent his Son’s Spirit to show us how to think and act” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 4 6 xhe6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 of his Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
GAL 4 6 s54r κρᾶζον 1 crying out The Spirit is the one who calls.
GAL 4 6 mlg1 Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ 1 Abba, Father This is the way a young child would address his father in Paul’s home language, but not in the language of the Galatian readers. To keep the sense of a foreign language, translate this as a word that sounds as much like **Abba** as your language allows.
GAL 4 7 e7tc οὐκέτι εἶ δοῦλος, ἀλλὰ υἱός 1 you are no longer a slave, but a son Paul uses the word for male child here because the subject is inheritance. In his culture and that of his readers, inheritance passed most commonly, but not always, to male children. He was neither specifying nor excluding female children here.
GAL 4 7 akb8 figs-you οὐκέτι εἶ δοῦλος…καὶ κληρονόμος 1 you are no longer a slave…also an heir Paul is addressing his readers as though they are one person, so **you** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 4 7 d5hu figs-metaphor κληρονόμος 1 an heir The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 8 ukf5 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the Galatian believers that they are again trying to live under God’s laws rather than living by faith.
GAL 4 8 cj5i τοῖς φύσει μὴ οὖσι θεοῖς 1 those who are, by nature, not gods “those things that are not really gods” or “those spirits who are no the same as gods”
GAL 4 9 ghx1 figs-activepassive γνωσθέντες ὑπὸ Θεοῦ 1 having come to be known by God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “since God knows you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 4 9 b8ue figs-metaphor πῶς ἐπιστρέφετε πάλιν ἐπὶ τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα 1 how are you turning again to the weak and worthless elemental principles Here, **turning back to** is a metaphor for starting to pay attention to something again. Alternate translation: “why are you paying attention to the weak and worthless elemental principles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 9 vska figs-rquestion πῶς ἐπιστρέφετε πάλιν ἐπὶ τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα, οἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε? 1 how are you turning again to the weak and worthless elemental principles, to which once more you want to be enslaved again? This is a rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “you should not start paying attention to the weak and worthless elemental principles because you do not want to be enslaved by them again.” or “you should not be concerned with the weak and worthless elemental principles or allow them to take you captive again.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 4 9 n5ie τὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα 1 the weak and worthless elemental principles See how you translated this phrase in [Galatians 4:3](../04/03.md).
GAL 4 9 s77e figs-metaphor οἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε 1 to which once more you want to be enslaved again Here being **enslaved** is a metaphor for being obligated to obey certain rules or customs. Alternate translation: “Do you want to have to obey rules again like a slave has to obey his master?” or “It seems that you want to be controlled all over again!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 10 w7d5 ἡμέρας παρατηρεῖσθε, καὶ μῆνας, καὶ καιροὺς, καὶ ἐνιαυτούς 1 You are observing days and months and seasons and years Paul is speaking of their being careful to celebrate certain times, thinking that doing that will make them right with God. Alternate translation: “You carefully celebrate days and months and seasons and years”
GAL 4 11 bsv1 εἰκῇ 1 for nothing “with no effect” or “without result”
GAL 4 12 ql14 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the Galatian believers how kindly they treated him when he was with them, and he encourages them to continue to trust him while he is not there with them.
GAL 4 12 n3wf οὐδέν με ἠδικήσατε 1 You did me no harm This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “You treated me well” or “You treated me as you should have”
GAL 4 14 tk1l τὸν πειρασμὸν ὑμῶν ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου 1 my trial in your flesh “my physical illness, although it was difficult for you”
GAL 4 17 t1ft ζηλοῦσιν ὑμᾶς 1 They are zealous for you “They are eager to convince you to join them”
GAL 4 17 s9kn ἐκκλεῖσαι ὑμᾶς 1 to shut you out “to shut you out from us” or “to make you stop being loyal to us”
GAL 4 17 iv1d αὐτοὺς ζηλοῦτε 1 you would be zealous for them “you would be zealous to do what they tell you to do”
GAL 4 19 u3eb figs-metaphor τέκνα μου 1 My little children This is a metaphor for disciples or followers. Alternate translation: “You who are disciples because of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 19 yf9e figs-metaphor οὓς πάλιν ὠδίνω, μέχρις οὗ μορφωθῇ Χριστὸς ἐν ὑμῖν 1 with whom I am in labor again until Christ has been formed in you Paul uses childbirth as a metaphor for his concern about the Galatians. Alternate translation: “with whom I am in pain as though I were a woman having to give birth to you, and I will continue to be in pain until Christ truly controls you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 21 u6fs figs-rquestion τὸν νόμον οὐκ ἀκούετε? 1 do you not listen to the law? Paul is introducing what he will say next. Alternate translation: “you need to learn what the law really says.” or “let me tell you what the law really says.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 4 24 bu23 ἅτινά ἐστιν ἀλληγορούμενα 1 These are spoken as an allegory “This story of the two sons is like a picture of what I will tell you now”
GAL 4 24 k5qu ἀλληγορούμενα 1 spoken as an allegory An **allegory** is a story in which the people and things in it represent other things. In Paul’s allegory, the two women referred to in [Galatians 4:22](../04/22.md) represent two covenants.
GAL 4 24 ruw4 αὗται γάρ εἰσιν 1 for they are “for these women are a picture of”
GAL 4 24 u4hr figs-synecdoche Ὄρους Σινά 1 Mount Sinai **Mount Sinai** here is a synecdoche for the law that Moses gave to the Israelites there. Alternate translation: “Mount Sinai, where Moses gave the law to Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
GAL 4 24 u3u9 figs-personification εἰς δουλείαν γεννῶσα 1 giving birth to slavery Paul treats the law as if it were a woman who could give birth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 4 24 sxtj figs-metaphor εἰς δουλείαν γεννῶσα 1 giving birth to slavery A person becoming a slave to the law is spoken of as if they were born into that slavery. Alternate translation: “causing people under this covenant to be like slaves who have to obey the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 25 u1cc συνστοιχεῖ 1 corresponding to “she is a picture of” or “she represents”
GAL 4 25 ck7v figs-metaphor δουλεύει…μετὰ τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς 1 she is in slavery with her children Hagar is a slave and her children are slaves with her. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem, like Hagar, is a slave, and her children are slaves with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 27 ih2f figs-you στεῖρα…ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα 1 you barren one … you who are not suffering the pains of childbirth Here, **you** refers to the barren woman and is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 4 28 ct63 ἐπαγγελίας τέκνα 1 children of promise Possible meanings are that the Galatians have become God’s **children** (1) by believing God’s promise or (2) because God worked miracles to fulfill his promises to Abraham, first by giving Abraham a son and then by making the Galatians children of Abraham and thus sons of God.
GAL 4 29 c9lf figs-metaphor κατὰ σάρκα 1 according to the flesh This refers to Abraham’s becoming Ishmael’s father by taking Hagar as a wife. Alternate translation: “by means of human action” or “because of what people did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 4 29 gt1e κατὰ Πνεῦμα 1 according to the Spirit “because of something the Spirit did”
GAL 4 31 y3c2 figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ τῆς ἐλευθέρας 1 but of the free woman The words “we are children” are understood from the previous phrase. This can be translated as a separate sentence. Alternate translation: “rather, we are children of the free woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
GAL 5 intro bcg3 0 # Galatians 05 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul continues writing about the law of Moses as something that traps or enslaves a person. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Fruit of the Spirit<br>The phrase “the fruit of the Spirit” is not plural, even though it begins a list of several things. Translators should keep the singular form if possible. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Illustrations<br>Paul uses several metaphors in this chapter to illustrate his points and help explain complicated issues. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “You are cut off from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you no longer experience grace.”<br>Some scholars think Paul teaches that being circumcised causes a person to lose their salvation. Other scholars think Paul means that obeying the law to try to get right with God will keep a person from being saved by grace. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]])
GAL 5 1 up16 0 Connecting Statement: Paul applies the allegory by reminding the believers to use their liberty in Christ because all the law is fulfilled in loving neighbors as ourselves.
GAL 5 1 kuu9 figs-explicit τῇ ἐλευθερίᾳ, ἡμᾶς Χριστὸς ἠλευθέρωσεν 1 For freedom Christ has set us free “It is so that we can be free that Christ has set us free.” It is implied that **Christ** sets believers **free** from the old covenant. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 1 xd2m figs-metaphor τῇ ἐλευθερίᾳ, ἡμᾶς Χριστὸς ἠλευθέρωσεν 1 For freedom Christ has set us free Here, **freedom** from the old covenant is a metaphor for not being obligated to obey it. Alternate translation: “Christ has set us free from the old covenant so that we might be free” or “Christ has set us free so that we might live as free people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 1 j679 figs-metaphor στήκετε 1 Stand firm To **stand firm** here represents being determined not to change. Alternate translation: “Do not give in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 1 qhdv figs-explicit στήκετε 1 Stand firm How they are not to change can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Do not give in to the arguments of people who teach something else” or “Be determined to stay free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 1 usl9 figs-metaphor μὴ πάλιν ζυγῷ δουλείας ἐνέχεσθε 1 do not again be subjected to a yoke of slavery Here being under control of a yoke of slavery represents being obligated to obey the law. Alternate translation: “do not live like one who is under the control of a yoke of slavery to the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 2 bg6b figs-metonymy ἐὰν περιτέμνησθε 1 if you let yourselves be circumcised Paul is using circumcision as a metonym for Judaism. Alternate translation: “if you turn to the Jewish religion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 5 3 s1af figs-metonymy παντὶ ἀνθρώπῳ περιτεμνομένῳ 1 to every man who lets himself be circumcised Paul is using circumcision as a metonym for being Jewish. Alternate translation: “to every person who has become a Jew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 5 4 h4yu figs-metaphor κατηργήθητε ἀπὸ Χριστοῦ 1 You were cut off from Christ Here, **cut off** is a metaphor for separation from Christ. Alternate translation: “You have ended your relationship with Christ” or “You are no longer united with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 4 ipf7 figs-irony οἵτινες ἐν νόμῳ δικαιοῦσθε 1 whoever is being justified by the law Paul is speaking ironically here. He actually teaches that no one can be **justified** by trying to do the deeds required by the **law**. Alternate translation: “all you who think you can be justified by doing the deeds required by the law” or “you who want to be justified by the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
GAL 5 4 k6xe figs-explicit τῆς χάριτος ἐξεπέσατε 1 you have fallen from grace Who that **grace** comes from can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “God will not be gracious to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 5 pdm1 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Here the word **we** refers to Paul and those who oppose the circumcision of Christians. He is probably including the Galatians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
GAL 5 5 qg9m ἡμεῖς…ἐκ πίστεως ἐλπίδα δικαιοσύνης ἀπεκδεχόμεθα 1 by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness Possible meanings are (1) “we are waiting by faith for the hope of righteousness” or (2) “we are waiting for the hope of righteousness that comes by faith.”
GAL 5 5 z3ga ἡμεῖς…ἐλπίδα δικαιοσύνης ἀπεκδεχόμεθα 1 we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness “we are waiting patiently and with excitement for God to put us right with himself forever, and we expect him to do it”
GAL 5 6 y2ww figs-metonymy οὔτε περιτομή…οὔτε ἀκροβυστία 1 neither circumcision nor uncircumcision These are metonymy for being a Jew or a non-Jew. Alternate translation: “neither being a Jew nor not being a Jew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 5 6 n1hc ἀλλὰ πίστις δι’ ἀγάπης ἐνεργουμένη 1 but only faith working through love “rather, God is concerned with our faith in him, which we show by loving others”
GAL 5 6 qp6b τι ἰσχύει 1 is capable of anything is worthwhile
GAL 5 8 ct7g ἡ πεισμονὴ οὐκ ἐκ τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς 1 This persuasion is not from the one who calls you “The one who persuades you to do that is not God, the one who calls you”
GAL 5 8 j7f8 figs-explicit τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς 1 the one who calls you What he calls them to can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the one who calls you to be his people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 10 enp1 οὐδὲν ἄλλο φρονήσετε 1 you will think nothing otherwise “you will not believe anything different from what I am telling you”
GAL 5 10 rb76 ὁ δὲ ταράσσων ὑμᾶς, βαστάσει τὸ κρίμα 1 But the one who is troubling you will bear the judgment “But God will punish the one who is troubling you”
GAL 5 10 jc72 ταράσσων ὑμᾶς 1 who is troubling you “who is causing you to be uncertain about what is truth” or “who stirs up trouble among you”
GAL 5 10 llh5 ὅστις ἐὰν ᾖ 1 whoever he may be Possible meanings are (1) Paul does not know the names of the people who are telling the Galatians that they need to obey the law of Moses or (2) Paul does not want the Galatians to care about whether those who “confuse” them are rich or poor or great or small or religious or not religious.
GAL 5 11 d4mm figs-hypo ἐγὼ δέ, ἀδελφοί, εἰ περιτομὴν ἔτι κηρύσσω, τί ἔτι διώκομαι? 1 But brothers, if I still proclaim circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? Paul is describing a situation that does not exist to emphasize that people are persecuting him because he is not preaching that people need to become Jews. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 5 11 vcz5 figs-rquestion ἐγὼ δέ, ἀδελφοί, εἰ περιτομὴν ἔτι κηρύσσω, τί ἔτι διώκομαι? 1 But brothers, if I still proclaim circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? This rhetorical question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “But brothers, you can see that I am not still proclaiming circumcision because the Jews are persecuting me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
GAL 5 11 nv5x ἀδελφοί 1 brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md).
GAL 5 11 znh3 figs-hypo ἄρα κατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 In that case the stumbling block of the cross has been removed Paul is describing a situation that does not exist to emphasize that people persecute him because he is preaching that God forgives people because of Jesus’ work on the **cross**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
GAL 5 11 y3ug figs-activepassive κατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 the stumbling block of the cross has been removed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the teaching about the cross would not be a stumbling block” or “there is nothing in the teaching of the cross that would cause people to stumble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 5 11 arj5 figs-explicit κατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 the stumbling block of the cross has been removed Stumbling represents sinning, and the sin is to reject the truth of the teaching that in order to be made right with God, people only need to believe that Jesus died on the cross for us. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 11 xa9m figs-metaphor κατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 the stumbling block of the cross has been removed Stumbling represents sinning, and a **stumbling block** represents something that causes people to sin. Alternate translation: “the teaching about the cross that causes people to reject the truth has been removed” or “there is nothing in the teaching about Jesus dying on the cross that would lead people to reject the teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 12 sfl2 figs-metaphor καὶ ἀποκόψονται 1 would even castrate themselves Possible meanings are (1) literal, to cut off their male organs so as to become eunuchs or (2) metaphorical, completely withdraw from the Christian community. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 13 v6vs figs-activepassive ὑμεῖς…ἐπ’ ἐλευθερίᾳ ἐκλήθητε 1 you have been called to freedom This can be expressed in an active form. Alternate translation: “Christ has called you to freedom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 5 13 ekb2 figs-explicit ὑμεῖς…ἐπ’ ἐλευθερίᾳ ἐκλήθητε 1 you have been called to freedom It is implied that Christ has set believers free from the old covenant. Alternate translation: “You were called to freedom from the old covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 13 xwg8 figs-metaphor ὑμεῖς…ἐπ’ ἐλευθερίᾳ ἐκλήθητε 1 you have been called to freedom Here, **freedom** from the old covenant is a metaphor for not being obligated to obey it. Alternate translation: “Christ has chosen you to not be obligated to the old covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 13 viv6 figs-explicit ἀφορμὴν τῇ σαρκί 1 an opportunity for the flesh The relationship between the opportunity and the sinful nature can be stated more clearly. Alternate translation: “an opportunity for you to behave according to your sinful nature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
GAL 5 14 ct8i ὁ…πᾶς νόμος ἐν ἑνὶ λόγῳ πεπλήρωται 1 all the law has been fulfilled in one command Possible meanings are (1) “you can state the whole law in just one commandment, which is this” or (2) “by obeying one commandment, you obey all the commandments, and that one commandment is this.”
GAL 5 14 qt9c figs-you ἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν 1 Love your neighbor as yourself The words **your** and **yourself** are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 5 16 yb58 figs-metaphor Πνεύματι περιπατεῖτε 1 walk by the Spirit Here, to **walk** is a metaphor for living. Alternate translation: “conduct your life in the power of the Holy Spirit” or “live your life in dependence on the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 16 dyj7 figs-idiom ἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς οὐ μὴ τελέσητε 1 you would certainly not fulfill the desires of the flesh The phrase **fulfill the desires of the flesh** is an idiom meaning “do what someone desires.” Alternate translation: “you will not do what your sinful nature desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
GAL 5 16 rl5s figs-personification ἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς 1 the desires of the flesh The **flesh** is spoken of as if it were a person and wanted to sin. Alternate translation: “what you want to do because of your sinful nature” or “the things you want to do because you are sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 5 19 yf2a τὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός 1 the works of the flesh The abstract noun **works** can be translated with the verb “does.” Alternate translation: “what the sinful nature does”
GAL 5 19 u2pu figs-personification τὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός 1 the works of the flesh The **flesh** is spoken of as if it were a person who does things. Alternate translation: “what people do because of their sinful nature” or “the things people do because they are sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 5 21 rs9b figs-metaphor κληρονομήσουσιν 1 will inherit Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 22 hez3 figs-metaphor ὁ…καρπὸς τοῦ Πνεύματός ἐστιν 1 the fruit of the Spirit is Here, **fruit** is a metaphor for “result” or “outcome.” Alternate translation: “what the Spirit produces is” or “the Spirit produces in God’s people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 23 ss5k πραΰτης, ἐνκράτεια 1 gentleness, and self-control The list of “the fruit of the Spirit” that begins with the words “love, joy, peace” ends here.
GAL 5 24 l6ux figs-metaphor τὴν σάρκα ἐσταύρωσαν σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις 1 have crucified the flesh with the passions and the desires Paul speaks of Christians who refuse to live according to their **flesh** as if they have killed it on a cross. Alternate translation: “refuse to live according the sinful nature with its passions and desires, as if they killed it on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 24 zv86 figs-personification τὴν σάρκα ἐσταύρωσαν σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις 1 have crucified the flesh with the passions and the desires Paul speaks of the **flesh** as if it were a person who has been killed on a cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 5 24 m3nm figs-personification τὴν σάρκα…σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις 1 the flesh with the passions and the desires The sinful nature is spoken of as if it were a person that had passions and desires. Alternate translation: “their sinful nature, and the things they strongly want to do because of it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
GAL 5 25 sq7b figs-metaphor Πνεύματι καὶ στοιχῶμεν 1 let us also walk by the Spirit Here, **walk** is a metaphor for living every day. Alternate translation: “let us allow the Holy Spirit to guide us so we do things that please and honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 5 26 a9x9 μὴ γινώμεθα 1 Let us not become “We should not be”
GAL 6 intro bv8h 0 # Galatians 06 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter concludes Paul’s letter. His final words address some issues that do not seem to be connected to the rest of his letter.<br><br>### Brothers<br>Paul writes the words in this chapter to Christians. He calls them “brothers.” This refers to Paul’s Christian brothers and not his Jewish brothers.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### New Creation<br><br>People who are born again are a new creation in Christ. Christians have been given new life in Christ. They have a new nature in them after they come to faith in Christ. To Paul, this is more significant than a person’s ancestry. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/bornagain]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Flesh<br><br>This is a complex issue. “Flesh” is contrasted with “spirit.” In this chapter, flesh is also used to refer to the physical body. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])
GAL 6 1 vm8f ἐὰν…ἄνθρωπος 1 if a man “if anyone among you”
GAL 6 1 vts8 ἐὰν καὶ προλημφθῇ ἄνθρωπος ἔν τινι παραπτώματι 1 even if a man is caught in any trespass Possible meanings are (1) someone else found that person in the act. Alternate translation: “if someone is discovered in an act of sin” or (2) that person committed the sin without intending to do evil. Alternate translation: “if someone gave in and sinned”
GAL 6 1 t4rm ὑμεῖς, οἱ πνευματικοὶ 1 you who are spiritual “those of you who are guided by the Spirit” or “you who are living in the guidance of the Spirit”
GAL 6 1 hdj8 καταρτίζετε τὸν τοιοῦτον 1 let … restore such a one “let him … correct the person who sinned” or “let him … exhort the person who sinned to return to a correct relationship with God”
GAL 6 1 tr5r ἐν πνεύματι πραΰτητος 1 in a spirit of gentleness Possible meanings are (1) that the Spirit is directing the one who is offering correction or (2) “with an attitude of gentleness” or “in a kind way.”
GAL 6 1 rrg9 figs-you σκοπῶν σεαυτόν 1 considering yourself These words treat the Galatians as though they are all one person to emphasize that he is talking to each of them. Alternate translation: “being concerned about yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
GAL 6 1 ljx6 figs-activepassive μὴ καὶ σὺ πειρασθῇς 1 lest you also be tempted This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that nothing will tempt you also to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 6 3 v6ts εἰ γὰρ 1 For if “Because if.” The words that follow tell why the Galatians should (1) “carry one other’s burdens” ([Galatians 6:2](../06/02.md)) or (2) be careful that they themselves are not tempted ([Galatians 6:1](../06/01.md)) or (3) “not become conceited” ([Galatians 5:26](../05/26.md)).
GAL 6 3 m4wk δοκεῖ…εἶναί τι 1 thinks himself to be something “thinks he is someone important” or “thinks he is better than others”
GAL 6 3 zz1g μηδὲν ὤν 1 when he is nothing “when he is not important” or “although he is not better than others”
GAL 6 4 ra85 δοκιμαζέτω ἕκαστος 1 let each one examine “each person must examine”
GAL 6 5 ee8v ἕκαστος…τὸ ἴδιον φορτίον βαστάσει 1 each one will carry his own burden “each person will be judged by his own work only” or “each person will be responsible for his own work only”
GAL 6 5 vej6 ἕκαστος…βαστάσει 1 each one will carry “each person will carry”
GAL 6 7 x5pi figs-metaphor ὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος, τοῦτο καὶ θερίσει 1 for whatever a man may sow, that he will also reap To **sow** represents doing things that end in some kind of result, and to **reap** represents experiencing the results of what one has done. Alternate translation: “for just as a farmer gathers in the fruit of whatever kind of seeds he plants, so everyone experiences the results of whatever he does” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 6 7 gii9 figs-gendernotations ὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος 1 for whatever a man may sow Paul is not specifying males here. Alternate translation: “for whatever a person plants” or “for whatever someone plants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
GAL 6 8 lzz8 figs-metaphor ὁ σπείρων εἰς τὴν σάρκα ἑαυτοῦ 1 the one sowing to his own flesh Here, **sowing** seeds is a metaphor for doing deeds that will have consequences later. In this case, the person is doing sinful actions because of his sinful nature. Alternate translation: “the person who plants seed according to what he wants because of his sinful nature” or “the person who does the things he wants to do because of his sinful nature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 6 8 dge9 figs-metaphor θερίσει φθοράν 1 will reap destruction God punishing the person is spoken of as if the person were harvesting a crop. Alternate translation: “will receive punishment for what he did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 6 8 aqz2 figs-metaphor σπείρων εἰς τὸ Πνεῦμα 1 sowing to the Spirit Here, **sowing** seeds is a metaphor for doing deeds that will have consequences later. In this case, the person is doing good actions because he is listening to God’s Spirit. Alternate translation: “doing the things God’s Spirit loves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
GAL 6 8 k1p7 ἐκ τοῦ Πνεύματος θερίσει ζωὴν αἰώνιον 1 from the Spirit will reap eternal life “will receive eternal life as a reward from God’s Spirit”
GAL 6 9 pnq1 τὸ δὲ καλὸν ποιοῦντες, μὴ ἐνκακῶμεν 1 But we should not become discouraged in doing good “We should continue to do good”
GAL 6 9 a4n4 τὸ δὲ καλὸν ποιοῦντες 1 in doing good in doing good to others for their well-being
GAL 6 9 u77c καιρῷ γὰρ ἰδίῳ 1 for in due time “for at the right time” or “because at the time God has chosen”
GAL 6 11 i7ap 0 Connecting Statement: As Paul closes this letter, he gives one more reminder that the law does not save and that they should remember the cross of Christ.
GAL 6 11 wti2 πηλίκοις…γράμμασιν 1 what large letters This can mean that Paul is writing with large letters because he wants to emphasize (1) the statements that follow or (2) that this letter came from him.
GAL 6 11 d6rk τῇ ἐμῇ χειρί 1 with my own hand Possible meanings are (1) Paul probably had a helper who wrote most of this letter as Paul told him what to write, but Paul himself wrote this last part of the letter or (2) Paul wrote the whole letter himself.
GAL 6 12 jk57 οὗτοι ἀναγκάζουσιν 1 they are compelling “they are forcing” or “they are strongly influencing”
GAL 6 12 hl1r μόνον ἵνα τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ μὴ διώκωνται 1 only so that they might not be persecuted for the cross of Christ Jesus “only so that the Jews will not persecute them for claiming that the cross of Christ alone is what saves people”
GAL 6 12 jd4x figs-metonymy τῷ σταυρῷ 1 for the cross The **cross** here represents what Christ did for us when he died on the cross. Alternate translation: “for the work Jesus did on the cross” or “because of the death and resurrection of Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
GAL 6 13 bb5a ἵνα ἐν τῇ ὑμετέρᾳ σαρκὶ καυχήσωνται 1 so that they may boast in your flesh “so that they may be proud that they have added you to the people who try to keep the law”
GAL 6 14 g7hh ἐμοὶ δὲ, μὴ γένοιτο καυχᾶσθαι, εἰ μὴ ἐν τῷ σταυρῷ 1 But may it never be to me to boast except in the cross “But I do not ever want to boast in anything other than the cross” or “But may I boast only in the cross”
GAL 6 14 s6ic figs-activepassive ἐμοὶ κόσμος ἐσταύρωται 1 the world has been crucified to me This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I think of the world as already dead” or “I treat the world like a criminal God has killed on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
GAL 6 14 v2qs figs-ellipsis κἀγὼ κόσμῳ 1 and I to the world The words “have been crucified” are understood from the phrase before this. Alternate translation: “and I have been crucified to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
GAL 6 14 m45b κἀγὼ κόσμῳ 1 and I to the world Possible meanings are (1) “the world thinks of me as already dead” or (2) “the world treats me like a criminal that God has killed on the cross”
GAL 6 14 s9lx κόσμος 1 the world Possible meanings are (1) the people of the world, those who care nothing for God or (2) the things that those who care nothing for God think are important.
GAL 6 16 b4al εἰρήνη ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς, καὶ ἔλεος, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 peace and mercy upon them, and upon the Israel of God Possible meanings are (1) that believers in general are the Israel of God or (2) “may peace and mercy be upon Gentile believers and upon the Israel of God” or (3) “may peace be upon those who follow the rule, and may mercy be upon even the Israel of God.”
GAL 6 17 dm22 κόπους μοι μηδεὶς παρεχέτω 1 let no one cause me trouble Possible meanings are (1) Paul is commanding the Galatians not to **trouble** him, “I am commanding you this: do not trouble me,” or (2) Paul is telling the Galatians that he is commanding all people not to trouble him, “I am commanding everyone this: do not trouble me,” or (3) Paul is expressing a desire, “I do not want anyone to trouble me.”
GAL 6 17 j729 ἐγὼ γὰρ τὰ στίγματα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω 1 for I carry in my body the marks of Jesus These **marks** were scars from people who beat and whipped Paul because they did not like him teaching about **Jesus**. Alternate translation: “for the scars on my body show that I serve Jesus”
GAL 6 18 b64i ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματος ὑμῶν 1 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit “I pray that the Lord Jesus will be kind to your spirit”
GAL 6 18 pk25 ἀδελφοί 1 brothers See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2](../01/02.md).
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