unfoldingWord_en_tn/tn_ZEP.tsv

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2front:introl57g0# Introduction to Zephaniah\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the Book of Zephaniah\n\n1. Zephaniah introduces this book (1:1)\n1. Yahweh will punish Judah and the nations (1:218)\n1. Yahweh calls Judah to repent (2:13)\n1. Yahweh will judge the nations (2:4-15)\n * Philistia (2:47)\n * Moab and Ammon (2:811)\n * Egypt (2:12)\n * Assyria (2:1315)\n1. Yahweh will judge Jerusalem (3:18)\n1. Yahweh will purify, restore, gather, and bless his people (3:920)\n\n### What is the Book of Zephaniah about?\n\nZechariah warned Judah and other nations that Yahweh was about to punish them. He also prophesied about how Yahweh would restore Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]])\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nThe traditional name of this book is “The Book of Zephaniah” or just “Zephaniah.” Translators may decide to call it “The Sayings of Zephaniah.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n### Who wrote the Book of Zephaniah?\n\nZephaniah wrote this book. But four different Old Testament people have the name Zephaniah. This Zephaniah was probably the great-grandson of King Hezekiah and a cousin to King Josiah. Zephaniah lived in the city of Jerusalem. He began to prophesy about seventy years after the prophets Isaiah and Micah. Zephaniah spoke Yahwehs messages during the reign of King Josiah (about 640621 B.C.), and just before Jeremiah began to prophesy.\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### Were the people of Judah faithful to Yahweh at the time Zephaniah started to prophesy?\n\nManasseh, the grandfather of Josiah, had been one of the worst kings of Judah. He led the people to worship other gods. After his death, his son Amon ruled for only two years before he was killed. Amons son Josiah became king when he was eight years old. Josiah learned to worship and honor Yahweh. Zephaniah likely began his work after Josiah had destroyed most of the idols and shrines of false gods in Judah. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])\n\n### What country is coming to invade Judah?\n\nZephaniah often said a foreign nation would invade the kingdom of Judah. Zephaniah probably meant Babylonia. However, the Book of Zephaniah never names this nation.
31:introt3tv0# Zephaniah 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 1:2-18.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Prophecy\n\nIn this chapter, it is unclear whether these prophecies concern the fall of Jerusalem, the coming of the Messiah or the day of the Lord. It is possible that the prophecies reference more than one period of time. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]])
41:1w6l80# General Information:\n\nVerses 1:2-18 refer to Yahwehs judgment. Verses 1:2-3 describe Yahwehs final judgment of every sinner in the future.
51:1k2gerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe word of Yahweh that came0This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message” or “Yahweh spoke this message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
61:1exz8Yahweh0This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
71:1zlc5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitson of Gedaliah son of Amariah son of Hezekiah0This is a list of Zephaniahs ancestors. These usages of “son of” are the broader sense of “descendant of.” Here “Hezekiah” refers to King Hezekiah. These things can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the grandson of Gedaliah, and the great-grandson of Amariah, whose father was King Hezekiah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
81:2x2u5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleI will utterly destroy everything from off the surface of the earth0The words “everything” and “will cut off man” are deliberate exaggerations by Yahweh to express his anger at the peoples sin. Yahweh will destroy neither sinners who repent nor all living things. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
91:2atu6destroy everything from off the surface of the earth0Alternate translation: “destroy everything that is on the entire earth”
101:2fg27rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personthis is Yahwehs declaration0Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
111:3aqr7I will cut off man from the surface of the earth0“I will kill all people.” This is a hyperbole, as in [Zephaniah 1:2](./02.md).
121:3zd2pman and beast0Alternate translation: “people and animals”
131:3kw4athe ruins0This could mean: (1) the piles of rubble that will remain after the judgment or (2) the idols that Yahweh destroyed.
141:3xxd9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorcut off0Destroying is spoken of as if it were cutting something off from what it was a part of. Alternate translation: “destroy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
151:4zb970# General Information:\n\nVerses 1:2-18 refer to Yahwehs judgment. Verses 1:4-16 describe Yahwehs judgment on the people of Judah.
161:4q6djrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomI will reach out with my hand over Judah0This is an idiom that means God will punish. Alternate translation: “I will punish Judah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
171:4wn2wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisI will cut off every remnant … the names of the idolatrous people among the priests0The verb “cut off” applies to each of these phrases, but has been used only once to avoid repetition. Alternate translation: “I will cut off every remnant … I will cut off the names of the idolatrous people among the priests” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
181:4gdu9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorcut off0Destroying is spoken of as if it were cutting something off from what it was a part of. See how you translated this in [Zephaniah 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “destroy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
191:4h6cvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomcut off … the names of the idolatrous people among the priests0Here “cut off … the names” is an idiom that means to cause people to forget them. Alternate translation: “cause everyone … to forget the priests who are idolatrous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
201:5u98grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisthe people who on the housetops … the people who worship and swear0The verb “cut off” ([Zechariah 1:4](./04.md)) applies to these phrases, but has been used only once to avoid repetition. Alternate translation: “I will cut off the people who on the housetops … I will cut off the people who worship and swear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
211:5w2r8by their king0See the footnote about the possible rendering of this as “by Milcom.”
221:6ql66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorneither seek Yahweh nor ask for his guidance0Seeking **Yahweh** could mean: (1) asking God for help or (2) thinking about God and obeying him. Alternate translation: “do not think about Yahweh or ask him to guide them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
231:7ztx90# General Information:\n\nVerses 1:2-18 refer to Yahwehs judgment. Verses 1:4-16 describe Yahwehs judgment on the people of Judah.
241:7etv8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomBe silent0This is an idiom. Here silence is meant to signal shock and amazement. Alternate translation: “Be shocked” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
251:7xb5brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYahweh has prepared the sacrifice and set apart his guests0The people of Judah are spoken of as Yahwehs sacrifice, and the enemy nations are spoken of as his guests who would eat the sacrifice. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has prepared the people of Judah as a sacrifice, and invited the enemy nations as his guests” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
261:7hwp4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomset apart his guests0Here “set apart” is an idiom that means he has invited them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
271:8z1ixrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 1:8-13, Yahweh is speaking. He alternates between using first person and speaking about himself in the third person. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
281:8w2xlIt will come about0This phrase is used to mark the point at which Yahwehs judgment of Judah will begin.
291:8igq2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-expliciteveryone dressed in foreign clothes0This phrase suggests that the Israelites wore clothes similar to the foreigners to show sympathy to their customs and to the worship of their foreign gods. Alternate translation: “everyone who worships foreign gods” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
301:9gma8On that day0Alternate translation: “On the day of Yahweh”
311:9fr1sall those who leap over the threshold0This could mean: (1) this is a reference to people who did not step on thresholds as part of their worship of a god called Dagan or (2) people who leapt up onto platforms to worship pagan idols or (3) royal officials who climbed the steps to the throne.
321:9u614fill their masters house with violence and deceit0The abstract nouns “violence” and “deceit” can be stated as actions. Alternate translation: “those who do violent things and tell lies in the temples of their gods”
331:10n2dirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person0# General Information:\n\nZephaniah 1:2-18 refers to Yahwehs judgment. Zephaniah 1:4-16 describes Yahwehs judgment on the people of Judah. In Zephaniah 1:8-13, Yahweh is speaking. He alternates between using first person and speaking about himself in the third person. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
341:10mm2cFish Gate0The Fish Gate was one of the gates in the Jerusalem city wall.
351:10bm2gwailing from the Second District0“Mourn loudly from the Second District.” The Second District was a newer part of Jerusalem.
361:10ysx8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicita great crashing sound0This refers to the sound of buildings collapsing. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “a loud sound of buildings collapsing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
371:10ahw8from the hills0This refers to the hills surrounding Jerusalem.
381:11ne51rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismfor all the merchants will be ruined; all those who weigh out silver will be cut off0These two phrases refer to the same people and are used to emphasize that business will be destroyed. Alternate translation: “for those who buy and sell goods will be killed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
391:11fu79those who weigh out silver0This refers to merchants. Before coins were used, people weighed out silver or gold as payment for things they bought.
401:11eyb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorcut off0Destroying is spoken of as if it were cutting something off from what it was a part of. See how you translated this in [Zephaniah 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “destroyed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
411:12vc630# General Information:\n\nVerses 1:2-18 refer to Yahwehs judgment. Verses 1:4-16 describe Yahwehs judgment on the people of Judah.
421:12fb6rIt will come about at that time0This phrase is used to mark the time when Jerusalem has been destroyed by the enemies.
431:12n4xerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will search Jerusalem with lamps0Yahweh speaks of knowing about all people of Jerusalem as if he had searched for them with lamps. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
441:12sb9crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomsettled into their wine0They feel safe from trouble. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
451:12t4uxsay in their heart, Yahweh will not do anything, either good or evil.0This direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “say in their heart that Yahweh will not do anything, either good or evil.
461:12nu98rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomsay in their heart0This idiom means they think to themselves. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
471:12fhk8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismYahweh will not do anything, either good or evil0Here “good and evil” is a merism that includes everything in between. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will not do anything at all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
481:13nu8uan abandoned devastation0Alternate translation: “destroyed and abandoned”
491:14r2si0# General Information:\n\nVerses 1:2-18 refer to Yahwehs judgment. Verses 1:4-16 describe Yahwehs judgment on the people of Judah.
501:14a6kwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletnear, near and hurrying quickly0The repetition of the word “near,” along with the phrase “hurrying quickly,” emphasize that the day when Yahweh judges the people will soon happen. Alternate translation: “close and will be here soon” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
511:14ky2mthe day of Yahweh0See how you translated this phrase in [Zephaniah 1:7](../01/07.md).
521:14nu8qa warrior crying bitterly0This could mean: (1) a soldier crying in despair or (2) a soldiers battle cry.
531:15xb57That day … a day0These phrases refer back to the “day of Yahweh” in [Zephaniah 1:14](../01/14.md).
541:15lw4trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubleta day of distress and anguish0The words “distress” and “anguish” mean about the same thing and emphasize the intensity of the peoples distress. Alternate translation: “a day when people feel terrible distress” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
551:15ud2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubleta day of storm and devastation0Here the word “storm” refers to divine judgment. The word “devastation” describes the effects of that judgment. Alternate translation: “a day of devastating storms” or “a day of devastating judgment” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
561:15jub4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubleta day of darkness and gloom0The words “darkness” and “gloom” share similar meanings and emphasize the intensity of darkness. Both words refer to a time of disaster or divine judgment. Alternate translation: “a day that is full of darkness” or “a day of terrible judgment” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
571:15swy2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubleta day of clouds and thick darkness0This phrase means the same thing as, and intensifies, the idea of the previous phrase. Like that phrase, both “clouds” and “thick darkness” refer to divine judgment. Alternate translation: “a day full of dark storm clouds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
581:16deb6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubleta day of trumpets and alarms0The words “trumpets” and “alarms” mean basically the same thing here. Both are means to call soldiers to prepare for battle. Alternate translation: “a day when people sound the alarm for battle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
591:16da9hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletfortified cities and the high battlements0These two phrases both refer to military strongholds. Alternate translation: “well fortified cities” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
601:17w66r0# General Information:\n\nVerses 1:2-18 refer to Yahwehs judgment. Verses 1:17-18 describe Yahwehs final judgment of every sinner in the future.
611:17krq4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similethey will walk about like blind men0The result of Yahwehs judgment is that people will be so confused and dazed when they walk about that people will think they are blind. Alternate translation: “they will walk around as confused and dazed as blind men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
621:17cq1rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileTheir blood will be poured out like dust0Their blood that is shed will be as worthless as dust. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Their enemies will pour out their blood and consider it to be worthless” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
631:17jrq1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similetheir inner parts like dung0The verb “poured out” is understood here. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “their enemies will cut open their bodies and leave them to rot like dung” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
641:18ai7hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe fire of his jealousy0Here “fire” refers to the intensity of Yahwehs anger. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “his jealousy is as intense as a fire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
651:18ij81rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitall the inhabitants of the earth0It is understood that this refers to the wicked people. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “all the wicked people who live on the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
662:introt1it0# Zephaniah 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 2:1-9, 12-15.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Prophecy\n\nIn this chapter, because the prophesied destruction is so complete, it is unclear whether these prophecies concern the time near the fall of Jerusalem or the day of the Lord. It is possible that the prophecies reference more than one period of time. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]])
672:1w14prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletRally yourselves together and gather0These two phrases mean the same thing. Together they intensify the command for the people to gather together in order to repent of their sins. Alternate translation: “Gather yourselves together” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
682:2m93yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymybefore the decree takes effect0This phrase refers to the punishment that will happen as a result of Yahwehs decree. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh punishes you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
692:2j7xnthat day0This phrase relates to the “day of Yahweh.” Translate as you did similar phrases in [Zephaniah 1:9](../01/09.md).
702:2m9s2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similethat day passes like the chaff0The chaff is the insignificant part of the plant that the wind blows away. In a similar way, the day of judgment will pass quickly. Alternate translation: “that day passes as quickly as chaff blown by the wind” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
712:2xg13rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismbefore the fierce anger of Yahwehs wrath comes upon you, before the day of the wrath of Yahweh comes upon you0The prophet repeats the same phrase almost exactly in order to emphasize how terrible Yahwehs judgment will be and the urgency with which the people must repent. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
722:2c8mprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYahwehs wrath0This stands for Gods intent to punish. Alternate translation: “Yahwehs punishment” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
732:3rm7urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorSeek Yahweh0Seeking **Yahweh** could mean: (1) asking God for help or (2) thinking about God and obeying him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
742:3rg17rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsSeek righteousness. Seek humility0The abstract nouns “righteousness” and “humility” can be stated as actions. Alternate translation: “Try to do what is right and to be humble” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
752:3s75grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveyou will be protected in the day of Yahwehs wrath0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will protect you in the day of his wrath” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
762:4r1bq0# General Information:\n\nIn 2:4-15, Yahweh announces his judgment on the nations that surround Judah.
772:4dth6Gaza … Ashkelon … Ashdod … Ekron0These were the four major Philistine cities of that day.
782:4f893rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismwill be abandoned … will turn into a devastation0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize the complete destruction of these cities. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
792:4mi6fThey will drive out Ashdod at noon0Here “They” refers to the enemies of the Philistines. Here, **at noon** could mean: (1) the enemies will defeat Ashdod before noon or (2) the enemies will attack Ashdod at noon while the people are resting and unaware.
802:4sb41rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey will uproot Ekron0The defeat of Ekron is spoken of as if it was a tree that was pulled from the ground and thrown away. Alternate translation: “they will take the people of Ekron away as if uprooting a tree” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
812:5p4bethe inhabitants of the seacoast, the nation of the Kerethites0The first phrase explains where the Kerethites lived.
822:5pq8vCanaan, land of the Philistines0The Philistines were one of several people groups who lived in Canaan.
832:5w9gquntil no inhabitant remains0This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “until every inhabitant is dead”
842:6s8lg0# General Information:\n\nIn 2:4-15, Yahweh announces his judgment on the nations that surround Judah.
852:6gm12So the seacoast will become pastures for shepherds and for sheep pens0This probably means that the Philistine cities are gone, and only open fields remain. However, the Hebrew meaning is unclear and is sometimes translated differently by modern versions.
862:6ip1fsheep pens0A sheep pen is a small area surrounded by a fence to keep the sheep together.
872:7h1wwTheir people0Alternate translation: “The people of Judah”
882:7e8k3lie down0Alternate translation: “lie down to sleep”
892:8yb330# General Information:\n\nIn 2:4-15, Yahweh announces his judgment on the nations that surround Judah.
902:8ep73rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismthe taunts … the reviling0“the taunts … the insults.” These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that both Moab and Ammon have insulted Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
912:8zd77violated their borders0This refers to crossing over into Judahs territory in order to attack them.
922:9hzr2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomas I live0“as surely as I am alive.” Yahweh uses this expression to show that what he says next is certainly true. This is a way of making a solemn promise. Alternate translation: “I solemnly swear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
932:9pi3wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personthis is the declaration of Yahweh of hosts, God of Israel0Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh of hosts, God of Israel, has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, God of Israel, have declared” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
942:9b2lhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitlike Sodom … like Gomorrah0These two cities were so wicked that God completely destroyed them with fire from heaven. These similes therefore refer to complete destruction. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “completely destroyed like Sodom … like Gomorrah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
952:9l2f5a place of nettles and a salt pit0“a place with thorns and a salt pit.” This describes a barren, useless land.
962:9dr9erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismthe remnant of my people … the remainder of my nation0These two phrases mean the same thing and refer to the Israelites that survived Yahwehs punishment. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
972:12ai2t0# General Information:\n\nIn 2:4-15, Yahweh announces his judgment on the nations that surround Judah.
982:12dr9yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYou Cushites also will be pierced by my sword0Here “pieced by my sword” is a metonym for being killed in battle. Alternate translation: “I will kill you people of Cush in battle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
992:13rqc2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyGods hand0Here “hand” refers to power. Alternate translation: “Gods power” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1002:13vj6jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsan abandoned devastation0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **devastation**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “ruined and deserted” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1012:13ra14rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileas dry as the desert0This means it will be so dry that nothing will grow there. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1022:14fgc1every animal of the nations0Alternate translation: “every kind of animal”
1032:14rq3sthe screech owl0This term is uncertain. Some versions translate it as “hedgehog.”
1042:14jp3min the top of her columns0When buildings were destroyed and fell down, the columns used for decoration and support would often remain standing.
1052:14u3vbA call will sing out from the windows0Alternate translation: “A call will be heard from the windows”
1062:14e998beams0Beams are long and thick pieces of wood that are used to keep a building stable.
1072:15ev510# General Information:\n\nIn 2:4-15, Yahweh announces his judgment on the nations that surround Judah.
1082:15kl78the exultant city0“the city that is proud of itself.” This refers to the city of Nineveh, about whom Yahweh began to speak in [Zephaniah 2:13](../02/13.md).
1092:15pvv7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomsaid in her heart0This idiom means “said to herself” or “she thought.” The city is spoken of as if it were a person that could speak. It represents the people who live in that city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1102:15g214rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitI am, and nothing is my equal0It may be necessary to supply an object for “I am.” Alternate translation: “I am the greatest city, and no other city is equal to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1112:15w3q5a horror0Alternate translation: “a horrible place to see”
1122:15n4jwhiss and shake his fist0A hiss is an angry sound. This phrase indicates extreme anger of the people toward Nineveh.
1133:introf3en0# Zephaniah 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 3:1-20.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Prophecy\n\nIn this chapter, because the prophesied destruction is so complete, it is unclear whether these prophecies concern the time near the fall of Jerusalem or the day of the Lord. It is possible that the prophecies reference more than one period of time. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]])
1143:1d7qurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:1-5, Zephaniah speaks Yahwehs message of judgment to the sinful people of Jerusalem. The city represents the people who live within it. To make this clear, it may be helpful to replace the singular “she” and “her” with the plural “they” and “their.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1153:1aew2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthe rebellious city0The nature of their rebellion can be stated. Alternate translation: “the people of the city who have rebelled against God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1163:1fc2aThe violent city is defiled0Alternate translation: “The people of the city have committed violence and so I consider them unclean”
1173:2lb6hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyShe has not listened to the voice of God0The voice is a metonym for what the speaker says with the voice, and listening is a metonym for obeying. Alternate translation: “She has not obeyed what God has said to her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1183:3nf4urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:1-5, Zephaniah speaks Yahwehs message of judgment to the sinful people of Jerusalem. The city represents the people who live within it. To make this clear, it may be helpful to replace the singular “she” and “her” with the plural “they” and “their.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1193:3ae1frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHer princes are roaring lions in her midst0Lions roar to chase other animals away from the prey they have caught. The princes of Jerusalem are spoken of as if they were roaring lions who were keeping the prey for themselves. Alternate translation: “Jerusalems royalty are as greedy as roaring lions” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1203:3z5i2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHer judges are evening wolves who leave nothing to be gnawed upon in the morning0Wolves are especially hungry before they hunt at night. The judges are spoken of as if they were hungry wolves. Alternate translation: “Her judges are as greedy as hungry wolves that leave nothing for anyone else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1213:4u7tcHer prophets are insolent and treasonous men0Alternate translation: “Her prophets do not listen to anyone and cannot be trusted”
1223:4q96whave profaned what is holy0Alternate translation: “have treated holy things with disrespect”
1233:4xm2bhave done violence to the law0Alternate translation: “have broken the law”
1243:5ine10# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:1-5, Zephaniah speaks Yahwehs message of judgment to the sinful people of Jerusalem.
1253:5a3p2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismYahweh is righteous … He can do no wrong0These two phrases mean the same thing, and emphasize Yahwehs righteousness even among the wicked people in Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1263:5z4htin her midst0Alternate translation: “among them”
1273:5fe75rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomMorning by morning0This idiom means “Every day” or “Day after day.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1283:5cvu6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe will dispense his justice0Yahwehs just treatment of every person is spoken of as if he was handing out a commodity. Alternate translation: “he will treat people justly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1293:5dm1brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesIt will not be hidden in the light0This uses a negative statement to emphasize the positive truth that Yahwehs justice is always visible. Alternate translation: “His justice is clearly shown to all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1303:5dwk9know no shame0Alternate translation: “are not ashamed”
1313:6t3emrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:6-7, Yahweh rebukes the people of Jerusalem because they did not learn from how he judged other sinful cities. It may be helpful to add “Yahweh says this:” to the beginning of verse 6 to make this explicit. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1323:6ie5crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismI have made their streets ruins, so that no one passes over them. Their cities are destroyed so that there is no man inhabiting them0These two sentences express the same idea in two different ways in order to emphasize the complete destruction of the cities. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1333:6y9qdno one passes over them0Alternate translation: “no one walks on them”
1343:6asi4there is no man inhabiting them0This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “all the people are dead”
1353:7mvv5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsI said, Surely you will fear me … I have planned to do to you.0This can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “I thought they would surely fear me and accept correction so that they would not be cut off from their homes by all that I have planned to do to them.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1363:7g15jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomand do not be cut off from your homes0Here “cut off” is an idiom that means to be removed. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that I will not remove you from your homes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1373:7u1c9by corrupting all their deeds0Alternate translation: “by doing deeds that were corrupt”
1383:8lfl40# General Information:\n\nIn verse 3:8, Yahweh warns that he will judge all nations.
1393:8my26wait for me … until the day0This phrase implies that they are waiting for judgment.
1403:8rhe9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personthis is Yahwehs declaration0Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1413:8izp2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI rise up to seize the prey0Yahwehs judgment on the nations is spoken of as if he was an hungry animal that attacked a smaller animal. Alternate translation: “I will rise up and destroy them as an animal seizes its prey” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1423:8mvx7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletto assemble the nations, to gather the kingdoms0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh will judge all of the nations. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1433:8q1mlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletmy anger—all of my burning wrath0The words “anger” and “burning wrath” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of Yahwehs anger. Alternate translation: “my very fierce wrath” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1443:8ge59rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivein the fire of my jealousy all the earth will be consumed0This phrase can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the fire of my jealousy will devour all the land” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1453:8hc95rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorin the fire of my jealousy … consumed0Yahwehs jealousy is here spoken of as if it were fire that could consume something. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “my jealousy will consume all the earth as a fire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1463:9cs8h0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:9-10, Yahweh says that he will renew the Gentiles after the judgment.
1473:9la62rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI will purify the lips of the peoples0Here “lips” refers to the ability to speak. Alternate translation: “I will cause the peoples to speak what is right” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1483:9k8y7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomcall upon the name of Yahweh0This is an idiom that means they worship Yahweh. Alternate translation: “worship Yahweh” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1493:9f339rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomserve him shoulder to shoulder0Here “shoulder to shoulder” is an idiom that means “side by side.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1503:10zs4qbeyond the river of Cush0This may refer to the area where Sudan is located today.
1513:11hvk20# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:11-13, Yahweh encourages the remnant of Israel who survive the judgment.
1523:11ryq3In that day … at that time0“When that happens … at that time.” These phrases here refer to the time of peace and restoration that immediately follows the day of Yahweh.
1533:11xcx2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewill not be put to shame for all your deeds0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will no longer be ashamed of all your deeds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1543:11y6pjthose who celebrated your pride0Alternate translation: “all the people who are very proud”
1553:12q74i0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:11-13, Yahweh encourages the remnant of Israel who survive the judgment.
1563:12c1gcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey will find refuge in the name of Yahweh0Yahwehs protection of this remnant is spoke of as if he was a refuge or a fortress. Here “name of Yahweh” refers to his person. Alternate translation: “they will come to Yahweh and he will help them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1573:13y163The remnant of Israel0This refers to the “lowly and poor people” of [Zephaniah 3:12](../03/12.md).
1583:13b2m7commit injustice0Alternate translation: “do unjust things”
1593:13ja4irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveno deceitful tongue will be found in their mouth0Here “tongue … in their mouth” represents the things that the tongue enables the mouth to speak. They can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “none of them will speak deceitful things” or “they will not say deceitful things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1603:13pe7krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey will graze and lie down0Yahweh speaks of his provision for the people of Israel as if they are a flock of sheep that grazes and rests in safety. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1613:14d65d0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:14-20, Zephaniah tells the remnant of Israel who survived the judgment that they should rejoice.
1623:14d6q3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomdaughter of Zion … daughter of Jerusalem0Here “daughter” refers to all the people who lived in the city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1633:14x7wgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletBe glad and rejoice0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how happy they should be. Alternate translation: “Be very happy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1643:14qj83rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymywith all your heart0Here “heart” refers to the inner being of a person. Alternate translation: “with all your inner being” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1653:15lb51rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomYahweh has taken away your punishment0Here to “take away” punishment is an idiom that means to stop doing it. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has stopped punishing you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1663:15t4fyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsYou will never again fear evil0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **evil**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “You will no longer be afraid that people will harm you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1673:16v9iaIn that day0“At that time” or “When this happens.” This phrase here refers to the time of peace and restoration that immediately follows the day of Yahweh.
1683:16eh5erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymysay to Jerusalem … Zion0The names of these cities here refer to the people who live in them. Alternate translation: “say to the people of Jerusalem … people of Zion” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1693:16pc5crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorDo not let your hands falter0To feel weak or helpless is spoken of as if their hands became physically weak. Here “hands” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “Do not become weak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1703:17w8tr0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:14-20, Zephaniah tells the remnant of Israel who survived the judgment that they should rejoice.
1713:17g95frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphora mighty one to save you0“he is mighty and will save you.” Yahweh is spoken of as a mighty warrior. Alternate translation: “he is a mighty warrior and will give you victory” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1723:17gk13rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHe will celebrate over you with joy … he will be glad over you with a shout for joy0These two phrases mean the same thing and are repeated to emphasize Yahwehs joy that the remnant is restored to him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1733:17h9ekhe will be silent over you in his love0This could mean: (1) “he will quiet you by his love for you” or (2) “he will renew you because he loves you.”
1743:18i4ffrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorno longer bear any shame for it0Here shame is spoken of as if it was a heavy thing that a person had to carry. Alternate translation: “no longer be ashamed because of it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1753:19ih9r0# General Information:\n\nIn verses 3:19-20, Yahweh speaks directly to the remnant of Israel who survived the judgment and tells them that they should rejoice.
1763:19f6zjBehold0This tells the reader to pay special attention to what follows. Alternate translation: “Look” or “Pay attention”
1773:19l1m4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitI am about to deal with all your oppressors0It is understood that “deal with” means to punish the oppressors. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “I will severely punish all those who oppressed you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1783:19qc78rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI will rescue the lame and gather up the outcast0Here the Israelites who suffered in exile are spoken of as if they were lame and outcast sheep. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “I will rescue and bring together the remnant of Israel who are like lame and outcast sheep” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1793:19kzw3the lame0This refers to people or animals that cannot walk.
1803:19ry88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileI will make them as praise0The full thought here is, “I will make them to be objects of praise,” that is, “I will make them to be praised by others.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1813:19cxu6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsI will change their shame into renown0The abstract nouns “shame” and “renown” can be stated as actions. Alternate translation: “I will cause them to no longer be ashamed, but for people to respect them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1823:20d2a1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismAt that time I will lead you; at that time I will gather you together0These two lines mean basically the same thing and imply that Yahweh will bring the exiled people back to their homeland. Alternate translation: “At that time I will gather you together and lead you home” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])