# Do not neglect the gift that is in you

Paul speaks of Timothy as if he were a container that could hold God's gifts. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Do not neglect your spiritual gift" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])

# Do not neglect

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Be sure to use" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-activepassive]])

# which was given to you through prophecy

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "which you received when leaders of the church spoke God's word" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-activepassive]])

# laying on of the hands of the elders

This was a ceremony in which the church leaders put their hands on Timothy and prayed that God would enable him to do the work he had commanded him to do.