en_tn_condensed/neh/09/17.md

# they stiffened their necks

This is an metaphor that means that they were stubborn. See how you translated this phrase in [verse 16](./16.md). Alternate translation: "they were very stubborn" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])

# the wonders that you had done among them

"the miracles that you had done among them"

# they appointed a leader to return to their slavery

The Israelites would know that this referred to their ancestors wanting to return to Egypt. Alternate translation: "they appointed a leader to take them back to Egypt where they had been slaves" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]])

# who is full of forgiveness

The desire to forgive is spoken of as if it were a liquid that could fill a container. Alternate translation: "who is ready to forgive" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])

# abounding in steadfast love

Love is spoken of as if it were a food crop that Yahweh could share with people. Alternate translation: "always loves his people very much" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]])