3:23a

for: This conjunction introduces the basis for saying “there is no distinction.” For example:

Because (God’s Word)

Some English versions omit this conjunction, perhaps because of the same conjunction occurring in 3:22c. They allow the context to indicate the connection.

all have sinned: This clause indicates that all people have done things that God does not want people to do.

In some languages the translation of sinned is very general and can include “made a mistake.” The context implies that these deeds are sins against people and God. In some languages the implied information must be explicit for the correct meaning. For example:

all have sinned ⌊against God⌋
-or-
all have sinned ⌊against people and God⌋

3:23b

fall short of the glory of God: Many English versions translate the literal meaning of the words of this clause. But scholars differ as to what this clause refers. Here are the two common ways to interpret this clause:

(1) Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, had glory from God before they sinned. They lost that glory when they sinned. All people after them are also sinners, so they too do not have that glory.

(2) It indicates that people have sinned, so God no longer approves or praises them.

If possible translate the literal meaning. You may then want to explain it in a footnote. The first example footnote below follows interpretation (1) but the second example footnote explains both.

This clause probably indicates that the first man and woman had glory from God before they sinned. They lost that glory when they sinned. All people after them are also sinners, so they too do not have that glory.
-or-
This clause may mean: 1) the first man and woman had glory from God before they sinned. They lost that glory when they sinned. All people after them are also sinners, so they too do not have that glory, or 2) people have sinned, so God no longer approves or praises them.

In some languages people cannot speak of falling short of glory. If that is true in your language, explain its meaning in your translation. For example:

fall short of ⌊God’s commands and so have lost⌋ the glory that comes from God
-or-
we cannot attain/reach God’s goodness

fall short of: This phrase refers to lacking something. People cannot obtain God’s glory. Here are other ways to translate this phrase:

lack (New Jerusalem Bible)
-or-
cannot obtain/get
-or-
are not fit/worth to get/obtain

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